It’s not surprising that the marriage rate goes up during a recession – look at Wills and Kate – something to take the minds of the masses off “austerity measures”. The same holds true for couples on grim, dark commutes during the months of January and February – a perfect time to think of pretty frippery and that honeymoon in the Maldives.
So, what are the trends for 2012?
Lace regained in popularity thanks to “that dress” and the vintage movement is strong, evidenced by the dedicated vintage fairs being held all over the country. Church weddings have also seen an increase in popularity.
Art deco is very much in vogue, from the elegant, shimmery, dresses to stationery and venues. Green’s Cornhill, built in the 1930’s is an impressive space which is perfect for this theme, but the versatility of the bar and restaurant area also means it is a blank canvas for the bridal couple to showcase their personal style.
The dress styles of the fifties and sixties are seeing a revival as “new vintage” in both wedding and High Street fashion. Red lipstick, boat necklines off creamy shoulders, hour-glass figures and fish tail endings, descending a majestic staircase, make for a glamorous and grand entrance. Diamante hair clips and crystal bouquets are keepsakes that never wilt – again, a sign of our times, when we search for stability and enduring beauty.
The Bohemian look, evidenced by Kate Moss’s wedding last year is popular and open to quirky personal touches. This year might see more of the tribal and busy designs of mainstream fashion taken up and wooden invitations are already available.
Adversity brings forth tremendous creativity, and couples are, more than ever, stretching their imaginations to create pops of cheerful colour, even if it means blue shoes and purple hair. What’s important is that it is unique, personal and a memorable, happy, celebration.
