Wedding Dress Trends for 2014

Wedding season is upon us! If you’re getting married this summer, odds are you already have your dress, but if you don't, behold: a guide of wedding trends for 2014. Or more importantly, proof that there are gowns out there that aren’t just the standard white floor length number we grew up seeing.

The bridal industry has undergone a bit of an overhaul, so to help narrow down what to look for when wedding dress shopping, or to help you talk wedding lingo to a friend who’s getting married, here are ten of the trends we found that are set to dominate the next few months.

1. Headpieces, Not Veils

We may be seeing a lot of vintage throwbacks, but the traditional veil has been replaced with the statement headpiece. (So when we say “vintage” we mean “nothing from the ‘80s or ‘90s.”) That means 1920s beadings and even Edwardian-inspired hats are replacing the look from years back, meaning nobody’s face is being concealed by fabric you will 100% curse as soon as dinner starts.

2. Black And White

Thanks to Vera Wang this year, we took even more of a step back from standard formal wedding attire, thanks to her decision to combine black and white on certain styles. She also wasn’t the only one: Maggie Sottero did the same thing, while Olia Zavozina incorporated a black belt (so brides can officially say they have one).

3. Dresses On A Budget

Here’s something important to know: wedding dresses do not have to cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While you can pick up a simple white or cream dress at literally any store that sells dresses, even designers like Vera Wang (you have to mention Vera Wang at least 14 times in wedding stories or dresses stop existing) and BCBGMAXAZRIA offered styles this year for under $500. Breaking the bank is so . . . well, was it ever really even in?

4. Two-Piece Gowns

Should we be surprised that we’re looking to two-piece wedding dresses in 2014, now that everyone who grew up in awe of Bianca’s prom dress from "10 Things I Hate About You" are adults? (No.) So, enter: the two-piece wedding dress, 1) as a means for a bride to semi-design it herself, or 2) as a way to capitalize on the crop top resurgence. Weddings are supposed to be fun after all, so you might as well have some fun with what you wear.

5. Cut-Outs

We’ve been seeing cut-outs across the fashion board for the last couple of seasons, so obviously the trend had to begin impacting the wedding industry sooner rather than later. In this case, cut-outs have shown up in designs by the likes of Angel Sanchez (in terms of more mainstream looks), and on the independent front, in Etsy shops by Anya Dionne and Sunjin Lee.

6. Gold

Honestly, if we’re going to be inundated with metallics everyday anyway, we might as well apply them to the wedding front. Taking a break from the traditional white (which I think we can all understand – that is one tired look), gold’s stepped in to offer a little more depth to a relatively standard aesthetic. Jesus Peiro went for it in his Fall/Winter 2014 collection, while the Gibson Bespoke shop on Etsy boasted a blush gold Old Hollywood gown. Layer with bling accordingly.

7. Lace Sleeves

And speaking of Old Hollywood (or “classic” or “vintage” or “sleeves are the best”), lace sleeves are a big presence in the wide world of wedding dresses, with the likes of Grace Kelly’s gown being more than a little influential. Regardless of season (arguably, you can wear lace sleeves in spring, summer, fall, or winter – who’s going to stop you?), we’re living in a world in which the strapless trend has fallen a bit by the wayside. And as an avid champion of sleeves in any capacity, we applaud this.

8. Detailed Back

But don’t let the sleeves fool you – to balance out the cover-up effect of 2014, detailed, plunging backs showed up in collections by Ines Di Santos, Monique Lhullier, and Carolina Herrera. Baby got back, you guys.

9. Pants

That’s right, we said it: pants. As in when we say we’re embarking on a momentous journey away from the confines of traditional wedding wear, we're not joking. Rosa Clara’s 2014 silk pant suit provided the perfect example of how to combine new and old elegantly (as well as that taking a risk on one’s wedding day doesn't need to be terrifying).

10. Black Wedding Dresses

And the bride wore black! (Is what they’ll say about you if you adopt this 2014 look.) Romona Keveza, Vera Wang (it’s the rule of three – we must say her name three times), and Rami Kadi all went for dark, dramatic looks, meaning that the days of superstition are over. Now you just wear what you want.

We're Having a Destination Wedding - What's the Best Way to Travel with my Dress?

Destination weddings can be extra stressful if you have to fly with your wedding dress. But if you must board a plane with your dress in tow, then what's the best and safest way to travel with your gown? Our wedding etiquette experts are here to answer your questions in our daily post.

