Copenhagen Fashion Week spring/summer 2027 has just wrapped, and there's one dress trend I haven't been able to stop thinking about since leaving the Danish capital: sheer, slinky, barely-there dresses. Across the runways, designers sent out body-skimming silhouettes and whisper-thin fabrics in shades of ivory, blush, and nude that felt romantic, a little undone, and undeniably sexy. Perhaps I have weddings on the brain given my own upcoming nuptials, but almost immediately, I started thinking about brides.

Wedding dressing has loosened up considerably over the past few years, especially once the ceremony is over. If the main gown is the moment for drama—corsetry, structure, trains, yards and yards of fabric—the second look has become its fun, slightly mischievous younger sister. It's shorter. It's slinkier. It's easier to dance in and, increasingly, a lot sexier.

At By Malene Birger, which returned to the Copenhagen Fashion Week schedule this season, that sensuality came with the kind of understated sophistication the label does so well. Think fluid fabrics, elongated silhouettes, and dresses that skim the body rather than sculpt it. One standout was a blush-toned metallic slip dress, a knowing homage to the famously sheer slip Kate Moss wore to a 1993 party in London.

Slinky Second Dresses on the Runway

Of course, sheer dressing isn't exactly breaking news. For the past several seasons, designers have experimented with transparency in practically every form imaginable, from gauzy skirts worn over briefs to lace dresses and the now-ubiquitous naked dress. But Copenhagen offered something a little different. There was less shock value, less "look at me" nakedness. Pale blush, creamy white, and skin-adjacent nudes made even the most revealing looks feel delicate rather than overt, more romantic than red carpet.

The idea took on different forms elsewhere. Baum und Pferdgarten paired transparency with floral embellishments for a coquettish take, and Freya Dalsjø went more directional, sending a model down the runway in a deep-U-neck satin gown. OpéraSport played with flowing lace-trimmed dresses, and The Garment approached the idea through two-piece silhouettes. Collina Strada, a New York–based label that showed at Copenhagen Fashion Week as an international guest, sent sequined bias-cut gowns down the runway, complete with detailed diamond accessories and floral accents. None of these looks were necessarily intended for a wedding, but that's sort of the point. Sometimes, the sexiest dress at the wedding isn't a wedding dress at all.

It's something style insiders have known for years: The best wedding dresses don't necessarily come from a bridal salon. The most interesting looks I've seen lately have come from ready-to-wear collections as brides look beyond traditional labels for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, receptions, and everything in between. In that sense, Copenhagen's spring/summer 2027 runways feel particularly well-timed. A sheer ivory column dress or barely-there slip might not have been designed with a bride in mind, but with satin heels, a veil, and perhaps a martini after midnight, the proposition becomes pretty convincing.

Slinky Second Dresses on the Style Set

Traditional ball gowns and mantilla veils aren't disappearing anytime soon, nor should they. But once the reception ends and the after-party begins, brides will be ready to shed a few layers. Copenhagen's sheer dresses may not have been intended for the aisle, but come 2027, don't be surprised if you see them all over the dance floor.

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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.

Their love story began nearly a decade ago when they were introduced through a family member. "It was love at first sight," says Georgie Wright, cofounder of The Veil, as she thinks back to when she began dating Charles Forte, her now-husband and the vice president of development at Rocco Forte Hotels. However, it wasn't your typical whirlwind romance. "What followed was a few years of us both pretending not to be interested and playing it very cool," she says. "Somehow that worked."

After eight years together, the couple traveled to Mustique, a private island in the Caribbean that a select group of royalty and rock stars call home. It was there, shortly after arriving, that they got engaged. "The proposal happened on New Year's Eve 2024 in our hotel room after breakfast," Wright says. Forte was nervous, profusely sweating, as she recalls, trying hard to keep his cool. "It gave the game away rather quickly," she says. "But it was understated, incredibly sweet, and very us." The ring is an antique cushion-cut diamond that Wright sourced. "I've always been obsessed with the character of old-cut stones," she says. "Unlike modern diamonds, they were originally cut to sparkle by candlelight, giving them a softer, more romantic brilliance that I find incredibly beautiful."

