{GB} Return to Elegance for 2011

With the start of another year—and another wedding planning season—industry experts are all sharing their predictions for the New Year.  What will be the must-have wedding gown style?  What colors will rule the wedding aisles?  Will things be different or just more of the same?  Well it seems that this year, things will be a bit different.

Although Converse sneakers and fun cakes have been popular for the past couple of years, 2011 will bring a resurgence of the elegant wedding, according to One Wed.  Whether it’s her love for an era gone by or her simple, chic style, brides—and their weddings—will be classic, elegant and romantic.  This inspiration board shares a few examples of how to incorporate these elements into your special day.

Classic Cakes:  It’s a given…cupcakes are cute (and they made for some really interesting wedding cake designs last year), but this year’s wedding cake will be classic.  With just a few subtle accents, cakes will demonstrate that less is definitely more with an understated elegance that is chic, sophisticated and modern.  Don’t be afraid to mix different tones and textures to give cakes and decorations a touch of romance.

Pearls:  You’ll see them in the jewelry, in the décor and even in the bridal bouquet.  Pearls will be popping up all over as the quintessential accessories for a classy bride.  For example, the above photos showcase tiny white pearls accenting the hand-tied bouquet, while silver “pearls” surround the beaded photo frame place card holder.

Monograms: Whether it’s a single initial or all three, monograms will add a stately touch of distinction to your special day.  Full of timeless grace, they’re a wonderful way to personalize just about any aspect of your wedding, from the invitations to the wedding favors, just like these votive candles, for example.

Grey is the new Black:  Move over brown, which topped the list last year as the new neutral.  Grey is now the IT color for 2011.  Whoever said that grey was gloomy never saw it used like this.  A versatile accent color, its various shades can create a tone-on-tone look that captivates.  It can be used with deep blues for a regal presentation and even with bright, vibrant colors, since the cool contrast will make it pop.

Retro:  Capturing the elegance of the 1920’s and 1930’s, vintage weddings will be all the rage this year for their style and sophistication.  You’ll see the era’s influence in the choice of bridal gowns featuring lots of lace and dainty details, as well as in the men’s attire, which will lean towards tuxedos and tails.  With this theme, the wedding party will be dapper and dainty from head to toe.

As you can see, there are many ways to bring a sophisticated elegance to your special day.  Whether you choose to go retro or incorporate some of the other elements, always remember to express your own personal style and find ways to make the celebration uniquely you!

{GB – Guest Blogger} Karen Sullen is a writer for MyWeddingFavors.com, a leading online resource for unique wedding favors, wedding accessories, bridesmaid gifts and personalized gifts.