Ah October, one of my favourite times of year – bridal market (bridal fashion week) hit the runways in New York City. This year saw plenty of blush and pink shades, but also the modern edge that comes with metallic gold. My favourites (for Australian available designers) are the focal point of today’s dress inspiration post!

Romance is always a big theme at market, but this season it seems to be back in a big way. soft, sweeping sleeves, an abundance of carefully considered lace and even details like bows and floral embellishments were everywhere.

I’m thrilled to see sleeves are still present in designer’s collections, there’s an almost vintage seventies twist on the way some drape in bell like shapes. Illusion necklines are still popular but so sheer they’re almost invisible or alternatively sparkling with crystal and jewel embellishments.

Australian designer Johanna Johnson also made her runway debut with an incredible show at the Highline Hotel (more on that later!). Other Australian designers, Amanda GarrettRoz La Klein, Karen Willis Holmes, Anna Campbell, Sarah Janks and Suzanne Harward also shone and flew the Australian flag!

Most gowns will be available next season (so at least four months) so take this as a taste of what’s to come!

Vera Wang

If there is anyone that can play with colour, it’s Vera Wang who set the tone for the runways with every shade of pink imaginable, From dreamy soft hues to bright and bold fuchsias. Bows, roses and layers upon layers of pink tulle set the scene.

Available at Vera Wang Australia

vera wang pink gowns

Photos by Dan Lecca via Wedding Wire

Claire Pettibone

I think Claire Pettibone is the master of romance when it comes to wedding gowns and her show? An ombre petal lined runway anyone? Beautiful, beautiful lace featured on every one of Claire’s gowns. From her classic white and ivory numbers to the more creative flower appliqued gowns and gold embellished creations.

Available at Intique & Co and Helen Rodrigues

claire pettibone aw 2014

Photos by Rodin Banica via WWD

Amsale

I love the chic elegance of Amsale. Beautiful clean lines with clever tailoring. This collection is a little more feminine than previous Amsale collections – the addition of lace, bows and sheer fabrics add a romantic touch.

Bridesmaids are also in for a treat with dusty pinks, lilacs and classic black in gorgeous Grecian goddess style shapes and lace overlays.

Available at Angela Wilson, bridesmaid gowns also available at Bridesmaids Only

Amsale Fall 14

Photos from Amsale

Marchesa

Soft, floaty gowns were all the rage over at Marchesa. Beautifully crafted sleeves that seemed as light as air, lace bodices and crumb catcher style detailing all created the romantic but couture style I love.

Available at Helen Rodrigues

marchesa aw 14

Photos by Steve Eichner via WWD

Monique Lhuillier

Blush was also the shade of the season over at Monique Lhuillier with tailored, chic shapes and romantic, textured gowns with plenty of lace.

Available at Intique & Co & Helen Rodrigues

Monique Lhuillier Runway

Photos by Dan Lecca via Wedding Wire

Reem Acra

The runway of Reem Acra was all about lace and illusion necklines. Lace over nude fabrics and the sheerest of sheer illusions gave a modern flair to this collection. Coupled with chiffon and lace shawls for volume and drama.

Available at Anna DaFonte

reem acra aw 14

Photos by John Aquino via WWD

Jenny Packham

Vintage Hollywood glamour always shines through Jenny Packham’s collections.  Romantic, gowns with feminine draping, silver lustre lace, crystal beading and plenty of sparkle kept her gowns looking the glamorous chic style Jenny Packham is all about.

Available at Helen Rodrigues, Le Louvre & Elle

Jenny Packham aw 14

Photos by Kurt Wilberding via The Knot

Rivini

Rivini showcased a beautiful collection this season. Simply cut gowns with beautiful lace that featured in illusion necklines, in overlays and sleeve detail. The simple cuts and styles remain classic with the wow factor coming through in fabric choices and embellishments. Rivini also showed off an incredible jumpsuit in this collection. Just the ticket for someone who isn’t up for a dress.

Available at Di Kelli Bridal Couture

rivini aw 2014

Photos by MCV Photo via The Knot

Badgley Mischka

I loved the Fall 2014 collection from Badgley Mischka. There was a perfect mix of embellished, slimline gowns and more structure gowns in classic shapes (with fringe jackets, oh my!). Always stylish and always on the money.

Available at Intique & Co, The Babushka Ballerina, Basilica Couture, Helen Rodrigues

Badgley Mischka Bridal Fall 2014

Photos by  John Aquino via WWD

Naeem Khan

The debut bridal collection from designer Naeem Khan was stunning. The incredible choices of lace were mixed with floral embroidery and carried through to veils and boleros- each with complimented the gown. Each a statement piece in it’s beauty.

Available soon at Helen Rodrigues

naeem khan001

Photos by Courtesy Photo via WWD