Call it the Meghan Markle effect. With a royal wedding officially marked on our calendar (May 19, 2018, we’re looking at you), we can’t help but look back at a major trend from the Fall 2018 collections—the resurgence of the princess ball gown. Today’s full-skirted silhouettes put a modern spin on volume, creating contemporary silhouettes, romantic drama, and show-stopping features that any princess bride would be proud to flaunt down the aisle. Just take a look at these eight princess ball gown beauties—you’ll be sure to feel like Meghan Markle on your wedding day.
See more: This Over-the-Top Disney-Princess-Themed Wedding Will Actually Blow Your Mind
“Ball gown” and “minimalism” aren’t often associated with each other, but Monique Lhuillier manages to marry them both in a contemporary crepe ball gown. A ruched bodice and pleated skirt go untouched, striking in their simplicity.
A fitted La Vie en Rose bodice elegantly juxtaposes with a silk shantung taffeta skit in this Legends by Romona Keveza ball gown, which carries a trace of Victorian vibes thanks to lace detailing and a high collar.
We’re loving the sweetness behind Anne Barge’s “Lisette” ball gown, complete with a lace scalloped sweetheart neckline and side cut-outs with matching lace embroidery for a subtle touch.
This blush ball gown by Dennis Basso for Kleinfeld is what princess dreams are made of. A beaded illusion bodice and matching hemline sparkle with magic — there’s no doubt one will feel like royalty wearing this down the aisle.
We’re ready to bow down to this regal-looking ball gown by Reem Acra. A strapless bodice, ornate floral embroidery accented with crystals, and satin skirt are seriously jaw-dropping, and dare we say, fit for a queen.
Galia Lahav’s Daffodil ball gown exudes a touch of whimsy and playfulness with a dotted voluminous skirt and corset inspired bodice trimmed in ruffles. Unexpected, unconventional, and every bit beautiful.
Michal Medina’s ravishing two-piece “Blake” ball gown takes modern vintage for a romantic spin, where lace meets geometric and floral details reminiscent of the 1920s for a hint of an Art Deco feel.
It’s easy to see why this lace confection by Caroline Castigliano was named “Love Story” — its classic, feminine vibe has a timeless appeal that doesn’t take much to fall in love with. Besides, we can’t say no to a wedding dress that has pockets!
