I'll be the first to admit that I have high standards when it comes to black-tie wedding guest dresses. The dress code calls for something elevated, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice personality—especially during the summer months, when I'm all about color.

After years of covering fashion and attending my fair share of events, I've learned that the best wedding guest dresses strike a very specific balance: They should be special enough for the occasion while still feeling like you. I've seen so many people choose a dress that falls flat just to feel like they're fitting into the dress code. Good news is that ends today with this edit.

Whether you're headed to a destination wedding, a garden celebration, or a formal evening affair, these are the summer black-tie wedding guest dresses I'd happily recommend. Each one passes my test.

There was a time, not even a generation ago, when the post-wedding getaway had a predictable formula: check into a beach resort (usually Caribbean, usually all-inclusive), order a couple of frozen cocktails to your lounger, and spend a week doing absolutely nothing. That kind of trip will never truly lose its appeal, but it’s simply no longer the default. Instead, today's newlyweds are treating their honeymoon as its own main event, one that, more often than not, requires the same level of scrutiny, research, and financial investment as the ceremony itself.

In 2026, we've entered the era of the high-stakes honeymoon: an elaborate, increasingly ambitious, and highly-customized journey where traveling purely to unwind is more of an afterthought than the primary directive. It’s no longer just a vacation. Instead, the honeymoon has evolved into a singularly defining statement of taste and lifestyle, and it's part of a broader evolution of how we view and consume luxury.

Post-wedding travel has transformed into one of the most visible markers of status for a new couple, who are more likely to spring for the five-star design-driven hotel, remote wilderness trek and chartered transfers than they are for the standard air-and-hotel package. Backed by months of research (and hours scrolling social-media feeds), couples are no longer looking for a trip they could easily take at any other point in their lives; they want a once-in-a-lifetime, borderline cinematic journey tailored specifically to them. And the numbers back it up. The level of detail and depth of budgets you'd expect for celebrities or the ultra-wealthy—think multicountry itineraries, private-island resorts, and $15,000-a-night suites—are the new baseline for couples. If you spent the last year planning a wedding down to the napkin fold, why stop optimizing once the vows are said?

We spoke with the luxury travel advisors who plan honeymoons for a living to understand exactly how this once-private trip has become one of the most biggest status symbols of the modern age.

Ask any seasoned honeymoon travel planner what couples are spending this year, and the figures alone tell the story. Nicole Wallach, vice president of leisure travel at Magma Global, says the average luxury honeymoon she plans now falls between $30,000 and $45,000 for two people (before international flights), while more elaborate itineraries regularly climb into the $50,000 to $100,000 range. Those figures often include private guides, yacht charters, bespoke excursions, luxury transfers, and stays at some of the world's most coveted resorts, with some clients even inquiring about experiences like Aman at Sea or the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience.

Rabia Malik, a Fora advisor, is seeing similar momentum across a broader range of budgets. Most of her honeymoon clients spend between $16,000 and $60,000 before airfare, with luxury safaris paired with private island stays easily pushing beyond that. Both advisors estimate honeymoon spending has risen by roughly 30% in just the past few years. It's not only because travel has become more expensive, but also because couples are intentionally traveling longer, choosing higher-end stays, and treating their honeymoon as one of the defining luxury purchases of their newly married lives, rather than just another vacation.

So what's changed? Both Malik and Wallach point to the same inflection point: the pandemic, and the broader cultural pivot toward experiences over things. "After the pandemic, people began placing much more value on experiences over material purchases, and lucky for us travel agents, honeymoons naturally became part of that trend," Wallach says. Malik agrees, noting that travel has become "more intentional and experience-driven as a whole" in the years since.

Then, of course, there's the role that social media has played. Couples are exposed to remote safari camps, overwater villas, and viral hotel suites in the course of a normal scroll, which, consciously or not, expands their horizons beyond what their parents or family members may have done for theirs. "It's made couples more informed than ever before," Wallach explains, adding that many clients now arrive with a fully researched wish list rather than a blank slate. There's also an emotional through line: after months (sometimes years) of meticulous wedding planning, couples want their honeymoon to carry the same weight. As Malik puts it, they're determined to make it just as special as the wedding day itself.

The pandemic fundamentally changed the way many people prioritize travel, and honeymoons have become one of the clearest examples of that shift. Rather than collecting designer purchases or investing in traditional status symbols, many couples are channeling those resources into experiences they'll remember for decades. Advisors say clients increasingly describe their honeymoon as the biggest trip they'll ever take together, making it feel worthy of months of planning.

Both Wallach and Malik point out that platforms like Instagram and TikTok have expanded travelers' horizons more than they've fueled simple comparison. Couples now arrive with saved hotels, dream itineraries, and destinations they may never have discovered otherwise, from remote safari camps to overwater villas and cultural retreats. The challenge for advisors often isn't convincing clients to dream bigger, it's helping them understand that the villa they've bookmarked might cost upwards of $10,000 a night while finding ways to recreate that same sense of exclusivity within their budget.

Both advisors report a decisive shift toward multi-stop, multicountry itineraries that string together completely different experiences. The formula usually looks like beginning with a city for food and culture followed by a remote beach or safari for total decompression. Japan and Southeast Asia are having a major moment; Wallach says requests for the region have been "off the charts," and Malik notes she now has multiple clients departing for Japan nearly every month thanks to a favorable exchange rate and the country's range, from dense cities to quiet cultural retreats.

That's not to say that the classics like Italy or Greece have disappeared, but itineraries have gotten longer and more ambitious. Instead of a week on the Amalfi Coast, couples are booking three-week loops through Tuscany, Sardinia, Lake Como, and Sicily, something that Dua Lipa and Callum Turner's post-wedding road trip throughout Italy exemplified. Safari-and-beach combinations remain a favorite for a reason. Wallach cites South Africa paired with the Seychelles as one of her go-to pairings, and Malik sends couples to Kenya or South Africa followed by Zanzibar, the Seychelles, or Mozambique. For the more adventurous, both advisors are fielding growing interest in farther-flung, less-trodden destinations including French Polynesia, New Zealand, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Patagonia.

When it comes to honeymoon destinations, the farther and more remote, the better. According to both experts, Japan is the absolute star of the year. Malik notes that couples visit Japan to experience everything from bustling Tokyo to remote ryokans. Southeast Asia, East Africa, New Zealand, and Australia are also seeing massive waves of interest. What unites all of these destinations is a craving for unmatched exclusivity and deep cultural immersion. "Couples want destinations and hotels that feel truly unique and memorable," Wallach says. Today's travelers want to balance absolute relaxation with high-adrenaline, unforgettable stories, from helicoptering over Victoria Falls to white-water rafting in New Zealand and glamping in Ubud. Ultimately, the modern honeymoon is less about checking into a hotel and more about curating a private collection of memories that will be talked about for decades to follow.

If there's one word that defines what today's honeymooners want, it's exclusivity. Wallach's clients are requesting properties defined by their inaccessibility as much as their beauty: an overwater villa at Four Seasons Bora Bora, a private-plane-only island resort like Amanpulo, a tented camp in Chiang Rai, and Singita Boulders Lodge in South Africa. The goal isn't always a famous hotel; it's a hotel that feels like it belongs only to them. Malik sees the same instinct, with couples looking toward experiences that stand apart from their everyday travel.

Pop culture plays a quiet but real role in shaping those wish lists. Both advisors note that hotels featured in shows like The White Lotus and spotted on a celebrity's feed frequently land on client mood boards, sourced from Instagram and TikTok saves as much as traditional research. But neither planner describes this as chasing clout for its own sake. As Wallach puts it, "most clients are prioritizing the overall experience rather than simply staying somewhere famous." The real challenge, both agree, is translating a dreamy screenshot into a realistic budget since a villa that looks perfect online can easily run $8000 to $15,000 a night before taxes and fees. The honeymoon, in other words, hasn't just gotten more expensive. It's become a fully considered creative project, and couples are willing to spend accordingly to get it exactly right.

"How's wedding planning going?" It's one of the first questions that follows an engagement—and one of the hardest to answer. Between guest lists, invitation designs, food, music, and décor, planning a wedding quickly becomes an exercise in endless decision-making. For years, many couples approached wedding planning by asking what they should do: the expected venue, the trending color palette, the Pinterest-worthy floral installations, the cool food truck at the after-party. Today, the mindset is shifting. Instead of planning around expectations, couples are asking a different question: How can we create a celebration that feels like us? The result is a wedding design that not only impresses but also leaves the couple and their guests with memories that last long after the night ends. But what does that actually look like?

While 2027 may still feel a long way off, the planners, designers, and creative teams already bringing those celebrations to life can see where weddings are headed. And across the industry, they're pointing to the same evolution: Bigger is no longer better. Instead, the weddings that will define 2027 will be pulled back and rooted in intention, intimacy, and storytelling.

"For the past several years, weddings have largely been optimized for photography; however, couples are now prioritizing intimacy over spectacle and depth over excess," Sunna Yassin, owner of Bash Please, tells Who What Wear. That shift is showing up in every aspect of wedding design. Rather than layering on details for the sake of impact, planners are editing with purpose and choosing elements that feel meaningful to those getting married. The result is celebrations that will feel immersive.

"A 'less-is-more' mentality is emerging," say Victoria and Amanda Dubin of Victoria Dubin Events. It's a philosophy that's changing how designers approach design. This involves not forcing a theme on a space that doesn't feel aligned with it, but "rather leaning into the existing space and integrating restraint in terms of décor," says Hope Sword, owner of Pigsty Studio.

The same thinking extends beyond décor. Curated guest experiences, something as small but meaningful as personalized thank-you note cards at every seat instead of elaborate favors or flowers, are expected to contribute to a larger narrative. "Luxury will no longer be associated with spectacle but with the unrepeatable—something that couldn't exist at any other wedding, because it stems from a unique story, always supported by thoughtful art direction," say Paloma Agramunt and Carla Rodrigo, founders of Pipeta CXS.

Serving as the ultimate thread binding these elements together will be the idea of storytelling. For 2027 weddings, every choice—from the invitation to the final song of the evening—will feel intentionally linked to share the couple's unique narrative. Continue reading to discover the defining 2027 trends across stationery, floral arrangements, design, dining, tablescapes, and cakes, straight from leading experts in planning, catering, florals, and paper goods.

In 2027, the most captivating wedding elements will begin long before the ceremony, starting directly with the invitation. A major trend for the year ahead focuses on stationery that highlights personal narratives. Shana Wanco, founder of Iris and Marie Press, emphasizes that storytelling will become essential as couples increasingly prioritize the guest experience. As a result, invitations will provide early glimpses of what guests can expect during the celebration. "This might be a pattern that will get repeated in the reception space, stemming from the couple's love of a particular vacation they took together," Wanco says. "Or couples might dive into their shared love for tennis and want to immerse their guests in that world as well."

In these types of storytelling stationery, the designs will be quirky and fun, Wanco adds. "Color will come into play with pattern usage and mixing prints: I can see a colorful block print pattern being utilized on an envelope, then recurring in the table linens or lampshades," she says. "I also think that couples will seek out niche artisans to create these one-of-a-kind, colorful, keepsake-type pieces."

Paper elements—ranging from invitations and menus to seating cards—will be integral to the overarching design narrative. Making a true statement will rely heavily on textured paper rather than smooth options. "Paper goods are becoming increasingly tactile," Yassin notes. "Rather than flat, minimal suites, these artisanal finishes feel collected and deeply personal." They also deliver a distinct visual richness and showcase a level of craftsmanship that reflects genuine care, quality, and deliberate intent. "In an increasingly digital world, beautifully crafted paper feels even more meaningful. … [It feels] collected rather than manufactured," she adds. In the end, it encourages guests to pause and run their fingers across the paper. This extra moment of engagement makes the underlying message feel far more impactful and memorable.

Restaurant-style menus are emerging as the latest luxury wedding detail, perfect for couples who appreciate fine dining, elegant design, and creating unforgettable experiences for their guests. Instead of a standard sheet of paper displayed in a clear frame at the bar or placed on reception plates, these high-quality, beautifully crafted hardcover books are used to present everything from signature cocktails to thoughtfully curated dishes. According to Jesse Tombs, creative director and founder of Jesse Tombs Events, this shift reflects a desire for menus to serve as enduring keepsakes of the celebration. "Couples want to invest in materials and create objects that their guests will cherish and keep for a lifetime," he explains

"Couples are looking for thoughtful details that spark joy, or as we like to call them, 'smile factors,'" Victoria and Amanda say. For example, this can manifest as thank-you notes placed at every seat, custom menus featuring each guest's name, monogrammed napkins, personalized gifts, or even intangible details like arranging table assignments based on shared interests. No matter the format, these touches are deeply personal and appreciated because they make guests feel valued. Victoria and Amanda note that they also keep guests talking long after the wedding weekend concludes.

In 2027, reception floral décor is shifting away from traditional centerpieces and arrangements and toward immersive installations situated between long tables. Victoria and Amanda explain that these layouts give guests the feeling of dining inside a garden, as if flowers are naturally emerging from the floor. More than a mere visual feature, these organic arrangements function as living art, evoking deep emotions "and a feeling of being transported," florist Katie Wachowiak says. Sword agrees, noting that "[these immersive floral designs] collect everyone’s attention and invite them into the space, to be a part of something instead of a routine dinner and dancing."

Although various types of flowers will be featured in these artistic arrangements, particular colors are set to dominate. "Bold hues are not disappearing anytime soon," Wachowiak notes. "Rich browns and deep reds will continue to have a strong presence, while softer accents such as lilac and pastel blue begin to emerge." She continues to share that the floral color palettes we see in the year ahead will harmonize with other décor moments, as well as with fashion and dress codes, to create a cohesive look.

Integrating natural elements that mirror the local landscape is one of the simplest ways to give a wedding an organic, lived-in feel. Designers are increasingly blurring the boundaries between a venue and its surroundings rather than keeping them distinct. According to Yassin, moss perfectly achieves this and is set to become an even more prominent design choice by 2027. Its ability to thrive across various climates means it can be seamlessly woven into almost any celebration. Victoria and Amanda note that whether integrated into floral displays or spread naturally across tables on its own, "moss introduces an earthy, layered quality that adds depth and texture." This approach makes the décor feel less forced and arranged, appearing instead as though it were a natural part of the space.

While social media has popularized the idea that larger floral arrangements represent luxury and translate better in photos, the future of high-end weddings is turning toward simplicity. This transition will be highly evident in wedding bouquets, where brides and bridesmaids are opting for minimalism over excess. Instead of complex, multi-bloom arrangements, today's bouquets will focus on just one or two flower types. "We will see cleaner groupings of florals," Sword says. "Volumes of one or two varieties or colors, either contained or more wild in shape, but letting the floral speak for itself." Industry experts, including Tombs, note that local, seasonal flowers will be favored for their effortless and organic appearance. By embracing restraint and executing it flawlessly, these understated designs will deliver a powerful impact.

We are already seeing this monobloom trend in action, most notably at Dua Lipa's London courthouse wedding, where she carried a simple bouquet of yellow Iceland poppies. With their long, delicate stems fully exposed and no added greenery or fillers, the poppies remained the sole focus. Sword notes that we might see couples leaning into minimalist floral designs with ikebana, which involves manipulating stems and grasses to create unique, sculptural forms. "The trend of dense sculptures of florals with lots of variety can feel busy," she says. "Leave the complicated designs for an install or a photo moment."

Intentional lighting will redefine event spaces with an impact that florals simply cannot match. "We’re spending more and more time creating layered lighting plans that evolve throughout the celebration," Yassin says. "It's become one of the highest priorities and one of the defining luxury investments because clients understand it shapes emotion." When executed flawlessly, the lighting itself remains unnoticed, while its atmospheric effect is deeply felt by everyone present. "Beyond candles, we're incorporating concealed architectural lighting, custom fixtures, pools of light that guide movement, and candle installations that create warmth without overwhelming the room," she adds. Tombs points out that light serves as an effective tool to structure both space and time, offering guests subtle environmental cues. For instance, transitioning the ballroom to deep crimson tones can instantly evoke a club-like setting, marking the shift from dinner to after-party. Tombs also plans to incorporate Japanese paper lanterns and tall taper candles to establish distinct moods and make a visual impact.

