Ten Top Trends

Your mother's wedding wasn't a mirror image of your grandmother's, and yours won't be exactly like your mom's. Part of the fun of this day is giving it your own personal touch.

Being aware of the newest trends can spark your imagination and give the event a highly personal feel-make note of the following fresh ideas and get inspired:

  • Gorgeous accessories like simply embellished gloves, a tiny beaded bag and stunning shoes are just as important as the right dress. But use a light hand; don't over-accessorize.

  • Invitations that truly reflect your taste as well as your wedding are essential. Today's couples are devoting thoughtful attention to the design and singular touches that define their invites. Think ribbon, dried flowers, colored ink...

  • Prolonging the magic. Many newlyweds simply don't have the time or money to jet off on a honeymoon immediately after the wedding. Belated honeymoons (usually occurring six months to a year post-wedding) are a popular option.

  • Party of five? The number of attendants is shrinking, and having more than five bridesmaids and groomsmen is becoming a thing of the past. What's common now? Just two or three attendants each.

  • Bridesmaid's pastels. Beautiful, soft shades of green, silvery blue and pink are making a showing this season. The black bridesmaid's dress has finally gone the way of the 8-Track.

  • Delicate hair-wear such as deco-style barrettes, flower-shaped hair pins and pretty tiaras have dethroned traditional veils for the warmer months.

  • Weekend weddings picked up steam a few years ago and are showing no signs of slowing down.

  • The rehearsal dinner is a casual get-together that's held at home as often as at a restaurant.

  • Colorful, scaled-down bouquets are proof that good things really do come in small packages.

  • A gift-opening brunch is a tasteful way to wind down the festivities.