Apr 1, 2024
Formal Markets identifies autumn/winter 2024 bridal, occasion trends

The ANDMORE Formal Markets Fashion Office has released its curated list of autumn/winter 2024 formal trends, providing retailers with insights into upcoming colors, accessories, fabrics and prints across bridal, homecoming, bridesmaid, accessories, quinceañera and prom.

These trends, which will be showcased at Formal Markets in Atlanta April 9-11, will hit social occasion boutiques this fall.

“In 2024, boutique buyers should expect to see maximalism everywhere. In bridal gowns, homecoming dresses and all formal categories in between, people are embracing bold styles with bows, embellishments and dramatic silhouettes, while designers create romantic looks with unique fabrics, colors and techniques,” said Morgan Ramage, fashion and events director at ANDMORE. “From statement shoulders to soft pastel hues, this season’s bridal and social trends redefine elegance with a blend of chic sophistication and timeless charm.”

Bridal & bridesmaid trends

Little White Dress collection showcased by Formal Markets Collective Exhibitor, Anne Barge, includes bow embellishments and non-conventional short dresses. Photo courtesy of ANDMORE. — Little White Dress collection showcased by Formal Markets Collective Exhibitor, **Anne Barge**, includes bow embellishments and non-conventional short dresses. Photo courtesy of **ANDMORE**.

Bridal gowns for the autumn/winter 2024 season are bringing fashionable drama back into the bridal landscape. Necklines are undergoing a transformation and will shift from the traditional to strapless and scoop-neck styles to embrace a more romantic and feminine crescent neckline, elegantly arching higher in the front. Sleeved gowns will showcase 80s-style structure and volume in the shoulders, creating the illusion of a smaller waistline. Moreover, the inclusion of 3D floral details on bridal gowns will infuse texture and nostalgic charm, appealing to brides seeking a bold yet romantic aesthetic. Alongside these maximalist additions to gowns, brides may stray from the conventional stark-white or ivory, opting instead for a subtle hint of color, with soft blues; baby pinks and delicate greens — colors dominating bridal runways.

Bridesmaid gowns mimic bridal gown trends, with more emphasis on dreamy, flowy romance. Popular details of autumn/winter 2024 bridesmaid gowns will include: floral prints; fun textures; bows and embellishments; velvets; tulle skirts; mismatched styles; corset styles; high-low hemlines; flutter sleeves and metallics. Soft and neutral colors for the season will enhance the romantic feeling brides are expressing: lilac; black; white; pink; chocolate brown and a full range of pastels.

Expanding beyond gowns and embracing the maximalist trend, brides in the upcoming season will elevate their looks with a resurgence of accessories, including: lace gloves; bridal capes; delicate rosettes; charming bow accents; neck scarves; pearl headbands; and intricately embellished coats and veils, adding an extra layer of sophistication and sentimentality to their bridal ensembles.

Social occasion trends

Of note for the April edition is the semi-annual showcase of homecoming, one of the largest categories sourced across Formal Markets. Popular designs will include: two-piece sets; playful necklines; glitter and sequins. Broad-scale social occasion trends, including homecoming, quinceañera and prom will mirror bridal and bridesmaid trends, with a resurgence of pastel colors; neutrals; brights; metallics, three-dimensional floral details; exaggerated sleeves; ruffles; corset-style tops and romantic and nostalgic silhouettes. Quinceañera-specific trends include tulle, tiered ballgown skirts and longer trains. For prom, beaded designs, high slits, and feather details will be prominent.