Thoughtfulness will be a dominant theme for weddings in the coming year, with a strong focus on utilizing practical elements already present in the venue rather than adding excess décor. A prime example is arranging tables in organic shapes and integrating them directly into the reception's design. "We are seeing much more flexibility to play with floor plans and reinvent traditional seating layouts," Victoria and Amanda note. "These unexpected configurations allow the tables themselves to become a bigger part of the design while creating a more dynamic guest experience." As Yassin says, this approach delivers a customized and distinctive feel that is truly one-of-a-kind. Additionally, it photographs beautifully in aerial shots, all without requiring an increase in the budget.

The worlds of fashion and wedding design are merging, ushering in a new era of celebrations. As experts in the space have noted, many couples, especially style-conscious ones, are eager to draw inspiration from recent runway collections and broader trends. An example of this crossover is seen in cakes. "Wedding cakes are becoming an extension of the bride's fashion, borrowing details directly from the gown to create a cohesive design story," Victoria and Amanda say. "We are seeing more edible ruffles, pleats, draping, lace, bows, and unexpected silhouettes that turn cakes into couture-inspired statement pieces." Beyond confections, fashion is influencing décor, with feathers and fringe detailing everything from lampshades and menus to table linens, adding dynamic movement and visual interest. Lace is also dominating in design as we move away from minimalism and into more romantic styles, Charlotte Forsyth-Wastell, cofounder of Hands London, notes.

Antique accents continue to stand out as a defining wedding décor trend; however, they maintain a fresh appeal despite their enduring popularity. Yassin notes that these details provide clarity and contrast following years dominated by heavy textures, warm neutrals, and antique brass. "They bring a distinctly modern edge without feeling cold," she explains, pointing to options like silver candelabras and serving trays. Yassin also attributes this movement to a rising appreciation for true craftsmanship, as couples look to invest in unique, artisan-made details rather than standard options from a rental catalog. For Victoria and Amanda, clients are eager to integrate these elements because their reflective surfaces interact beautifully with lighting, enhancing the surrounding décor. This widespread interest in them is no surprise given that the trend effortlessly complements both minimalist and maximalist aesthetics, they note.

Food has evolved beyond something we simply eat—it has become entertainment, celebration, and connection all at once. While social media may have fueled this shift because of its visual appeal, the trend isn't dying down. "Watching food being prepared, smelling the fire, or interacting with the people cooking creates a far more sensory memory than a conventional service," Agramunt and Rodrigo say. One of the most popular examples at weddings is through dessert. Rather than serving a finished tiramisu or Italian mille-feuille, weddings will now invite the newlyweds to add the final dusting of cocoa powder or the layer of fresh berries together in front of their guests. "It's both theatrical and fun," says Pip O'Shea, founder of Good Good Cakes. "It also adds a visual and a tactile element—they and their guests are involved in a part of the night that usually happens behind the scenes." And of course, it allows couples to express their personalities while creating authentic, joyful photographs and videos.

As couples look to prioritize connection, the dining table will become one of the most meaningful spaces of celebration. Family-style service will replace individually plated meals, inviting guests to pass dishes, linger over conversation, and share in the experience together. "Food will no longer simply be served on a table; the table itself will become part of the gastronomic experience," Agramunt and Rodrigo say. "Family-style banquets respond to an increasing desire to share. By placing all of the dishes at once in the center of the table, the meal becomes participatory, breaking away from the formality of traditional service and creating a warmer atmosphere."

This type of connection between guests will also occur at buffet stations during weddings. Sofie Thompson, cofounder of Hands London, says that buffets are making a comeback. "People are less inclined now to do a three-course sit-down meal," she notes. "They want an experience that isn’t similar to a restaurant style of service."

As for the type of food, couples will gravitate toward seasonal ingredients and menus. "We'll see a stronger focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients presented with honesty," Agramunt and Rodrigo share. Tombs agrees, adding that the most memorable menus will be those that authentically reflect the couple and the type of food they love to connect over.

Keep your eye out because minimalist wedding cakes are set to take over in 2027. Instead of over-the-top designs and endless layers, couples will opt for clean, sculptural designs with crisp lines, two-tier silhouettes at most, and just a few carefully placed flowers or other natural decorations. "Cakes will take on a more structural and architectural look with swathes of icing and folds of buttercream," O'Shea says. The polished, understated look feels modern and elegant yet also extends the overall vision of pared-back, intentional wedding designs. "It's also a great choice for those making their own cake (or having a friend or family member make it), as a way to save money," she adds.

Welcome to Who What Wear Weddings, the destination for style-minded weddings. Expect insightful tips straight from the newlyweds, shoppable elements, and plenty of must-save imagery as we share the nuptials of our favorite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

Every relationship has its own origin story. Some couples meet at busy bars, others through mutual friends, and many nowadays on dating apps. For Jordan Goldberg, fashion editor and consultant, and Adam Rossman, a manager at KPMG, it began over test tubes and textbooks in a chemistry class at the University of Texas at Austin.

"We formed a study group with a few other people and became fast friends," Goldberg says. "We were 'studying' almost every single day, which was honestly way too much effort for a low-level science class, but we were just having so much fun." Before long, study sessions turned into dinner plans and concerts, but Goldberg insists their relationship was "purely platonic" in the beginning.

However, everything changed when Goldberg invited Rossman to JMBLYA, a music festival in Austin. "He kissed me right in the middle of the set," she recalls. "I was so caught off guard that I actually asked him why he kissed me." Rossman, on the other hand, had viewed the concert as a proper date. "Since it was just the two of us, I decided to make a move," he explains. "It wasn't planned out at all, but it just felt right in the moment." Their chemistry was undeniable, marking a point of no return for the pair as their friendship was transformed forever. "There was this unspoken conversation where we both just knew this was it," Goldberg reflects.

After graduating, the couple moved to New York City, where their relationship deepened as they navigated new careers and adulthood. Three years later, they moved into a one-bedroom on Astor Place together, and conversations about marriage naturally followed. They envisioned getting engaged in 2025, but Rossman had other plans.

On a snowy weekend in November 2024, the two took a trip to the Sagamore Resort in Lake George. "We drove up on a Friday morning in his parents' car, and Adam was so calm the whole car ride," Goldberg says. "He even plugged his phone into CarPlay, which, looking back, feels very risky [since his text messages could show up on the screen]!" After settling into their hotel room, the couple walked to a lookout spot where Rossman proposed. "I was in complete shock," Goldberg says. "Luckily, he hired a photographer so we could relive it over again because I didn't remember if he got down on one knee." The celebration continued back in NYC with family and friends.

When it came time to plan the wedding, deciding the location was easy: They chose Texas to celebrate where their story began. The Arlo's clean, modern design offered Goldberg the perfect blank canvas for her creative vision, while the courtyard's striking tree sealed the decision. "The second we saw it, I knew we'd get married beneath it," she says. Keep reading to discover Goldberg's beautiful Danielle Frankel gown, the couple's organic design aesthetic, and how they wove subtle Western touches into their timeless Texas wedding weekend.

Jordan Goldberg: "Our welcome dinner was at Stubb's BBQ, a famous concert venue in Austin. The attire was 'Western chic,' allowing our guests to lean into the Texas feel. And they showed up! They wore bolo ties, cowboy hats, lots of fringe, and denim on denim. We loved it! They arrived around 6:30 p.m. and were greeted with buckets of beers, wildflowers on every table, and a country band playing classic songs (George Strait, Luke Bryan, the works!)."

Details of the welcome dinner.

JG: "I wore a fringe dress from Bevza's resort 2026 collection. The second I saw it on Moda Operandi, I knew it’d be perfect for our Western-themed Friday night. I wanted something that felt like a modern take on country attire. The incredible corsetry and woven detailing made the gown feel contemporary, while the fringe added a Western touch. Alongside the dress, I wore my hair up in a French twist, secured with my mom's wedding barrette. I accessorized with Schutz heels, Dorsey earrings, and an aquamarine cocktail ring from Adam’s late grandmother."

JG: "Adam wore boots and a white button-down shirt from Tecovas, light blue Rag & Bone jeans, and a custom cowboy hat."

JG: "After everyone sat down for dinner, we had four speeches: My best friend Molly; three of Adam’s childhood friends; Adam’s best man and older brother, Evan; and finally my sister Natalie. The speeches were absolutely incredible. They all talked about the evolution of our relationship over the past nine years and how much we’ve grown together."

JG: "The biggest surprise of the evening was that my sister, Natalie, performed alongside my dad, Joel. He played guitar while Natalie sang 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran. We had been begging my dad to perform at our wedding, but he always told us no because he’d be too nervous. Little did we know they had been practicing for a year. They absolutely killed it, and all of our guests sang along to the chorus. True magic!"

JG: "Our wedding day started at 7 a.m. We had a beautiful hotel room at the Line Hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows, and the sunrise came right in. I opened my eyes to Adam finishing up his vows. We ordered room service, grabbed the tissues, and read our vows to each other. We’re both so grateful we did them privately so we could fully express ourselves without worrying about an audience. We didn’t record this moment; it was just us, and it’s something we’ll both cherish forever."

WWW Weddings Tip: "If the traditions don’t feel right to you, don’t feel like you have to do them. We slept in the same bed the night before the wedding to ease any anxieties. And it really helped both of us. We were calm, got to spend some time together on the wedding day, and didn’t have all of the buildup ahead of time."

JG: "Off the Aisle did our wedding invitations, and we both loved them. We leaned into the colors we were going to feature at the wedding—olives, chartreuse, soft greens—along with lots of texture from embossing. We chose a font that felt timeless, a swirly cursive that was crisp enough to be legible. We loved the way the invitation stacked together so neatly."

JG: "I had four friends, my sister (maid of honor), two cousins, and both Adam's and my mom get ready with me. I wore a blue Fleur du Mal robe with white lace and Carven slippers. I chose the blue robe because I wanted something that felt a bit different from the white I wore for the rest of the weekend while still feeling bridal. The girls wore Skims pj's for the morning—I wanted them to be as comfortable as possible! While some of them were in the beauty chairs, the others played Mahjong, which was a lot of fun. I even mahjed on wedding day, which felt like a good omen!"

WWW Weddings Tip: "Have an activity while you get ready, especially if you have a few hours of glam on the schedule. It keeps the energy high."

JG: "Adam wore a custom Enzo tuxedo for our wedding day. For his birthday this year, I got him a pair of custom cuff links from Rachel G Jewelry—one side has his initials, while the other is a longhorn for the University of Texas. He styled his tuxedo with black alligator cowboy boots from Tecovas."

Adam Rossman: "I wanted to do something that felt different, and cowboy boots felt like the right choice for our Texas wedding. I wore the alligator pair while my dad, my brother, and Jordan’s dad wore coordinating lizard cowboy boots from Tecovas. Our 3-year-old ring bearer even wore cowboy boots with his tuxedo too."

JG: "For beauty, I was honestly really nervous because I typically don't wear much makeup. Luckily, my makeup artist, Hannah Zahner, completely understood my vision. We talked about how I wanted to make sure I looked like myself, and she used lightweight but durable products for my glam. We went for a bronzed, glowy look, using products like EltaMD’s Clear Sunscreen as my base (which I use every day), Saie’s City Set Misting Spray to keep the makeup in place without losing hydration, and Westman Atelier’s Bronzing Stick for a very natural glow. And for the hair, I wanted it to feel very unfussy. We went with messy, undone waves that framed the face organically. I was truly so happy with my glam because I felt like myself. I wasn’t worrying about eyelashes being too heavy or concerned that the lip was too much. Hannah just accentuated my features and made me feel my best. I wore my everyday fragrance for the day, too: Parfum de Marly’s Valaya Exclusif."

JG: "I wore the Devon by Danielle Frankel. I had been to quite a few bridal shops in New York City with my family and honestly was worried I’d never have that feeling. My only priority was to feel comfortable and like myself in my dress. Once I tried on the Devon, it checked both boxes in stride. I loved how effortless I felt in it."

JG: "We chose to do our first look before the ceremony so that we could get all the jitters out beforehand, spend some time together, and have a moment just us before all our guests were there. It was such a special moment for us to connect."

AR: "Before the wedding, Jordan had me draw what I thought her dress would look like. I did my best. I had a feeling it would be strapless, but her dress exceeded my expectations. She looked elegant, beautiful, and like herself. I loved it."

JG: "It [the dress] was lightweight, interesting without losing its timeliness, and flattering. The Danielle Frankel team helped me make some tweaks to it (like removing the train and lowering the back hem) that made me feel my absolute best. I paired the gown with the Pleated Tulle Sacae Veil from Danielle Frankel and heels from Proenza Schouler (aka my go-to brand for comfortable heels)."

Rossman poses with his groomsmen.

Jordan takes pictures with her bridesmaids.

WWW Weddings Tip: "Your energy on the wedding day is everything! We had a conversation before the wedding in which we reminded ourselves that the guests would feed off our energy. If we're having the best time, they will too. That was our mantra the whole weekend, and we believe it was key to making it the best weekend for both our guests and us."

JG: "For jewelry, I wore a tennis necklace and diamond studs from Dorsey. I got married in Adam’s grandmother’s wedding band, as Jewish tradition requires a solid metal band for marriage. After our ceremony, though, I swapped it out for my custom gypsy ring, which features an emerald in the center and two diamond baguettes, and a channel-set ring with round diamonds."

JG: "We are both Jewish, so we had a traditional Jewish wedding officiated by a rabbi. Before the ceremony, we signed our ketubah (the Jewish marriage contract)."

Goldberg and Rossman sign their ketubah.

Rossman walks down the aisle with his parents.

JG: "Our florist, Siobhán from Loam Studios, completely understood the vision. We wanted everything to feel super organic, like it could’ve grown at the ceremony space. She used hydrangeas—a special request to pay homage to our summers in the Hamptons—along with calla lilies, ranunculus, and musk roses. She ensured that our aisle felt fluid, not fragmented. She sourced antique pots to put under the wood chuppah, with florals 'growing' out of them. She also used one of the antique pots to create an extra-large floral arrangement for the escort-card table."

JG: "The ceremony began with the seven circles. We got married underneath a chuppah, where tallits from our late grandfathers hung. Adam broke the glass (effortlessly!)."

Rossman and Goldberg break the glass and say "I do."

WWW Weddings Tip: "When it comes to your wedding wardrobe, pick the pieces that make you feel like yourself. While weddings can feel like an opportunity to go outside of the box with style, I felt calm and present because I was so comfortable with my looks. Yes, they were still so special, but I felt like myself and didn’t have to worry about adjusting things throughout the day."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Rank your priorities and refer back to them as often as you can! For us, we prioritized time together, the music, and the people. Whenever we were in doubt, we came back to those three priorities to guide us."

JG: "We hosted a cocktail hour, where guests enjoyed a seafood tower, caviar bumps, and a variety of other hors d'oeuvres and cocktails served on antique silver trays. We snuck away for the first five minutes to take it all in (and get some post-ceremony pictures!)."

JG: "For the reception, we wanted it to feel intimate and moody. We had candles lit for most of the evening. We also chose to use six long rectangular tables arranged around the dance floor to create that dinner-party vibe. Our table arrangements were in low, mismatched chrome vases to ensure that guests could talk to each other across the table."

JG: "Our reception was all about the dancing, which is exactly what we wanted. After both our parents spoke, Drywater Band took the night to the next level. The dance floor was packed all night, and we felt so overwhelmed with love!"

JG: "We did our first dance to 'Thinking Out Loud' by Ed Sheeran, I danced with my dad to 'Sparks' by Coldplay, and Adam danced with his mom to 'My Wish' by Rascal Flatts."

JG: " We did the hora, and Adam was basically in the air the whole night—his friends would not put him down! We never left the dance floor and were surrounded by all of our favorite people the whole night long. It was everything we could've dreamt of and more."

JG: "Right before the cake cutting, I changed into a long-sleeve Toteme dress from the Resort 2026 collection. I'd tried it on at a work photo shoot and instantly knew I needed it. It was so comfortable, and even though I was covered up, I felt so sexy in it."

JG: "We had Raising Cane’s and Caffè Panna passed out for late-night snacks, and my cousin Frasier Lampe, founder of Frasier Sterling, made custom 'Caffe Rossman' hats for everyone."

JG: "We snuck away to cut the St. Honoré cake from Rocheli Patisserie, which was covered in profiteroles to honor Adam's late uncle who passed away last year. When the reception ended, we took party buses to The Marlow for the after-party. DJ Leslie Nava played deep house, we danced under a disco ball, and we had bowls of sour candy everywhere. We finally took a pedicab back to the hotel—it was the perfect end to the night."

