For the last few years, wedding trends have been leaning towards everything soft, romantic and Bohemian. Although this is still a popular theme, 2018 heralds the introduction of a more theatrical style, whether that be through colour, décor or, of course, ‘The Dress’. Get excited – drama is here to stay!

Colour

Neutrals, white, green and blush pink were hot news last year. In 2018, we are seeing a dramatic shift towards colour – think shades of purple, industrial copper and even black accents. Yes, that’s right, black is back.

Makeup

The trend for glowing, healthy skin and minimal makeup continues. The key to making this look good is to ensure your skin is in tip top condition, so get yourself into a good skincare regime at least six months before your wedding day. Using a red lip to inject a pop of colour will be popular for 2018, just make sure it is long lasting, moisturising and, most importantly, kiss proof for your big day.

Hair

Natural, loose styles with a centre parting have been prevalent on catwalks recently, in keeping with the ‘undone, done’ trend. If you favour an updo, a teased out top knot shows off back detail on a dress beautifully, while a single Rapunzel plait or wavy ponytail allows you to keep your locks long but off your face. To decorate your do, think flower crowns and whimsical headpieces incorporating delicate sparkle and pearls.

The Dress

Dramatic dresses are everywhere this season – think pale blue hues, black accents, 3D-flower embellishments, plunging necklines and statement sleeves. Capes as cover-ups were prevalent on the catwalks, from short and sassy, to full length and flowing or heavily embellished with flowers, jewels and pearls. Sheer panels are another huge trend, translated as illusion necklines, backs of gowns and to add a modicum of modesty to a thigh-high side split.

Grooms

Not to be forgotten, grooms are also embracing drama this year with black-tie suits a huge trend. For summer weddings, think light jackets and Liberty-print ties, while tweed checks work beautifully for autumn, whether that be simply a waistcoat for a more subtle effect or a full suit for the more fashion-forward.

Bridesmaids

Over the past couple of years, we have seen the trend for bridal parties in identikit dresses wane (and, let’s face it when else would you ever choose to wear exactly the same outfit as three other women?). Brides have toyed with the same style dress but in different hues, or dresses in the same colour but differing styles, both of which have created a cohesive yet individual look. Now, however, bridesmaids are being encouraged to show off their personal style even further with separates the order of the day. Mix-and-match tops and bottoms, including skirts of all lengths, wide-legged trousers and culottes are up for consideration for a modern and sassy style.

Styling

Just as interiors trends have gravitated over recent months towards more industrial styling, so too are weddings moving towards this end goal. Exposed brick walls, stone or marble flooring, copper, hanging light bulbs and suspended floral arrangements are contemporary, chic and very à la mode.

Stationery

Stationery is all about texture in 2018. Juxtapose semi-transparent layers with pearlised paper or thick, embossed card for your invitations. For tables, more natural elements such as stone, wood and even pressed flowers are set to be big news this year. Get creative too – couples are making their own stationery more and more, which not only saves on cost but adds a personal and unique touch.

Flowers

In 2017, green was THE colour for flowers. This trend continues into 2018, but décor is taking a more imaginative turn. Gone are the days of having to peer round central vases of flowers to talk to your tablemates at dinner. Hanging floral decorations or long, low arrangements allow more space and eye contact, and pair well with coloured candles, which are set to make a statement this year. Vintage vessels, in particular cut or coloured glass continue the inclination towards transparency, while cement containers nod to the industrial trend that will become more popular this year. Bohemian wedding wreaths, both oversized as backdrops and smaller hoops as bridal party bouquets are set to become a firm favourite, while both bouquets and décor will be bright and bold, or made up of foliage only, in differing shades and textures to add interest. Bridal bouquets are moving towards a free-form style – think wild English country garden rather than a structured shape.

Food

The traditional sit-down meal has been on its way out now for some time as couples opt for a more sociable element to eating. Sharing platters, whimsically scattered with edible flowers, food vans, and finger food such as pizza, Mexican and traditional afternoon tea is set to be a winner. Dessert tables are also becoming increasingly en vogue, offering a wide choice for guests to gorge themselves on. Cakes are less of a centrepiece, but no less show stopping, with marbling, metallic elements and green foliage the way forward.

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