Last week, Team LJM headed to Chicago to attend the National Bridal Market + find the best of the best new designs for our 2024 [+ beyond] brides! Read on to see more from our trip + find out which Spring 2023 trends we can’t stop thinking about.
Day 1
We kicked off day 1 with a visit to a few of our favorite designers that we already carry in-store, both accessory and bridal gown! Our first stops were to Toni Federici and Paris by Debra Moreland, where we viewed colorful, embroidered veils – one of our favorite bridal trends of the season – from Toni, and intricate, handmade accessories from Debra!
We then saw one of our plus-size designers, Studio Levana. As an Israeli brand, this was the first time that we were able to meet this designer in-person, and loved seeing their new collection, which included a gown designed by our very own LJM stylists! After winning a little friendly competition that the designer put together, our stylists came out on top, and were able to work one-on-one with the Studio Levana team to create this modern, size-inclusive dress, pictured below! The cherry on top? Her name is Mariee!
At the end of day one, we headed to one of our favorite spots in the city for dinner – Adalina – and enjoyed amazing Italian food + conversations about our upcoming designer appointments!
Day 2
Day two started off strong, with our first appointment at Watters to view each of their brands’ new lines; Watters, Wtoo, Willowby + By Watters [which you can shop at our sister store, Luxe Redux Bridal!]. Our team loved every design we saw, with trends ranging from all-over sparkle on a modern silhouette, to romantic ruffles and lots of texture.
After Watters’ show, we headed to Paloma Blanca + Mikaella. The bridal trends we saw at this show included removable elements like lace toppers + portrait collars, daring low backs, 3D florals + exposed corsets!
Following the sister brands’ show, we headed to Lis Simon to view their latest collection and most popular styles! We couldn’t get enough of the modern yet boho feel of their bridal line, and love their size-inclusivity!
Before heading to our last appointment of the day, Calla Blanche, we stopped at a few other designers, chatting about current bridal trends + making sure that we got a good look at everything possible we could bring back for our future brides!
Finally, we headed to Calla Blanche for the final appointment of day two. Here, we saw more stunning sparkles, detachable elements for a two-in-one look, and romantic florals – some of our favorite bridal trends of the trip!
At the end of day two, we headed back to the hotel before walking over to Lure Fishbar for dinner, where we chatted about our favorite styles from the day over sushi!
Day 3
Our third and final day at the National Bridal Market was a quick one in comparison to the first two! After a team breakfast in the hotel, we headed back to the show to view Elysee’s latest collections. Their bridal trends for the season included peaked cat eye bodices, intricate lace details, and statement sleeves. Once their show concluded, we headed back over to Paris by Debra Moreland, to chat with Debra and have one last look at her latest designs!
After a busy three days in Chicago, our buying team had a lot of decisions to make on the drive back to Columbus! We strive to bring the best selection of wedding dresses to every bride who walks through our doors!