Makeup Artist: Hannah Zahner
Photographer: Taylor and Gaston Folmar
Florist: Loam Studio
Stationery: Off the Aisle
Caterer: Contigo Catering
Venue: The Arlo
Rentals: Table Manners TX
Band: The Drywater Band
After-Party: Marlow Bar
After-Party DJ: Leslie Nava
Cake: Rocheli Patisserie

Welcome to Who What Wear Weddings, the destination for style-minded weddings. Expect insightful tips straight from the newlyweds, shoppable elements, and plenty of must-save imagery as we share the nuptials of our favorite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

Love has a way of making even the biggest cities feel impossibly small. When Karoline Spenning, chief creative director of Siegelman Stable, moved from Norway to New York City, she was stepping into the unknown. She had never been to the city before, knew almost no one, and was starting anew. Yet within weeks of arriving, a chance introduction through her coworker-turned-roommate brought Max Siegelman, chief executive director and founder of Siegelman Stable, into her life, and he turned out to be the man she would one day marry.

Their relationship began during the pandemic with long text exchanges that spanned state lines while Siegelman was temporarily living upstate with his family. When he finally returned to the city, he made an impromptu stop at Spenning's apartment. "I rode my bike to the gym and thought I'd stop by Karoline's," Siegelman recalls. "I showed up sweaty because I had just worked out, but honestly, I would've shown up sweaty either way because I was nervous." Spenning thought it was a bold move on Siegelman's part but said, "Sure, come say hi."

For Spenning, that spontaneous visit became an important moment. The two hadn't even been on a first date yet, but for her, the ending was already beginning. "It was love at first sight," she says. "I saw him, and I thought to myself, 'Oh my God, this is my person.' I couldn't sleep. I couldn't eat."

The connection was mutual. Three days later, they had their first official date over coffee in Tompkins Square Park, followed by dinner the next evening in the East Village. From there, they were inseparable. Four months later, they moved into Siegelman's Brooklyn apartment, where they began building not only a life together but also Siegelman Stable, an eponymous fashion label fusing luxury sports fashion with harness racing, which he had launched just months before he met Spenning. What began as a side project quickly became a shared creative pursuit, and the couple grew the business alongside their relationship.

When it came to getting engaged, there was never any question of if—only when. Certain they had found their forever partners, the two took their time before Siegelman enlisted the help of a mutual friend, a jeweler, to source a ring, which turned out to be a vintage cushion-cut diamond that perfectly aligned with Spenning's appreciation for sustainability and heirloom pieces. While the couple never had a formal conversation about a proposal, Spenning had a good feeling that it was around the corner.

Siegelman told Spenning he had booked a house upstate for the two to visit over the weekend. "Max is very bad at hiding things," she shares jokingly. "So I knew it was coming." During a leisurely morning at their Airbnb, the couple lingered over coffee and homemade Norwegian waffles. That's when Siegelman put his plan into motion. Unknown to Spenning, a photographer was waiting, hidden in the woods, while flowers were arranged around the property. The proposal itself, however, didn't go quite as rehearsed. "I had this whole speech planned," Siegelman says. "But when the moment came, I couldn't get any words out. I just got down on one knee and ugly cried."

In May 2026, the couple gathered their closest family members and friends in southeastern Sicily to celebrate the next chapter of their love story. They tied the knot on the sun-bleached grounds of Dimora delle Balze, an upscale and secluded 19th-century masseria-turned-boutique-hotel. Read on to explore how every element—from the custom fashion Spenning designed to the relaxed yet intimate and romantic aesthetic—beautifully reflected the life they have created and will continue to build together.

Max Siegelman: "Friday night was the welcome dinner. The dress code was 'earth tones.'"

Karoline Spenning: "Our guests traveled so far, so we wanted Friday night to feel very relaxed and our outfits and every other detail to reflect that."

KS: "I had made a dress that I really loved for Friday, but I felt like it wasn't as loose and relaxed as I wanted. Then I found this dress by Kettel Atelier, a designer who sews vintage crochet tablecloths together. I immediately thought, 'Please, I need to buy this and have it overnighted because my wedding is in a week.' I ended up wearing it, and it was perfect. I paired the look with the perfect crochet Magda Butrym heels. I didn't have any jewelry for Friday, and I had walked past a little market in the town of Noto, where we were staying. I spotted a pair of bone earrings and ended up wearing those for the night."

MS: "Karoline designed a white linen double-breasted suit for me, which I wore with a white tank top and white Jacquemus loafers. I also wore this silver necklace that we gifted to all of the guests. It is a replica of this locket that my mom and my grandmother like to give to people as a guardian angel."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Make the wedding feel like the two of you—not like everyone else's expectations. There will always be outside opinions from family and friends about what you should do, but at the end of the day, it's your wedding. We had plenty of moments where people suggested traditions or ideas that weren't right for us, and we kept coming back to the same answer: This is our day, and we want it to reflect us." — Siegelman

MS: "Horses are at the center of our lives and our brand. Sigelman Stable is built around my dad's story as a racehorse trainer, but it's also about everything he has done beyond racing. He created equine therapy programs for children with special needs, veterans living with PTSD, and other inner-city programs. Horses have always represented much more than racing for us. They're part of who we are, what we do, and the stories we try to tell and push forward. Including them in our wedding felt like a natural extension of our relationship, our business, and our lives together. One of the horses we used for our wedding photos was named Shakira, and apparently, she's already something of a celebrity. She's modeled in campaigns for Dolce & Gabbana and other brands."

KS: "All of my mood boards were actually centered around crocheted tablescapes. I wanted everything to feel like your grandma made it. We had horses, and they somehow matched that vibe and the dress I was wearing."

Siegelman and Spenning pose with their parents.

KS: "The first speech was from my aunt, and it was amazing and so sweet. Then my childhood friends gave a speech, and I cried the entire time. I don't even know how many minutes it lasted, but it was so beautiful. The last speech was from Max's friend—really, both of our friends now. It was incredible."

MS: "My friend gave a 10-minute speech comparing our relationship to the New York Knicks. It was called Generational Run, and it followed the timeline of Karoline and me alongside the Knicks. It was absolutely hysterical."

MS: "We spent the entire day with our families and the friends who were staying on the property, which was awesome. We had the whole morning and afternoon together, hanging out by the pool, having lunch, and just enjoying everyone's company. Then, at a certain point, we all went our separate ways to get ready."

KS: "I didn't want bridesmaids because that's not really a big tradition in Norway. I also wasn't entirely sure what I wanted, but I knew I wanted everyone to feel equal. The people there were all incredibly close to us, and we had our closest friends and family staying in the 12 guest rooms on the property. We set up the spa area for all of the girls to get ready, and they put together this beautiful lunch for us. We spent the day enjoying wine and just hanging out together. I hate waiting around, so I intentionally didn't start getting ready until the very last minute. I did my own makeup, and I had my hair done at the venue."

MS: "I got ready with my best friend, who actually officiated the wedding, along with my dad and my brother. My 4-year-old nephew slept through the whole thing."

KS: "Our lives move at what feels like 100 miles an hour, so I wanted to write my vows while I was in a calm, good state of mind. I finished writing them a few hours before the wedding, and that whole moment was incredibly emotional and really special. We then both shared them in front of everyone [during the ceremony]."

KS: "About two months before the wedding, I still hadn't decided on a dress. People always say you procrastinate on the things you care about most, and I think that was definitely true for me. I wanted it to be perfect. I knew I wanted to design it myself, so I sketched it and worked with my team at Siegelman Stable to bring it to life. I wanted it to feel light, effortless, and like me—a fluid, liquid-like 100% silk dress.

"We first made the pattern in muslin to perfect the fit, and I absolutely loved that version. But when we re-created it in silk, it lost the sculptural shape I'd fallen in love with. I couldn't stop thinking about that first sample. With only two months left, we started over from scratch. We bought new fabric and remade it until it felt right. The final version arrived the weekend before we were leaving, and I immediately knew it still wasn't right.

"I called a seamstress I'd worked with for years in Brooklyn, and she worked overnight. At our Saturday fitting, we realized the dropped waist had shifted to my natural waist, completely changing the silhouette. She remade the bodice on Sunday. I thought it was perfect, but she still wasn't satisfied and wanted it sculpted closer to my body. On Monday morning, the day before we left for the wedding, I went in for one last fitting while it was still being made. She ended up handing off the finished gown to Max's dad just 30 minutes before his flight so he could bring it to the wedding."

KS: "For Max's look, I've always loved an oversize suit, but we also wanted him to be able to look back at the photos years from now and still love what he was wearing. We tried to create a slightly boxier tuxedo while keeping it timeless. We started with the fit of a suit we had made previously and turned it into a tuxedo, refining the proportions so everything felt clean and classic. We used as many breathable, natural fabrics as possible because we knew it was going to be so hot."

MS: "I wore vintage cuff links that originally belonged to Karoline's uncle. His father had given them to him, and I first wore them to our engagement party. They happened to feature harness racing horses, which felt especially personal because harness racing is such a big part of both our family and our brand. I paired the look with a classic black bow tie and black leather dress shoes from Jacquemus."

MS: "I also found a vintage harness racing pin online and used it to secure my boutonniere. It was another subtle way to incorporate something meaningful into the look."

KS: "Since meeting Max, horses have become such a meaningful part of my life. I was never a horse girl growing up, but I've learned so much about them. Watching everything Max's dad has built through equine therapy has been incredibly inspiring."

KS: "I paired my dress with Jimmy Choo shoes."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Don't panic when things don't go according to plan. Even though my dress wasn't finished until the last minute, I kept reminding myself that whatever happened would be okay. If I'd ended up walking down the aisle in a dress I found in town the day before, it still would have been perfect because I was marrying the person I love. Everything worked out exactly the way it was supposed to." —Spenning

KS: "I went back and forth about hiring someone to do my makeup because I really wanted to feel like myself, but [I] ended up doing it on my own. I used the M.Ph by Mary Phillips foundation because it looks just like your skin. I wore Rhode blush, a very random bronzer that had probably been sitting in my makeup bag for way too long, and a simple nude eye shadow. I really wanted everything to look like my everyday makeup. I'm really happy I did it myself because I felt like me."

KS: "The final look [I designed for Max] was exactly what I had envisioned. It had slightly oversize shoulders with a boxy silhouette, but the trousers were straighter and more tailored rather than overly oversize. It felt modern while still being timeless."

KS: "I wanted to incorporate the tradition of 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.' Throughout our relationship, Max and I have always said, 'In every lifetime,' because from the moment I met him, I felt like I'd known him forever. I had that phrase embroidered inside my dress in light-blue thread as my 'something blue.' My dress was my 'something new,' and I borrowed my earrings from my friend's jewelry brand, Reservd."

MS: "One thing that was really important to us was making sure the ceremony felt like us. We didn't want to simply copy what people typically do for weddings. We chose a location on the property where no one had ever held a ceremony before, which made it feel even more personal."

KS: "When we first visited the venue, we had dinner at the exact location where we held the ceremony. As soon as I sat there, I remember thinking that I really wanted to get married in that spot. At the same time, though, I also loved the idea of getting married in a church, so we spent time looking at churches nearby to see if that would work. Ultimately, it was much easier for everyone to have the ceremony at the venue itself. When the staff showed us the locations where ceremonies are usually held, I still wasn't completely convinced because I couldn't stop thinking about the church.

"About a month before the wedding, I returned to the venue for our tasting with one of my friends from Norway because Max had a scheduling conflict. While I was there, I met with the incredibly talented design team that our wedding planner had found. They handled both the floral design and all installations, including draping and décor. During that visit, I asked whether it would be possible to hold the ceremony in the same place where we'd had dinner on our very first night."

Siegelman walks down the aisle wearing the custom suit designed by Spenning.

KS: "The flowers were designed to look organic—as if they had always been growing there. They blended beautifully with the old stone surroundings."

KS: "Since we didn't have bridesmaids or a traditional wedding party, we kept things very simple. We each have one brother, so they essentially served as our best men. I always knew my dad would walk me down the aisle."

Spenning and her father walk down the aisle to "Godspeed" by Frank Ocean.

WWW Weddings Tip: "Say your vows out loud in front of your family and friends if that feels right for you. We debated it for a long time because I'm naturally very shy. In the end, we realized we could always say loving things to each other in private. What we'd probably never do again was stand in front of everyone we love and tell each other exactly how we felt. That ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of the entire day." — Spenning

KS: "My inspiration centered around old Catholic churches with delicate lace draped over the pews. That was really the feeling I wanted to re-create. They essentially brought all of those church-inspired details outdoors. They transformed the patio into this incredibly romantic ceremony space. I had told them that I didn't want a lot of flowers, so instead, they incorporated layers of lace and dried floral arrangements."

KS: "After the ceremony, Max and I took a few moments to ourselves before joining everyone else. We went back to our room, where they had set up drinks and food for us. We just sat together for a little while, talked about everything that had happened, and let it all sink in. Then we wanted to get our photos done fairly quickly because we really just wanted to spend time with everyone. Our photographer, Olav, knows us so well, so the whole process felt very natural and easy. We spent about an hour taking photos before heading to cocktail hour."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Take a moment to look around because it goes by so quickly." — Siegelman

KS: "Cocktail hour took place in a little garden at the hotel. Drinks and food were served."

KS: "Before the wedding, I had been trying to figure out what song we should use for our father-daughter dance. My dad and I aren't really big dancers, so I wanted something that fit our vibe. I kept asking him for ideas, but he never sent me a song, so about a week before the wedding, I finally chose 'Isn't She Lovely.' What I didn't know was that at the end of my dad's speech, he told everyone that after I was born, there were about 24 hours when my mom was still in the hospital, and it was just the two of us together. During that time, "Isn't She Lovely" came on the radio, and ever since then, he said he had always thought of me whenever he heard it. He started singing the song during his speech. We had never talked about that memory or listened to the song together before. I had no idea it meant anything to him, and he had no idea I had chosen it for our father-daughter dance."

KS: "We wanted the dinner to feel like you were on vacation in Italy with your closest friends and family. We wanted everyone to be sitting down and having good conversations, so we had small table cards with questions that would apply to the people at their tables. We also hired a live Italian band. They played classic songs with a Frank Sinatra vibe. Toward the end of dinner, a few people started dancing."

MS: "During dinner, we had several speeches. Both of our brothers gave speeches, one of Karoline's best friends spoke, and then both of our parents gave speeches as well."

KS: "We danced to a song we had listened to on repeat when we first met each other. It's called 'Please Notice' by Christian Leave."

KS: "The entire tablescape was inspired by my childhood in Norway. I wanted it to feel like growing up in the woods, so we incorporated moss and lots of natural textures. The menu was also almost entirely vegan because that's how I eat, but guests could choose to add a protein if they wanted. There was, of course, plenty of pasta. The cake was intentionally very simple. It was a vegan vanilla cake with cherries."

MS: "We were also lucky enough to work with Don Julio 1942, and they allowed us to create custom miniature bottles that were placed at everyone's seats. Karoline designed the labels herself. Apparently, they'd only done something like that a handful of times before, so it felt incredibly special."

MS: "After dinner, we transitioned into an after-party. Having our friend, who was also a guest at the wedding, Tay James, DJ the evening made it feel even more personal and special."

KS: "For the after-party, I changed into a Saint Laurent sheer lace dress. It got surprisingly cold that evening, though, so halfway through the night, I threw a blazer over it."

Photographer: Olav Stubberud
Wedding Planner: Duet Events
DJ: Tay James
Florist and Decorator: Intrecci di Fiori e d'Arte
Venue: Dimora delle Balze

If you're interested in having your wedding featured on our site, please fill out our Who What Wear Weddings submission form here.

Gone are the days when planning your wedding wardrobe was just about the dress for the big day. Lately, chic brides build out an entire capsule for their bridal era. The main dress, the after-party dress, the honeymoon pieces… and, of course, the swimwear is the final touch. The bachelorette and honeymoon are going to require building out a beachy look that is more than denim shorts and a white bikini. I'm not a bride, but if I were, I might plan my swimwear a bit more meticulously than the average person. Here's why.

For me, styling swim from the outward layer to the interior is the way to go about it. Especially on a bachelorette, you may be headed out for a boat day or cabana and will spend more time in your cover-up than just the swimsuit. Choosing the right cover-up is key, no matter if your swimwear choice leans minimalist or statement. Whether you're in your bridal era or just fancy white swimsuits, the options are plentiful below.

How to Style It

Let your bridal era be the excuse to wear anything but your usual go-to pieces. A new cover-up, cool hat, statement jewelry, and anything else you can think of should make a play here.

Don't think you're only allowed to wear white swimsuits on your special day. A print that is truly you or feels special will never fail. And who doesn't like something blue?

