Full skirt or straight down? Tulle or lace? Tiara or headpiece? Jo Caruana glances up the aisle to take a look at this season’s must-have wedding dress trends.

As little girls we all imagined our future wedding dress in great detail. For most it involved a massive ‘princess skirt’, bursting with (possibly pink) tulle and floating gracefully up the aisle to Prince Charming.

A classic, timeless dress will never date

Things have probably come on a little since then, although most brides will agree that their dress was one of the first things to cross their minds when they got engaged.

So, can you find the right dress to make decades of dreams come true? And how can you best follow this season’s trends to source a dress that perfectly suits you?

“Of course it is important to keep up with times, but it’s also vital to stay true to yourself,” says Franco Camilleri of Camilleri Paris Mode. “It is all about the bride’s character, figure and tastes, as well as the venue and nuances of the wedding itself that need to be adapted to. A classic, timeless dress will never date.”

Nevertheless, it does seem that the more traditional, fuller bridal skirt is one of the more current trends, with lace and tulle also leading the way.

“A lot of what is currently fashionable for any bride depends on the structure of the dress itself,” continues Camilleri.

“If a flowing look is desired, then organza, tulle and georgette are ideal choices, while a more structured gown could be made from duchesse satin or raw silk. That said, the dictionary for fabrics is endless and there are so many beautiful options to work with, from corded and beaded lace, and guipure, to the more modern laser cut types and embroideries.”

Headpieces are one of the complementing accessories that are very current, including floral types and hair bands.

“Swarovski is still very much in demand, while simple, beaded combs will never date. Obviously it is important that your veil and your over-the-shoulder accessory compliment the dress, and that all of these elements tie together beautifully.”

Meanwhile, comfort should also be of the utmost importance and should never be underestimated.

“Whatever the fashion, comfort never goes out of style. Ensure that your gown isn’t too heavy, as you have to consider the number of hours you will be wearing it for. Meanwhile, really good quality shoes mean you can hopefully enjoy the day from start to finish – dancing included! No matter the styles or fashions of the moment, these are the elements that will show on your face when you look back on photos and videos.

“Finally, when it comes to the run-up, organise sets of appointments for after the dress has been chosen so as to avoid last-minute panic; this will put your mind at rest. Your wedding shouldn’t be a stressful day, but one of the most special and enjoyable of your life. Keep calm, and remember it is a happy moment – and that everything works out in the end,” Camilleri adds.

Top trends that have graced the wedding catwalks this season:

Slits – They may be too sexy for some, especially if you’re planning a church wedding, but leg-flaunting slits are a current favourite and more daring than ever.

Off the shoulder – This may be quite an old fashioned neckline, but it is very much back in, and it’s also fantastic for showing off your jewellery.

Decorative bridal belts – Removable and ornamental add sparkle and personality, and can be worked into most dresses. Modern designers are making them with beads, ruffles, jewels, pearls, sequins, colourful silk, satin or lace and embroidered flower.

Not white – White or ivory may be the obvious choice, but some brides are choosing to add a touch of colour. Really soft, luxurious tones are in at the moment, such as blush, apricot, lavender, or darker antique creams.

Victorian – Many dresses are taking inspiration from the 1800s at the moment, with beautiful corsets, ornamental skirts and full gowns.

Bridesmaids should also supplement the bride, while not outshining her. Bridal dresses should be chosen first, and with bridesmaids complementing the style and colour palette accordingly. Current trends veer towards bridesmaids being coordinated but not matching completely. One option is to pick a colour and fabric, and to have styles made to suit your bridesmaids’ different heights and figures.

Another way to mix things up is to organise different blooms for your bridesmaids to have within their bouquets, while all matching your wedding colours in some way. Your bouquet could then consist of one or two flowers from each of theirs, bringing the look together.