The couple exchanged vows on April 24, 2026, with festivities centered around Villa Igiea in Palermo. "Choosing our venue was actually one of the easiest decisions," Wright says. "Villa Igiea has enormous significance for Charles and his family. His father, Sir Rocco Forte, founded Rocco Forte Hotels, and Charles spent time living there during its reopening."

The two-day celebration embraced the grandeur of Sicily while remaining deeply personal. Invitations, by Laura Graham, founder and owner of GG Print, set the tone. They included bespoke illustrations of Palermo's landmarks—including Villa Igiea and Monreale Cathedral, a 12th-century Catholic church where the ceremony was held—as well as a charming drawing of Forte and Wright's miniature dachshund on the RSVP cards.

To bring their design vision to life, the two worked closely with friend and planner Anna Boglione, focusing on celebrating the extraordinary architecture of the venues rather than competing with them. This intentionality shone through in Wright's choice of bridal attire. For the first night, which included the ceremony and dinner, she wore an Audrey Hepburn–inspired gown of her own design, which she accessorized with a custom ivory version of The Veil's signature Melt bag. Her ensemble for the second night showcased another bespoke, hand-embellished gown created by Wright, beautifully layered with a fur-trimmed opera coat by London-based designer Viktor Gichev. Keep reading to admire all of the elegant details that made this wedding feel so special.

"I got ready at Villa Igiea surrounded by my closest friends and family, which was one of the most special parts of the weekend. We played ‘Going to the Chapel’ by The Dixie Cups just a couple of times…"

"I thought about getting the dress designed for me; however, since launching The Veil and the knowledge I have about embroidery, it didn’t feel right for me not to design it myself. The biggest inspiration came from Audrey Hepburn's Ascot dress in My Fair Lady—a look I've been obsessed with since childhood."

"I incorporated an incredibly meaningful family heirloom: a veil that belongs to Charles's family. I photocopied every flower within the veil before re-creating my own embroidery pattern inspired by those floral motifs. Once the embroidery artwork was complete, I traveled to our embroidery factory in India over several months, perfecting every tiny detail. The final dress took around four months to develop and featured thousands of miniature ivory and glass beads that shimmered almost like diamonds."

WWW Weddings Tip: "If you're designing or custom-making anything, start far earlier than you think you need to. Beautiful craftsmanship always takes longer than expected."

"Hair was by Pierre Saint Sever and makeup by Mayumi Oda, who created an elegant and timeless beauty look that made me feel like the best version of myself rather than someone completely different. Mayumi did the most insane facial massage every morning to bring me back to life."

"As the cofounder of The Veil, it felt only right to create my own bridal handbag, too. I designed a bespoke ivory version of our signature Melt bag especially for the wedding and a mini crystal tassel bag."

Wright with her close friends.

Wright poses with her parents.

"We got married in Monreale Cathedral in a traditional Catholic ceremony surrounded by our closest family and friends. The moment we walked inside and saw the extraordinary gold Byzantine mosaics, we knew it was where we wanted to get married—it is mind-blowing."

"Walking into the cathedral remains one of the most emotional moments of my life."

Wright's father walks her down the aisle.

"Charles wore a bespoke Anderson & Sheppard suit, finished with his grandfather's beautiful pearl and diamond dress studs, making his look feel incredibly personal while honoring family tradition."

Wright and Forte officially become husband and wife.

Wright and Forte leave the cathedral and get showered with rose petals.

The Sicilian Ballo della Corsella cheered us before entering dinner.

We danced with the traditional Sicilian Ballo della Cordella.

"Dinner took place in the spectacular Benedictine Cloisters beside Monreale Cathedral. Our vision was always to celebrate the extraordinary architecture of our venues rather than compete with them."

