Winter is a popular season for weddings, whether they are Asian, Arabic, or Western. From November to March, wedding planners and designers are in high demand, ensuring that brides and guests look stunning while staying comfortable in the colder weather. In this article, we will explore the latest trends in Arab and Western bridal fashion, providing insights from top designers in the industry.
According to Phio Enaje, the head designer for Roxx, there is minimal distinction between Western and Arab fashion when it comes to couture dresses. The current trend leans towards dresses with wide skirts adorned with subtle embellishments and embroidery, bringing back a touch of sparkle without overwhelming the dress. Deep and mid-toned hues are highly recommended for the winter season.
Aya Al Jawhari emphasizes the popularity of bold colours and glitter in contemporary bridal designs. Corseted silhouettes, faux fur accents, and rich colour palettes are all the rage.
THE BRIDAL DRESS
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of bridal attire. Sapna Sharon, a renowned designer from Abu Dhabi’s Reisha’s Boutique, highlights that most brides prefer not to compromise on style despite the season, except for exclusively outdoor-themed weddings. Faux fur stoles or wraps, leather jackets, and bolero jackets with high necks and full sleeves are highly sought-after choices among brides.
When it comes to fabric selection, Phio suggests using bridal satins, raw silk, and lace for the winter season. For regions experiencing particularly harsh winters, velvet and fur can be incorporated into the gown, either as trim on the neckline or as a cape to cover the shoulders and back.
Sapna mentions that tulle, lace, taffeta, and silk are among the popular fabric choices for contemporary bridal gowns. Designers focus on incorporating warm linings while preserving the bride’s chosen style. Wraps, leather jackets, and bolero jackets are artfully coordinated with the gown to create a stylish and warm ensemble. Some bridal gowns even feature jumpsuit styles with attached wrap-around skirts, ensuring that every bride looks beautiful on her special day.
EVENING DRESSES
Evening dresses for wedding guests are equally important. Aya suggests opting for full skirts in heavier varieties of lace, which provide more warmth compared to delicate fabrics. Layering and faux fur are also popular choices this season.
To complete the look, Phio recommends pairing the evening dress with a stylish jacket or cape. This combination adds a stunning touch to winter parties.
Sapna advises against overdressing for warmth and recommends avoiding bulky fabrics and heavily layered dresses that restrict movement.
She encourages clients to avoid blindly following magazine or runway styles, as each woman has a unique body shape. Seeking guidance from a designer and trying on different dresses that flatter one’s body type is always a wise approach.
For those who prefer shorter dresses, Sapna suggests wearing fleece leggings and leather boots to keep warm. If a gown is the preferred choice, selecting one with full sleeves and using fabrics like taffeta, silk, brocades, or velvet can provide both warmth and style. Adding a cover-up complements the overall ensemble.
THE DESIGNERS
I would like to express my gratitude to the designers who kindly shared their insights:
- Phio Enaje, Head Designer for Roxx: enaje.couture@gmail.com
- Aya Al Jawhari, Founder of Evaya Fashion Brand: Aya_aljawhary@hotmail.com (design updates available on Instagram)
- Sapna Sharon, Designer of Reisha’s Boutique: reishasboutique@gmail.com
If you are in search of a bridal or couture dress, these talented designers are ready to bring your vision to life.
April to September are the popular months to get married here in the UK, I guess as its (slightly) warmer then than it is during the Winter months 😄. There are some really pretty dresses in your pics, I particularly like the fishtail one.
Great collection. A good reference for those who are getting married anytime soon.
I love looking at different styles of wedding dresses, great for trying to pick out my own once I get married
These are some really beautiful dresses💛 I love how elegant the design by Shapna Saron looks, it is gorgeous x
Its so amazing to see how different cultures come together. Im in love with the designs