At The Ultimate Bride, we get a front-row seat to the trends brides are falling for — often before they hit the mainstream. As we look ahead to 2025, some clear favorites are already emerging. Whether you're newly engaged or deep into the dress hunt, here are the trends worth watching (and trying on).

1. Sculpted Simplicity

Clean lines, structured silhouettes, and minimal embellishment — this modern take on bridal elegance continues to shine. Brides are loving the confidence of a fitted crepe gown or a sleek satin ballgown with architectural details like square necklines and sculptural seams.

2. Soft & Sheer Sleeves

Romantic sleeves are here to stay, but 2025 is bringing a softer touch. Think detachable tulle bishop sleeves, barely-there lace, and off-the-shoulder looks that float rather than hug.

It’s a dreamy way to add drama without weight.

3. Statement Bows & Back Details

More and more brides are walking away from the mirror to check the back. Low backs, lace-up corsets, oversized bows, and illusion lace panels are making bold statements from behind. It's all about the “wow” moment as you walk down the aisle.

4. Subtle Sparkle

Gowns with beaded tulle overlays, metallic threading, and light-catching appliqués are delivering glamour in a softer, more romantic way.

It’s all about shimmer that catches the light *just enough*.

5. Versatile Accessories

From detachable overskirts to bold veils and matching gloves, 2025 brides are embracing accessories that allow them to personalize their look — and change it up between ceremony and reception. It's not just about the dress anymore — it's about the full ensemble.

6. A Touch of Color

While ivory still reigns, designers are leaning into muted tones — blush, mocha, champagne, and even soft blue — to offer more dimension and personality. These shades photograph beautifully and feel just a little unexpected in the best way.

Ready to find your 2025 wedding look?
At The Ultimate Bride, we carry a curated collection of designer gowns (including Essense of Australia and Stella York) that reflect these trends and more. Request appointment here or call 314.961.9997 to make an appointment with one of our expert stylists and find the dress that feels like you.

If you’re a curvy bride starting your dress search, here’s the good news: the world of bridal fashion has finally caught up. At The Ultimate Bride, we’re seeing more plus-size gowns that aren’t just “extended sizes”, they’re designed with structure, shape, and true style from the start.

From flattering silhouettes to lightweight materials that still bring the drama, here are the styles our plus-size brides in St. Louis are reaching for right now.

1. Fit-and-Flare for Defined Curves

This silhouette is a favorite at our boutique because it strikes the perfect balance: structured through the waist and hips, with enough flare to feel easy and elegant. Our brides love it for highlighting curves without feeling restricted.

Look for:

Plunge or sweetheart necklines with illusion mesh for support
Soft crepe fabrics that mold without clinging

2. A-Line Dresses for Easy Elegance

Want something floaty but still fitted at the top? A-line dresses are consistently a top pick in our fitting rooms. This shape flatters every body and gives that classic bridal feel without overwhelming your frame.

**Brides love:**
- Layered tulle skirts for gentle volume

- Defined seams through the bodice to keep everything in place

- Options with sleeves or straps for added comfort and coverage

3. Ballgowns That Bring the Drama

You can absolutely wear a big dress. In fact, we love watching plus-size brides light up when they try on a full-skirted ballgown that actually fits and feels good.

What’s trending:

Supportive bodices with built-in shaping
Lightweight underskirts (no heavy crinoline!)
Dresses with sparkle layered under lace for depth

4. Sleeves & Illusion Details

Some brides want a bit of arm coverage, not to hide anything, but to add interest. At The Ultimate Bride, we stock gowns with sheer bishop sleeves, fitted lace sleeves, and even detachable options if you want two looks in one.

**Our tip:**
Don’t be afraid of illusion, lace appliqués and sheer tulle can actually *highlight* your favorite features with the right placement.

5. Texture, Beading & Modern Sparkle

Plus-size gowns used to play it safe. Not anymore. Designers are finally embracing rich texture, dimensional lace, and sparkle that photographs beautifully.

Favorites among our brides:

3D floral appliqués
Tone-on-tone beading that shimmers without going full glitter
Soft shimmer tulle layered under the skirt for a glow effect

6. Custom Details That Make It Yours

Want a longer train? Prefer straps to sleeves? Hoping to line the bodice for more coverage? We’ve helped hundreds of brides customize their gowns, and yes, most designers we carry do offer those options. Ask your stylist what’s possible.

Final Thought: The Right Dress Will Feel Like You
We never push our brides into a “flattering” look that doesn’t feel right. The right dress won’t ask you to shrink, squeeze, or settle. It’ll feel like a version of you that’s confident, radiant, and ready to celebrate.

Want to try some of these styles on in your size? Request appointment here or call 314.961.9997 to make an appointment. We carry plus-size gowns up to size 30 in-store, with private fitting rooms and experienced stylists who get it.

2025 Wedding Dress Trends Our St.Louis Brides Are Already Loving

What St.Louis Plus Size Brides Are Wearing Down the Aisle