Without a bridal era in sight, I wore this white swimsuit in Miami. The cutouts were the highlight, and I wouldn't mind pulling something like this out again when I'm planning my big day.

Sometimes you have to let the accessories do the talking. A larger-than-life hat is worth the suitcase space it takes up—highly recommend.

Let the cover-ups be as glamorous as you'd like. I'd save my big moment for a dress like this with just the right amount of sparkle.

The Best Bridal Swim

The Best Bridal Cover-Ups

Over the past decade, living in France, I have attended what feels like 852 French weddings. I have been to more French weddings than any other type of social event in my life. Children’s birthday parties now come in a respectable second, though they’re nowhere near as competitive. Why so many? It’s not that I have an impossibly large social circle, though my husband does have an impressive number of first cousins. It’s that the French, with their passionate devotion to the separation of religion and state, often have two weddings per couple.

Before any religious ceremony can take place, couples are legally required to marry at their local mairie (city hall). Their forthcoming union is announced publicly on a noticeboard outside the building (to give anyone in the vicinity with just cause the chance to dispute the union), after which they may proceed with whatever religious celebration they choose (or not). For many couples, these become two entirely separate events: a civil wedding in the city, followed weeks or months later by a larger, countryside celebration.

Then there are the hen dos, which the French charmingly call "l’enterrement de vie de jeune fille"—literally, "the burial of the young woman’s life." (Men receive the same treatment.) That’s potentially three separate occasions requiring three separate outfits. More, if you’re the sort of person who likes an outfit change. As someone who loves weddings but also values efficiency, I’ve spent years taking notes. Somewhere around my 20th French wedding, I realised that French women approach wedding dressing quite differently from their English counterparts. Their goal isn’t perfection, but it’s endurance, because French weddings aren’t just photo ops; they’re marathons. Here are the lessons I’ve learned.

5 Style Tips for Dressing for a French Wedding

1. Comfort Always Wins

There is nothing—and I mean nothing—worse than spending 12 hours trapped inside an uncomfortable outfit. The biggest mistake wedding guests make is dressing for the arrival rather than the event itself. French weddings routinely begin in the afternoon and continue until the small hours. There may be a church ceremony (a Catholic mass can be two hours long), a cocktail hour, dinner, speeches, dancing, late-night food and then more dancing. Then, the next day, there’s the poolside brunch (giant afterparty).

You need to survive all of it. I’d personally rather feel fantastic than spend an entire day wondering whether a strapless bra is slipping south. Likewise, I’d rather dance properly in a sturdy mid-heel (or flat!) than spend the evening perched on stilettos before inevitably changing into emergency flats. French women have mastered this calculation. Rather than packing trainers for later, they simply start with shoes they can actually wear.

2. French Women Treat Dress Codes More Casually Than You’d Think

Like many wedding cultures, there is one universally understood rule: don’t wear white. Beyond that, things become surprisingly murky. You may be surprised to learn that despite Parisian women’s well-documented devotion to black, it isn’t typically the colour of choice at French weddings. Given its association with mourning, this makes a certain amount of sense, I suppose. The rule that truly baffled me, however, concerned red. I only learned of it recently whilst wearing a bright red dress to a wedding.

A fellow guest informed me that red supposedly signals that you are the groom’s mistress. Yes, you read that correctly. This felt like useful information that perhaps could have been shared before the ceremony. Apparently, it’s an old superstition that still circulates in certain circles. Meanwhile, red remains a traditional bridal colour throughout much of India and Pakistan, associated with prosperity, joy and marriage itself. So yeah, personally, I’m not buying it. In fact, I wore another red dress to a Paris civil wedding last week.

3. Weddings Are the One Time French Women Fully Embrace Colour

Every French wedding gives me a slight The Wizard of Oz moment. The same women who spend most of the year dressed in navy, black, camel and cream suddenly emerge wearing fuchsia, emerald green, tomato red, saffron yellow and combinations that, on paper, have absolutely no business working together. And yet they do.

French wedding style is often less about matching and more about intentional contrast: pink with red, lilac with burgundy, bright florals against tailored outerwear. The result feels joyful rather than precious. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve arrived questioning a colour combination only to spend the rest of the day wondering why I don’t wear it myself. Personally, pink and red remain my favourite pairing.

4. Don't Try Too Hard

One thing I consistently notice at French weddings is that women rarely look as though they’re trying too hard. That doesn’t mean they dress conservatively, quite the opposite. But French wedding dressing tends to favour suggestions, like a beautifully cut back, an incredible fabric, a dramatic sleeve or a perfectly tailored silhouette. Another not-trying-too-hard facet I’ve noted over the years is that with all the weddings to keep up with, my Parisian friends are spending less on these outfits than you might think.

There is no shame whatsoever in a dress from the high street or a French mid-level brand, in fact, and a perfect vintage find is one’s crowning glory. That or an excellent rotation of "tradesies" with one’s similarly fashion-minded friends. "You wear the shoes, I will wear that dress, then we swap." So yes, it’s definitely not a spending competition. To the contrary, pulling it all off for less is to be admired, even envied.

5. Low-Key Beauty Rules at Every Age

If there is one consistent French wedding beauty rule, it’s this: nobody wants to look overdone. Over-60 French women particularly excel at this. I am always amazed by the level of embracing one’s flaws and highlighting one’s natural features. The women whose beauty routines I want to snatch most throughout the marathon are rarely the ones with the most elaborate updos or the most complicated makeup.

Plus, if you haven’t gone for hair and makeup that’s too elaborate, it’s much less likely to look like it’s come apart at the seams after hours of wild dancing. Instead, hair tends to look soft and touchable. Makeup enhances rather than transforms. The irony, of course, is that achieving this level of apparent effortlessness often requires considerable effort. But that’s a different story for a different day. Oh, and if you’re like me, don’t forget to wear waterproof mascara—I'm not jaded yet!

Shop French-Woman-Approved Wedding-Guest Pieces

A great welcome bag sets the tone for the entire bachelorette weekend. It’s the first thing guests see when they arrive, and when thoughtfully curated, it instantly makes everyone feel excited, appreciated, and ready to slip into vacation mode. The best ones strike a balance between practical and elevated—filled with pieces your friends will actually use throughout the trip and continue reaching for long after it’s over.

Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, poolside retreat, or destination celebration, the goal is to create a collection of essentials that feels equal parts chic and useful. Think accessories that make every outfit look better, beauty products that simplify getting ready, and a few thoughtful extras that add a touch of luxury to the experience. The result should feel less like a party favor and more like a carefully assembled cool-girl vacation kit.

From personalized accessories and matching sets to beauty staples and travel-friendly treats, these are the welcome-bag essentials guaranteed to impress your guests. Ahead, discover the pieces that will make your bachelorette weekend feel polished, memorable, and undeniably stylish from the moment everyone checks in.

Bachelorette Welcome-Bag Gift Ideas

1. Personalized Tote

A personalized tote is arguably the most important item in any bachelorette welcome bag because guests will use it all weekend long. It’s perfect for carrying beach essentials, poolside necessities, and travel-day extras. The striped personalized tote from BaubleBar is our top pick thanks to its elevated look and customizable details. It feels special, practical, and doubles as a keepsake long after the trip ends.

2. Matching Pj's

Nothing makes a group feel instantly coordinated quite like matching pajamas. They’re perfect for getting-ready photos, late-night chats, and leisurely mornings with coffee in hand. Choose a lightweight set that feels comfortable in warm weather and looks polished enough for photos.

3. Turkish Towel

A Turkish towel is one of those vacation essentials everyone ends up reaching for constantly. It’s lightweight, packs easily, dries quickly, and works just as well at the beach as it does by the pool. The chic stripes and neutral tones also make it feel far more elevated than a standard towel.

4. Cute Hair Claw

A stylish hair claw is a small addition that goes a surprisingly long way. It’s perfect for throwing hair up after the pool, while getting ready, or during beach days. Choose a neutral or pearl-accented option that complements everyone’s style.

5. Robe

A lightweight robe instantly makes the weekend feel more luxurious. It’s ideal for getting ready before dinners, lounging in the mornings, and capturing those classic bridal-suite moments. Look for breathable fabrics that feel effortless and comfortable.

6. Flip-Flops

Every destination weekend calls for a pair of easy flip-flops. They’re practical for pool days, beach outings, and quick walks around the hotel or resort. A sleek, minimal pair feels much chicer than the typical rubber version.

7. Swimsuit

A great swimsuit is essential for any warm-weather bachelorette celebration. Whether guests pack their own or receive matching styles, it’s something they’ll wear repeatedly throughout the trip. Classic silhouettes and flattering cuts always win.

8. Sunglasses

No vacation wardrobe feels complete without a pair of sunglasses. They instantly elevate even the simplest swimsuit or cover-up look. Oversize frames or timeless oval silhouettes are always a safe choice.

9. SPF

A good sunscreen is nonnegotiable for any destination celebration. It’s one of those practical items guests will genuinely appreciate having on hand. Opt for a formula that feels lightweight, blends easily, and layers well under makeup.

10. Body Oil

Body oil gives skin that vacation glow everyone wants on a tropical getaway. It adds hydration while creating a subtle sheen that looks beautiful in photos. Bonus points if it has a light, beachy scent.

11. Gua Sha

A gua sha tool is a thoughtful wellness addition that feels surprisingly luxurious. It’s perfect for a relaxing morning routine before a day of activities. Guests can continue using it long after the trip is over.

12. Face Mask Sheets

Sheet masks are ideal after a long travel day or a night out celebrating. They offer a quick self-care moment and help skin feel refreshed before events. Individually packaged masks are easy to include in welcome bags.

13. Hydration Packs

Hydration packets are perhaps the most practical item on this list. They help guests stay energized, especially after flights, sunny days, and celebratory cocktails. Trust us—everyone will thank you the morning after.

14. Mini Shorts to Wear Over a Bikini

A pair of easy pull-on shorts is a vacation staple. They’re perfect for walking to lunch, grabbing coffee, or transitioning from the beach to other activities. Lightweight fabrics keep them comfortable in the heat.

15. Workout Outfit

If your guests love fitting in a workout, walk, or yoga session during a getaway, a chic activewear set makes these activities even more appealing. It’s functional while still feeling stylish and intentional.

16. Lounge Outfit

A comfortable lounge set is one of those items guests always end up wearing more than expected. It’s perfect for travel days, slow mornings, and cozy evenings. Soft fabrics and relaxed silhouettes are key.

17. Eye Patches

Eye patches are a welcome treat after travel or late nights. They help de-puff, refresh, and instantly make everyone look more awake. Keep a few chilled in the mini fridge for an extra-luxurious touch.

18. Nourishing Lip Gloss

A hydrating lip gloss is the kind of beauty essential everyone reaches for repeatedly throughout the weekend. It adds shine while keeping lips soft and moisturized. Choose a universally flattering shade.

19. Lash Set

Lashify lashes are a beauty-lover favorite for a reason. They create a polished, elevated look without requiring salon appointments. They’re especially useful for destination weddings and special-event photos.

20. Body Lotion

Travel can leave skin feeling dry, making body lotion an easy addition guests will appreciate. A nourishing formula keeps skin soft and hydrated throughout the trip. Bonus if it has a subtle, luxurious scent like this dreamy one from Uni.

21. Self-Tanner Mist

A self-tanner mist helps create a sun-kissed glow without spending hours in the sun. It’s quick, easy to apply, and ideal before a weekend full of photos. Travel-size versions fit perfectly into welcome bags.

22. Rhode Bronzer

Rhode’s bronzing products have quickly become beauty-bag staples. They add warmth and dimension while maintaining a natural, effortless finish. It’s the perfect beauty item for achieving that vacation glow.

23. Anklet

An anklet feels especially fitting for a beach or tropical destination. It’s subtle, stylish, and instantly makes sandals and swimwear look more elevated. Delicate gold styles pair with everything.

24. Small Chunky Gold Hoops

Every jewelry collection benefits from a pair of versatile gold hoops. They’re easy to wear from day to night and complement virtually every outfit. A slightly chunky silhouette feels modern and polished.

25. Candle

A travel-friendly candle adds a cozy, thoughtful touch to the welcome bag. It creates a relaxing atmosphere back at home and serves as a lasting reminder of the weekend. Choose a scent that feels fresh and universally appealing.

26. Travel Perfume

A travel perfume feels both practical and luxurious. Lore’s compact fragrances are easy to toss into a beach bag or carry-on. It’s a small indulgence guests are unlikely to buy for themselves.

27. Baseball Hat

A classic Polo baseball cap is equal parts stylish and functional. It protects against the sun while giving any casual vacation outfit a cool, effortless feel. It’s the kind of accessory everyone ends up borrowing.

28. Slip Silk Pillowcase

A Slip silk pillowcase instantly elevates the entire welcome bag. It feels indulgent, helps reduce hair frizz, and is gentle on the skin. It’s a luxury item guests will continue using long after the trip.

29. Disposable Camera

Or even a trendy camera like the Camp Snap one encourages guests to capture candid moments throughout the weekend. The nostalgic feel makes photos even more special. It also creates a fun alternative to constantly using phones.

30. Lingerie Set

A beautiful lingerie set is a thoughtful addition for the bride or a luxe gift option for guests. It feels celebratory, feminine, and fitting for a wedding-focused getaway. Choose timeless styles that feel elegant rather than overly trendy.

If your calendar is suddenly filling up with destination weddings, black-tie receptions, beach ceremonies, and garden parties, you're not alone. Wedding season has a way of arriving all at once, bringing with it the inevitable question: What am I going to wear?

While there are countless places to shop for wedding guest attire, Nordstrom has always been that dependable friend who comes through at the last minute with the perfect final look. Its latest offerings strike the perfect balance between trend-forward and timeless while holding down the best price points. This season, I'm noticing a few standout themes among the best wedding guest dresses: elegant draping, romantic floral details, sleek satin finishes, and silhouettes that feel sophisticated without trying too hard. Ahead, I've rounded up the Nordstrom dresses worth considering before your next RSVP deadline sneaks up on you.

For a long time, bridal fashion felt pretty straightforward: a big white dress, a dramatic train, and a venue grand enough to match. But as more couples opt for intimate weddings, destination elopements, courthouse ceremonies, and backyard celebrations, the bridal style landscape is looking a lot more interesting.

After recently eloping in a suit rather than a wedding dress, I've become increasingly fascinated by the evolution of bridal style. Brides today aren't necessarily building their look around tradition. They're building it around the experience. The all-white bridal outfit is becoming an extension of the setting itself, resulting in bridal fashion that feels more personal, creative, and individual than ever.

In 2026, brides are increasingly moving away from the expectation of a classic ball gown in favor of pieces that feel more aligned with their personal style. Think sleek slip dresses, chic matching sets, and romantic minis that feel fashion-forward without taking themselves too seriously. The goal isn't necessarily to look like a bride in the traditional sense. It's to feel like the best version of yourself on one of the most memorable days of your life.

Without the constraints of a traditional wedding setting, brides are having fun with fashion. Maybe that's why some of the most inspiring bridal looks right now aren't happening in grand ballrooms at all.

If you're planning an elopement in 2026, consider this your sign to skip the poofy skirt and embrace something unexpected. Ahead, discover the chic elopement outfit formulas redefining what bridal style looks like this year.

Skirt Suit + Oversize Hat

Off-the-Shoulder Dress + Mules

Satin Slip Dress + Chiffon Shawl

Linen Column Dress + Black Wayfarers

Peplum Top + Pillbox Hat

Feathered Evening Dress

Shop More Elopement Looks

The one retailer I always check before wedding season officially kicks off is Zara. Shocking, right? Most people go for retailers with more luxury offerings but with all of these events being “destination,” I am going to splurge on the hotel and save on the dress. Zara has mastered the art of creating occasion dresses that look far more expensive than they actually are, and this year's selection is objectively better than I've seen in recent years. Think elegant fabrics, scarf details, sophisticated necklines, and just enough standout prints to guarantee compliments all evening long.

Because I've witnessed Zara's best pieces disappear from my cart in real time more than I'd like to admit, I have a feeling these dresses won't make it through the summer untouched. It's time to make moves. Whether you have a black-tie affair on your calendar, a coastal ceremony, or a casual garden celebration, I rounded up the Zara wedding guest dresses I'd recommend shopping immediately—ideally before July 1. Trust me, future you will be grateful.

Welcome to Who What Wear Weddings, the destination for style-minded weddings. Expect insightful tips straight from the newlyweds, shoppable elements, and plenty of must-save imagery as we share the nuptials of our favorite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

Sometimes, all a great love story needs is the right timing and the right people in your corner. For Alexis and Andrew, what started as a brief encounter grew into a tale shaped by patience, courage, and a little help from friends along the way.

