THE BEST WEDDING DRESSES 2024
There's something about Spring collections that feels a little different. Maybe it’s the weather changing, or the approach of “wedding season” itself but the designs seem lighter, more playful and leave us with lingering thoughts of romance that supply us with endless ideas for months to come.
The designers' inspiration this season seemed to stem from many places; from the French Riviera and the coastlines of Italy to old Hollywood, the opera and especially nature itself. Yet, while their origins were different, there were many design trends that were abundantly present throughout the various collections.
For example, more often than not, you could find details such as gauntlet sleeves, plunging necklines, floral appliques, playful transparency and organic lines, (just to name a few), however, it was the celebration of personal style that united these designers as they seemed to deeply reflect on their own signature aesthetic and explored ways in which to provide a multitude of fresh and modern interpretations for their brides to choose from. Even outside of the gowns themselves, various components and accessories were able to be personalized - removable boleros, opera gloves, detachable sleeves, tulle overcoats and floral lace capes - giving everyone the opportunity to mix and match their looks and create a one-of-a-kind moment that will feel completely unique to each consumer.
There was also a deeper meaning in many of the collections this season. While nature was certainly one of the most referenced trends, themes such as empowerment, sensuality, inner strength and elegance were compounded one collection at a time as each brand seemed to want to tell a story beyond the outward beauty of their designs and instead, hoped to uncover the inner beauty of their clients by providing them the perfect gown for them to feel like their most powerful self.
RAMI AL ALI
This month marked the acclaimed couturier Rami Al Ali’s fifth season of White, displaying modern femininity and deconstructing traditional looks through a reimagined vision in his 12-piece collection.
Fresh and youthful, SS24 reflected Ali’s core design signatures such as exquisite finishes, detailed handwork and a sophisticated knowledge of fabrics that are unparalleled by comparison. He took this thoughtful approach to fabrications and used it to create seamless combinations consisting of French laces, organza and fanciful tulle with handcrafted Swarovski embroideries in a timeless palette of white and pearl. The gowns also featured silhouettes with elaborate architectural detailing, sharing both sleek and sensual construction that resulted in a contemporary elegance perfect for the modern-day bride.
ELIE SAAB
Elie Saab used his SS24 collection to showcase an indulgent grace and iridescent serenity by way of Japan. Each design utilized inspiration that could easily stem from a Katashushika Hokusai illustration, displaying ornate folds and origami shapes along with a plethora of nature-inspired details like cherry blossom appliques and organic movement by way of a terrain of perfectly laid crystals, sequins and beading.
ZUHAIR MURAD
As if straight out of a childhood fairytale, Zuhair Murad assembled a collection of gowns for SS24, drawing inspiration from a 1970’s wedding in Italia and elevated the moment into designs fit for royalty.
Inspired by the thoughts of a bride strolling across the lush Florentine gardens, each style of
Zuhair Murad’s latest collection reflected the styles of traditional moldings and the artful design reflected in refined handmade tiles and architectural motifs. Consisting of classic styles with a modern twist, it was a celebration of rebirth, showcasing silhouettes built mainly from a-line ballgowns and mermaid shapes that were overtly exaggerated yet remained sensual thanks to cinched waistlines, bare shoulders and plunging necklines. Along with structured corsets and seductive open backs, designs were balanced due to voluptuous organza skirts and ornate accents such as ruffles and dramatic sleeves that ultimately showcased a bride that knows exactly what she wants.
INES DI SANTO
For her 54th collection, Ines Di Santo drew inspiration from a Spring garden, creating a meticulous and delicate composition of gowns that celebrates love lived in full bloom.
Santos applied signature design elements - such as her modern wielding of classic couture techniques - and featured them in details such as hand painted florals, dimensional beading and fabric manipulation that all culminated in various dramatic silhouettes and provided her brides’ the opportunity to showcase their individuality no matter their personal style.
More traditional brides could look to styles such as the Ostinato, a stunningly chic plunging V-neck and molded corset bodice paired with a pleated ballgown skirt with hidden pockets. Meanwhile, those seeking texture and drama could select from styles such as the Motif or Vibrato, both
VIKTOR & ROLF
Adhering to their three key brand pillars: unexpected elegance, conceptual glamour and provocative couture, Viktor&Rolf presented their SS24 collection, “Mariage” sharing an artistic interpretation of bridalwear through autonomous characters in each style.
Contemporary yet classic, many of the designs contain modern interpretations of silhouettes with architectural details like intricately draped one-shoulders, asymmetric hems and a strapless column gown with a detachable train. Some of our favorite styles included the Dreamy Bow Gown featuring a classic, satin a-line gown with a fitted bodice and signature V&R bows down the center back as well as the Dreamy Bow Mermaid with a modern mermaid silhouette and bows that expand in size forming a dramatic train.
