Runway Report: Spring Bridal Collections 2011

Spring arrived early this April in New York City, and designers were quick to capitalize on fresh blooms to introduce their Spring 2011 collections. Despite a range of trends, one thing was clear: Strong statements prevailed, with designers once again favoring bold details. But this time, they featured lighter fabrics and a more studied use of volume.

Monique Lhuillier’s “field of dreams” collection set the mood for the season with oodles of texture. Lhuillier showed off rose appliqués spun from organza, floral, and twig embroideries applied to sheer corsets, and tulle tucked and folded into a cocoon-like shape on a body-hugging pencil skirt.

The amped-up romance continued at the Vera Wang show, where the designer presented cloudlike gowns in colors that conjured images of pastel macaroons. At Reem Acra, models strolled through an imaginary Shangri-la, with delicate lingerie details and three-dimensional embroideries that were at once sensual and innocent.

Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera both cracked the history books to inspire their collections. De la Renta’s boldly colored ball gowns and intricate, exquisite lace stole the show—a dramatic look perfect for the bride who craves the spotlight. At Carolina Herrera, one stunning trumpet gown featured pale pink and grey illusion tulle and silk chiffon with antique silver sequin embroidery, inspired by the French singer Édith Piaf.

For the bride-to-be, dress options that truly define personal style only continue to grow. Here’s a look at a few of my favorite runway trends.