Bridal Market: Spotlight on Bridesmaid Dresses

Bridal designers recently showed their latest collections in New York City. The gowns won't be available in stores until next year, but everybody in the Engaging Affairs office is already drooling over the designs. This week we'll be featuring the coming trends in the bridal world, along with the new dresses that took our breath away.

Of course, when people think of bridal fashion, wedding gowns are the first thing that come to mind, but the latest in bridesmaid dresses are also debuted at market. Having once worked in a bridal shop that carried the amazing creations of Anna Maier~Ulla-Maija, I was thrilled to discover that the couture bridal house is launching a bridesmaid line. And as you would expect from a designer known for flawless fit and dramatic silhouettes, these bridesmaid dresses are absolute show-stoppers.

I love this navy ball gown so much I'm thisclose to begging one of my sisters to get married just so I can wear it. (No pressure for them or their boyfriends, right?) 

This red gown is actual the bridesmaid version of the wedding dress that our very own Amy wore for her wedding. Good to know it's equally stunning in white or red! 

Notice how the ruched bodice and draped skirt on this green dress draws the eye to the narrowest part of the model's waist. That's good design. 

Another great design detail: how the neckline on this lace sheath is softly dipped instead of cut straight across. It's a difference your bridesmaids will thank you for! 

Unfortunately, I don't have a closer image of the detailing on this gray gown, but I suspect it's another type of lace. Probably my favorite of the two fitted silhouettes. The sharply defined sweetheart neckline draws attention to the model's shoulders and collar bone, and I'm a big fan of the fluted skirt. 

More bridesmaid highlights from other designers to come later today! 

-Alison