‘Royal’ and ‘classic’ were among the words used to describe the wedding dress trends we saw in 2019, but 2020 is all about new ways of interpreting a classic look and taking inspiration from the past.

Wedding dress trends for the year ahead include everything from feathers and ruffles, to low back details and super high slits, to name a few. So for the brides planning for 2020, we know you are faced with so many choices and different styles, but we’re here to narrow those options down by presenting our favourite wedding dress trends for 2020.

From simplistic to dramatic, these are the wedding dress trends to look out for in 2020:

1. Capes

 

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A post shared by Jeannelle l’Amour Bridal (@jeannelle.la.amour_bridal) on Oct 7, 2019 at 9:34pm PDT

If there’s ever a time to be OTT, your wedding day is that day. For the more dramatic brides, their wedding day is their time to shine, which is why the cape trend is perfect for you. Bridal capes are a modern alternative to the veil with a theatrical feel. It’s glamorous, it makes a striking statement and is ideal for the bride looking to enhance her wedding dress with a touch of something different.

2. Feathers

 

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A post shared by Janita Toerien (@janitatoerien) on Apr 23, 2019 at 11:37pm PDT

Inspired by the 1920’s, this feminine feather trend arrived as a new type of texture. What might appear as slightly heavy, the light-weight feather details on a wedding dress add a playful, glamorous and dimensional edge. If the dreamy, classic wedding gown or minimal sheath dress is not for you, an elaborate gown draped in feathers might just be. Feathered wedding dresses are bold and fashion-forward, yet very unique. If you are intrigued by this trend but won’t commit to a full feathered dress, choose a simpler dress with feather accents.

3. Low back

 

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A post shared by Robyn Roberts Bridal Studio (@robynrobertsbridal) on Aug 20, 2019 at 9:06am PDT

This is a sexy and statement-making wedding dress trend. A low back or backless wedding dress is a flawless balance between glamorous, modern and sophisticated, showing a bit of skin while still looking elegant. This trend is actually quite versatile because whether you prefer a structured lace or flowing dress, the backless trend can work across all styles.

4. Tulle & ruffles

 

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A post shared by V A G A B O N D Bridal (@vagabond_bridal) on Dec 3, 2019 at 7:32am PST

For some vintage inspiration, consider a wedding dress with layers upon layers of tulle, or a full ruffled A-line skirt. The sensational bridal look has been seen before in a more subtle way,
but in 2020 we’re hoping to see the trend kicked up a notch! A wedding dress with many layers of exaggerated tulle and ruffles is guaranteed to have all eyes on you, and will make you feel like a modern-day princess.

5. Super high slits

 

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A post shared by Monique Lhuillier Bride (@moniquelhuillierbride) on Dec 16, 2019 at 12:03am PST

Put those legs on display! Along with low backs and plunging necklines, wedding dresses with high, sexy slits fall into the same dramatic category. A high slit is a tasteful detail that will show off your legs and is a great idea for the bride that still want a classic full-length dress with a modern and decadent edge.

6. Sheer

 

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A post shared by Anna Georgina (@annageorgina_bridal) on Jun 16, 2019 at 10:54pm PDT

A bit risqué? We think not. Sheer never looked so chic, and with this trend, you can be fully covered and still have a sultry sheer illusion. There’s room for imagination while feeling sophisticated and sexy at the same time. Keep in mind that the layers on the inside of the dress will be visible, so make sure it covers and hides what it needs to. Make use of slips, beautiful lingerie, lace, 3D appliqué and a variation of materials to create lightness without showing everything.

7. Ball gowns

 

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A post shared by Elbeth Gillis (@elbethgillis) on Dec 11, 2019 at 8:57pm PST

Nothing says classic quite like a full A-line ball gown style wedding dress. This style trend is by far the most versatile as it is suited for almost any neckline and bodice,
Whether its lace or embellishment, strapless or long sleeves, it just works across all spectrums. It is the most perfect dress style to make a grand entrance as
you cannot miss its voluminous silhouette.

8. Off-the-shoulder

 

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A post shared by 메이크업상아 (@makeup_sangah) on Dec 17, 2019 at 12:34am PST

Off-the-shoulder wedding dresses are a timeless trend and in 2020 it will be no different. The traditional foundational structure remains untouched but every year we see slight upgrades to the trend.

9. Minimalism

 

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A post shared by Made with Love Bridal (@madewithlovebridal) on Dec 7, 2019 at 11:58am PST

There’s beauty in simplicity. Not all brides want their wedding dress to be dramatic and extravagant with meters upon meters of material and detail. A simple wedding dress can have a more profound impact with a subtle hint of sexiness. A minimalistic wedding dress is not limited to a silk slip or sheath dress but might just mean no lace, beading or added volume. It stands out wonderfully by creating clean lines and a sleek shape.

10. Sparkle

 

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A post shared by Rochelle Smith (@justanothermannequin) on Nov 21, 2019 at 12:28am PST

There is nothing wrong with walking down the aisle dazzling in sparkles. For the bold and dramatic bride, a dress that shines in all its glory might just be the one for you. From glittering beads and metallic detail to embellishments and rhinestones, you’re bound to be a regal vision.

By Amy-lee Steenkamp

Feature image: Unsplash