Gown Trends 2009

For brides who want to be in-step with the latest fashion trends, 2009 is a year of nostalgia, according to experts from theknot.com and completelyweddings.com. Vintage elements and chic 1950s lines are seeing a comeback, and super-short veils evoke a sense of tradition.

The “green” trend is going strong in the upcoming wedding season, with brides opting for “romantic recycling” of grandma’s brooches and handcrafted accessories made from sustainable and organic materials.

Elegant designs with contrasting flower embroidery on classic white gowns — with thread colors like burgundy, black, navy and dark green — are creating an elegant Victorian look. Empire waist goddess gowns are Grecian-inspired and accentuate taller and more slender women in particular. Even the mini-skirt wedding gown is a style seeing new life in the coming year.

In bridesmaids’ dresses, grey will be the new brown, and the key will be to use brighter hues in accessories and details. Muted gray dresses with a bright sash and bouquet will be a showstopper in ’09. Other wedding-trend followers expect screaming hot pink to be a must-have color for summer weddings. Orange and peach are expected to be colors-of-choice, too, during the warm wedding months to come.

Honeymoon Fashion Checklist

For her:
Romantic nightgowns and robe (see photos, from Gattle’s in downtown Petoskey)
1 pair jeans or khakis
1 light jacket or pullover (take one that can be tied around the waist or stuffed in a backpack)
1 nice sundress
1 little black dress
1 cardigan (for chilly restaurants)
4 play shirts (T-shirts, tank tops, short-sleeve button-downs)
2 pairs shorts
2 swimsuits (bikini for the beach, one-piece for water sports)
1 swimsuit cover-up
1 pair walking shoes/sandals
1 pair evening shoes/sandals
1 evening purse
Extra socks and underwear
Bras (strapless and otherwise)
Accessories (scarves and jewelry to “stretch” your wardrobe)

For him:
1 pair jeans or khakis
1 pair nice slacks
1 light jacket or pullover (take one that can be tied around the waist or stuffed in a backpack)
4 play shirts (T-shirts or short-sleeve button-downs)
2 pairs shorts
2 polo or button-down short-sleeve shirts
1 sports jacket (for nicer restaurants)
1 swimsuit
1 pair walking shoes/sandals
1 pair lace-ups
Extra socks and underwear

If you’re heading to the beach, you’ll be at the pool most of the day, so two swimsuits, a wrap and flip-flops are the must-brings. Also, bring a big bag that can double as a carry-on and beach bag.

If you’re heading to a winter ski resort, pack your ski boots with your skis in your checked luggage. Wear your ski parka on the plane with a nicer pair of jeans, a sweater and casual boots. Pack a sparkly top you can pair with the jeans when you go out in the evening. Rolling dresses and other clothes can help save space in the suitcase for all those honeymoon souvenirs, too.