"We wanted the setting to feel incredibly romantic, while allowing the beauty of the cloister to speak for itself. Long tables were positioned around the cloister, framed by the beautiful golden mosaic columns and Romanesque arches, allowing the historic surroundings to become the backdrop to the evening. The tables were dressed with an abundance of candlelight winding down their full length, alongside scented seasonal greenery and delicate touches of white flowers. We deliberately kept the florals understated, allowing the centuries-old architecture to remain the focal point. Looking around and seeing everyone we love together in one place was the highlight of the entire weekend, along with the most incredible speeches."

"As the sun set and the candles were lit, the entire cloister took on an incredibly intimate and magical atmosphere."

Wright tosses the bouquet over her shoulder for a guest to catch.

"Instead of a traditional wedding cake, we served a beautiful three-tier pavlova."

Aerial acrobats close out the evening.

WWW Weddings Tip: "Design your wedding around how you want everyone to feel rather than simply how you want it to look."

"For the celebrations at Villa Igiea the following evening, our inspiration shifted to the hotel's belle époque heritage. During the aperitivo, guests were welcomed by a spectacular ice fountain installation that doubled as a crudo bar, surrounded by fragrant lemon trees and sprawling foliage—a celebration of Sicily and its abundance."

"I designed my second look myself. The dress was entirely hand-embroidered in thousands of tiny ivory glass microbeads, creating a subtle shimmer that perfectly matched my bespoke ivory Mini Melt bag from The Veil."

"To complete the look, I wore a custom cream lace opera coat, finished with vintage white fur trim by Viktor Gichev. It was incredibly dramatic yet timeless, and I think it ended up being the star of the show."

Wright shares a laugh with her father.

WWW Wedding Tips: "Don't over-schedule your wedding weekend. Leave enough time to actually enjoy your guests."

Guests enter Villa Igiea for dinner.

"The floral design and overall aesthetic were inspired by the magnificent murals in the Sala Basile, reinterpreting their colors and romantic botanical motifs throughout the ballroom."

"Everything was softly lit with candles and warm lighting to create a romantic, intimate atmosphere."

Wright and Forte share a kiss.

"We loved the contrast between the timeless elegance of the dinner and the vibrant, joyful energy of the party that followed. This all came to life by my party planner and dear friend Anna Boglione—a creative genius."

"Once dinner was over, the mood shifted. The dance floor became much more playful, with rich pink and red drapery framing the stage and a large draped heart creating the backdrop for the band."

Details of the dessert buffet at the after-party.

WWW Weddings Tip: "Trust your instincts. Every decision became much easier once we stopped thinking about what weddings 'should' look like and focused on what felt authentic to us."

Photographer: Gioconda & August
Planner: Anna Boglione
Hair: Pierre Saint Sever
Makeup: Mayumi Oda
Florals: Frascati Fiori
Stationery: GG Print
Catering: Chef Fulvio Pierangelini

This fall, I have five weddings on my calendar. Being a wedding guest isn't anything new for me, though. I attended a few this past spring and last year, too. So it's safe to say I've become something of an expert when it comes to dressing for "I do" moments.

One lesson I've learned recently? Buying a new wedding guest dress for every event isn't necessary. It's just an endless and expensive cycle. That's why I'm now investing in one dress I'll wear to the five upcoming celebrations. Thanks to Kaia Gerber, I found the chicest one with endless styling possibilities, so I'll never get sick of it, and it will always feel new.

On Kaia Gerber: Norma Kamali Invisible Fishtail Gown ($385)

Last week, while in NYC for the after-party following the Shards premiere, Gerber stepped out in a sleek black gown. The style was an under-$400 design from Norma Kamali. The accessible price point is reason enough to love it, but that's far from the only selling point. The body-hugging silhouette, low-back cut, and fishtail hem add drama and sensuality. At the same time, the translucent straps create the illusion that the dress is floating on the body, giving it a sleek, streamlined look.

