Happy New Year from the STC family to yours! Engagement season is in full swing, so to all you ladies who received a sparkler over the holidays, congratulations! What better way to celebrate but with some bridal fashion trend news. The 2013 designs show some beautiful new details that I know brides will be excited about. Let's jump right in!

1. Baby Got Back: This isn't what you think:) This year there is a major focus on the back of the dress--sheer illusion panels embroidered with lace, a delicate line of buttons, interesting cut-outs and fluid drapes of fabrics.

BHLDN Divine Downpour gown

BHLDN Mickael gown

Lela Rose

2. Sleeves: You might think this sounds matronly, but just remember the Duchess of Cambridge and remind yourself that it's chic! Sleeves are an excellent way to bring in more decoration to your gown--think gorgeous lace. Or if you don't want a full sleeve, do a cap sleeve or a beaded topper. After all, don't they always say that we ladies must leave something to the imagination?

BHLDN Lita

Jenny Packham

Marchesa

Monique Lhuillier

3. Peplums: This trend is definitely a carry-over from the runway that we've seen for a season or two. But isn't it perfect for the stylish bride?

Alvina Valenta

Austin Scarlett

Amsale

4. 2 for 1: We know that many brides have been loving the reception dress trend, so some designers are capitalizing on that idea and making dresses that transform from one dress to another-- think removable overskirt. It's a little 80s to me, but whatever floats your boat:)

Anne Barge

Lazaro

5. Color: This is another one we've seen for a few seasons, but this year the focus is on pastels, like light blue and blush tones. Vera Wang has taken it to the next level with red, burgundy and purple, and for the daring bride, it sure is pretty.

BHLDN Crashing Waves

Maggie Sotero

Oscar de la Renta

Vera Wang

6. Accessories: Belts continue to be popular. Beaded belts have been all the rage, but this year softer, more ethereal belts are taking the lead. Wear one belt for your ceremony, maybe a little more understated, then change to a blingtastic one for your reception. Or layer belts for a softer look. Headpieces are also a gorgeous way to set your bridal look apart. Instead of a veil (or in addition to one) they add some interest to your do, and just like your belts, you can switch it up between ceremony and reception by just moving it around.

All from BHLDN

7. Different necklines: Strapless has been king of the bridal neckline for years, but this season, designers have shown several variations like one-shoulder looks, corset bodices, and off the shoulder gowns. Gorge!

Amsale

BHLDN Mille Petals

Marchesa

Monique Lhuillier

8. Lace: Again, a fabric that has been all over the wedding world for years, and this season doesn't disappoint. It's a nod to the fashions seen in Downton Abbey and the Great Gatsby and worn by Kate Middleton (her influence isn't going away any time soon as she continues to wear one knock-out after another:). Ladylike, modest, and breathtaking.

Carolina Herrera

Marchesa

Watters Wtoo

9. Embellishment: This season there are a lot of ruffles, 3-D flowers, beading and layers upon layers of tulle.

BHLDN Divine Downpour

Jenny Packham

Lazaro

10. Straight as an Arrow: The Sheath dress made several appearances, and is a nice foil to the pouffy ballgown. Sleek and chic!

Theia

Oscar de la Renta

Enjoy, and remember, the most important thing when shopping for a wedding dress is to wear what you feel most beautiful in, no matter what is trendy. Let the shopping begin!

Special thanks to my sister in law Lindsay who works at BHLDN for giving me up to the minute advice:) What a fun job, huh?!?

--Katie

Photos from Martha Stewart Weddings, BHLDN.com, The Knot and WWD