It all unfolded in the summer of 2020, when Alexis was driving back to the city from the Hamptons with her best friend and Andrew's best friend. Along the way, they stopped at Andrew's house to pick up his brother. "The moment she walked in, I was completely taken," Andrew recalls. "She had this natural beauty." The following spring, Alexis texted to wish him a happy birthday. Andrew invited her out to celebrate, but the invitation went unanswered. "I thought that was a swing and a miss," he laughs.

A few months later, Alexis and Andrew ended up at the same apartment party, but as they later learned, it wasn't a coincidence. "Our friends had secretly played matchmaker," Andrew says. The two immediately began talking, and the connection was undeniable. "Sparks flew, but I made the first move," Alexis shares. "He didn't have the courage to ask me [out]. … I just did it." As they say, the rest was history.

Just like their relationship, the couple's engagement was deeply personal. In November 2024, Andrew proposed in the Philippines, where Alexis's family is from. "I have always felt a great pride in my Filipino upbringing, and it has long been a dream of mine to have my home woven into these special moments," she shares. Nine days into their planned trip, the two took a sunrise walk along the beach at Amanpulo. As they reached the final stretch of sand, Andrew got down on one knee. "It should have been a hint to Lex," Andrew says. "I am not a morning person, and I am not really a beach guy." However, he knew it was what she wanted. (She was very involved in the proposal, constantly hinting that she wanted to get engaged at home and on the beach.) "[It's] what she deserved," he says.

Their celebrations in the Philippines didn't end there. Alexis had always dreamt of getting married in the country. "It was something I held onto fiercely," she explains. "When we planned the wedding, we knew we wanted to do something in the Philippines, a distinct and personal tie to where we got engaged and to Lex's home and culture," Andrew says. "But we also knew it would be hard for everyone to travel, so we kept it small." For their private vow celebration, Alexis's and Andrew's immediate family joined them. "It was so beautiful to bring my family to the Philippines for the first time [to] let them experience Alexis's culture and have all that quality time together," Andrew says.

A second celebration followed—one with a larger guest list that felt less like a traditional wedding and more like a vacation. "That is where Saint Bart's came in: good food, great music, and that perfect vibe," Andrew says.

For their May 2, 2026, nuptials, the couple reserved and privatized the oceanfront Hotel Christopher for 100 of their closest friends. "We wanted everyone to feel like they were stepping into our own little world," Alexis says. "But we also wanted our guests to truly experience Saint Bart's—its beauty, French flair, vibrant energy, and festive spirit. The vision was simple but intentional: one big vacation with all of our favorite people." So the couple opted for a multiday format starting on Thursday with a "Welcome to the island" party.

Alongside golden sunsets, salty ocean air, and friends coming together to celebrate love, Alexis's bridal wardrobe became a defining part of the weekend's visual story. She curated a collection of five archival looks (think 2009 Ralph Lauren and Phoebe Philo–era Chloé), a custom two-piece skirt set from Lein, and a brand-new Colleen Allen chiffon dress, which sealed the weekend in style. Keep reading to discover the seven impeccably elegant bridal looks and tasteful details that went into making the Saint Bart's wedding come to life.

Alexis: "[Friday] evening, we hosted our welcome party and dinner at Nao Beach Club on the iconic Saint-Jean Beach. This was easily one of the most unforgettable nights of the weekend. We wanted to take our guests to different areas of the island each night so they could get the full island experience. The dress code was 'Saint Bart's elegante,' and we asked guests to fully lean in. Think South of France, beach-ready glamour by night. They understood the assignment."

WWW Weddings Tip: "A wedding weekend doesn't need a packed calendar of events. For us, having just two days of official events plus an unofficial pool day felt perfect. It created space for everyone to design their own experience, explore the island, and truly enjoy being there without feeling rushed."

Alexis: "When deciding what to wear, a lot of my references were from early '00s collections of Ralph Lauren, Phoebe Philo's Chloé, Ungaro, and Halston. For Friday night, I wore a Phoebe Philo–era Chloé S/S 05 yellow silk dress. It was beachy; featured a gorgeous, movement-rich fabrication; and was utterly perfect when worn barefoot on the beach. I paired it with yellow-gold bezel hoops from Rodi Jewelry and Khaite sandals. I sourced the dress from Raffe Vintage. It was a piece I found before we even had set venues. I had been following Nikki [Reynen] (founder of Raffe Vintage) on Instagram for quite some time, and when this beautiful sheer yellow chiffon dress appeared, I DM'd her immediately and bought it on the spot. She told me I beat out the next person who sent a DM by about 10 seconds. The fashion gods helped me that day."

Alexis: "We kicked off the night with cocktails and a challah prayer. The Chabad of S. Barth provided the challah."

Alexis: "Andrew wore a custom lace barong tagalog from Ched Studio. The barong tagalog is the traditional formal men's garment of the Philippines, worn for celebrations. The shirt was paired with Hermès shoes and NN.07 trousers."

Alexis: "Knowing that Saturday would be more organic and refined, for Friday, we leaned into a tropical, festive energy. We incorporated large tropical leaves, deep-hued orchids, and terra-cotta accents throughout, with pops of color that felt vibrant and celebratory. It was lush, fun, and completely fitting for a beachside welcome party on a Caribbean island."

Alexis: "Speeches were made by our matchmakers and one of my closest friends, Natalie. We had the most delicious sunset. It was incredible."

Alexis: "Our seated dinner was followed by what can only be described as an epic dance party. We were all dancing on the tables, and the star of the show was Andrew's great-aunt Vicki, who, at the young age of 88, had the time of her life!"

Alexis: "The morning of [the wedding day] was intentionally slow and very relaxed. Andrew and I snuck out early for coffee and took a drive around the island just the two of us, taking it all in before the celebration. I then spent the morning with my mother, who was my maid of honor, and got ready with the women of Andrew's family as well, which was really lovely. I didn't gravitate toward having a traditional bridal party, but having those few people close to me was incredibly grounding."

Alexis: "We collaborated with lettering-design specialist [Maddieola Made] to create hand-drawn custom fonts and motifs for our invitation suite. We wanted the invitation suite to serve as the first glimpse of the weekend ahead and for the design elements to weave seamlessly throughout the entire wedding weekend. We drew inspiration from vintage menus and historic logos from iconic French establishments, which helped shape the overall aesthetic. Our color palette centered on light browns, reds, and soft blues paired with stripes and whimsical lettering inspired by the charm of the South of France. Think mermaids carrying martinis, dancing waiters, and so forth. One of our favorite details was a custom motif Maddie designed: a sun formed by two intertwined As, creating a personal emblem that became a signature element of the celebration."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Build your creative army! When choosing vendors, I always looked for alignment not just in aesthetics but in taste and perspective—people I could actually lean on for opinions and whom I could creatively trust."

Alexis: "I always viewed my [wedding] wardrobe as an entire story, more than focusing just on the ceremony look. Saturday morning, I moved through a few looks, each one meaningful. I started in an archival Alberta Ferretti dress found locally at Current Affair from Female Hysteria Vintage. It was this buttery silver silk with gorgeous, deep drapes on the sides. I then changed into a '70s-original Halston slip dress and chiffon cape I found at Demetra Vintage just two weeks before the wedding. The ethereal peach draping felt entirely fated. I really wanted something of this silhouette as of recent, and at a certain point, one more felt justified."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Wearing white all weekend was not a requirement in my head. The idea that a bride must wear white all weekend feels outdated. A modern bride can [and should] dress in whatever reflects her mood and identity at the moment. The bridal aura isn't created by color; it's an energy. Remember that whoever is getting married will be the focal point, no matter what they wear."

Alexis: "For my beauty look, I wanted to look like myself—natural and clean. We used my favorite foundation, which is the Victoria Beckham Foundation Drops. I wanted a really luminous base, and we ended up using a lot of my own makeup, which made me feel totally at ease. We went minimal for the ceremony, but for cocktail hour, we added a smoky eye and color to my face. I felt really beautiful. [For my hair], we planned to keep it down for the ceremony, but the island can be quite windy, and I was feeling a bit iffy about having it down, so I made the snap decision to wear it up. I trusted my team, and we ended up in a loose French twist for the ceremony. Sometimes, things don't go as planned, and that's totally fine. I was just so excited to walk down the aisle and loved how it turned out."

Alexis: "Given [that Andrew and I] did our vows at home in the Philippines, I wanted to wear something entirely new for our Saint Bart's moment. I actually struggled to figure out what I wanted to wear and what best represented my style. Throughout the entire process, though, I kept dreaming, manifesting, and returning to the same kind of bride—polished, bold, deeply rooted in timelessness and a touch of glam. That became a blueprint, even as we explored a wide range of looks across the weekend."

Alexis: "Andrew wore a beautiful bespoke suit from P. Johnson. We loved working with the entire team on dreaming up his look. Every detail was tended to, each visit was so energizing, and having the chance to style my husband and his brother was such a fun activity for us to do together. The suit was made from Loro Piana fabric, and we lined it with light-blue silk—my 'something blue' for the weekend. Then we layered a silk-blend shirt underneath. We kindly asked for no ties to keep it casual."

Alexis: "After getting ready, Andrew and I chose not to do an official first look, and truthfully, being able to see him throughout the day was something I really loved. There was a running joke that we were already married anyway, which made the whole day feel even more relaxed, like we were allowed to rewrite the usual rules. Once I was ready, I ran over to see him."

Alexis: "Since I have decision fatigue, I am really happy to have had my stylist, Sarah Kim Harned, as my guardrail and my voice of reason. She really helped me tighten my vision. During one of my many visits to Lein in early 2026, there was a lace minidress (The Lana) that we thought would be really chic if it were made into a long tunic top and a skirt, so we used that as our inspiration. I was certain about [wearing] a non-white look, so we lined the lace with a warm-toned organza that read more like blush than white. The softness and sheerness were so beautiful, and the Lein team crafted a bespoke skirt to go with the top. I also never thought I would wear a train yet somehow ended up in one. It just felt right."

Meredith Stoecklein, founder and designer of Lein: "The lace was developed exclusively for Lein. We wanted the textile to feel incredibly delicate and romantic while still carrying a sense of modernity and ease. From the beginning, we were drawn to the idea of a separate tunic and skirt rather than a traditional gown. We loved the sense of effortlessness and individuality that comes from layering pieces while still creating a silhouette that feels undeniably bridal. The look was designed to feel light, ethereal, and deeply personal, something that moved beautifully and felt almost weightless when worn. We leaned into the layering and sheerness of the lace, which felt especially at home in the beachside setting. The softness, delicacy, and subtle warmth of the color brought an added dimension to the textile, creating a romantic quality that felt both timeless and unexpected."

Alexis: "Our first photos were taken overlooking the ocean steps just below our suite. They've become some of my favorite images from the entire weekend. I remember feeling completely calm and so happy to finally be with him at that moment."

WWW Weddings Tip: "When having a wedding abroad, your guests need clear, thoughtful, and detailed information, including timing, locations, recommendations, etc. The more prepared they feel, the more effortless the whole weekend becomes."

Alexis: "I actually planned to wear a different two-piece set until about four months prior to the wedding. The Lein team was so patient as I rethought the entire look. The skinny straps and the neckline were so me, and I felt so myself in it. I chose not to procure a veil for this portion and felt really confident with that decision."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Stay true to your styling instincts and what feels the most 'you,' but don't shut anything out before you've tried it on. I once said I'd never wear lace, then suddenly, I was in lace. Let yourself be surprised by what actually works on you. When it comes to opinions, keep your circle small and intentional. Trust the voices that genuinely align with your style direction."

Alexis: "We had a Jewish ceremony and built a chuppah overlooking the ocean. Jake (Andrew's brother and our wedding officiant), like in the Philippines, led this deeply meaningful portion—a lot of laughs and a joke or two about having two weddings."

Alexis: "[The night before], we gathered with our family and friends for a quiet, casual ketubah signing overlooking the ocean. It was a meaningful yet understated nod to Andrew's Jewish heritage before the wedding weekend officially began. Jake led the most beautiful ceremony. Abby and David, our matchmakers, signed as our witnesses, which felt like a true full-circle moment because, just a year earlier, Andrew and I had signed their ketubah at their wedding in Aspen. For this pre-wedding ritual, I wore Look 16 from Ralph Lauren's S/S 09 collection. It was a gold bias-cut hammered-satin gown sourced by Sarah from the depths of the internet. I wanted to serve classic and honor the tradition of the ketubah."

Alexis: "The chuppah was the centerpiece of the ceremony. We built a wooden structure draped with an oversize piece of sheer silk gauze with grass spilling out from the sides, evoking a cabana-like feeling that was tropical and breezy but romantic."

Alexis: "My mom is my best friend, so it was natural for her to be my maid of honor. She walked me down the aisle for our ceremony in the Philippines and our Saint Bart's celebration, where we walked in hand in hand to 'Ocean Eyes' by Billie Eilish—one of my favorite artists. I loved that moment and will treasure it forever. I wanted her to wear a shade of beige to coordinate with me, so we settled on a gorgeous halter-style dress with a wrap detail by Silvia Tcherassi."

Alexis: "Andrew walked down the aisle with his parents."

Alexis: "There are a few beautiful angels looking over us, and we felt them there in that moment and in everything we did over the weekend."

Alexis: "Cocktail hour took place on the iconic deck at Hotel Christopher. We really wanted to make sure we joined our guests for this portion. It was time to spend admiring the sunset and just taking it all in. One of the most joyous moments of the whole weekend. The vibes were immaculate."

Alexis: "That same organic, grassy energy from the chuppah carried through cocktail hour and dinner. Arrangements featured grass, subtle dark-purple callas, and just the lightest touch of florals to tie it all together."

Alexis: "Last summer, Andrew and I took a trip to London, and I dragged him to Lovers Lane in Notting Hill. He patiently entertained my dress-up session while I tried on everything in sight, and that's when I stumbled upon a Ralph Lauren skirt from what I consider a holy-grail collection—spring/summer 2005. The girls in the shop were incredibly supportive and so much fun. I've never really minded shopping by myself, but there was something special about finding this piece together on that trip. It was actually the same skirt I wore in the Philippines, which felt like a special way to tie everything together. To complete the look, I worked with master tailor Tati Kova to source deadstock fabric that was nearly an exact match to the archival skirt and create a custom top. I finished everything with a vintage bag I found on eBay."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Poshmark and eBay girls, unite! The hunt is honestly just as thrilling as the find. I'd scour for hours for the finishing touches to my look. You can uncover incredible vintage pieces if you're patient."

Alexis: "Cocktail hour was followed by an alfresco dinner overlooking the water. We served steak au poivre and family-style French specialties."

Alexis: "We gave our guests an 'island formal' dress code accompanied by mood boards that were very much my vibe. Everyone delivered with vibrant, chic, and effortlessly elevated tropical-inspired looks. It made the whole weekend feel even more cohesive, relaxed, and beautifully styled."

Alexis: "During dinner, we were treated to speeches from my mother [and] Andrew's mother and father, all of which were both moving and wonderfully entertaining."

Alexis: "As a finale to the reception, we took the entire group to Le Ti, the iconic, legendary club in Saint Bart's that is equal parts chaotic and irresistibly chic. Dripping in red velvet and neon signs, Le Ti's signature offering is their costume room, where guests are invited to transform into entirely new characters. Our friends absolutely leaned in within minutes. People were emerging in wigs, pirate hats, and full costume looks. Andrew went full pirate. Our photographer, Nicole [Plett], was having the time of her life. It was the most fitting, joyful, completely us ending to a weekend we will never forget."

Alexis: "I changed into a look from Colleen Allen's F/W 25 collection. It was a dreamy, gorgeous sheer chiffon V-neck dress. Colleen is someone I have watched and admired since her namesake debut, and wearing her was one of my favorite looks. I decided not to line it, so it was a nice transition into [Le Ti]."

Alexis: "Our guests know how to have some fun, so everyone was dancing all night. It was pure magic."

Photographer: Nicole Plett
Stylist: Sarah Kim Harned
Hairstylist: Brianne Smith
Makeup Artist: Vanessa
Planner: L. Scott Events
Floral Designer: B Floral
Rehearsal Dinner Caterer: Bonito
Wedding Venue: Hotel Christopher
Welcome Party & Dinner Venue: Nao
After-Party Venue: Le Ti
Musicians: Philippe Paris, AL Sax, and Ombeline Collin
AV: @tuned.productions
Stationery Designer: Maddieola Made
Printer: Lickety Split Press

If you're interested in having your wedding featured on our site, please fill out our Who What Wear Weddings submission form here.

