The Bridal Bazaar showed off the latest bridal fashions and trends at the San Diego Convention Center on Jan. 20. Three fabulous fashion shows were presented during the day, all beginning with a performance by the Classic Brass Ensemble and produced by Gretchen Productions. Lace, sheer fabric and one-shoulder gowns — like the crowd-pleasing lace fit-and-flare gown from Brides by Demetrios or the ombre tulle ball gown, a new design from the White Collection by Vera Wang offered at David’s Bridal — are some of the current trends. One exciting dress was a blush organza fit-and-flare gown with a bias flange skirt, also designed by Vera Wang and sold at David’s Bridal. The trends for bridesmaid’s dresses are both short and long. Black was one of the most popular colors, though most of the styles for came in brilliant colors. Trendy colors are emerald, nectarine, violet and blue. Models walked the runway sometimes three at a time in one bright color after another, creating a “wow” factor for the audience. These trends are being seen not just at the altar, but also on the red carpet. At the recent Golden Globe Awards, Nicole Richie wore a beautiful pale-blue lace Naeem Khan dress and Emily Blunt showed off a magnificent gold lace Michael Kors dress. Sheer fabrics also prevailed with a transparent Miu Miu dress worn by Kerry Washington and the sexy sheer midriff by Alexander McQueen worn by Nicole Kidman. A personal favorite was Taylor Swift’s halter backless gown with transparent peek-a-boo inserts down the sides designed by Donna Karan. At another star-studded event, first lady Michelle Obama wore a ruby red halter-gown with sheer chiffon and velvet by Jason Wu at the Inaugural Ball. The new item to have in your wardrobe for spring is definitely something sheer! — Diana Cavagnaro is a nationally recognized hat designer and milliner with a fashion business in downtown San Diego. She has been teaching in the fashion department at San Diego Mesa College for 20 years.