Top bridal trends for 2009

Popuar Irish wedding resources, B Magazine and WeddingsOnline.ie, have researched bridal fashion worldwide and here they share the top bridal fashion trends of ‘09 with Limerick Post readers…
Floral Details
One of the main trends for 2009 is floral details, from Cymbeline to Pronovias,

almost every designer on the catwalks featured a bridal design with flowers. The flowers came in all shapes and sizes, from delicate floral embroidered lace to bold Mikado rose petal skirts.
“There are few things as feminine and beautiful as a flower. It is the perfect complement to bridal fashion, and a fabulous way to give your dress that extra delicate touch,” Rachel Vowels, Editor of B Magazine and WOL says.
Light and Airy
Brides the world over will be glad to know the days of dragging around your heavy wedding gown are over (for this season at least). The lighter the fabrics the better for 2009, designers were all about taffeta and organza, with romantic details and waistlines. This trend makes dancing, eating and breathing much easier!
“Romance has always been a staple in bridal wear, but this year you are seeing a return to classically feminine and soft looks; suited to the bride who wants to look as if she is floating down the aisle. Try layering soft fabrics and adding details like an elegant bow under the bust, or having one shoulder strap for that goddess style. ” Rachel Vowels says.
Texture
Last year we saw the rise of texture style in bridal design, 2009 is pushing the trend even further. Layered fabric, ruching and lacy overlays were all over the catwalks for 2009.
“No matter what your body type, the texture trend is perfect. You just need to find the type that suits you. For the bride with a shapely figure, try light ruching in the on the hip, if you are hour glass shape, try a mermaid style gown with a full ruffle skirt,” Rachel Vowels says.
Lace
There are few things as elegant as a lace wedding dress, matched with a mantilla veil and simple hair and make-up; it truly is the vision of bridal beauty. It is also a trend that will not have you kicking yourself in 20 years when you look back at the wedding photos.
In 2009 we will see lace as a detail in the neckline and sleeves. On the catwalk we saw illusion and boat necklines, which add that extra bit of grace to a look.
 “If you are a bride who is worried about showing too much, lace sleeves are your answer. Lace is great for coverage, but still emanates femininity. You can find countless dresses this season with either full length, three quarter length or capped sleeves.”
Short hemlines
It is hard to imagine wearing a short dress as a wedding gown, but bridal designers were big supporters of the short hemline this year, causing us all to think a little more about the mini dress. For the destination wedding, summer nuptial or the bride who wants a bit of edge and style, this look is perfect.
 “Often brides overlook finding the dress that suits the season of their wedding, the mini dress is perfect for the summer event. Or some brides find that one wedding dress is just not enough, so they are using the mini dress as a second dress for the reception!”