10 Couture Fashion Week Dresses All Brides Must See

Still searching for wedding dress inspiration? Look no further than the recent Couture Fashion Week runways from Paris. While most of us couldn’t possibly dream of affording one of the exquisite gowns that paraded down the runway, we can be sure that these trends will eventually make their way to the bridal world.

If the last few seasons have ushered in the ’90s style renaissance (minimalism, chokers, oh my!), the coming years look to be signaling the return of the ’80s. Over-sized bows, opulent fabrics, taffeta peplums, and a certain quality of power dressing seemed to be ubiquitous on the Couture runways. While romantic and ethereal gowns still had their place, there seemed to be a hint of over the top dominating the fashions. Sure, that’s common place for the world’s most extravagant runways, but this time it felt bigger than usual.

From Dior to Giambattista Valli, designers at Couture Week in Paris gave their all on the runways, and as is tradition, most of them closed their shows with a bride! Georges Hobeika, Elie Saab, and Ralph&Russo were among the houses that finished off their Couture shows with a big bridal moment, and the drama didn’t disappoint. Long lace sleeves, 3-D floral embroidery, cathedral-length veils, and even a blushing bride in a pink gown were among stand outs — and you can bet you’ll keep seeing these trends come Bridal Fashion Week.

So what does that mean for brides getting married in 2016 and 2017? Could this be the return of the Princess Diana-style pouf sleeve? Will bohemian bridal sheaths give way to big, jaw-dropping ballgown? Only time will tell, but for now, take some inspiration from the gorgeous gowns that took our breath away on the Paris runways this past week. Here, 10 dresses we couldn’t help but drool over.

Elie Saab’s blushing bride closed the show in a pink creation.

As usual, Giambattista Valli offered up plenty of drama with jaw-dropping tulle gowns in origami shapes.

Rami Al Ali closed off the show with a classic bridal look.

Armani Privé tapped in to the house’s 80s heyday with over-sized bows and plenty of power dressing tailored looks.

J.Mendel’s take on the modern bride included boots, long sleeves, and fur embellishments.

Georges Chakra’s bride was an ethereal vision with watercolor designs adorning an otherwise simple wedding gown.

Big bows were a hit no the Couture runway, as seen on the Alexis Mabille collection.

Couture simplicity was what made Dior’s collection standout. A white goddess dress is perfect bridal inspiration.

Ralph&Russo’s opulent bride was made to make jaws drop.

Like last season, Georges Hobeika’s closer was a vision of loveliness with everything that makes a bride special. We especially love the Spanish feeling of the veil.

See more: Spring 2017 Wedding Dress Trends