Still searching for “the one”?
No, not your partner - you’ve already found them. We’re talking about the dress.
The dress.
New York Bridal Fashion Week just gave us a whole new reason to fall in love all over again, with wedding fashion that is! The Autumn 2024 shows were bursting with dreamy designs, bold statements and the kind of thoughtful detailing that makes a gown truly unforgettable.
Whether your bridal style leans towards soft romance or modern edge, the runway was brimming with inspiration to suit every vision.
From dramatic sleeves to show-stopping second looks, here are the top trends we’re seeing everywhere right now, and the designers who did them best.
1. Basque Waists
Historical silhouettes have been making a comeback in bridalwear for a while, and this season, the basque waist took centre stage. Inspired by Victorian and Regency fashion, this bodice detail extends below the natural waistline, dipping into a flattering V or U shape to create a corseted, cinched silhouette.
Designers like Arava Polak and Ines Di Santo offered elegant interpretations, using lace and silk to strike a beautiful balance between modesty and allure. This style works best for any brides who are looking for that timelessly feminine look that enhances the natural shape of the body. Soft, structured, sophisticated. You can't go wrong.
2. Pleats
Pleats aren’t something we often see in bridal fashion, but this season, they made a surprisingly elegant entrance. Designers used them to add texture, flow and modernity, offering something fresh for brides seeking minimalism with movement.
Alexandra Grecco paired pleated skirts with crisp blazers for a bridal look that felt contemporary and cool and I adore as an engagement look, or something for a wedding that feels a little bit more casual and understated.
Inaura gave us softer, more ethereal pleats, paired with a basque waist in soft cream. And Francesca Miranda introduced horizontal pleating to create light, dimensional texture without overpowering the gown.
It’s a chic, understated trend that offers a clean break from traditional lace while still feeling romantic and graceful. For our brides that squirm at the idea of flounce and frill, this is the trend.
3. Tulle Ballgowns
And for the brides that love the idea of flounce and frill, this is the trend for you!
Yes, the princess dress is officially back.
Tulle ballgowns floated down the runway in dramatic layers, bringing whimsical romance to the forefront. Designers like Maggie Sottero and Ines Di Santo embraced the full fairytale effect with airy, voluminous silhouettes that felt utterly magical.
For the bride who’s always dreamt of their fairytale moment, this is your sign. It’s soft, feminine, and surprisingly modern when styled with minimalist accessories or a sleek hairstyle. You’re allowed to feel like a princess, in fact, we encourage it.
4. Party Looks
Bridal fashion isn’t just about the ceremony anymore.
The after-party look is quickly becoming a must, and designers are treating it with the same level of care, detail and glamour as the main gown.
Milla Nova wowed with a puffball corset mini that brought couture embellishment to the dancefloor, while Wona Concept’s Swan Line gave us bold, playful options for brides wanting to let loose later in the evening. Think sheer panels, lingerie-inspired tailoring, and shimmer galore.
Our favourite? A look from Khya Studios: a black sheer corset top paired with sequins. It sounds daring, but it’s executed with such finesse that it strikes the perfect balance between bold and beautiful. Your second look shouldn't be an after thought! It's a chance to have a ton of fun with your style.
5. 3D Florals
Florals have long been a staple of bridalwear, but this season was all about taking them to the next level. Three-dimensional florals were everywhere on the NYBFW runways, bringing texture, romance and couture-level artistry to the forefront.
Amsale showcased clean silhouettes with sculptural blooms for a striking minimalist-meets-maximalist vibe. Eze Azenabor went bold with structured floral elements paired with traditional princess shapes. Meanwhile, designers like Kim Kassas Couture and Rita Vinieris layered soft tulle and intricate beading for a more delicate, romantic effect.
This season's 3D florals are for the bride who wants to make a statement.
6. Oversized Sleeves
It’s official, the 1980s are back. But don’t worry, they’ve had a modern makeover.
Designers such as Wona Concept and Milla Nova leaned into the drama with exaggerated puff sleeves, ballooned silhouettes, and bold shapes. Claire Pettibone’s take was more delicate, with lace and tulle sleeves that nodded to vintage styling while maintaining an airy elegance.
These sleeves are perfect for brides looking to make an unforgettable entrance. They bring volume, shape and flair, and work beautifully with minimalist gowns for a balanced, editorial silhouette.
New York Bridal Fashion Week delivered an exciting mix of the romantic and the daring: from modern pleats and bold basque waists to whimsical florals and glittering party-wear. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or want to break tradition with sparkle and statement silhouettes, there is something for every kind of bride in this season’s trends.
So, which look are you obsessed with? Are you team fairytale tulle, or swooning over sheer sequins?
Let me know your favourites over on Instagram @the.curated.wedding or in the comments below, I love hearing how you’re styling your big day. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more trend roundups, behind-the-scenes advice, and my go-to supplier recommendations from inside the industry.
See you next time, and happy planning, my loves.