TONY WARD
Precious stones, aka “Wildlife Gems”, was the source of inspiration for Tony Ward’s La Mariée Spring 2024 bridal collection. The press release came as a poem titled, Nature’s Wonders, and spoke of the romantic images that nature provides us - the endless patterns created from the shapes of leaves, shimmering wildflowers and rose petals - and how he translated this into his couture designs.
It’s seen in the rivers of beading stitched on his organza ball gowns, the pops of 3D florals on embroidered corsets and how each piece is seemingly delicate yet structured, organic in shape like nature itself.
Ward also crafted avant-garde accessories in the form of stunning head pieces that appeared as Crown Jewels atop each models’ head. Intricate beadwork and embroideries were molded into halos of petals, a blooming fascinator, crystal encrusted pins, and the most regal of floral crowns, giving an alternative yet luxurious compliment to his thoughtful couture.
GALIA LAHAV
Galia Lahav stuck to their groundbreaking sensual style for Spring 2024, celebrating the enduring allure of Spanish culture through a collection inspired by the timeless beauty and drama of the iconic opera, “Carmen”.
Appropriately titled, “AMOR”, this season was a tribute to the unapologetic spirit of the modern bride, encouraging them to be daring and authentic in their pursuit of love. “AMOR is about empowering brides to be fearless, expressive and adventurous”, shared Sharon Sever, “I wanted to create a collection that celebrates the fierce and unbridled spirit of love.”
Throughout the range of non-traditional styles, self-expression is celebrated thanks haute couture craftsmanship in versatile multi-wear gowns featuring intricate French lace embroideries, Swarovski crystal embellishments and add-ons such as opera gloves, boleros and matching veils.
GEORGES HOBEIKA
A true artist, Georges Hobeika creates gowns for both his couture and bridal lines that truly make you stop and gasp. For Spring 2024, it was an ode to the inner beauty of women, using “the magic of love” that helped him compose one stunning gown after the other that he noted are “studded with passion.” Our favorites displayed a combination of intricate laces that were layered with vines of embroidery and precisely layered beading and crystals. As they seemingly weaved their way up and down each gown, they often blossomed into patterns of leaves and flowers, creating a maze of lines that were both thoughtful and complex. As if the gowns weren’t enough on their own, each look was then completed with either a spectacular headpiece or cascading veil, producing a series of show stopping moments.
NAEEM KHAN
Throughout his career, Naeem Khan’s designs have been synonymous with having a good time and his Spring 2024 bridal collection did not disappoint.
A collection filled with statement making gowns and embellished cocktail dresses, Khan seemed to bring a little bit of everything to the table this season. There were fun mini dresses finished with three-dimensional pearls, curved fringe and hems of white feathers perfect for a reception, a long-sleeved gown made up of engineered degrade scallops and skillfully matched floral lace constructed into the perfect bridal jumpsuit. He also introduced a few gowns with hand pleated ribbon, an ancient practice engineered for the old Maharajas of India as he continues to strive to keep these incredible traditional techniques from becoming forgotten.
REEM ACRA
Old Hollywood was an era of undeniable glamour and romance and inspired Reem Acra’s latest collection appropriately titled, “The Hollywood”. As they took inspiration from the traditional love story arc of yesteryear, giving it an elevated twist in order to fit their modern bride, the team looked to take their SS24 pieces beyond the design itself and establish a true emotional connection between a bride and her story.
The silhouettes exemplified the spirit of a fairy tale. There were impactful ball gowns that made a statement in voluminous amounts of lace and satin often mixed with lace corsets in order to accentuate a woman's figure. While details such as plunging necklines, crystal embellishments and colorful floral accents and veils provided a contemporary finish to timeless designs to make an unforgettable statement.
LIHI HOD
Alluring yet sophisticated, Lihi Hod’s Spring 2024 collection, Day Dreaming, was an amalgam of elegance and enchantment. Inspired by a deep yearning for dream-like beauty, the gowns are intricately constructed yet appear effortless in design, evoking an air of mystique from one style to the next.
As a queen of modern elegance, Hod displayed both a level of sophistication yet sensual attitude in her latest pieces. Some of our favorites included the Kira, a corseted tulle ball gown with high-slit and boning detail, the Adele, featuring a strapless silk-wrapped bodice and trumpet style silhouette with detachable gauntlet sleeves and of course the Yulia, a square neck and low square back gown that can be accessorized with one of Hod's many add-ons such as her tulle Moon Topper covered in light-as-air floral appliques.
NETA DOVER
The new Neta Dover collection titled, Finesse, was a perfect reflection of her passion for design as she honed in on her expert craftsmanship, creating flawless fit with masterful tailoring throughout her new ethereal styles.
A perfect example is seen in her Rafaela style, a fitted lace gown lined with ivory tulle that features a plunging v-neckline and is embellished with 3D flowers and precisely placed pearl beading. Another showstopper is The Rosaline, an elegant lace ball gown lined with silk tulle that features removable thin straps and optional off the shoulder lace sleeves. On the other end of the spectrum, Neta takes a more minimalist approach with The Rey, a romantic strapless sheath gown made of silk crepe accented with a high leg slit and extended train that provides a chic and seamless option for a more classic bride.