The best part is that you don't have to be headed to a wedding to justify adding it to your closet. It's versatile enough for everything from a black-tie gala to an elegant dinner party in your friend's Tribeca loft.

Ever since Gerber wore the dress, it has been selling out quickly, so if you want to snag one in your size before it's too late, keep scrolling. Ahead, you can shop the dress as well as a few other timeless black gowns that are just as elegant.

Shop the Norma Kamali Invisible Fishtail Gown

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Once the pressure of choosing a wedding dress has been alleviated, don’t think brides are in the clear in knowing what they’ll wear down the aisle. (Or, at their receptions and after parties, for that matter.) As the current bridal accessories trends indicate, the sartorial accoutrements you don for your nuptials need to be considered as the gown itself. Playing a supporting, if not even starring, role in your bridal look, what was once a secondary decision has now become a significant one, given how specific pieces can alter your overall ensemble.

Once upon a time, options were fairly limited, and all you had to do was select from a few accessories before arriving at the altar. Would your veil be long or short? Would your jewellery be classic or contemporary? Would your shoes be flat or heeled? The answers to these rudimentary questions would dictate your finishing touches for the big day.

But with the advent of a more trend-forward market and the rise of bespoke wedding dresses that suit your personal style, of course, more individualised accessories would come to the fore.

You only need to look at the most prolific newlyweds to prove this point. From Gabriette’s custom Matières Fécales top hat to Charli XCX’s bratty sunglasses, those with impeccable taste know that the best bridal looks are those that have been thought through from top to toe. So, without further ado, uncover the key bridal accessories that every chic bride is wearing to tie the knot.

The 5 Key Bridal Accessories Trends of 2026

1. Wide-Brim Hats

Style Notes: Dua Lipa’s wedding to Callum Turner delivered a pantheon of iconic looks to covet. From her vintage scintillating Versace mini dress from the autumn/winter 1995 show, which Kate Moss wore down the runway with a pair of go-go boots and a cropped veil, to being the first bride to wear a Chanel wedding dress during Matthieu Blazy’s tenure at the helm of the French maison, every look was a spectacle in and of itself.

However, it was the Schiaparelli set that she wore to her civil ceremony in Marylebone Town Hall that proved to be the most memorable. Taking cues from the two-piece skirt suit that Bianca Jagger wore to wed The Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger in Saint-Tropez in 1971, she lent into the effortless tailoring and chic daytime setting of the nuptials by reviving the wide-brimmed hat. In lieu of a veil, the songstress showcased that millinery can be just as powerful as a sheath of wispy fabric, and doesn’t contain any of the archaic modesty connotations.

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2. Neck Scarves

Style Notes: Spotted on Grace Kelly in Alfred Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief and on Princess Diana at the Cannes Film Festival in 1987, neck scarves have always been imbued with an Old Hollywood glamour that’s made them such a timeless fixture. Of course, the reason for its inclusion in this edit is in the name itself, given it will make any silhouette all the more opulent when added.

Still, there is a more subliminal reason for wearing one, which is that the very act of layering it on will create the illusion of two separate wedding dresses. When removed, it almost feels like you have another moment to let the dress shine, when all you’ve done is make the mindful choice to take the accessory off.

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3. Lace Gloves

Style Notes: Some of the more alternative brides are biting their thumbs at tradition and subverting the age-old convention of wearing gloves on their wedding days by opting for a more sensual style. And given how many iconic looks in popular culture are centred around a pair of gloves, be it Audrey Hepburn at Breakfast at Tiffany’s or Rihanna in a pair made of Swarovski crystal for the 2014 CFDA Awards, it should come as no surprise that this trend has taken off amongst the bolder dressers amongst us. Still, gloves also add a touch of visual intrigue to your look, especially when opting for a corseted or strapless option. Adding a touch of colour that draws your eyes down the body, it's a touch that makes your look feel more put together.

