Talking about trends may seem beside the point with something as timeless as a wedding celebration. But couples these days are changing every detail of the white-rose-and- tulle wedding to make their big day more personal.
"Brides and grooms are adding lots of personality to their weddings beyond writing their own vows," says Charla Lawhon, deputy editor of In Style magazine, which covers many of the celebrity weddings where trends are made and broken.
Millie Bratten, editor-in-chief of Bride's magazine, agrees. "Today's weddings are all about fun -- unique, different, celebratory," she says.
Wedding trends, from the choice of dress to the kind of photography, often reflect current trends in fashion and couples' lifestyles. But the good news is that while certain styles are definitely In, not much is definitely Out. If you've always dreamed of layer upon layer of tulle and a cathedral train, so be it. This is your party.
Best dressed
You can find just about every style of bridal gown in the stores, but the newest looks are bare. Strapless dresses often come with sheer organza wraps. These are as much party clothes as wedding gowns. The body-skimming sheaths are more comfortable than last year's corset bodices, and pared-down ballgowns have replaced really big dresses.
Pure white is always right, but the palest hues of pink, blue and celadon look up- to-the-minute. And fashion's hottest color, gray, is translated to silver and platinum in forward-looking wedding fashions.
Also hot:
* Gold detailing
* Colored embroidery
* Bustles
* Liquid satin and other
flowing fabrics
* Sweep trains
* Tiaras
* Sparkly barrettes and
butterfly clips
* Lace mantillas
* Bridal handbags
Always a bridesmaid...
If the bride has decided on a color for her gown, her attendants can wear it in a deeper shade.
Another of the latest trends is to mix and match -- to choose a color and fabric and let each bridesmaid pick a different cut that flatters her. Conversely, the bride can select the dress and let each attendant choose a color that looks good on her.
Other news:
* White, aubergine and
black
* Separates
* Evening wear with
spaghetti straps or halters
* Hot pink taffeta is Out
A rose by any other name
