Wedding Dresses, Gowns, & Hairstyle Trends for  2008

So what's hot coming into the 2008 wedding season? From bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses to hairstyles, today's trends characterize a variety of colors and styles. Many wedding fashions are classic and never lose their appeal, so don't write them off just yet.

If you opt for a trendy wedding, take into account that all will be documented in pictures and videos. Don't choose styles and colors that will look silly when you look at your photo albums many years from now. You can mix traditional and trendy to balance out the overall tone of your wedding day. Remember, sometimes less is more.

Bridal Gowns

For spring and summer, flirty, feminine styles are still going strong with simple bows, ribbons, lace and yes, brooches! Every bride wants to be unique in style and attitude so pay attention to detail -- but don't go overboard. Show your personality with a stylish flair and you'll be the talk of the town (in a good way)!

Strapless wedding gowns are hot in Hollywood, taking a cue from celebrities who have a classy, personal style. For those that want a little something over the shoulders, simple satin ribbons for straps add an elegant touch to an already gorgeous gown. This style works well if you're going for a vintage-themed wedding. Just add antique lace and you're good to go.

Enticing dresses are made with elegant fabrics such as chiffon, satin, and silk. Shaped bodices that gather at the waist ensure a fabulous fit. The princess ball gowns have made a comeback for weddings and proms as well, with traditional bubble skirts that are sure to be noticed. All white takes a backseat when color is added to bridal gowns via sashes or colorful, hand-embroidered stitching.

Versatility adds comfort with detachable trains and skirts that allow brides to cut loose after the ceremony. No longer tied down with extra bulk, she can move around freely and dance the night away at the reception. Not only that, she'll feel confident and downright sexy with a raised hemline.

Ruffles and tiers express femininity and can go any length. This trend is fantastic for second marriages and bridesmaid dresses. Soft, silky fabrics in this style add youth and charm -- but they're not exactly innocent either. Also hot for casual weddings, tea-length styles are popular and very appropriate for spring and summer.

Headpieces

The tiara is a popular choice but it's not right for everyone. Floral and feather headpieces are a great alternative to add the finishing touch to your hairstyle. If you want a wreath or hair ring, you'll find just what you're looking for with all of the varieties available. With jewel tones or crystals, they are very flattering to updos and comfortable to wear.

Traditional veils are still popular, but the style of dress should be traditional too. They have evolved to more modern styles and often include very sheer with simple lace edging attached to a hair ring or band. Pulling the veil over your face suggests virginity, so it's up to you to decide whether this is one tradition you want to observe.

Shoes

The good news is that shoes don't have to be white if you're wearing a white wedding dress. If your gown is long, they probably won't be visible, but imagine gold or silver strappy sandals peeking out when you sit or walk. Very classy.

If you want to downplay your height, ballet (flat) slippers are perfectly acceptable. You can wear them for the entire day, or just for the reception and dancing for extra comfort. On the downside, they get dirty easily, so you probably won't be able to wear them again. However, your dry cleaner may be able to salvage them when you take in your bridal gown for cleaning.

Bridesmaid Dresses

The trend for bridesmaids is one consistent color with different styles of dresses or completely matching dresses. Bold bright colors are in this season, but don't fret if you love pastels. You'll find gorgeous shades in peach, lavender, seafoam and soft pink available in your favorite styles and ready-to-go for spring and summer.

Many dresses are accessorized with a flower, often in matching fabric. Worn in the front at the waist or fastened in the back in place of a bow, opt for a flower that compliments the dress but doesn't overpower it.

Wraps are very trendy for bridesmaid dresses and all formalwear for women. Many bridal salons have styles that offer an optional wrap, organza capelet, or shawl in matching colors. Faux fur stoles are for the bold and daring. These make great bridesmaid gifts, so the bride may consider purchasing them. This will ease up on the expenses the attendants incur and add a very elegant element to your wedding attire.

Wedding Hair Style Trends

The latest hairstyle trends for weddings include flexibility, which enables brides to wear a sophisticated updo for the ceremony and let long hair down for the after-party. Wavy, textured hair works well with both styles. With the right cut, a strategically tousled updo will fall nicely on to the shoulders for a flirty, evening look.

If you want straight hair, a sleek and smooth look can flatter just about anyone if you can keep out the frizz. Hairpins are ideal for holding locks in place exactly where you want them. Available in just about any color, hairpins are practical and dazzling.

For blemishes or lines, soft, fringy bangs are great for hiding flaws on your forehead. Go super-trendy and opt for slightly angled bangs to hide a long forehead while framing the upper part of your face. If bangs are new to you, have them cut early on so you don't have any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day.

If you're uncertain, go through bridal magazines and visit your salon for a consultation. Your stylist can advise you which styles will work with the shape of your face. Make all appointments well in advance, particularly if you're booking in the spring or around the holidays.

Manicures

The traditional French manicure has finally met it's match. Natural, well-rounded fingernails are the most popular choice for today's modern bride. The trend is very sheer throughout the entire nail, with just a hint of color. Iridescence is a fabulous way to add some pizzazz and is easy to find in a variety of shades. Keep your cuticles in shape with regular cuticle treatments in the weeks leading up to your wedding, and your nails will be in tip-top shape.

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