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Following New York Bridal Fashion Week is like taking a time machine to the future. Yes, you’re watching dreamy gowns float down the runway (so much pretty!), but you’re also getting a sneak peek of what bridal salons will be selling six months to a year down the road. You’re also seeing the dresses that actual brides who are getting married in 2017, 2018 and beyond will be wearing. 

Thousands of dresses were shown at this season’s bridal market (we saw about 1,220 of them), but we found a common theme throughout all of the runway show—extremes. Gowns that were super-sexy and barely-there on one end of the spectrum, and gowns that were ultra-traditional and classic on the other. To see what we mean, take a look at the newest trends that hit the run

Off-the-Shoulder

This take on the Old World Renaissance era was popping up in almost every collection, letting shoulders take center stage. Straps appear as if they have slipped off which leaves shoulders exposed in a subtle, yet sexy way. This cold-shoulder style creates a romantic and effortless bridal look perfect for brides who want to show off a little bit of skin.

Gown by Berta

Gown by Idan Cohen

Gown by Alon Livne

Gown by Mark Zunino

Gown by Reem Acra

Minimalist Gowns

With the abundance of details on wedding dresses these days—beading, embroidery, lace, sheer, the list goes on—it’s easy to become overwhelmed. That’s why the many unadorned gowns served as a welcome “palette cleanser” this season. Simple yet no less gorgeous gowns allow us to focus on the fit and construction, which is just as, if not more, important as all of the adornments. 

Gown by Matthew Christopher

Gown by Rivini

Gown by Watters

Gown by Truly Zac Posen

Capes and Caplets

The cape trend, which we first saw last market, looks like it is here to stay! Many designers featured this flowing fabric and it is perfect for a bride looking for a covered up look! The translucent pieces were either embroidered with sparkling or laced details and provided a lightweight addition to a variety of silhouettes. 

Gown by Pronovias

Gown by Watters

Gown by Julie Vino

Gown by Berta

Gown by Karen Willis Holmes

Bell Sleeves

Designers paid extra attention to sleeves this season by flaring the cuffs for a dramatic effect. With the help of cascading fabric, these voluminous sleeves made quite a statement on the runway. Whether they were balanced out with a fitted skirt or paired with ruffles, bell sleeves definitely stole the show this season. 

Gown by Galia Lahav Haute Couture