We're having a destination wedding—what's the best way to travel with my gown?

Whether you're marrying in far-flung locale or simply the state next door, getting your wedding dress to your destination safely is a huge concern. For weddings that require air travel, never check your dress (or your groom's attire, for that matter!)—you don't want to risk having your luggage lost. Instead, either pack your gown into a carry-on suitcase or take your dress on board in a sturdy garment bag and kindly ask a flight attendant if it would be possible to hang it in a closet (usually located in first class).

Be sure to arrive at the airport early to allow for extra time during the security screening. TSA personnel may need to open and unpack the dress for inspection (you can politely ask them to handle the dress very carefully and use a new pair of latex gloves for the screening). You'll need the extra time to repack the dress correctly. Adding 30 minutes onto the recommended check-in arrival time for your flight is usually sufficient, although you may need an extra hour at busy airports. Once you've reached your destination, unpack the dress promptly to release the wrinkles. Also, bring a travel steamer with you; do a test run on another garment before you begin steaming your gown to make sure the steam is clean and won't stain the fabric.

2014 Wedding Trend: Jeweled Necklines

Jeweled Necklines

The bridal fashion runways were full of simple, classic wedding dresses with added sparkle along the neckline -- from sheer illusion necklines with small beading to larger embroidered rhinestones and crystals. Picture the gorgeous looks of Lake Bell and Christina Ricci's wedding dresses. And since most wedding photos are taken from the waist up, sparkly or unique details are best captured on the neckline or around the waist of the wedding dress.

Plan a Wedding Without Losing Your Mind

Take some time.
When you first get engaged you are usually beside yourself with excitement - and rightly so! You call your parents, text your friends, post to Facebook, and start dreaming about your perfect dress. But before you start devoting your life to Pinterest boards, there are a few questions that a couple should ask themselves: What kind of people are you and your fiance? Do you love formal affairs, or are you more comfortable at casual gatherings? Who will be on your guest list - mostly old college friends or extended family members? These are the kinds of decisions that come first because they will determine the tone and even the setting of your wedding. Then you can begin to think about how you want your day to look. Flip through lots of magazines - not just bridal ones - and see what speaks to you style-wise. Even thinking about why you love the restaurants you do will help you shape your vision.

Make a budget.
Money is never a fun topic, but you have to know how much you can spend before you start reserving a 15-piece reception band. Once you both decide on your budget your options for your venue, vendors, and style will be much clearer. After that, if you are like most couples, you'll have to choose between having a smaller wedding with every thing you have ever dreamed of, or a larger event that means cutting out some extras like a photo booth or swans in the fountain.

Ponder working with a planner.
If you don't enjoy negotiating with vendors, handling contracts, or troubleshooting problems - a planner can handle all of this for you. If a planner is completely out of the question, maybe an on-site coordinator could help you make sure everything runs according to schedule the day of.

Select your setting.
Picking your venue is the hardest part of the puzzle - everything else will fall in to place once you have your venue like your catering and decor. Since many popular spaces can get booked up to a year in advance, you wil want to decide on your location and date as soon as possible. Choosing a site also means you will know whether you have to order tent rentals, extra bathrooms, and the like, which also affects your overall budget.

Black and White Weddings - Always in Style!

Is there anything more sophisticated than a classic black and white wedding? It’s a color scheme that never goes out of style and is both elegant and contemporary. And just because it’s usually associated with more formal affairs, don’t think you can’t have fun and be playful with it. To keep it modern and fresh, simply add in a little texture, throw in some pops of color or play with pattern–polka dots, anyone?

 Black and white wedding gowns are so hot right now

 If you’re particularly daring bride and black accents just won’t cut it for you, you could always opt for an all black ensemble. The addition of sequins and metallic accessories will keep it looking chic, glamorous, and celebration ready.

 The classic black tuxedo is the obvious choice when it comes to groom attire, but why not flip that look on its head instead with a white tuxedo jacket with black trim? Or, you could have a little fun with the accessories and by choosing a polka dot bow tie or pocket square.

Black and white decor details can be dramatic or understated depending on the feel you’re going for, but like with any color scheme, keeping things simple will provide the most impact.

Black and White Filigree Vintage Scroll Wedding Personalized Invitation by NoteableExpressions

To see more Black and White Wedding Invitations - visit Noteable Expressions 

STYLE CHAT: From Beading to Lace, You’ll Commit to These 6 Chic Bridal Trends!

Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most important decisions a fashionista will make, so it’s important to go in with a plan so that you can find the gown that fits your personality and needs.

Bridal expert Carine Krawiec, who owns Carine’s Bridal Atelier in D.C., knows her way around a wedding gown — to say the least — and has dropped by CocoaFab to share her tips for finding THE dress and reveals the six top of-the-moment fashion trends in bridal for 2014.

Keep reading for her tips and then scroll through the gallery to check out some of the chicest gowns around.

1) Location, location, location.  Each venue can change what style of gown you will wear.

2) Keep an open mind.  Select a few gowns that you thought you’d never wear. You never know, it could be the one!

3) Mind the company you keep.  Bring people to your appointment whose opinion you value and who will bring positive energy.

4) Don’t forget the budget. Know what you want to spend because if you fall in love with a gown that’s out of your budget, it can really break your heart.

5) Don’t get overwhelmed. Remember, this is the fun part! Enjoy every minute if it.

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road."

Raising the hemline

"I'm frequently asked, 'Do you know where I can buy a short white dress?' After this season, they will be easy to find. Designers like Jenny Lee, seen here, created short dresses for all parts of a wedding celebration, including engagement parties, bridal showers, receptions and rehearsal dinners. Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2014 line consisted entirely of tea-length and cocktail dresses. Marchesa added a few short dresses to their line, including one of my favorites: a strapless lace with cascading flower details. Brides will have a huge selection this season to find a short dress perfect for the occasion."

Make an exit

"Making an entrance is important for a bride, but this season is all about the exit, as designers focus on creating unforgettable back details. In past seasons, key hole backs were the standard, yet this season, designers are focused on incorporating an art nouveau touch. Miami-based designer Liancarlo created an irresistible re-embroidered chantilly lace low-back gown, and Toronto-based designer Rivini played with soft finishes of lace to decorate the curves of a bride's back. The Monique Lhuillier gown seen here has a beautifully-constructed back."

Lacy arm candy

"Lace sleeves will be trickling down the arms of brides this season. These sleeves are filled with chantilly lace, feather stitching and re-embroidered lace. Designers created unique patterns, playing with the layout of the fabric. Monique Lhuillier create a basket weave shoulder detail, seen on the gown here, and Marchesa constructed flower garden sleeves. Every bride has the option of choosing a traditional look with a new modern lace twist."

Plunging V necklines

"A trend seen on the runways that echoed in the bridal Fall 2014 shows are V necklines, which became a staple in almost all the collections this season. Rita Vinieris, designer for Rivini, introduced this neckline for the first time in a few of her gowns. Marchesa also playfully added V-necks to their romantic bridal collection. Temperley London, seen here, created a romantic V-neck embellished with organza flower accents and beading that begins to form floral and leaf patterns."

Beading, beading, beading!

"Bridal gowns in 2014 will light up the night if the beading shown at bridal market is any indication!vTouches of sequins, caviar beads, glass and silver beading graced the Fall 2014 collections.vBeading helps create a romantic and glamorous look, and designers like Liancarlo mixed pearls and beading together to create an icy look on a classic sheath gown. Monique Lhuillier decided to add caviar glass beads to her sheath-like 'Gwyneth' gown. Even the short dress collection by Carolina Herrera, seen here, had jeweled illusion necklines. Beading is in and hopefully it's here to stay!"

Read the full article here: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=1

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road." - See more at: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=2#sthash.CPRcAcgD.dpuf

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road." - See more at: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=2#sthash.CPRcAcgD.dpuf

The Quest for the Dress

If your search for the most spectacular gown is starting to feel like going to the dentist with no pain meds, then take a deep breath. Here are some of the best tips for when to start, whom to bring (hint: maybe not all of your bridesmaids) and how to navigate styles, sales, and fittings.

1. Set a Budget
I know this seems really basic, but shopping without a budget for your gown is like driving a car without a gas gauge. Plan to spend about 10% of your wedding budget on your dress - but consider this a starting point. If your dress is more important to you than the flowers then feel free to adjust your budget.

2. Start Early
Looking for a dress before you are even engaged is a bit much - but start as soon as you have that ring. It can take from 6-12 months from the time you order your dress until you bring it home. Unless you are lucky enough to find the perfect dress all ready for alterations, keep in mind that the designer needs time to make your gown and you should plan on about three dress fittings - roughly one month apart.

