fashion

Gone are the days when “wedding dress” was synonymous with a strapless, A-line gown. Modern brides want to walk down the aisle in fashion-forward gowns that reflect their individual style. This spring, designers at New York Bridal Fashion Week debuted collections that were clearly a response to these desires, offering something for every bride, regardless of taste or budget. Andrea Anastasiou, stylist and owner of White bridal boutiques, highlights five of the most stunning aisle styles spotted on the runways.

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1. Separates. “A lot of brides love the idea of changing up their look, but they don’t necessarily want to change their dress,” says Anastasiou. Remove a delicate capelet to expose a strapless dress, or detach an overskirt to reveal a slimmer silhouette: these are just a couple of the creative ways in which designers experimented with removable elements this season. A two-in-one style gives brides the option of having multiple looks, without having to invest in a second gown. You might even be able to wear some bridal separates with other special-occasion outfits after the wedding. Gown: D.I.D. by Watters Alice Dress/Lottie Capelet

2. Arm Candy. A cross between strapless and off the shoulder, the romantic “arm candy” trend is perfect for brides who wish for some coverage on their arms, but don’t necessarily want full sleeves. While Kate Middleton-inspired gowns look gorgeous, they can limit a bride’s arm movement. Plus, wearing sleeves during an outdoor ceremony could be uncomfortable for summer brides; this look offers a refreshing alternative. Gown: Jenny Packham Billie Dress

3. Hint of Mint. Color is nothing new in bridal fashion: brides and designers alike have embraced gowns with hints of soft pink and pewter for the past few years. While blush is still a mainstay for 2015, pastel blues, mint greens and pale periwinkles also made an appearance on the runways. Anastasiou predicts that icy mint will be the new hue for weddings in the coming year, whether brides incorporate it into their gown, or use it as a color palette for décor elements or bridesmaids’ dresses. Gown: Monique Lhuillier Oceana Dress

4. Illusion Details. To create this ultra-romantic look, designers layer beadwork, lace or embroidery on top of fine tulle to create an illusion of the embellishments floating on a bride’s skin. When seen from a distance, the tulle “disappears” to create a magical, dramatic effect: “It looks like there’s lace creeping up the back of a dress, or beadwork tattooed up the bride’s arm or around the neckline,” says Anastasiou. The look is ideal for brides who want to show some skin in a subtle, sophisticated way. Gown: Rivini Alyson Dress

5. Bohemian Luxe. While the effortlessness of boho-inspired style appeals to many brides, the slip-dress-and-flower-crown look is getting a luxe makeover. Many boho-inclined brides still covet an unadorned dress, but others are looking for something that evokes understated style with a touch of glam. Embellished spaghetti straps, metallic lace or Oscar de la Renta’s “rich peasant” look are examples of the new boho, says Anastasiou. Gown: Oscar de la Renta Look 1

Find your perfect dress using the Gown Search in our 2life Ultimate Wedding Planner app!

As featured in the summer issue of 2life Weddings digital magazine: