The last few years in bridal have been all about drama. Curve-hugging trumpet skirts, extravagant ruffles, and “look at me!” details have been the style. The newest wedding gowns for spring 2012, however, take a new direction. In among the dresses which are heavy on the wow factor are quite a few dresses with an elegant simplicity. Discover more about the beautiful simple 2012 wedding dresses.

The first words out of my mouth when viewing the simpler styles from the 2012 bridal gown collections are invariably, “Isn’t that lovely!”. There is a freshness to these gowns that is like the proverbial breath of fresh air. They feel pure, crisp, and timeless. Best of all, a more simple gown ensures that all eyes will be upon the bride, not on her over-the-top wedding dress. Also, when the dress does not make the entire statement, the bride can inject more of her unique style into her ensemble with creative choices of bridal jewelry, veils, and other accessories.

Of all the spring 2012 wedding dress collections, it was Amsale who really exemplified the return to simplicity. Her collection featured a number of stunning gowns which had just enough detail to give each one character. The lustrous silk fabric and beautiful cuts of the Amsale dresses were the focus. Minimal embellished was needed for these gowns; a large asymmetrical bow at the waist or neckline was the only added decoration to several of them. One very pretty ballgown featured a strapless wrapped bodice with a jeweled belt to emphasize the waist. There was another gown with a very flattering princess seam trumpet skirt that showcased the natural curves of the body in a very flattering way. Many of the skirts were plain, without the ruffles, pick-ups, and shredded fabric, and other busy textures which have been so widely used in recent years.

A natural waistline and a slight sweetheart strapless neckline were common elements across many of the designer collections for 2012 weddings. The overall trend was more towards lace than all-out glitz, and lustrous fabrics like silk mikado and taffeta were used more than shiny satin. Sheer tulle also remains in style, particularly at Vera Wang. Her dresses were not so much notable for their simplicity (they were not all that simple) as for her use of softly tinted tulle in shades of blush, taupe, and even pale green. Even Reem Acra, a designer well known for her love of elaborate ornamentation, featured several gorgeously understated gowns in her 2012 wedding dresses. There was a stunning gown with a sweetheart neckline and sheer beaded cap sleeves, as well as a wonderfully flowing ballgown with a striking jeweled sash as the only accent. Reem Acra’s runway show also made use of dramatic tiaras; while most brides will probably choose something a bit less bold, it is a clear sign of the renewed popularity of royal bridal jewelry and headpieces.

The Carolina Herrera collection was another which included some delightfully understated gowns. One thing for which Carolina Herrera is well known is her use of beautiful unique fabrics, and the 2012 collection did not disappoint. She had one gorgeous strapless gown which featured a large handpainted floral design on the skirt. It was overall quite a simple gown, with the one very unique couture detail to set it apart. She also showed some terrific looking column dresses made from textured fabrics, as well as a classic and feminine lace illusion neckline gown with short sleeves. Truly timeless.

Speaking of timeless, anyone seeking a very classic gown will like the offerings of the Legends by Romona Keveza line. Two of the stand outs were off the shoulder gowns; one featured a lovely cuff over the neckline and a flattering trumpet skirt, while the other was off the shoulder with long lace sleeves. Brides who loved the style of Princess Catherine’s long lace sleeved wedding gown will find some excellent options in the Legends collection. Any bride who appreciates good taste and understated elegance will find a lot to love in the new 2012 wedding gowns.

Bridget Mora has worked with brides for many years, giving them advice about how to find the perfect bridal jewelry, wedding gown, and accessories. She writes for Silverland Jewelry about all the latest trends and news in wedding style and fashion. Sign up for our free newsletter today to keep up to date with all of the top wedding news and fashion trends.