ACCESSORIES DESIGNERS: WHAT'S TRENDING
It’s fascinating how film and television can shape fashion trends, including bridal wear. We asked our accessories designers if they draw inspiration from classic movies, while others might be influenced by contemporary series. Here are a few of their comments. - Rachel Leonard
Paris by Debra Moreland
Any influential movies or series that are setting a trend in accessories for bridal? What are those trends? Will you be designing any of those looks?
The series “Reign” continues to drive interest in our collection as Debra designed 90% of all the headpieces for the show. The trend that was born from that is bold regalia. Debra defined the tone and look of the accessories of “Reign”, and we continue to carry these pieces in our collection. This, in turn, inspired my people’s wedding accessories. Also, the Netflix series Bridgerton created interest in necklaces and delicate headpieces worn by the ladies of the upper crust of the Regency era. Debra’s new collection is called “Fortuna,” who is the goddess of fortune and luck, covers both the theme of “Reign” and BridgertoN.
What’s selling well for you now?
Bold headpieces are selling well again. Also, veils have gotten wider and much longer. Our best-selling earrings are a mixture of pearl and crystal.
Tia Mazza
Any influential movies or series that are setting a trend in accessories for bridal?
Trends are important in the sense of being in touch with what a bride feels like wearing, say a cage veil or flyaway veil versus a cathedral with French lace or ribbon trim. But I don’t rely on trends to dictate the design process. What never goes out of style is creating an individual look or statement. Brides want pieces that are timeless, that elevate their moment and can make that statement.
What are those trends?
Given that balance of trend and timeless, I look more at unique and powerful personalities. Which means I find trends beyond the bridal world. It could be the shape of something I saw in a museum or what a celebrity wore. And of course, some things never quite go out of style like classic silhouettes from the 20’s to 40’s, which I find ways to create new modern designs.
Will you be designing any of those looks?
Every project is its own piece. If I see a fresh take on a veil out in the world, it might influence what I’m making, but only if it makes sense for the woman wearing it. I always strive to design softer looks that complement the gown and the bride. However, I have a lot of fun designing fantasy looks for non-bridal events, like a gala or fashion shoot. I might add bold colors or add playful accents. Freedom and a sense of artful play more than anything inspire those looks.
What’s selling well for you now?
Right now, it’s elegant French lace veils, ribbon trimmed cathedral veils, and of course the classic cage veil.
Maria Elena Headpieces
Any influential movies or series that are setting a trend in accessories for bridal?
The top two shows I believe are setting accessory trends right now are Bridgerton and the Gilded Age with pearl inspired pieces, delicate thin crowns, and elaborate jewelry. Although brides nowadays are much more influenced by fashion shows as well as their own personal style.
What are those trends?
Those trends include, but are not limited to, delicate pearls, our metal bows, pre-wedding headbands with personalized touches, micro crowns, and beyond-the-wedding looks such as our metal micro purses, and our 4-in-1 metal purse. Our brides look to us for the traditional Maria Elena touch—something timeless that won’t make them look back and think they were just following a trend. They want to look and feel like themselves, just in a more elevated way, and that’s exactly what we’ve been delivering for the past 30+ years at Maria Elena Headpieces. Whether it’s a crown or a simple pair of pearl earrings, we can custom make anything uniquely for them.
Will you be designing any of those looks?
Thankfully, our milestone in the bridal industry has definitely set those trends in motion. We will aspire to continue doing so by staying true to our designs and understanding what #MariaElenaBrides are looking for. We are beyond excited to showcase our newest FW25 Collection this October. IT will feature a variety of pieces that capture the essence of current trends while maintaining our signature style. Expect to continue seeing our pieces designed with meticulous attention to detail, using the finest materials to ensure that each accessory is more than a jewel but a work of art. Whether you’re looking for something classic or cutting-edge, our FW25 Collection will offer a range of options to suit every bride's style. We can’t wait for you to see and fall in love with our latest creations!
What’s selling well for you now?
Maria Elena Headpieces and Accessories is renowned for our ornate, one-of-a-kind pieces and personalized details. With our Design Studio in Miami, FL, we have complete control over our creative process, ensuring unique and customized accessories.
Currently, brides are purchasing a wedding capsule with accompanying accessories that range from traditional to more modern pieces. Our bestsellers feature timeless pearl headpieces and earrings for classic elegance, as well as statement headpieces like crowns and intricate designs. Minimalist jewelry, such as simple combs and delicate headbands, complements various bridal gowns beautifully.
Customizable items like monogrammed headbands, engraved jewelry, and bespoke headpieces are also popular. Our metal bows add a chic, modern touch, while pre-wedding accessories for bridal showers and civil ceremonies are in high demand. Additionally, our versatile pieces are designed to be worn beyond the wedding day, making them cherished keepsakes.
By offering a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary style, we continue to meet the diverse needs of our brides. We are thrilled to see how our creations become a memorable part of their special day.
Monvieve
Any influential movies or series that are setting a trend in accessories for bridal?
The Empress from 2022 is still being referenced. We do full Chantilly couture veils— so this is very much right up our alley. (For out client, Bridgerton is very much in the rear view mirror.)
I would say we get more play from couture…brides outreaching re Simone Rocha at JPG than popular culture re movies/ series.
What are those trends?
Show stopping bespoke cathedral veils, elbow length veils with extraordinary work that bring the focus up and the cheekbones to collar bone, and any pieces that rediscover the power of an inset Juliet cap.
We’ve also been seeing organza trimmed veils becoming more sculptural and body framing. Headpieces are becoming much more bold— real milliner pieces that are strait up fashion moments. Our ethos is more of a refined, quiet beauty… but still a powerhouse of craft and style.
What’s selling well for you now?
Cathedrals rule. True French lace florals reign front and center—it’s just a matter of cutting them in compelling patterns. Always searching for new ways to elevate the style quotient re gown and veil…
elbow length veils with extraordinary work that bring the focus up around the cheekbones to collar bone, and any pieces that rediscover the power of an inset Juliet cap.
We can do truly custom pieces, and am finding brides are becoming better versed in accessories… more prepared (ie vernacular/understanding) and able to truly speak the language. Sowe can evolve things together in a very interesting way. It’s been a fabulous dance!