ARAVA POLAK
Arava Polak devoted her Spring 2024 collection, “La Foret White”, to bringing every bride’s fantasy to life. Inspired by the effortless beauty of nature, Polak created pieces meant to accentuate the natural glow of a bride on her wedding day, radiating with a harmony of glamour and femininity.
Many of the gowns consisted of Polak’s signature style, a minimalist base adorned with intricate textures and precise embellishments. Some of our favorites included the Daphne, the Alani and the Chloe, which showcased floral laces, silk tulle and well-balanced silhouettes. In addition, carefully placed 3D flowers, hand-beaded patterns and delicate leaf appliqués dressed up the lightweight fabrics making it seemingly perfect for anyone seeking a garden-inspired look.
DANA HAREL
For SS24, Dana Harel took a fresh approach to bridal wear, reimagining it for the modern bride in her latest collection titled, “Water Lilies”. Inspired by Monet’s famous series, she focused on the pinnacle of femininity, creating 11 designs that were light and airy and provided an effortless appearance that exuded grace and refinement.
It all starts with beautiful construction, a given when it comes to Harel’s designs. Corsets are completely hidden, wrapped underneath layers of silk and intricate lace while innovative fabric pairings somehow are all laid seamlessly together to create a clean a precise finish. Complimented by petal appliqués, lily embroideries and playful moments of illusion the collection provided various moments that exuded a modest grace and true refinement.
ANNE BARGE
Shawne Jacobs took this season to reflect on the last 24 years of the Anne Barge label, a history of taking timeless silhouettes and giving them a contemporary twist culminating in a collection that proves that personal style is the true trend of Spring 2024.
“Brides today are very confident in their personal style and are willing to take more risks than in the past”, says Shawne Jacobs, Creative Director of Anne Barge. “It could be robin’s egg blue trim, detachable ruffled lace sleeves or a dramatic, asymmetrical neckline. There are no rules- only the gown that embodies a bride’s dream”.
Her take on modern sensibility combined with the allure of femininity and refinement created a daring array of designs to choose from. Whether it be an open, draped back or an unexpected touch of color in lavender or mint green, she reveled in embracing a fresh take on the Anne Barge classics.
MONIQUE LHUILLIER
Monique Lhuillier’s creations provide her brides with a truly romantic and elegant style. Even when referencing the past, Lhuillier seems to be able to constantly adapt and evolve her designs, keeping them fresh and unexpected season after season.
For Spring 2024, she looked to evoke a timeless American Regality with an ode to the romantic English gardens. Giving an updated take on her floral print, this season starred the Garden Rose which danced playfully in hues of pink along dramatic ballgowns and sculpted bodices. Victorian influences of high necklines and long sleeves were presented in a modern way due to the use of floral lace that was often paired with body conscious bodices or a shorter hemline. In true Lhuillier fashion, it was unapologetically feminine, featuring 3D wildflowers and textured appliqués as well as silk sleeves that draped off the shoulder, exposing plunging sweetheart necklines.
Always one to outdo herself, in addition to her 15 new styles is her latest statement shoe of the season: a custom-made French lace bootie, perfectly paired with each piece throughout the collection.
MIRA ZWILLINGER
With ethereal detailing and contemporary silhouettes, this season's collection, AWAKENING was simultaneously unique, expressive and deeply personal. It focused on the reflection of Mira's personal awakening process as she looked to enlighten brides with her designs, hoping that they would each recognize their own true desires, unlimited potential and true inner beauty.
The mother-daughter duo took the beauty of nature and applied it with couture precision, utilizing various embroidered flowers and layering laces with handmade motifs to showcase their creative expression. The theme continued with styles like the Amaka, Ferna and Ness which played with transparency through weightless tulle and illusion necklines, re-establishing their sophisticated yet sensual design aesthetic while presenting the inner strength and power that resides within the individuals that wear them.
LEE PETRA GREBENAU
Lee Petra Grebenau’s “SUNRISE”, took inspiration from the glowing energy and natural beauty that seemingly envelops all of us as the sun rises over the horizon. For SS24, she translated this feeling into couture gowns that captured the essence and celebration of hopeful new beginnings and the power of femininity.
Body-conscious yet romantic, each design is crafted from luxurious fabrics like Mikado silks and flowing chiffons that are delicately painted within a palette of blush, ivory and Champagne, emphasizing the movement of each bride and the curvature of her body. Providing an extra touch of glamour are embellishments such as floral appliqués, crystal work and handmade embroideries that seemingly cascade down mermaid silhouettes and showcase Lee’s exquisite attention to detail and determination to create one-of-a-kind designs.
"This collection is made for the bride who wants to start her new life with a sense of joy and optimism. I hope that every woman who wears one of these couture gowns feels confident, empowered, sexy and ready to embrace whatever the future holds and to rise to any challenge that comes her way.”
THE ATELIER