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4. Pill Box Hats

Style Notes: The pill-box hat will forever be associated with Jackie Kennedy and the pale pink Halston style she wore with her famous Chanel suit. Last year, they made quite the comeback in ready-to-wear spheres, whether rendered in leopard print like the style spotted at Copenhagen Fashion Week or timeless black versions. Now, they’re finding their way into bridal wardrobes. As a true alternative to an elongated veil, this hat style feels both quaint and cool, making it the perfect option for those who are planning a wedding in the city.

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5. Opera Coats

Style Notes: Though there is something perennially appealing in wearing a simple slip dress, brides who find themselves underwhelmed by a pared-back look will find solace in the rise of the opera coat trend. Across London, the most stylish dressers are being swept up by this silhouette, from the jacquard chinoiserie Conner Ives style to the animal print Queens of Archive version. Whilst this trend leans more towards winter weddings, there’s something quite cool about running around in a jacket that Cruella de Vil might’ve once lusted over. (Completely faux, of course.)

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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.

For as long as I can remember, I've dreamed of my perfect wedding day—specifically, a 250-guest spring celebration outdoors, nestled among rolling mountains and vibrant wildflowers. While I already have clear visions of my dream dress, bridal hair, and makeup, the proposal itself holds just as much weight in my imagination. I picture an intimate, intentional moment, complete with a timeless, chic outfit that photographs beautifully and makes me feel like my most confident self. That is exactly why my Pinterest board is packed with engagement-outfit inspiration, even if a proposal isn't in the cards for me just yet.

It might go without saying, but I know I’ll be the type of person who will be fully prepared at the first hint of an engagement. And I know I'm not alone with this. If you're like me and are anticipating a proposal soon, you're in the right place. Ahead, I’ve compiled images of seven elegant outfits that have recently caught my eye and are perfect for an engagement. The best part? These looks are versatile, allowing you to wear them again for a European getaway or a stylish dinner with friends in the city. From a classic tan high-neck top paired with white wide-leg pants to a pretty white lace minidress, keep scrolling to discover the outfits.

Engagement Outfit Ideas 2026

Get the look: White halter top + White midi skirt + White kitten heels

Get the look: Ivory camisole + Ivory silk pants + Black strappy heels

Get the look: White halter minidress + Green clutch + Green sandals

Get the look: Tan high-neck top + White wide-leg pants

Get the look: White crochet top + White lace-trim miniskirt + Black kitten heels

Get the look: Beige strapless maxi dress + Gold heels

Get the look: White lace minidress + Pendant necklace

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Taylor Swift picked out a white dress! For her wedding to Travis Kelce on July 3, 2026, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Swift wore a Christian Dior Haute Couture wedding dress designed by Jonathan Anderson along with custom Christian Louboutin shoes and Cartier jewelry, her publicist Tree Paine confirmed to the Associated Press. Her dress brand of choice was much speculated about, including by our own Who What Wear editors. Not to brag, but I did correctly guess Dior!

"The bride and groom’s wedding ceremony looks have been created by Christian Dior Haute Couture," Paine's press release stated. "They are designed by Jonathan Anderson, Creative Director of Dior Women’s, Men’s and Haute Couture Collections, in close collaboration with the Bride and Groom. This is the designer’s first couture wedding dress for a world-renowned celebrity. Their shoes were custom made by Christian Louboutin and the bride wore Cartier jewelry."

Her publicist also revealed further details in the same press release. "Taylor & Travis did not have bridesmaids or groomsmen," Paine stated. "Instead, her brother Austin Swift served as Taylor’s Man of Honor and Jason Kelce was Travis’ Best Man. The ceremony joined both families together and was officiated by friend Adam Sandler."

Dakota Johnson, Selena Gomez, Abigail Anderson, and Karlie Kloss are among the attendees at the wedding today. Check back here for photos the minute they're available.