Congratulations are in order for Devon Lee Carlson! The model, influencer, and entrepreneur just announced her engagement on Instagram, where her comment section was quickly filled with high-profile well-wishers like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Emily Ratajkowski, Lila Moss, and others. That kind of star power is expected for someone who models for Burberry, Chanel, and Ralph Lauren, but Carlson's connections aren't limited to the fashion industry. Her fiancé, Duke Nicholson, has one of the most famous last names in Hollywood, courtesy of his grandfather, Jack Nicholson.

With one larger round diamond flanked by two smaller ones, Carlson's engagement ring is so classic. Oval solitaire rings, like those worn by Selena Gomez, Sofia Richie Grainge, and Hailee Steinfeld, are not going anywhere, but they're far from the only popular style. "Carlson's ring is very much on trend," Olivia Landau, founder of The Clear Cut, told Who What Wear. "Many celebrities, including Taylor Swift, are leaning into antique cut diamonds and vintage-inspired settings. The diamond also appears to have a beautiful, warm candlelight color to it. Another big trend in natural diamond engagement rings is embracing diamonds with warmer color grades."

Landau also shared her expert analysis of the ring. "It looks like an Old European cut three-stone ring set in a Georgian button back bezel setting with a yellow gold band," Landau told Who What Wear. "The center stone appears to be around 3 to 4 carats."

Shop Three-Stone Rings

Jennifer Atilémile is the definition of a woman who does it all. A true multi-hyphenate, she is a model, writer, creative, activist, and intellectual. As an editor in residence, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry.

The courthouse wedding used to be an alternative to the old-school "establishment" religious ceremony, but now, it's one of the chicest ways to get married. There are two camps to the courthouse wedding: those who choose that moment to be their entire wedding and those who opt for the courthouse as their intimate moment before they celebrate in a main event with all their friends (your faves/cool girls/celebs). Dua Lipa had her intimate version in none other than custom Schiaparelli before her Italian celebration. Charli XCX married George Daniel at Hackney Town Hall in a Vivienne Westwood mini with her Sicilian blowout still to come. Let's talk about Sicily as the cool-girl musician's wedding-party destination in a different article.

I've got a personal stake in all of this. I'm following each detail like a hawk, even while I'm on date night with my fiancé, for any inkling or inch of the reveal of Lipa's ultimate wedding dress. My reason? I'm getting married at the end of the year, starting with the courthouse and then celebrating with all our friends at a separate event. So much of what I've seen play out as a 2026 bride has already been on my Pinterest list, and I'm watching—not so I can copy but so that I can appreciate and then make some choices on what feels most aligned with how I envision my moment.

For the Bride

The Suit

The most enduring courthouse-wedding look in fashion history is a suit, and it belongs to Bianca Jagger… well, according to my planning and Pinterest searches. She married Mick Jagger in Saint-Tropez in 1971 and wore an Yves Saint Laurent bias-cut column skirt and the ever-iconic Le Smoking single-buttoned jacket. She topped it off with a hat that hinted at a veil.

It's literally been on my Pinterest board for months, and clearly, I'm not the only one who thinks it's stunningly chic. That reference is having a full resurgence, and while the look is currently being talked about by one of the biggest pop stars of the moment, there's a reason why it's remained iconic since 1971.

Who What Wear's own Ana Escalante got married in a vintage Dior suit sourced by Studio Dorothy.

What I love most about the idea of the wedding suit is that it isn't just a one-and-done moment. It's something that can be reworn time and again, unlike a big, showstopping gown, which—don't get me wrong—I also love!

The Hat

The detail I keep coming back to, especially in my own bridal-look planning, is whether I want to wear a veil or have a hat. The hat is more city, less traditional bridal, and reminds me a lot of one of my favorite movie montages from The Parent Trap.

After Lipa's hat moment, I'm sure that we're going to see a lot more hats in final bridal looks, especially at the courthouse.

The Unexpected Mini

Not everyone wants to wear the suit, and I did until my designer told me, "I'm not making you a suit." I'm still not sure what my courthouse look will be, but if it's not a suit, it might be a little mini. You can't go wrong. Charli XCX's Hackney Town Hall dress was an off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood mini with a corseted bodice, something that had also been on my radar even before I had a boyfriend and got engaged. I also think you can't go wrong with a slip dress.

For the Guest

A courthouse wedding puts guests in a strange spot because it's not the traditional wedding we're used to. To be honest, I've never been invited to one because I think it's reserved exclusively for the future spouses and their immediate friends and chosen family. I don't know if there's an invitation specifying dress code, and I'm currently navigating that, but given what I'd want, there's still a dress code. It's not casual. You're not meeting friends for brunch. It's not business casual either, and it's not a cocktail garden party unless it's a mimosa brunch for the after-party.

The Only Rule That Really Matters

Don't wear white to a wedding that isn't yours—unless you're Lipa at Simon Porte Jacquemus's wedding, where her dress was actually designed by the groom, and the dress code is white to begin with.

At the end of the day, you can have Pinterest boards galore and be following every celeb wedding trend, but something that always gets missed is that, ultimately, the final decision for anything you plan to wear to your wedding, be it a courthouse or the whole shebang, is whatever your heart desires.

Lady Gaga, who could literally have the most extravagant wedding on the planet, said this about marrying her fiancé, Michael Polansky: "We actually talk a lot about just going to a courthouse, just the two of us, and ordering Chinese food. But knowing me, also, it could become like a circus with unicorns."

That's how I feel about ours right now. I've had a couple of fittings, and I keep seeing other people's weddings online, and the one thing I say is, "Do what feels natural to you." It's your moment, and these trends are all guidelines. So follow the suit if the suit calls you. Follow the resurgence, copy Bianca Jagger, and wear the hat. Or ignore all of it and wear the biggest dress you can find to a tiny municipal office because you love a big dress. It's your day, and nobody else's! The brides who look the best at the end of the day are the ones who looked and felt the most like themselves. That's the only thing your future self will care about.

Wedding guest dressing can be challenging at the best of times, but throw in a flight, hotter climates and a destination-specific dress code, and the stakes suddenly feel much higher. Whether you're attending a beachfront ceremony in Greece, a black-tie celebration in Italy or a countryside wedding in the South of France, knowing exactly what to wear to an abroad wedding requires a little more consideration than usual.

In my years as a fashion editor, I've learnt that the key to destination wedding dressing is striking the perfect balance between style and practicality. You want an outfit that feels special enough for the occasion, but one that will also travel well, suit the climate and keep you comfortable from the ceremony right through to the dance floor.

From floaty dresses to elevated co-ords and statement accessories, the best destination wedding guest outfits feel effortless without compromising on sophistication. Ahead, I've rounded up the chicest looks to inspire your next wedding guest ensemble, whatever the venue, dress code or destination.

1. Floral Dress + Thong Sandals + Head Scarf

Style Notes: Print clashing may feel daunting, but it remains one of fashion's chicest styling hacks when done right. @alicezielasko's choice of a subtly printed floral satin dress allows for the injection of another, more bolder print such as leopard print, in the form of a small accessory. By varying the scale of the prints, both can coexist in a way that looks cohesive while making a statement.

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2. Fringed Dress + Stilettos + Clutch Bag

Style Notes: Weddings abroad often feel like they call for a little extra wow-factor. But if bold prints and dramatic silhouettes aren't your style, a fringed dress can be a chic way to make an impact without stepping too far outside your comfort zone. The movement of the fringe catches the light beautifully as you walk, adding texture and a subtle sense of glamour to even the simplest shape. This detail requires minimal accessorizing, so keep bags, shoes and jewellery as pared-back as possible.

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3. Linen Co-ord + Heeled Sandals + Top Handle Bag

Style Notes: @cassdimicco's linen co-ord outfit is proof that you're not limited to dresses when attending a wedding abroad. Ideal for sun-soaked destinations, it offers a polished yet relaxed feel that's perfectly suited to hotter temperatures. Styled with statement jewellery and elegant sandals, it delivers all the sophistication of traditional occasionwear while feeling refreshingly modern.

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4. Mini Dress + Printed Heels + Statement Earrings

Style Notes: Now this is one for the maximalists. The combination of a statement silhouette, printed heels and bold earrings creates a look that's guarunteed to turn heads. The key is to keep everything within the same colour palette, and to keep volume to one area which in this case is up top, with the puff-sleeves and oversized earrings. Use silver and white accessories to ground the look so it doesn't feel too busy.

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5. Strapless Dress + Heeled Mules + Clutch Bag

Style Notes: A strapless maxi dress feels elegant while staying light and breathable, which is exactly what you want for partying the night away somewhere warm and humid. Details such as drop-waists or pleats elevate the style, and works really well with architectural accessories such as pebble clutch bags and flower earrings.

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Shopping for bridal lingerie can quickly become overwhelming. Somewhere between the ultra-traditional white sets and overly elaborate pieces that rarely leave the back of a drawer, there's a sweet spot: lingerie that feels undeniably special yet practical enough to wear long after the wedding festivities are over.

Whether you're looking for a silk slip for your honeymoon, a lace robe for getting-ready photos, or a beautiful bodysuit you'll pair with jeans on date night months later, the best bridal lingerie blends romance with versatility. Ahead, I've rounded up the prettiest options that feel celebratory without sacrificing wearability—because the pieces associated with one of the happiest times in your life deserve more than a single outing.

In 2026, brides are overwhelmed. They have to decide when to tie the knot, where to do it, how many guests each party can invite, which font to have on their invitations, what type of napkins to use for the reception, and how much to budget for flowers. Perhaps most importantly—or, at least, it feels that way in the moment—they must choose what to wear. This decision often leads to a crucial question. Where do I start? While this is a complex question, the straightforward answer lies in selecting one of three paths: custom creations, off-the-rack selections, or vintage treasures.

For those seeking individuality, timelessness, sustainability, and storytelling, vintage bridal attire has emerged as the choice. This shift toward archival pieces is largely driven by a desire for uniqueness in an increasingly digital and visible wedding environment. As modern ceremonies are shared and saved across platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, brides are choosing vintage styles to ensure their looks feels personal and distinct from the seasonal sameness found in contemporary bridal offerings.

Ironically, many brides today are gravitating to the same types of vintage bridal looks. Lily Kaizer—the founder of Happy Isles, a luxury-vintage bridal salon in NYC and L.A.—notes that brides currently seeking vintage options are drawn to aesthetics that blend romanticism with a contemporary edge. These sought-after silhouettes are often formfitting yet designed to allow for fluid movement. Echoing this sentiment, Lizzie Wheeler, founder of the New York City–based vintage and archival bridal studio Studio Dorothy, agrees that "sleek shapes with some structure and a little sex appeal" are particularly popular, especially when made of lace.

But it's not just the styles that are similar; the designers favored by brides are too. Whether they are coming into boutiques with specific requests or browsing without direction until they find a piece they love, those getting married right now are looking to the same designers.

If you're getting married or simply curious, keep reading. Ahead, we're rounding up the top five vintage wedding brands, according to Kaizer, Wheeler, and Alexis Novak, founder of Tab Vintage, a Los Angeles–based archival vintage studio. Hint: One is John Galliano.

The Top 5 Vintage-Wedding-Dress Brands of 2026

John Galliano

Vintage designs by Galliano for Dior remain some of the most coveted pieces in fashion, particularly for bridal and occasionwear. His influence is enduring, and he famously designed Kate Moss's wedding gown in 2011.

"Dior for Galliano is always sought-after," says Kaizer. Novak agrees, noticing that Galliano's vintage slip dresses are especially coveted for their timeless appeal.

While many fashion brides actively seek out Galliano pieces, others, even those who are in the know, discover them unexpectedly. One example is Who What Wear features editor Ana Escalante, who found a vintage Christian Dior by John Galliano ivory skirt suit while searching for her courthouse wedding look. "My friend Lizzie Wheeler, who's the mastermind behind Studio Dorothy, was hearing me lament about not finding many chic vintage options that came above a size US 8, much less ones from brands I covet," Escalante says. "She sent me this white Christian Dior by John Galliano suit set in my size, and without thinking, my hands were flying over my phone buttons and buying the suit set practically sight unseen." The vintage two-piece look consisted of a jacket and pencil skirt complete with sweet, delicate lace embroidery on the skirt and jacket sleeves.

Ralph Lauren

Whether it's a sleek slip dress for the rehearsal dinner, a runway gown for the reception, or a minidress for the after-party, brides are looking for ways to incorporate archival Ralph Lauren into any wedding moment. Wheeler notes that it's one of the main brands that often come up when brides visit Studio Dorothy with requests, and it makes sense. The appeal lies in Ralph Lauren's timeless American glamour and sophisticated silhouettes. Because many of these vintage designs are instantly recognizable yet still pared back and low-key, they offer an insider appeal that resonates with modern brides.

Bob Mackie

Archival Bob Mackie designs offer a one-of-a-kind presence with a distinctive nature that feels luxurious and deeply personal, which is why he's among the most popular vintage-wedding-dress designers. Novak and Kaizer have both observed a significant surge in demand for Mackie's work. Novak notes an increasing affinity for his "exquisite beaded dresses," particularly for bridal after-party looks, and Kaizer highlights that his beaded designs and those featuring corsetry are in high demand at her boutique right now.

Valentino

"We're seeing a lot of love for '90s and '00s Valentino at the moment," Kaizer shares. To a true fashion person, that makes sense in today's climate. In the '90s, Valentino was known for its high glamour and romance, featuring design elements like flowing evening gowns, couture-level embellishments, fitted waists, elegant draping, and full skirts. In the early 2000s, the brand maintained this glamour while incorporating streamlined shapes, appealing to those who yearn for nostalgia but still want to embrace modern sensibilities. While not the most recent purchase, one of the most notable archival Valentino purchases for a bride from Happy Isles was a F/W 93 Valentino high-neck, short-sleeve gown worn by Millie Bobby Brown on her wedding day.

Monique Lhuillier

This list wouldn't be complete without mentioning one quintessential bridal designer. One of the most popular ones for vintage wedding dresses right now is Monique Lhuillier. Her signature style of classic bridalwear—think fitted bodices, layered skirts, lace, and light and floating fabrics—has transcended trends while setting the standard for luxury wedding gowns.

"Monique Lhuillier has always been my number one or number two brand," Wheeler says. "I've been noticing an increased demand for her early '00s pieces." Compared to other bridal designers in the aughts, Lhuillier focused less on heavy ruching, shiny fabrics, and dramatic embellishments and more on soft details such as intricate floral and pearl embroidery, layers of soft tulle, and satin and mikado silk.

Ever since the photos of Dua Lipa's wedding weekend started circulating, I've found myself wanting to throw an intimate celebration as well. I’m nowhere near engaged, but I couldn’t help but be inspired by her personal style and effortless bridal flair. If her fashion choices are any indication of what the vibe should be for my future event, I imagine it would strike the perfect balance between vintage glamour and modern cool—think Bianca Jagger–inspired tailoring, unexpected accessories, and just enough fashion risk-taking to keep everyone talking long after the reception ends.

Traditional bridal style has its place, but if your Pinterest board leans more fashion person than fairytale, Dua Lipa offers plenty of inspiration. From lace-trimmed minis and dramatic hats to after-party dresses worthy of the dance floor, these are the bridal pieces I'd buy if my entire wedding mood board revolved around Dua Lipa.

I have a confession: Anthropologie wasn't the first retailer that came to mind when I started searching for wedding guest dresses this season. I assumed I'd end up bouncing between designer sites, specialty boutiques, and the usual suspects. Then I clicked into Anthropologie's Wedding Guest Dresses section and completely lost track of time.

The selection is genuinely impressive. There are romantic silk gowns; fashion-forward drop-waist silhouettes; modern, minimalist slips; and statement dresses that look like they belong at a destination wedding in Italy. Better yet, many of them have that hard-to-find quality of looking far more expensive than they actually are. If you've got a wedding on your calendar this summer, fall, or beyond, these are the styles worth adding to your cart before everyone else discovers them.

Much like the scent of fresh jasmine and a sweet humidity that hangs low and hot, love is certainly in the air. In London, you see these public displays of affection everywhere you look, from the paramours holding one another’s hands over glasses of pét nat at a local buzzy wine bar, to the sheer amount of bodies embracing on the open park spaces dotted throughout the city. Further testament of this fact, however, is that every little white chapel from here to Suffolk, the Cotswolds and Cornwall is filled each weekend with the grandest romantic gestures of them all—a wedding.

Indeed, the summer wedding season for 2026 is in full swing. Invitations have been sent out, bridal showers have been thrown, and floral arrangements have been made. Still, a perennial question that faces any attendee is the matter of what to wear. Selecting a style to say ‘I Do’ to isn’t a matter of fishing something out of your wardrobe the morning of the nuptials, though. Speaking to Teale Talbot, the co-founder of Réalisation Par, which specialises in slinky dresses rendered in magnetic prints that are undoubtedly a summer wedding staple, she tells me that she always thinks the best place to begin is to reframe your mindset and “look for a forever piece rather than just a dress for one event”.

“It’s important to find something that captures the memory and the feeling of the moment, but that you’ll genuinely want to wear again afterwards,” Talbot adds. “The most beautiful dresses become part of your life rather than something you wear once and forget about.” This season specifically, the Australian-born, London-based design director reveals that the key summer wedding guest dresses will all feature “soft, feminine silhouettes”. Key trends include “bias cuts, open backs, halter necklines and delicate straps”, noting these adhere to the discernible shift “away from anything too structured or over complicated” and “towards dresses that move naturally with the body”.

This idea of effortlessness is what permeates the best summer wedding guest dresses, Talbot adds. “Comfort is everything. If you feel restricted or uncomfortable by the afternoon, it changes your entire energy. I always think the best dresses are the ones you don’t have to think about once you put them on,” she continues. “Silk dresses work beautifully because they move with the body and still feel elegant after hours of wear. If you can dance in it, sit in it and still feel amazing at midnight, then it’s the right dress.”

As for how to style these pieces? “Slightly undone hair, sun-kissed skin and minimal jewellery. Nothing too overdone. Dresses always look best when they feel natural and lived in. There’s something very modern about simplicity and not looking too perfect.” You don’t have to tell us to ditch our V V Rouleaux-esuqe and Andie Macdowell in Four Weddings and a Funeral-inspired hats…

To have and to hold, uncover below the very best summer wedding guest dresses for every kind of ceremony.

The Best Wedding Guest Dresses for Summer 2026, Per Each Type of Ceremony

1. The Town Hall Wedding

Style Notes: A short and sweet civil service hosted within the marble confines of your closest town hall has become somewhat of the ceremony du jour. From Marlybeone to Hackney, these inner-city suburbs have become awash in dried botanical confetti and swaths of angelic whites as newlyweds exit the venue and enter this new chapter of their lives, a stone’s throw from the bustling city streets that make London such an exciting and vibrant capital.

As a result, the dress code is certainly less formal than in other settings, and you’ll often find yourself seeking out ways to breathe new life into a timeless slip or formerly-loved treasure instead of buying a whole new look for these kinds of celebrations. Echoing this sensibility, Talbot admits that she thinks rewearing pieces is incredibly chic and luxurious. “The women with the best style have a signature look and always repeat things. They just style them differently each time.” So, invest in something that can serve as a blank canvas. As Charli XCX said, fall in love again and again.

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2. The Destination Wedding

Style Notes: When the invite demands international flights, you might as well use the travel to your advantage and pack with you a dreamy ensemble that gives you an excuse to dress up. Anything can happen when you’re abroad, especially as venues like Tonnara Di Scopello in Sicily and Hotel Corazón in Mallorca become popular haunts.

“For a destination wedding, practicality is just as important as the style,” Talbot tells me. “You want something lightweight, easy to travel with and comfortable in heat, but still romantic. Soft silks and prints always work beautifully.” Still, there’s something to be said for maximising the contents of your carry-on. “A dress can feel completely different when slung casually on holiday with flats and oversized sunglasses versus styled for a wedding with heels and jewellery,” Talbot says. So why not make the most of this investment and style it both ways?

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3. The Countryside Wedding

Style Notes: Quaint and quintessentially British, the countryside wedding is a charming way to escape the big smoke and revel in verdant greenery and plush landscapes that the United Kingdom has to offer. Rural but by no means less cosmopolitan, this occasion is defined by bouquets of native wildflowers, so embrace the delicateness of the occasion in a dress that reflects your surroundings. Like something out of Alice in Wonderland, a trip down the sartorial rabbit hole will lead you to a warren of watercolour palettes, ethereal blooms and leafy hues.

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4.The Beach Wedding

Style Notes: Long gone are the days when the likes of Pamela Anderson rocked up to get married in an itty-bitty white bikini at her local beach. These days, beachside weddings are balmy affairs straight out of a Slim Aarons photograph. Under the setting sun and with salt hanging in the hair, these are occasions to embrace your most bohemian and hedonistic sensibilities. Because where else could you wear seashell-emblazoned dresses from Conner Ives with generously sized raffia hats from Jacquemus and call it wedding appropriate?

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5. The City Soirée Wedding

Style Notes: Another common choice for couples is to eschew the big, stuffy ceremony altogether. Focusing on a more intimate service provides the opportunity to go all out with a raucous reception that stretches into the early hours of the next morning. Where dirty martinis are slung all evening, and the paramount concern is convincing the DJ to play your favourite karaoke song, opt for something slinky, sensual and fit for midnight glamour. As Talbot says, “for a city wedding, I’d probably lean slightly more polished with cleaner silhouettes and minimal styling.”

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Here comes the bride, all dressed in Schiaparelli.

Over the weekend, singer Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner tied the knot during an intimate ceremony in London, where the pair are based, ahead of their star-studded summer 2026 wedding.

While her couture wedding suit, designed Schiaparelli's Creative Director, Daniel Roseberry certainly turned heads, it was what sat atop it that sparked the most conversation on social media. Instead of a traditional cathedral veil, Lipa opted for a sculptural bridal hat to wear to her civil ceremony at the Old Marylebone Town Hall, a staple for chic British couples saying 'I do." Dua Lipa's wedding hat, and her choice to skip the traditional bridal headwear fixings, is a welcome one—after all, the singer is known for her fashion-forward choices that feel equal parts Hollywood glamor and It-girl-esque.

Dua Lipa's bridal hat arrives at a moment where brides around the world are skipping traditional veils all together thanks to a rise in micro-weddings, city-hall elopements, and four-day festivities in a far-flung, international destination. Sure, your grandmother's veil might have charm and character, but chances are, it might not fit your exact style in 2026.

Across runways and bridal collections this past New York Bridal Week, statement headwear has emerged as a chic alternative to the classic veil from brands like Ellie Saab, Alexandra Grecco, and Galia Lahav. Pillbox hats, wide-brim silhouettes and dramatic fascinators are offering a fresh way to amp up bridal wardrobes while making a memorable entrance as you walk down the aisle—or, in Dua Lipa's case, down to the courthouse.

"Brides are expressing more interest in headdresses—crowns, tiaras, beaded 1920's cloches—all things that aren't veils," Lizzie Wheeler, founder behind vintage bridal shop Studio Dorothy told Who What Wear. "The biggest trend this year is definitely hats for the courthouse. There's lots of girls looking for pillboxes in particular," Wheeler added. There's a strong theory in particular, though: as a brides wedding wardrobe expands due to the increasing number of events like welcome parties, engagement celebrations, or destination bachelorettes, Wheeler suggests brides are leaning more into looks that don't require a traditional veil. "Brides are taking an increasingly editorial approach to their weddings from all angles—that means an increase in head-to-toe looks."

Bridal Hats on the Runway

The hat-forward style isn't entirely new. Legions of chic brides that came before Dua Lipa have opted for bridal hats in lieu of the traditional veil. Fashion icons like Bianca Jagger and Amal Clooney have also opted for wide-brimmed styles for their special days. We also can't forget the chic bride in The Parent Trap who opted for a bridal top hat to wear with her Elizabeth James gown. That's capital F fashion, if you ask me.

Bridal Hats on Celebrities

For brides drawn to fashion's more unconventional side, the appeal is obvious. A hat delivers all the impact of a veil, but with a stronger point of view. If Dua Lipa's bridal look is any indication, the accessory is poised to become one of 2026's defining wedding trends. Shop the best bridal hats, below.

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Sara Walker is a Who What Wear editor in residence, content creator, stylist, and fashion consultant based in Los Angeles.

I feel so lucky to be having not one but two bridal showers. I didn’t think I’d have any, but my aunt in NYC and my best friend in L.A. both offered to host, and I certainly don’t need an excuse to celebrate. So yes, two bridal showers: one very family-oriented in New York and one very sunshine-in-Malibu in Los Angeles.

I wasn’t initially set on having a bridal shower for a number of reasons. While I love celebrating all things love, it didn’t feel like a priority in the grand scheme of wedding planning. Time has flown by, and there are so many logistics—not to mention my friends and family are spread all over the country. While I’m based in L.A. and most of my friends are here, my family (and some of my closest friends) are on the East Coast. I also didn’t want anyone to feel obligated to travel for this. But thanks to two incredible women in my life who so generously offered to host, I now get to celebrate in two completely different ways, and I feel endlessly grateful.

With that comes two totally different approaches to dressing—something I’ve had a lot of fun thinking through.

NYC Bridal Shower

My NYC bridal shower has already happened, and I had four fantastic options to choose from: a watercolor Altuzarra dress (one of my favorite NYC designers!), a Liberowe fringe tweed mini, a Staud white mini with a matching coat, and a vintage Chanel suit from The RealReal. Each felt very “New York” in its own way—polished, considered, and slightly more traditional. For this event, I really leaned into spring with soft pastels and a more sophisticated, buttoned-up look, literally. I even considered a Ralph Lauren button-down with a pencil skirt, which felt very Upper East Side in the best way. As you can tell, my mindset was more formal and classically bridal, with an emphasis on tailoring and timeless silhouettes.

The Altuzarra Dress I Chose for My NYC Bridal Shower

I ultimately landed on the watercolor Altuzarra dress. I went into the process leaning toward something a bit more traditional and polished, but this felt like the perfect balance—feminine and girly yet slightly unexpected with the soft wash of color. It still felt bridal, just with a bit more personality. I also love Altuzarra as a New York brand, so wearing it in the city made the choice feel even more fitting and special.

Pieces I Considered for an NYC Bridal Shower

L.A. Bridal Shower

For my L.A. bridal shower, I took a completely different approach. I found myself gravitating toward texture, ease, prints, and a more relaxed, playful energy. I’ve always felt that bridal looks can be casual and interesting, especially in a setting like Malibu where everything feels a bit more undone in the best way.

One outfit I kept coming back to was a structured Staud top paired with vintage Levi’s and chic white mules. I loved the contrast of something tailored and polished with lived-in denim—it felt effortless but still intentional, which to me is the essence of L.A. style.

Another option I considered was a Dôen fringe dress. It was a bit dressier but still felt easy and romantic, especially styled with a heeled flip-flop for that slightly unexpected touch. I also kept thinking about the “shark dress” from Staud. While it was mostly white, it had a subtle shark design along the side, and I loved that it didn’t take itself too seriously. Because honestly, who doesn’t want to wear a shark dress by the beach while sipping champagne with all their friends?

The Jacquemus Dress I Chose for My L.A. Bridal Shower

I ultimately landed on a light pink Jacquemus dress. I went into the process wanting something a bit more undone and slightly rebellious—leaning away from anything too traditional or expected. While I explored a lot of those directions, I ended up choosing something that still felt effortless and true to me. It wasn’t white, which I loved, but it still carried a softness and femininity that felt right for the moment. It struck that balance of feeling a little unexpected but still completely natural.

There were also a few other pieces in the mix that almost made the cut—some more traditional bridal options, a few ultra-minimal looks—but ultimately, I kept coming back to outfits that felt the most like me in each setting. That’s really been my guiding principle through all of this.

Pieces I Considered for my L.A. Bridal Shower

At the end of the day, planning these looks made me realize how much style is tied to place and mood. New York called for something polished, classic, and a little more buttoned-up, while L.A. invited a more relaxed, playful, and slightly unexpected take on bridal dressing. I loved leaning into each city’s personality and letting that guide my choices. If anything, this experience reminded me that bridal style doesn’t have to fit into one box. It can, and should, feel like you—wherever you are, whatever that looks like.

I have had my fair share of wedding guest outfit ideas go all wrong. Recounting them still makes me cringe, but such is life. At one wedding, I wore a dress that definitely fit the American standards of wedding guest outfits more so than the British ones. Being born and raised in the U.S., I know many weddings take place later in the day and have an evening attire feel with darker dresses, more formal looks and occasionally more revealing cuts. (They can lean casual, too; I've even been to a blue-jean wedding.) After now living in the UK for six years, I’ve picked up on lighter materials, floral prints, higher necklines and looks that work from day to evening as the norm.

As I've written about before, I'm also not a dress person and am often seeking out more interesting, alternative wedding guest outfits. Altogether, you have the makings of a perfect disaster. Luckily, these have been exceptional learning lessons. I am now a strong proponent of finding the perfect wedding guest outfit and doing so early.

When you have an idea of wedding guest outfit trends and what most fashionable folks are gravitating toward, it's easier to find a fail-proof option that you feel incredibly chic wearing to a wedding. This summer, there's an eclectic mix. Once you're aware of dress codes, location, themes and colours (either to wear or avoid), you can plan and pull inspiration from the following trends and outfits. They seemingly all have one thing in common—to provide the perfect level of energy that stands out without detracting from the couple, of course.

There are scarf dresses, which, courtesy of that extra element, instantly upgrade your outfit. Sleek jumpsuits and pops of red are also emerging, alongside dresses with textured materials. Additionally, a movement toward vintage and vintage-inspired outfits has taken over social feeds, showing that unique personal style is a key focus of getting dressed for a wedding this year. If you're immersed in your own outfit-finding research, scroll on for plenty of trends setting the tone for the summer.

6 Wedding Guest Trends to Wear in Summer 2026

1. Magnified Florals

Style Notes: Florals are undoubtedly one of the most iconic patterns and constant trends used in wedding guest dresses. Floral prints have a long, rich history, and I expect they'll remain a timeless choice decades from now. That said, the type of pattern is always shifting, and my eye has been drawn to a particular trend I've seen on my feeds lately: magnified florals. These dresses typically only feature one or two flowers, or a handful of larger ones, as if zoomed in on a macro lens. They look exceptionally refined and sophisticated in a way that usurps other blossoming prints.

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2. Scarf Dresses

Style Notes: Though I can't quite put my finger on why, a scarf instantly elevates a dress. It could be the way it drapes, its fluidity and movement, the attention it draws or simply the fact that icons like Princess Diana started wearing the scarf dress trend many years ago (that Cannes Film Festival look was everything). Regardless, a scarf dress is chic, and understandably, there has been a resurgence this year.

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3. Textured Dresses

Style Notes: A quick way to find a wedding guest outfit that feels a little different is to seek out materials that stand out on their own. From crinkled tea-length gowns to layers of ruffles to burnout textures, it's no surprise there is an uptick in textured dresses when so many shoppers are seeking out ways to feel individual amongst a sea of other wedding guest dresses and jumpsuits. Opting for a more tactile material is great, too, if the dress code states a specific colour.

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4. Jumpsuits

Style Notes: If you love the elegance and movement of a dress but prefer trousers through and through, a jumpsuit is the best wedding guest outfit idea. Whilst suits often look impeccable, there's something about the fluidity and materials that jumpsuits come in that feel so romantic. It's the best of both worlds, and a strapless style is functional for summer weather. Simply add a chiffon cape if you need more coverage.

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5. Pop of Red

Style Notes: Whether you opt for a bold and vibrant red dress or a pair of red shoes, a pop of red is a fun and fitting summer trend to incorporate into a wedding guest outfit. Depending on the style of dress or garment you opt for, you can also take this colour into autumn and winter weddings, too. As a quick caveat, there are some weddings where a bride might wear red, so it's never a bad idea to check.

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6. Vintage-Inspired Dresses

Style Notes: Whether you source a vintage dress secondhand or find a dress that's reminiscent of older styles, you'll be right on trend. There has never been more interest in seeking out styles that differ from modern-day wedding guest dresses. As part of feeling unique and going beyond the offerings on the high street, vintage and nostalgia-driven is the way to go. More recent looks from Y2K, like fringe, babydoll and bustier dresses, are popular, as are styles that go back further, like '50s halter-necks and glimmering, sequined shifts reminiscent of the 1920s.

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Welcome to Who What Wear Weddings, the destination for style-minded weddings. Expect insightful tips straight from the newlyweds, shoppable elements, and plenty of must-save imagery as we share the nuptials of our favorite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

"If you ask Chris, he would say he was playing the long game, but I doubt this is what he had in mind our sophomore year in college," says Kelli Orihuela, VIP and influence manager at Hermès, as she reflects on the beginning of her relationship with now-husband fintech sales executive Chris Denci. The two first crossed paths at the University of Delaware, where they were in the same public speaking course. At the time, they only knew each other as classmates. "We barely spoke, but he forced me to pay attention to him during a class exercise where everyone in the audience had to raise their hand and could only put it down when the speaker made eye contact for a few seconds," Orihuela recalls. "When it was my turn, he was the last person raising his hand, and even though I spoke directly to him for a full minute, he refused to put his hand down just to lock in my attention."

It didn't lead to anything at the time, but the moment stayed with them. The night before graduation, the two found each other in line outside the same bar, but only a brief hello came from it—nothing more. Months later, while they were both in New York, fate intervened again. "I was at Vanity Fair at the time and attended a brand event downtown," Orihuela explains. "[I] posted the venue on my Instagram story, and the next day, I received a message from Chris asking if I lived in New York." As it turned out, Denci was staying with a family friend in Tribeca just around the corner from Orihuela's office at One World Trade Center. "He finally asked me to grab drinks, and long story short, we have been together ever since, sharing a bottle of rosé and French fries at Grand Banks," she says.

When it came time for the proposal, Orihuela admits she had a feeling it was coming, but the moment still caught her completely off guard. "It was Christmas Day, and Chris was about a week away from relocating to London for six months, and I assumed he would finally pop the question across the pond," she says. Instead, it happened in a very intimate setting. "We were opening presents in our pajamas alongside our golden retriever, Tucker, when I noticed all of my presents were wrapped in white boxes with white ribbon," she says. It wasn't in the first box but the second, where Orihuela found a glass ornament with a ring inside—the same method Denci's dad used when he proposed to his mom. "I could barely form words and was so emotional, [which is] very off-brand for me," she says. "I am certainly grateful he proposed in our living room!"

Soon after the proposal, wedding planning began, and the couple chose Marco Island in Florida, a location with personal significance and stunning scenery that needed no embellishment. "Chris's parents have had a home in Marco Island for almost 15 years, a place I had never heard of before we got together, but now, I can't live without [it]," Orihuela shares. The two were instantly drawn to Hideaway Beach Club for its effortless charm and miles of private beach. "Every inch of the property was beautiful and new, not only in style but also a first-time experience for all of our guests," she says. Read on to admire the couple's very intentional yet effortless design approach; Orihuela's two-piece Sept wedding look, which she paired with her "something borrowed" veil; the "tropical dance club" after-party; and the handful of other special details that made the weekend feel uniquely their own.

"It was important to us to have some welcome event the day before the wedding as a thank-you to everyone making the trek to South Florida. My twin sister Nicole, who had gotten married a year prior, also said it was one of the best decisions she made so you can catch up with as many people as you can and leave small talk out of the big day. She was exactly right."

"I wanted to go for something more fun and nontraditional for the welcome party, which was my style but in a completely different direction than my wedding dress. With the help of a friend and VIP stylist, Yael Quint, I was connected with Albright Fashion Library, the home of everything from vintage Chanel to pieces from Christopher Esber's newest collection. I had worked with them on many photo shoots and was able to browse their collection a few weeks before my styling appointment since I was cutting it close. They had amazing options and styled me from head to toe. Ultimately, with input from industry friends, I went with a blush sequin knit Magda Butrym stunner with rhinestone straps. The slightly loose fit, satin-matching slingbacks, and simple drop earrings gave it the touch of effortless style I aim for in every outfit.

"Unlike me, Chris knew exactly what he wanted to wear! A loose double-breasted suit à la Seth Rogen's character in The Studio custom-made by Fresco Apparel, founded by Chris's uncle. I chose the olive-tan color, a bit outside his comfort zone, and paired it with his favorite pair of tan Hermès drivers."

"We knew immediately that Island Country Club, where Chris's parents are members, would be the perfect venue for our rehearsal dinner and welcome party. We were able to take over the full upper deck looking over the golf course that has a few firepits and a great view of the sunset. In terms of décor, we let the view do all of the talking."

Details from the welcome party.

WWW Weddings Tip: "Once the festivities start, enjoy yourself, and take it all in! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that goes by faster than you can imagine, so be present, and enjoy the fruits of your labor."

"With my wedding party only being two people, the initial getting-ready group was rather small: my twin sister, the maid of honor; soon-to-be sister-in-law as my only bridesmaid; mom; stepmom; and soon-to-be mother-in-law."

"Creating the invites was one of my favorite and most stressful (self-induced, of course) processes of wedding planning. For all wedding stationery, I worked with Little Black Dress Paperie, based in Morristown, New Jersey, not too far from where I grew up. I knew I wanted something colorful and tonal, giving maximum impact with a minimal approach. It was also very important to me to have the invites, florals, décor, etc., read more like a chic dinner party than a wedding. After creating three different color stories, I went with the color cayenne for the main invitation, a deep red-orange that was fun and unexpected yet very true to the setting, donned with a large [debossed] palm tree and white high-gloss letterpress. I chose a rattan print for the bellyband in the same colorway, which blended everything together perfectly."

"I wore an off-white short silk slip dress from a Bottega Veneta sample sale I scored a few years prior and a floor-length apricot-colored Frette silk button-up robe, which I fully plan to rewear with jeans. The ruffle details on the slip were the perfect amount of frill, while the relaxed style of the robe made me feel like I was getting ready at home rather than at the wedding venue. My glam approach was more red carpet with a sprinkle of sultry, focusing on strong brows, a thick lash line, and a really good lip, something a friend and recent bride had passed on to me. I'm happy I listened!

WWW Weddings Tip: "Check resale websites! I found some of my favorite pieces on Poshmark and eBay for a fraction of the price."

"Dress shopping was certainly a highlight, but I wanted to be extremely mindful regarding the number of appointments I booked. I made a very short list of designers and boutiques I absolutely needed to visit, then a backup list in case I needed to broaden my search."

"Sept was my third appointment, and once I walked into the showroom, I felt how special it was. The collections are not nearly as vast as those of the big bridal brands, which I appreciated because they offer a very distinct point of view. Sept also recently released a collection featuring separates, which really broadened my options. During my second appointment, which I attended alone and was meant to trim down my top options to a final two, I spotted a sheer corset top that was draped to perfection and had a texture I had never seen in bridal before. Matthew, the manager and most amazing sales associate, grabbed a sleek silk skirt with a small train, which balanced the top perfectly. What sealed the deal is that it made me feel everything I wanted to feel on my wedding day: beautiful, timeless, and like myself. When it came to accessories, I wanted to stay true to myself and keep it simple. I wore my grandmother's pearl-and-diamond drop earrings that she and many other women in my family have worn down the aisle, plus a diamond tennis bracelet from my other grandmother."

"Chris wore a black Burberry tuxedo that I had gotten him during my time at Vanity Fair. It fit him like a dream and is made of a magical blend that we have been trying to hunt down ever since. Like most grooms, he really made his outfit special with his accessories: sterling silver oval Tiffany & Co cuff links with his initials engraved, a birthday present I had given him years prior, and custom black velvet tuxedo loafers from a little shop in London. The store offered custom embroidery, one toe with a bluefin tuna and the other with our golden retriever. If you know Chris, you know his two other big loves are deep-sea fishing and our dog! They gave the perfect touch of playful personality but still toed the line of traditional black tie."

"A few hours [into the day], a small group of my closest friends joined to get the party going!"

WWW Weddings Tip: "Be very mindful of who you include in your inner circle for input, whether it's dress shopping, designing your invites, florals, etc. At the end of the day, you always have time to sleep on a decision, then trust your gut."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Start with how you want the day to feel and what you want your guests to walk away with rather than all the physical aspects you want to incorporate. This helped me craft my overall aesthetic and clear the noise in my head when I had to make big decisions."

"Honorable mention to my Etsy witch! I started to look at the forecast a week prior, which started as perfect, but in true Florida fashion, it completely changed to rain all weekend the following day. The wedding would have been a completely different vibe if we were indoors the entire time. Not only did she come through with no rain, but it was [also] the perfect temperature, slight breeze, partially overcast and with the most amazing 20-minute-long sunset."

"The ceremony was clean and simple—not only because it was the shortest part of the night, but the pared-down nature of it symbolized the whole reason for a wedding: love and people! Wicker lanterns at the entryway framed the white sand aisle that led to a round platform that blended seamlessly into the beach. Around the platform were bushels of tropical greenery, the perfect earthy element accenting our ocean backdrop. Chairs and umbrellas to shade guests from the South Florida sun were slightly varying hues of natural wood that were used to support the surroundings instead of taking away."

My florist wrapped my bouquet with a rosary that was made from the flowers at my late grandfather's funeral and a cross brooch as my 'something blue.'"

"I kept my hair down in big, loose curls to break up the material draped by my collarbone and the two-tier veil. The veil I borrowed from my sister had a horsehair trim, which complemented the texture of the top of my dress and gave the veil some structure."

"The bouquets carried by my bridal party of two and me were the only pop of color, minimal in size, and made up of two kinds of sunset-hued stems."

"Chris's cousin Michael was the perfect officiant—thoughtful, funny, captivating—and included the perfect amount of marital advice. The ceremony was the perfect length and a great kickoff to cocktail hour."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Borrow! Not only was this a money saver for small things like frames for the memorial table, but wearing family jewelry and my sister's wedding veil added the perfect amount of sentimental value."

"I loved my dress so much that I was never really interested in a second look, but another advantage of choosing separates was being able to swap out one piece to get a completely different look. After some time on the dance floor, I traded my floor-length fitted skirt for a satin micro mini that was secretly a skort so I could dance the night away. My white satin Aquazzura slingback sandals with crystal bows also got their very deserved time to shine. I also bought an ivory duchesse silk Courtney Zheng bralette to wear with my Sept skirt in case I wanted to give that a new life too, but I spent too much time dancing to change a second time, which is what every bride should do!"

"Cocktail hour is always one of my favorite moments of a wedding, as it can set the tone for the rest of the party if done right. I knew this was where I wanted to start introducing color as a buildup instead of a major moment, especially since the pool deck was so vast. A table hosting the escort cards, printed on the same fresh green as the bar menus, was also a slight nod to our invitations with the palm tree and our initials in script, all printed in a deeper shade of green."

"Sit-down dinner on the beach was my big wow moment! While I love a neutral, I thought a pop of color against the vastness of the beach and pure white sand would create a very impactful moment without having 101 design elements. When choosing the color scheme, I wanted something unexpected yet complementary to the setting, which led me to sunset hues, leaning more toward the orange-red part of the spectrum rather than pinks. Like my invitations, keeping the majority of elements monochromatic can make even the loudest of colors more approachable, which is how I landed on the florals, seat, and table cards all mirroring the orangey-red linens."

"We had our band play a few songs to get the party going, then Chris and I took center stage for our upbeat first dance. A dance with my dad followed to Stevie Wonder's 'Isn't She Lovely,' which my dad famously sang to my sister and me when he held us for the first time in the hospital. He took great pride in choreographing our dance and will always be one of my favorite dance partners. Chris and his mom closed the dances with 'Forever Young,' which everyone sang the chorus to before storming the dance floor."

WWW Weddings Tip: "Don't just look at weddings for inspiration. I found this extremely helpful, especially when it came to color schemes and décor. I drew a ton of inspiration from color combinations found in nature, interior design, and even runway looks. In terms of décor, I shifted my focus from wedding receptions to brand trips, hotels, restaurants, and even birthday parties!"

Details from the wedding reception.

"For the final moment of the night, I wanted to create a tropical dance club. As we walked from the beach, multicolored lights flooded through the ballroom windows, welcoming guests to the dance floor. We also added uplighting in a dark emerald green alongside the walls to the left and right of our nine-piece band. The room's high ceilings allowed for clusters of wicker and rattan lanterns to hang above the dance floor, complementing the clusters of lanterns that framed the stage and were accompanied by large tropical palms. The shift to dark hues completed the color spectrum and symbolized the night's final moment. From start to finish, everyone was on the dance floor, and I even made it onstage. What more could you ask for?"

Wedding Planner: Kelci Leigh Events
Photographers: Kara Jean Lanteigne, Julie Cate Christman, and Joseph Rogero
Videographer: So Loved Films
Hair and Makeup Artist: Unbreakable Beauty
Band: Bay Kings Band
Striped-Linen Designer: Nuage Design
Solid-Linen Designer: Taylor Rental
Florist: West & Rock
Stationery Designer: Little Black Dress Paperie
Furniture Rentals: Taylor Rental and Plíthos Event Rentals

If you're interested in having your wedding featured on our site, please fill out our Who What Wear Weddings submission form here.

Historically, I have had a toxic trait when it comes to weddings: I like pretty shoes. Comfort hasn't always been my first priority when putting together my outfit, and I've ended up in a lot of pain near the end of the night. Over the years, my experience working in fashion has led to smarter shoe choices. Now that I've tried every brand, interviewed experts, and done my research, this mistake is far less common for me, but every now and then, I purchase a pair of shoes that just won't work for more than a door-to-door car ride to dinner.

When I had the chance to ask a podiatrist what actually makes wedding guest shoes comfortable, I listened. The takeaway? It's less about sacrificing style and more about knowing what to look for. The right pair should carry you from the ceremony to the dance floor without a second thought. I had a few words with Anna Baird, a podiatrist and the founder of Bared Footwear, about exactly what to know before picking out a pair of shoes for your next wedding.

What are the biggest mistakes you see people make when choosing wedding guest shoes?

The number one mistake is choosing shoes based purely on how they look in the box. You pick them up. They're beautiful. You convince yourself they'll be fine on the day, but a wedding is genuinely one of the longest days you will ever spend on your feet. You're standing for ceremony, cocktail hour, photos, dinner, dancing. People so often wear shoes with no consideration at all for comfort, so by the time the dance floor starts, they are either in pain or barefoot.

The other thing I see constantly is people underestimating the venue. A stiletto on a lawn is not a great idea, and a barely-there strap on a cobblestone terrace is likely to end in disaster. Think about where you're actually walking, not just what the shoe looks like standing.

Is there a safe heel height for standing and dancing for hours?

As a podiatrist, I would say that you are always going to be more comfortable in a lower-heeled shoe. Every body is different, so there is no known safe height, but under seven centimeters will definitely give you a good chance of staying comfortable all day and night. Around six centimeters gives you enough height and elegance without putting excessive load through the forefoot. A biomechanically designed footbed with arch support and cushioning is going to make a six-centimeter heel feel very different from a six-centimeter heel with nothing inside it. That's really what we engineer at Bared.

How should your feet feel when you first try on shoes? What's a red flag immediately?

It should feel comfortable straight away if you are just standing or walking around a store. It is much better to have a bit too much room in the shoe, but choose a style that fastens onto your foot. That little bit of extra room will be your lifesaver by the end of the night.

Avoid really narrow straps that feel snug in the store. These will end up feeling like wire if your feet swell after standing all day.

How much breaking in should you realistically do before the event?

I think the whole concept of breaking in has been normalized in a way that is really doing people a disservice. You should not suffer through weeks of wear before a shoe becomes comfortable, but leather shoes do need to soften and shape to an individual's foot. It is important to wear any new shoe two or three times around the house for a few hours before a big event. It may not be a great look, but wearing socks on the first few wears can help to keep your feet comfortable whilst the shoe molds to your feet.

What's your opinion on bringing a second pair? Smart or unnecessary?

I would say smart. Most brides and guests do want to wear a heel on their wedding day, but even a mid-height heel is putting extra pressure on your feet and affecting your posture. Even if your heel seems perfectly comfortable for the first few hours, you might want to change into something flatter as the night rolls on. And I say that as someone who has worked incredibly hard to make sure the first pair goes the whole day, but even we put out a flat option for exactly this reason.

It is nice to choose your second pair with intention rather than just grabbing flip-flops. A pointed flat with an ankle strap, something like the Riparia, gives you elegance with zero sacrifice. You never have to feel like you've given up on the look. You've just made a smart decision.

How do you plan for shoes that have to last through ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing?

You plan backwards from dancing. The dance floor is the most demanding part of the day, and it is also the part people want to be fully present for. If you choose a shoe that can handle that, it can handle everything before it.

Look for a block or sculpted heel over a stiletto for stability, an adjustable strap to accommodate any swelling, and cushioning. At Bared, every one of those things is engineered into the shoe from the start, not added as an afterthought.

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