The Wedding Dress Styles That Will Be Huge in 2018

With big weddings set for 2018, like Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s upcoming nuptials next spring, we have our minds set on the wedding dress style to expect. Will there be any big trends making their way onto the wedding scene? To find out, we consulted Lanie List (the founder of Lovely Bride) for her expert opinion about the dresses that are sure to make their way onto your Instagram feeds in the coming months.

Instead of one major trend, List told us there are actually two to watch out for. “Wedding dresses for 2018 are going to two extremes,” List told Who What Wear. “On one end, there is a return to a very sleek, classic look. Think Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.” This return to the classics is a foolproof option for any bride looking for a timeless style. But List also shared that “on the other end, dresses have gotten sexier than ever. I thought they couldn’t possibly get any saucier than 2017, but then they did.” We have definitely seen an uptick in the popularity of the “naked” dress trend, and if List’s words are anything to go by, we see no signs of it slowing down.

Go on to read more about these wedding dress trends and shop our favorite styles.

CLASSIC

“On the classic end, I’m loving the return of the Watteau train and oversize bows on wedding dresses. Circa 18th-century France, circa Marilyn Monroe, circa Madonna Material Girl—I’ve mostly seen this look with a rounded neckline, which looks demure but also bombshell. Second, I’m seeing very heavyweight plain-weave fabrics for bridal gowns, like faille and Mikado. These fabrics fall beautifully in a ball gown and feel so regal (read this, Meghan Markle). Lastly, bridal capes are are the new veil. All of that coverage could scare some brides, but in a sheer fabric, it becomes a great piece to give some movement to your bridal look as it flows down the aisle.” — Lanie List, Lovely Bride

SEXY

“Our sexy ladies are asking for see-through gowns! We were skeptical at first, but the photos they have shown us are quite cool, using lace and embellishments in strategic places to create a look a that is really artistic. Also, super-low backs continue, and I think they are a mainstay of bridal. Lastly, the leg lives on! I’ve seen loads of front or side slits on both fitted wedding gowns and even fuller ball skirts for a little peekaboo.” — Lanie List, Lovely Bride

Next, read about the best dresses to wear to a wedding.