Biggest Trends From Bridal Fashion Week Spring 2016

by Nicole Adlman

Bridal Fashion Week has come to a close, leaving us with a crop of chic wedding dresses that we would say “I do” to in, like, a hot second.

We’ve already given you roundups of the best bridal gowns on the runway this weekend, and now it’s time to assess the major trends of the moment. Luckily, the spring 2016 collections kept things fresh and unexpected (it’s not all about white and lace, although those gowns were as beautiful as ever). Read on for the biggest, must-wed-in trends from this season:

1. Crop Tops And Ball Skirts: That’s right, guys, the crop top trend has become so ubiquitous that even brides are getting two-piece happy. And there’s something seriously appealing about these midriff-baring confections, which appeared with multihued appliqués at Theia, in a sexy, plunging style at Reem Acra and a sweet sheer tee number from newcomer Mira Zwillinger.

2. Nude Tones: So long blush tones, there’s a new nude in town. Creamy neutrals got new life this season with the aid of the embellishments that accompanied them—from feathered skirts to fringe midis, there was nothing boring about these novel nude gowns.

3. Sheer Illusion Sleeves: Short and sheer sleeves were major this season, and we can see why: The look is light and eye-catching without being too fanciful, and adds a touch of interest to the neckline (where you might otherwise have to drop more than a pretty penny on jewelry).

4. Short Frocks: For the spring 2016 collections, designers took a note from the red carpet regarding hemlines. Short dresses (some falling above the knee, some in the form of a high-low hem) were seen on several runways, including Jenny Packham, Oscar de la Renta, Reem Acra, Ines di Santo and Houghton—perfect for the warm weather-ready bride.

5. All-White Pantsuits: It’s 2015, which means things can be super-modern in terms of bridalwear, starting with, well, wearing pants in place of a gown! Pretty white pantsuits were an unexpected (and welcome) surprise, and no two designers presented the look the same way. At Carolina Herrera, the pants were cropped (all the better to show your statement heels in), while at Theia, a crisp white silk tuxedo made waves down the runway. And at Houghton, an airy, loose-leg version of the trend provided the perfect inspiration for a chic beachside wedding look.

6. Floral Print: Floral lace is nothing new to bridal runways, but colorful floral print saw some floortime this season, too. At Houghton, a tiered dress with floral layers offered a bit of humor and whimsy for brides who want to wear anything but white, while Naeem Khan and Randi Rahm went a subtler route, with watercolor flower prints adorning traditionally stunning white gowns. (We’re all for flower power if the dresses are this chic.)