WHEN IT COMES TO PLANNING YOUR WEDDING, WE’RE ALL FOR INDIVIDUALITY HERE AT HIS AND HERS. IT IS YOUR BIG DAY, AFTER ALL.

Just because you’re getting married doesn’t mean you’re required to dress up in a frilly toilet roll holder, tiara and trailing veil, or that you even need to wear white at all! Instead, in 2018, it’s all about your personality and letting it shine.

From heavenly prints to superhero capes, we spoke to Alterations Boutique, Manchester dress alterations specialist, to get this year’s biggest, and brightest, wedding dress trends covered. Read on to find out more!

Something Blue

Dreamy, soft and totally romantic, take inspiration from the ocean this wedding season and go with something a little bit different…

Blue isn’t simply reserved for a garter or your flower arrangements, so why not put a fresh twist on old traditions this year? For those eager to move away from the cookie cutter bridal look, try expressing your own unique sense of style by ditching the customary white in favour of a shade of blue. From pale cornflower hues to bright and bold royal blue, there’s a style to suit everyone, whether you’re the shy and retiring type, or are always seeking the limelight.

Starry-Eyed

For brides with a taste for the unconventional, take inspiration from the milky way by fluttering down the aisle on your wedding day. An alternative to standard lace, but equally as romantic, celestial-inspired prints were all over the runways at the recent Bridal Fashion Week. From sleek dresses adorned with glittery stars to delicate lace embellished with metallic constellations, the star-gazer inside you will thank you later.

For those looking for more of a twinkling, zodiac inspired accessories can add a touch of sparkle to your bridal look. Think dreamy headdresses, starry hair pins and out of this world veils.

Caped Crusaders

A trend that shows no sign of going away anytime soon, fashion-forward capes are here to stay. Ditch the princess train or veil and complete your bridal look with a cover up perfect for the modern bride. Feel like a superhero on your big day and make like Serena Williams and Solange Knowles in a cape that truly shows off your distinctive personality. From more traditional capes that cover the shoulders and neckline, to glittered mesh styles, there’s something for everyone.

For vintage glamour, opt for a feathered caplet, while those looking to make a statement should choose a full-length style for added drama.

Ballet Beautiful

Take inspiration from the Saturday ballet lessons of your childhood for a look that’s all about the drama. For brides searching to recreate the gracefulness and structure that comes with being a dancer, there are plenty of options to choose from that will make you feel ‘on pointe’.

Think dusky pink hues and full-figured dresses complete with frothy textures and tutu-style skirts. For a modern take on the trend, make like Odette in Swan Lake and choose a short style that’s perfect for throwing some shapes on the dancefloor. Brides searching for a more elegant look can choose a subtler dress complete with floor length hem and tulle sleeves.

Brides looking to simply tap into the trend can opt for pastel wraps or ballet slippers to complete the look, while those with a more adventurous side can choose from dramatic

Bring it to life

Florals, for bridal? Ground-breaking, we know. Gone are the generic prints and embroidery of years past – this season, florals, and nature, are brought to life. A fashion-forward trend with a touch of the magical, 3D embellishments and appliqués, such as delicate leaves and whimsical flowers, have been adoring wedding gowns from head to toe.

For brides wanting a dramatic look, choose a gown with a fully embellished skirt – think cascading ruffles, heavy beading or feathery petals. Alternatively, for brides searching for a simpler look, why not add an accent flower for an understated nod to the trend, or choose styles that are simple on the front, and more intricate on the back.

Bio: This article was produced in collaboration with Alterations Boutique Manchester. A leading business offering a range of alterations and tailoring services, the company is renowned for its decades of experience, outstanding reputation and affordable pricing.  Visit www.alterationsboutiquemanchester.co.uk to find out more.

For more 2018 style inspiration, please pay a visit to our fashion page.