This past week, the fashion world’s top designers and brands gathered in Paris, France to show off their newest couture looks for 2023. From ballgowns to mosaic masterpieces, many collections featured ensembles perfect for a walk down the aisle. Among the “I Do”-ready outfits were a variety of top-notch accessories, from capes to billowing headpieces, that showcase the maximal bridal wave about to take the wedding world by storm. Scroll on for a collection of our favorite bridal-friendly looks debut on the runway this week. Photos via Vogue | StyleDumond.
Chanel Couture and Ready to Wear
Often recognized for clean lines and understated elegance, legendary Chanel kept things dainty on the catwalks of both their couture and ready-to-wear shows. Intricately patterned lace was the theme of the hour, ranging from fringy floral applique to lush jumbo floral motifs. One look from the couture collection also featured a floor-length tweed overcoat and lace gloves, highlighting a coming fad of bridal accessories to diversify your look across your events. In ready-to-wear territory, black accents brought effortlessly chic contrast to two gowns: one featuring billowing full length sleeves and a sleek belt while the other stunned with simplicity in the form of a drop-waist ribbon border atop neat lace rosettes. Simultaneously the most bridal and the most contemporary, a short number hidden behind an embroidered-dove veil shows off statement-making metallic booties for the glitz-loving bride.
Dior Couture 2023
The architectural cuts and sleek silhouettes synonymous with the the name “Christian Dior” were out in full force for the label’s Monday show, with flowing, off-white pieces full of structure taking the stage. UBG favorites include: a shimmering gown with knotted neckline and sky-high slit detailing; a wide-collared column dress sporting stacked tiers treated with tasteful bronze threads; and a classic pleated skirt meshing with the second cape on our list, this time in glossy satin with a simple cord closure.
Fendi Couture 2023
Fendi’s collection was rich with hip-hugging designs, ready for the modern bride awaiting a bit of sensual flair on her big day. A bow-cinched piece with a sexy slit led the first of the bridal-adjacent looks, featuring a flirty spaghetti-strap neckline peeking out from a straight-edge bodice, offering a taste of youthfulness to an otherwise traditional style. Lace was also on the menu, here, with both a pinstripe-style sheath and a sheer eyelet lace fabric (fashioned into a vintage-inspired asymmetrical skirt) flitted down the runway.
For the more out-of-the-box bride, try this blushing sheer tulle number on for size. Tightly-sewn pleats highlight every curve, while a flowing skirt brings the romance to the gown’s bottom layers.
Giambattista Valli Couture 2023
Mr. Valli says 2023 is the year of the maximalist bride, and we are all ears. Our top two picks were a rosy one-shouldered gown of thickly-layered tulle in a drop-waist mermaid silhouette, and a larger-than-life ballgown anchored by a boned corset and enough ruffles to last until next season and beyond.
Julie de Libran Couture 2023
This simple strapped-sheath brings all of the cool-girl vibes we need this year. We are loving the intricate daisy motif, the ankle-grazing midi length and the flawless fit on this piece from Julie de Libran.
Valentino Couture 2023
High-glamour brides can check all of their dramatic and romantic boxes with these two ballgowns from Maison Valentino. Go bold and modern with a feather-laden number full of texture, or keep it classic with a full skirt and luxurious ruffle bodice.
Viktor and Rolf Couture 2023
Although presented in rather unpredictable fashion, Viktor and Rolf stuck to a tried-and-true strapless ballgown silhouette for many of their looks, and brought eye-catching details for fashionable elevation. In this first gown, a glittering brooch and soft pastel details bring a unique flair to a beloved fit.
Zuhair Murad Couture 2023
Strut down the aisle looking like a Hollywood starlet in one of many show-stopping pieces from Zuhair Murad’s couture collection. For the vintage-minded, a high-necked gem-encrusted piece delivers Marilyn on every level, while the flirty bride can take a sexy turn in a weaving mermaid fit with curve-enhancing beaded detailing.
A one-shouldered crepe selection delivers sparkle galore for the glitz-and-glam fiancee. Meanwhile, every accessory imaginable makes a splash in a heavily laced ensemble featuring an impressive structured hat, flowing veil, ruffled cape and stunning illusion sweetheart neckline. Mix and match with accessories of your choice, or go all-in for a dramatic entrance.
