LWD Goes NYC! As We Prepare For 'Market'...

This month, NYC is buzzing with bridal bliss as the city hosts New York International Bridal Week and Couture - THE biggest buying hotspots, where retailers and designers come together to celebrate and reflect on the successes of previous years, while building anxious anticipation for the must-have wedding trends-to-come in 2012! There are runway shows and intimate cocktail parties with strolling models overflowing with champagne and the ever-present "oohs" and "ahhs" that accompany a typical fashion-fueled event in NYC.

So, as we prepare to ourselves for the loads of eye candy we're already guaranteed to be sweet on - layers of lace, tousles of tulle, aisles of organza, seas of satin and so much more - we fondly reflect on some impressionable trends of the past century...

1940's: A common trend of this decade was the sheath dress, thinner waists and cap sleeves.

1950's: The emergence of ballgown-esque dresses with shorter hemlines, quite similar to the poodle skirts that were popular for everyday wear, along with defined necklines, cap sleeves, very intentional sharp angle cuts in the fabric, and a smaller waistline.

1960's: Enter the revived empire wedding dress, a high-waisted dress, gathered near or just under the bust with a long, loose skirt, which skims the body - especially flattering to pear-shaped women.

1970's: Two major trends marked this decade: an off-the-shoulder shawl or high neckline (as pictured above, many times used to make spaghetti-strapped dresses more modest) or Grecian-inspired gowns.

1980's: Three words: Big Hair, Big Shoulders, Big Day. :)

1990's: Big and bold are two words that come to mind. Elements of the late 80's - noteably big shoulders, puffy sleeves and bows - stayed for a few years, embellished with excessive embroidery and beading, before brides started asking for more free-flowing, fluid materials, sexier and streamlined looks, plunging V-necks, strapless necklines and sleeveless gowns that showcased bare arms.

2000's: Color! In many ways, adding color is reflective of the new millennium trend toward individuality. Also, silhouette becomes a focal point with the introduction of the 'Fit & Flare' gown.

2010's: Don't call it a comeback! This is when we see past styles from every decade emerge with sexier, slinkier silhouettes, belted waistlines, tea-length and asymmetrical necklines and waistlines.

2012: What's to come this year???