Barcelona Bridal Week was a buzz of activity as international designers and buyers alike converged on the cobblestoned streets of Spain to bring all the beauty of new-season 2020 bridalwear to the world. Creative Director Alera from White Lily couture was seated runway and reports on the direction for bridal wear in 2020.

While current hot looks such as off-the-shoulder, statement lace and mixed-medium lace continue to light up the catwalk, we also witnessed the emergence of a whole new crop of upcoming trends we can’t wait to get our hands on.  Here we’ll take you through the most drool-worthy looks we’re sure to see popping up in the hottest weddings of 2020. 

Sleeves

Sleeves made an overwhelming comeback at the Barcelona Bridal Week showings, not only in their classic fitted form, but also fresh takes on this fan-favourite. Alera, Creative Director of White Lily Couture, could not deny how prominent sleeves were for the upcoming season – she said:

“We’re seeing lots and lots of long sleeves, but always with some kind of detail. So it might be a sleeve with a cuff, it might be a long sleeve with a puff or shoulder embellishment, or it might just be a long sleeve that’s sleek – maybe in a crepe or satin for that really elegant, sophisticated look.”

The overall effect was dramatic and we are completely here for it! However, sometimes while people love the look of a well-styled sleeve, in actual fact it can be a little difficult to wear – particularly for those in warmer climate or looking to hold their wedding in Spring/Summer. But fear not – these new season showings offered so many on-point variations to suit any style! Soft tulle capes, billowing blouse overlays and long-sleeved gloves made multiple appearances as removable options to change up your wedding day look!

Snowflake sparkle

By far one of the most exciting surprises from the week that was, were the splashes of snowflake sparkle. The name was lovingly coined by the Hervé Moreau, the Artistic Director of Spanish-label Pronovias who debuted their Beyond the Stars collection for 2020. It refers to the unique glimmering beading characterised by its fine, delicate appearance. Alera was absolutely inspired by this stunning new design detail. 

“It literally looks like you’re shimmering. It’s not silver - it’s translucent and catches the light like a magnificent disco ball. It is just so hot and gorgeous – wait til you see it!” She says.

This metallic magic really brings the new season gowns to life with a series of gold, platinum and silver brocades, fringes, transparent elements and invisible seams, all of which combine to create other-worldly bridal looks. We are holding our breath for these babies to arrive in store!

Bows

 Structured tailoring and oversized bows also hit the catwalk en mass in a range of voluminous fabrics with no limits to style or placement. We can definitely see this suiting brides looking to make a confident style statement.  

White Lily’s style hunter, Alera keenly noted these recurring looks as they made their way down the runway. 

“We’re definitely seeing bows making a big comeback - whether it be on the shoulder or at the back, streaming down the train.  It’s an overexaggerated bow look – especially in fabrics such as Mikado, taffeta, or satins – those heavy-density type fabrics.” She explains.

We’re excited to see if this little slice of flirty feminine thrill make its way to our Australian brides-to-be.

Cold shoulder

A top contender for the most-predicted trend pre-bridal week was the one-shouldered gown. It’s been a hot-minute since we have last seen this asymmetrical style grace our presence, but one that was destined for return following the growing favour towards chic minimalist gowns.

Alera points out that this is a, “Sleek, elegant way to not wear strapless. We saw one shoulders that might be really slim at the top, and also nice and wide, which are obviously really well-suited to women with a bigger bust.”

This trend has major real-world appeal for giving the classic bridal looks a modern edge. We’re expecting this one to take off very soon!