As 2013 comes to a close, we’re taking a trip down memory lane to see some of our favourite trends in style, beauty, and wedding planning.
Fashion took a modern turn with a move from traditional reds to the exploration of different colours, while photography took an increasing editorial feel moving from conventional poses to stylized photo shoots. Shaadi Belles asked some of the leading wedding planning experts and insiders for their thoughts on what they loved in 2013 and what they’re looking forward to in the New Year.
Bridal Fashion: Playing with Colour
“While reds/maroons/ are the most traditional colours for bridalwear and will always be in vogue, we're seeing a move towards brighter colours like lime greens, fuchsias, & peacock blues for the next few seasons. On the runways, designers have been mixing traditional wear with new drapes, waistcoats, and heavily embellished belts for new twists on old classics. A lot of brides are using accessories as a way to change up their traditional looks. Headpieces, like these, have been extremely popular with brides this year and we don't see that slowing down for 2014.”
—Swathi Narra, founder of Luxemi, a South Asian Fashion e-commerce website
Images by www.luxemi.com
Wedding Planning: Girly Goes Glam
“2013 saw its fair share of jewel tones and art deco embellishments, but 2014 is going in a softer direction. Since the color of the year “Radiant Orchid” being announced, you can expect to be swooned by this girlie shade from outfits, decor, linens and beyond. The large, ornate floral pieces are making its way out to simpler, more rustic decor. Don’t be afraid to use REAL trees, branches, even tree gobos, to create a forest inside a ballroom. Customize the look at the head table, even the place card table to complete the theme”
—Preeti Vasudeva, founder of Preeti Exclusive Creations
Images by Preeti Exclusive Creations
Wedding Stationary: Elegance is Always in Style
“2013 followed two ends of the spectrum, simple and elegant and bold colours with embellishments. Colours that are popular regardless of year are pinks and oranges. What I foresee for 2014 is a continuation of the peacock theme and the use of the emerald color and vintage, rustic type invitations using lace and wood textures becoming more popular.”
Images by Lotus Designers
Photography: Picture-Perfect Moments Meet High-End Style
“Depending on the clientele, on the photography end, clients are leaning more towards Fashion, Glamorous and the Editorial feel. Clients don’t just want a different filter; they want to see the different effects of lighting. Many of the high-end luxury advertisements such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Dior have influenced what couples want to see today. Traditional poses and looks requests are changing quite a bit that I saw from 2013 and leading into 2014.”
—Amar Dewal, owner and founder of BnB Photography
Images by Bnb Photography
Sweets & Treats: The Sweeter Side of Vintage Style
“In 2013 we received many request for our sweets to be packaged in favor boxes with a lot of bling and gold inspired by the whole Great Gatsby prohibition era and we also received many request for vintage inspired mint green and pale pinks. For 2014, we foresee still many brides leaning towards the elegance and allure of Parisian influence with simplicity of black and white with a hint of couture. We also see still many brides as in previous year lean towards Indian inspired rich jewel tones with gift boxes wrapped in sapphire blues, emerald greens and ruby reds and have the sweets decorated with edible gemstones or delicate paisley patterns. However we also see a surge in more custom design as brides are loving the western trend of more farm-style or woodland outdoor weddings. We foresee many brides leaning towards influence of organic elements incorporated from food to decor into their wedding. One of our dessert options that fits well with this new trend is our edible topiary made up of completely vegan, gluten-free and naturally sweetened truffles. These topiaries are custom designed into any size or shape and make for great centerpiece for each table or to add that wow factor to your dessert table.”
–Shefalee, owner of Sweet Silk Confections
Images by Sweet Silk
DIY Decor: DIY Gets Earth-Friendly
“This past year we made a conscientious choice to refrain from carrying popular Sky Lanterns, a trend that was featured in many weddings during 2013. The reason we did not cash in on the trend is because of the proven cases where they cause fires and harm animals. Next year we expect a surge in colourful Premium Paper Lanterns, Paper Garlands and vintage-style Glass Decor as Rustic Style Weddings continue to rise in popularity. Couples are inspired by the backyard/barn wedding theme because it provides a comforting space to express their love and share their special day with family and friends.”
—Maia Rose Bissette, Luna Bazaar, an online wedding decorations and party decor store.
Images by Luna Bazaar
Feature Image: RAJartistry/Shaadibelles.com
Vandana Duggal
Author
Vandana Duggal, a former Beauty & Fashion marketer, is the co-founder of Shaadi Belles, a South Asian Wedding inspiration search engine. Based in New York City, Vandana is a biking enthusiast, beauty junkie, Bollywood fan, vegan and global traveler. w...