Clean and Classic

Outlandishly frosted confections are a thing of the past. These days, many couples are opting for clean, classic designs, many of which mimic bridal gown fabrics or detailing. Understated yet whimsical designs, such as cakes covered in blush-colored frosting and punctuated with tiny silver-dusted polka dots or pale blue-fondant frosted cakes studded with chocolate-brown sugar flowers, are all the rage.

Shapely Cakes

Though round tiers are still the favorite for today's couples, square, octagon, and hexagon confections are gaining popularity especially for more modern and laid-back weddings. Atypical shapes give the tower of tiers a sophisticated feel without frilliness. For a multidimensional appeal, pair differently-shaped cakes together, such as round tiers on square tiers.

Stacked and Sturdy

Cake tiers stacked upon tall Roman columns have all but disappeared, as most couples opt for layers placed directly on top of one another. If the cake is too heavy, designers may sometimes use pillars for support, though they're usually hidden behind fresh flowers. Fresh berries, sugared fruits, and thick bands of sugarpaste flowers are also appearing between the layers, which creates a lush and voluptuous appearance.

Subdued Hues

Today's confections are taking a spin on the color wheel. We're seeing hues of light blush, ice blue, pale pistachio, rum pink, and lavender splash across the scene, along with shades of butterscotch and cafe au lait -- colors that reflect the bridesmaids' dresses rather than the bride's gown. Many designers are also addressing demand for cakes that incorporate two tones of the same color: We're seeing snow white fondant tiers wrapped with textured white ribbon or topped with white calla lilies, or candlelight buttercream adorned with eggshell-colored roses or champagne-hued scrollwork.

Fresh and Flirty

Fresh flowers continue to be a popular adornment for wedding cakes, though sugarpaste flowers are still holding their own. Unfussy, simple blooms are replacing the more frivolous flowers; today's most fashionable fleurs include orchids, calla lilies, tulips, and gardenias. Daisies are also becoming popular, due to their light and cheerful appeal. Simple embellishments such as Swiss dots, single rose petals, curving scrollwork, and family monograms are also setting the standard, as personalization continues to be very popular at weddings.