3. Do Your Research
Pull pages from magazines, browse the internet, online galleries and Pinterest boards for inspirations. Keep everything together in a folder - pictures, fabric samples, ribbons - all of the things that you love. Most dress shops will not have all of their dresses on display so the more things you can show to help a salesperson pull the designs - the more you are likely to love them.

4. Make Appointments
Once you have an idea of what you want, it is time to set up some appointments. Many salons and boutiques do not work on a walk-in basis so call about two weeks in advance to make an appointment. If you have a particular designer in mind - call around to see who carries that designer or price points.

5. Limit your Entourage
If you watch reality shows then you probably have seen the entire bridal party with the bride when she goes to find 'the dress.' It rarely works out well and there is almost always drama! The best advice is to bring one or two people whose opinion you value the most. If you really want to include your bridal party - then have them come in for your final fitting and do a grand reveal.

6. Primp Beforehand
If you go in to pick out a dress with wet hair and no makeup it is much harder to visualize how you will truly look on your big day. Not to mention that this makes it much harder for the consultant to get an idea of your style. If you already have your heels or a special memento that you are planning to wear then bring it to your appointment - this too will help.

7. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
A simple truth: some dresses look like a paper bag until you actually put it on - and then it looks fabulous! With that in mind, don't turn up your nose until you try something on. The consultant has a good idea of what will look good on you so trust them at least until you see it on. That said, don't let a pushy salesperson or a well-meaning Mom sweet talk you into something you really don't love!

Wedding Gown Shapes Explained

A-Line: The classic 50s cut camouflages hips and balances wide shoulders

Ball Gown: This iconic wedding dress's full skirt helps accentuate the small of your waist

Fit and Flare: Got curves? Showcase them. This gown should fit snugly in the hips and thighs but offer enough room to sit.

Strapless: Sweetheart or straight, this cut flatters all bodies

Halter: Along with one-shoulder silhouettes, this sculpted style is especially beautiful on brides with long torsos

V-neck: Fuller figured? Take the plunge. It draws the eye right to the smallest part of your waist.

Trend Report! Hot New Wedding Trends For Fall 2013 and Spring 2014 Read more: New Wedding Dress Trends by TheKnot.com - Fall 2013 and Spring 2014 Collections http://wedding.theknot.com/bridal-fashion/wedding-dress-shopping/articles/new-wedding-dress-trends-spring-2014-and-fall-2013.aspx#ixzz2YYGU0mvT

Beaded wedding dresses with serious Great Gatsby-style glam, utterly romantic cap sleeves and so much more. See what's hot!

We're totally obsessed with this Great Gatsby glam style. Designers Reem Acra, Maggie Sottero, Carolina Herrera, Theia and Kenneth Pool, to name a few, featured pretty dress designs with allover beading. The look is sophisticated yet flirty and just begs for a cocktail style wedding with a champagne tower and coupe glasses.

Cap Sleeves

Utterly romantic and soft, cap sleeves made a big appearance on the bridal fashion runways this season. Christos, Maggie Sottero, Kenneth Pool, Monique Lhuillier and Temperley Bridal all included the pretty sleeve styles in their collections.

Click here to read more:

http://wedding.theknot.com/bridal-fashion/wedding-dress-shopping/articles/new-wedding-dress-trends-spring-2014-and-fall-2013.aspx

Lena & Christopher’s Classic Purple Wedding at Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel of Freehold

What better way to celebrate wedding Wednesday than by sharing this classic purple wedding from the Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel of Freehold! Lena and Christopher’s love story is as real as they come. The two were only fifteen when they met during the Babe Ruth Little League World Series and although they went their separate ways, they reconnected through a mutual friend years later. (Lena even admitted that she let Christopher slip past her once, but wasn’t willing to do so again!) Take a look at their magical images that 217 Photography brought to life beautifully.

 See more pictures here

Couples go back to farming roots for wedding venues

Last week saw the official start of spring, which means that wedding season is in full bloom. Some couples are getting ready to say their "I dos" as others are just beginning the planning stages of a 2014 wedding.
For Lori Cole of Events & Lucky Penny Boutique, providing a fairytale wedding is just another day at the office. So what are the current trends in the Central Valley? Read the rest of the story here.

Wedding Trends: How to 'Say Yes to the Dress'

Q & A With Monte Durham of 'Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta':

You're the Fashion Director for Bridals by Lori, which has its own show on TLC. But you came from a hairstyling background. How ever did you end up on TV? Read the rest of this great interview with Monte here.