Judging by the number of designers who sent skirt and top combos down the runway, bridal separates are definitely one of the hottest bridal trends for 2018.  It started with Olivia Palermo's skirt + shorts + jumper wedding outfit and then took off as designers decided to go their separate ways (geddit!). Theia, Reem Acra, Elizabeth Stuart and Halfpenny London have all featured skirt and top combinations in their bridal collections, so if you’re a bride who isn't into the whole 'wedding dress' look, then you're in luck this season! For those of you still on the fence, I hope to inspire a more open mind...

Bridal Separates vs A Wedding Dress

We're firmly in favour of the idea of separates. First of all, generally skirts and tops are more affordable than wedding dresses - the fact you can mix and match from designer and high street, get something made or just pick it up in a store. If you're not a perfect size, and let's face it, most of us aren't, the flexibility of having different sizes and shapes on top and bottom can make the process of finding the "perfect" dress so much easier. And of course we love a bit of recycling so the best thing about a two piece bridal ensemble is that both pieces can be worn again after the wedding.

Alison-Jayne Couture and Sarah Falugo Photography | Candice Lee Bridal | Misseychelles | Taken Photography | Angela and Evan via Magnolia Rouge | Campbell Photography via One Fab Day | Candice Lee Bridal | Fashionista

A Selection of Separates from Bridal Designers

So at this stage you should have gotten the picture - gorgeous flowy skirts, beautiful bustiers and soft cardis can all being mixed and matched for a truly unique wedding day look. But where to find a showstopper of a skirt that is sufficiently wow for a wedding? Well, first stop should be some of the bridal designers - above are some of our favourite, from top left

1. Francesca nude two piece from Grace Loves Lace
2. High-low skirt and top from Halfpenny London
3. Silk bridal skirt and grey jumper by Melissa Rene Price on Etsy
4. Two piece lace crop top and short skirt by Anya Dionne
5. Lace style crop top and skirt by Rime Arodaky
6. Blush ruffle skirt and shirt by Watters
7. Soft blush tulle skirt by Houghton
8. Polka dot tulle tiered skirt by J. Crew

Other collections to check out include: Della Giovanna,  Bonzie,  Daughters of Simone,  Laure de Sagazan and Delphine Manivet

Separates = So Simple

But it doesn't have to be bridal necessarily. As I say, the thing about doing the skirt top combo is that you can pick up something beautiful anywhere. For something dramatic, have a look at the gorgeous tulle skirts on ASOS and Etsy. You could pair with a gorgeous crisp white shirt, lace cropped top or a soft cashmere knit. Also Coast has been doing some great skirts recently. Or ask a dressmaker to run you up something super. Basically it's a licence to be a bit more creative with your look...

Cannot wait to see real brides rocking this trend!

For more bridal style inspiraton check out the rest of our fashion posts...