Our Favorite Trends for 2025 from the National Bridal Market in Chicago
Chicago market just wrapped and, as always, we’ve got behind-the-scenes photos from your favorite designers and sneak peeks at their latest collections. These gowns will begin trickling into the store come January, but we won’t make you wait that long! Here’s everything you need to know about what’s trending for bridal 2025…
Basque Waist
Maybe it’s all of the period-piece dramas that are coming out or nostalgia for the royal weddings of a time gone by, but vintage is trending and we’re seeing that come out on the runway in a variety of ways. The most noticeable vintage contribution is the resurgence of the basque waist. For years, we’ve seen just about every other waistline come and go, and finally, it’s time for the graceful slight dip of the basque waist. While some designers are diving headfirst and practically recreating some of your favorite Disney princess gowns, others, like MoriLee are putting a modern spin on a classic style-line.
Off-The-Shoulder Sleeves
After years of minimalism, lace is back in a big way and designers are incorporating it everywhere they can, and sleeves are a great way to show it off. The best part about these off-the-shoulder sleeves is that they are detachable and offer brides a dramatic statement for the ceremony and the option to completely switch up their look for the reception without purchasing another dress.
Sculpted Silhouettes
Taking inspiration from chiseled draping on ancient statues, we’re seeing a lot of intricate draping and even sculpting with some of the simpler fabrics like satin and taffeta. Not only is the detail of the draping simply breathtaking, it's also super flattering…just wait until you try them on!
3-D Floral Details
Because more is more at the moment, we’re seeing designers incorporate playful 3-D floral elements into their designs. From details like petals to full flowers like the ones down the back of this beachy Casablanca halter, these details can add so much to the overall essence of your bridal look.
Deep Plunging Necklines
No matter the silhouette, we noticed that most designers are offering deep plunging neckline variations of some of their popular styles. We’re especially mesmerized by the gravity-defying effect of the strapless corset top with the deep V illusion neckline from Casablanca.