I have been reliably informed that the Autumn/Winter 2006 bridal collection appearing on the catwalk at this year’s National Wedding Shows in London and Birmingham will reflect the ‘wow’ factor normally associated with the catwalks of Milan, Paris, New York and London. The dresses will be glamorous with lines and structure that accentuate the bride’s curves. I have also learnt that colour is also a strong feature for this Autumn and all the shades of blues can be seen as well as pastel pink, peach and green.

Susi Rogol, Editor of Bridal Buyer comments:

“The choice is as breathtaking as the gowns themselves. Sumptuous Marie-Antoinette multi-layered skirts topped by tightly sculpted bodices (Sophia Coppola’s movie will make this the look); 50s-style flirty-skirt shorties with pretty princess necklines; slinky body-skimmers in soft, fluid fabrics worn with tiny lacey bolero tops, gossamer-fine shrugs, or short tailored jacket with high collars. Taffeta is the big-news fabric – crunched, scrunched, swathed and ruched to accentuate curves. Look out for colour – softly, softly pinks, blues, greens and rich topaz golds. There couldn’t be a better time to be a bride.”

The overall theme of the catwalk show is The Four Seasons. Brides, grooms and mother of the bride will find inspiration for all types of wedding.

Spring: Enchanted Garden with fauna and flora inspired decoration and Dressing Up Box with vintage inspired gowns.

Summer: Beach Bride will include a selection of chiffons, silks and natural fibres in neutral colours while Tropical Island will be the same in bold hot colours.

Autumn: Magic Carpet will showcase ethnic influences bridalwear as well as menswear followed by Medieval Heroes and Heroines in their rich and opulent fabrics and styles.

Winter: Snow Palace featuring cloaks and capes.

The catwalk shows will include a dazzling selection of wedding dresses, from top designers who create gowns for the stars to high street fashion brands, covering all budgets and tastes.

I can hardly wait!

If you are in or near London next week I highly recommend you take the time to visit the show. The dates are: London Earls Court Sept 29-1 Oct / Birmingham NEC Oct 13-15 Oct.