Hi, ya’ll! Sam here, and I just got back from another exciting season at New York Bridal Fashion Week. Trends tend to move a little slower than regular street fashion, but there’s still so many things to go over each time the new collections come out!

Reminder: looks are normally available in store 6+ months after fashion week so if you see something that debuted last week and you’re getting married this summer….maybe it’s time to look into custom options. Also, I know we’re in spring of 2024, but the official season title is Spring/Summer 2025 (that’s a rant for another time).

Let’s dive in to the trends:

1. Bows!

   The bow trend has reigned supreme for the past few seasons so those with a super strong feminine energy, this one’s for you. We’re seeing bows as hair accessories, on veils, dramatically big, adorably small, sheer, opaque, and everything in between. It’s a great way to add drama, color, or subtle design detail if you’re looking to “add” without overwhelming.

2. Dramatic sleeves

Another look that’s been gaining momentum for a while, sleeves can vary depending on the outfit. The strongest trend is off the shoulder and many of them are detachable! Call it two birds one stone. You’ll find a lot of billowy, sheer sleeves with lace appliques or simple gathered tulle sleeve that’s more form fitting to the arms.

3. Drop waists

Say hello to “coquettecore” and all that comes with it (aka vintage aesthetic). Mainly, drop waists. For those with a short torso (or just short in general), this is a great way to get a more elongated look even if the waist is only dropped by a couple inches. Gorgeous with a gathered skirt or if you’re going for a more romantic, ethereal tulle vibe.

4. Rosettes

3D florals are back, but with a specific look: roses. Fashion week was full of them from large and dramatic to softly sprinkled throughout an all lace gown. You’ll even see them as the print pattern in lace, or along the trim of a neckline or shoe. Roses have always been a staple of the wedding industry and they’ve made their way back into fashion.

5. structured minis!

In a world where city hall and elopement weddings are on the rise, mini dresses have been growing with it! Whether you want it for the main event or just for a rehearsal dinner, bachelorette, or engagement party, these little numbers are perfect. These mini dresses tend to be “stiffer” and hold a sophisticated shape. You’ll find them mainly used with satin and (if embellished) with beads or pearls.

special mentions

There’s always more going on than just a few trends each season so here’s a special mention for some other notable mentions:

• Platform heels

• Pastel gowns

• Tiered skirts

• Pearls (timeless!)

So, which trend is your favorite? Or better yet, which one are you incorporating into your wedding? Tell us in the comments!

Happy shopping!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Hello! Sam here 👋🏼 . As your resident artist, I’m super excited to bring this topic to you so let’s chat beautiful options for your big day!

As we’re all aware, art comes in many styles. This can be more traditional like painting or in the form of food decoration or photography. Whichever is your preferred medium, art is a beautiful way to show self expression and style. Also, as more and more weddings focus on guest experience, this is great way to get creative and wow your guests. So let’s dive in to a few specific ideas:

1. hire a live painter

   This is the most obvious idea, as it concentrates on the traditional idea of “art”. You can hire an artist to come to the wedding and paint a scene from the ceremony, first dance, etc. They usually spend a few hours on it on site and then will finish it up back home in their studio. This is the perfect blend of a memento (for you as the couple) and experience as guests will love seeing this come to life throughout the night.

   Option number two, is a live guest artist. This is what I personally specialize in and guests absolutely LOVE walking away with a custom piece of art created just for them. I have an entire blog post going over how all of this works, so check that out here.

2. custom place cards

Piggy-backing off of the point above, getting custom place “cards” for your guests is another way to gift them something personal. I would say this is a better option for the rehearsal dinner or welcome party as opposed to the wedding, but that really depends on your guest count and budget. These cards or place settings can be anything from custom sketches to mini embroidered hoops to personalized letters. I personally love this option as it acts as the wedding favor as well instead of gifting something generic that they don’t want anyway.

3. Interactive guest book

I will scream this from the rooftops for the rest of eternity: SKIP THE TRADITIONAL GUEST BOOK. The likeliness of you reading it ever again after (maybe) your first anniversary is very low. So, why not have an option that you’ll actually be able to see and admire after the wedding day? Guest “book” ideas can honestly be giving people anything they can write on, but if you want to be able to display this with pride in your home afterwards, signing art is going to be the way to go. Such as: a custom illustration of the two of you with (or without) your date underneath on canvas or oversized paper with plenty of space for guests to sign around it (click here to learn more about this). Or even something special carved out of wood or etched on glass.

We also did a blog post on the many guest book alternatives. Click here to look into more options.

4. portrait photographer

This is a very new option that I am SO excited is starting to trend. Imagine instead of a photo-booth, you had an actual photographer taking family/couples photos in that cute little sitting/backdrop area you already know you’re going to have somewhere (or at cocktail hour!). Because there’s nothing like a professional making sure you look best in photos. Plus, the photographer would gather guests’ info to send them the photos post-wedding. Wins all around.

5. Get literal

For all my fellow creatives, this one’s for you. If you want a little nod to your artsy side, here’s a couple options:

1. Mini easels and canvases as table numbers

2. Pantone cards for your seating chart (or table numbers)

3. Hand-painted veil or dress/outfit

4. Grazing table with food on (unused!) paint palettes

6. Painted food

Don’t worry, it’s still edible! If you want a more “temporary” art direction then go for the cake. Watercolor cakes are absolutely gorgeous and can really bring a non-traditional, romantic vibe to the dessert selection. Not having a cake cutting moment? Get famous paintings replicated on a bunch of mini cakes!

7. get it on paper

When all ideas fail, you really can go all out relying on your paper goods. It’s a great way to kick off your wedding journey as the invite suite will be guests’ first peak into your style. Here’s a few options:

1. Get an illustrated map to introduce guests to your area for the weekend (especially if your weekend activities are split between multiple venues)

2. A watercolor or pencil drawing of your venue for the envelope lining

3. An illustration of the couple for the save the dates or thank you notes

4. Food illustrations for a buffet sign or individual menus

5. A custom drink sign for your signature cocktails

6. Chocolate cards aka a delicious chocolate bar inside a custom decorated card aka the sweetest take home favor for your guests. Shoot me an email to learn more and get a quote!

As I usually end most of my blog posts, I love reminding you that your special weekend or day is just that: YOURS. So make it as unique as your love with your partner and let your personality shine through art. I would love to know, which idea did you like best? Tell us in the comments below!

Happy Planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn