Hurray for Hollywood! It's been a week since Hollywood shimmered as "Tinsel town" hosted the Oscars and oh, did it shine. The gowns, the gems, the glamour - these have become the signature elements of this American Entertainment tradition. And although much of America is finding the economy challenging, Hollywood showed great grace, positivity, and even a little humor during this event. For months art directors, production crews, fashion designers, hundreds of event and production specialists (and yes, those wacky honorees) all play a role in planning, executing and participating in one of the entertainment industry's biggest nights. Millions of viewers grabbed a snack, (or their favorite cocktail), tuned in, and watched the "Stars" come out.
It's no secret that the entertainment industry can have an impact on popular culture and fashion but will it also influence styles and trends seen in weddings? This gives me the opportunity to introduce something that I'd like to call the "Trend Forecast". This month's Trend Forecast revolves around the Oscars and the trends we may slowly see emerge in wedding fashions and designs as a result of this year's Oscar night. Influence of exotic India! The vibrant jewel tone colors, flowing fabrics, romantic lanterns, pools of rose petals, intricate designs and gold embellishments - for years I've felt that American pop culture will soon take notice of "Bollywood" (India's vibrant and sometimes cutting edge film industry) and this year's Oscar's have opened the door.
Henna and other Indian inspired designs as well as Jewel tone colors (such as rich ruby reds, warm ambers, and Sapphire blues) will be popular in the next year to 16months thanks to the huge Oscar night for the movie "Slumdog Millionaire".
It will also be no surprise to see Red carpet fashions slowly appear (in a modified form) on the
racks in your favorite stores and boutiques over the next year however, don't be surprised if some of the Oscar fashions also morph into bridal fashions too. Many of the flowing, elegant gowns seen during the Oscars could (with a slight twist) easily be seen on Bridal Show runways. The Single shoulder and/or Off-the-shoulder gown design has been slowly making it's mark in 2009. From the 1st Lady's Inguinal Ball Gown to the Red carpet, this gown may be the perfect look for an unconventional Bride who wants to make a statement.
racks in your favorite stores and boutiques over the next year however, don't be surprised if some of the Oscar fashions also morph into bridal fashions too. Many of the flowing, elegant gowns seen during the Oscars could (with a slight twist) easily be seen on Bridal Show runways. The Single shoulder and/or Off-the-shoulder gown design has been slowly making it's mark in 2009. From the 1st Lady's Inguinal Ball Gown to the Red carpet, this gown may be the perfect look for an unconventional Bride who wants to make a statement. 
My favorite example of the "one shoulder wonder" was the gorgeous gown worn by Freida Pinto (above, center and left) star of one of the night's big winners "Slumdog Millionaire". Everything about this gown was enchanting - the fabrics, color, lines, and flow. I'm sure this gown will certainly be re-invented for the department stores but you only have to image this gown in a soft ivory and a bride would look stunning. Some other favorites that could make the transition to Bridal Couture include gowns worn by Sarah Jessica Parker, Anne Hathaway, Penelope Cruz, Marissa Tomei, and Evan Rachel Wood.
