We never understood the whole "Llama Thing" at weddings last year, but we can certainly get down for the following...

1. Turtle neck/mock neck dresses

It’s not about plunging necklines this year (or, well, any year!). Royally inspired, this silhouette has increasingly grown in popularity over the past few years.

2. Colored veils

If you’re a rebel or someone who wants to really stand out, this is our favorite way of expressing that without losing the beauty of that white dress!

3. Instead of a bouquet toss, the bride gives all her single friends a flower.

We loved this idea the moment we first heard it. Some women love the bouquet toss, but mostly all of them are reminded yet again that their friend is getting married and they are still single. This is a beautiful alternative to telling your single ladies that you see them.

4. The return of the intimate backyard wedding

Though some statistics state that the more guests you have at your wedding, the less likely you will divorce,* we love how COVID momentarily brought back the small, intimate weddings that were much more common pre-21st century. Most couples rejoiced when restrictions eased and large get togethers were permitted once more (because who doesn’t love a big party?!), but some are recognizing that there’s no need to drop tens of thousands of dollars when the backyard will do! (Plus, it’s WAY easier to decorate a small venue with detail and intentionality than a ballroom!)

*Divorces are lower from large weddings not because of some popularity status, but rather some statistics reason that you since you are committing to a lifelong relationship in a very public manner, you are, in a sense, asking guests to hold you accountable to your vows, stand with you in hard times, and pray for you.

5. Mismatched Groomsmen Suits

It's been a while since we've broken out of the incessant need to have all the cloned bridesmaids match, so it's high time we cut some slack to the men, too! We love the natural look of men wearing whatever suits they have on hand. Admittedly, it can be difficult to find a cohesive look for bridesmaids when they aren't in the same dress, but it's easier for men to look good because a cluster of men in suits is rarely hard on the eyes.

6. Ruffles and puff sleeves

A ruffled skirt adds airy dimension to a streamlined silhouette, while a full skirt of cascading ruffles is perfect for the bride looking to make a serious fashion statement. If you love this frothy trend but aren't into a dress with lots of volume, consider a one with understated ruffles on the bodice or sleeves. We're also equally ecstatic about the return of the puff sleeve. This dress (above) by Kuraje Wedding Dresses combines these two trends perfectly.

7. Color!

Gone are the days of all neutral beige and soft hues. We're all about bold and luscious color. From the flowers to the candlesticks, it's time to be vibrant!

8. Bridal Capes

We know, we know—nothing can beat a veil, and we aren't saying you shouldn't wear a veil on your wedding day; BUT, we simply cannot get over the new bridal cape trend!

9. Alternate to florals

Roses are classic for a reason, but palms, greens, and dare we say, fruit are sprucing up the floral realm.

10. Saying your vows over a crucifix

And definitely not last nor least, and actually our number one favorite trend, is the tradition of saying your vows while holding a crucifix together is making a big comeback. This practice originated in a little Polish town where the divorce rate is…wait for it, 0%! We hate the little “Mix your colored sand or paint or whatever to show your unity” moments that some incorporate into their ceremonies. If you want some symbolism, the crucifix is the way to go.