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

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Congratulations are in order. After officially tying the knot at London's Old Marylebone Town Hall a few weeks ago—where the bride wore a custom, Bianca Jagger-esque Schiaparelli skirt suit and elegant wide-brimmed hat—Dua Lipa and Callum Turner have now shared photographs from the second chapter of their celebrations in Sicily.

For the first stage of the Italian festivities, Dua wore a custom Bottega Veneta halterneck gown featuring the house's signature intrecciato-inspired detailing. For the main event, however, Dua turned to a house with which she has a long-standing relationship: Chanel.

The bride wore a custom Chanel Haute Couture wedding gown adorned with feathers and crystal embellishments. The halterneck design featured a low back and elongated train scattered with delicate feather detailing. She completed the look with a feather-trimmed headpiece and a long embroidered veil.

Handcrafted at Chanel's ateliers at 31 Rue Cambon in Paris, the gown brought together the expertise of several of the house's specialist métiers d'art. 480,000 beads were hand-embroidered across the dress, whilst the trompe l'oeil jewelled embellishments took 1,155 hours to create. The two-metre train was finished with 25,000 feathers, and Dua's six-metre tulle veil was similarly embellished with hand-embroidered beads and feathers for an elegant, cohesive finish.

The gown marks the first Chanel Haute Couture wedding dress designed by Matthieu Blazy for a friend of the house. As an official Chanel ambassador and the face of the Chanel 25 handbag campaign, Lipa's choice of wedding dress felt incredibly fitting.

Elegant and extraordinary, but not at the expense of her own playful style, Dua's feather-embellished gown has me thinking that the era of '90s style slinky designs is over, and that a new bridal trend is on the horizon.

Read on to shop my edit of the best Dua-worthy wedding gowns below.

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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.

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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Confirmed: London's wedding of the year took place this weekend, as singer Dua Lipa tied the knot with long-term partner Callum Turner in an intimate ceremony in Marylebone.

As the city's reigning cool-girl, it should come as no surprise that Dua's wedding is already setting the tone for bridal style this season. From her impeccably elegant take on bridal tailoring to her thoughtfully chosen accessories, discover the wedding trends her nuptials have propelled into the spotlight.

3 Wedding Trends Every Cool Bride Will Copy

1. The Skirt Set

Forgoing the traditional princess gown or silky slip, Dua took a decidedly fashion-first approach to bridal dressing, choosing a custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture look by Daniel Roseberry for her walk down the aisle. Drawing inevitable comparisons to Bianca Jagger's unforgettable white blazer and skirt ensemble for her wedding to Mick Jagger in 1971, the look marked the return of bridal tailoring for 2026.

Never one to go low-key, Dua's custom two-piece featured a sharply tailored ivory blazer punctuated with Schiaparelli's signature gold bijoux buttons, paired with an asymmetric skirt and sculpted blush-toned bustier trimmed with delicate white lace. Elegant yet directional, I can already tell that this bridal look is destined to inspire replicas this summer.

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2. The Statement Necklace

You'll have the rest of your life to layer delicate jewellery. On your wedding day, why not make a statement? Taking a less-is-more approach elsewhere, Dua anchored her bridal look with Bulgari's Serpenti necklace in 18kt pink gold, featuring two pear-cut emeralds. Refined and impactful, Dua made a strong case for high-impact jewellery becoming the bridal trend of the season.

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3. Old-School Accessories

Alongside her contemporary tailoring, Dua embraced a series of classic touches that lent the look an enduring elegance. White satin gloves, Christian Louboutin heels and an oversized Stephen Jones hat nodded to traditional bridal styling. Though hats have largely fallen out of favour in recent years, fashion's cyclical nature suggests a revival has been brewing—and Dua's endorsement may well accelerate its return. With long, soft waves cascading over her shoulders and simple diamond studs framing her face, Dua's look felt far more timeless than trend-led.

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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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Weddings were once intimate affairs, remembered in physical photo albums and through stories told face-to-face. Today, they unfold in real time—shared, told, and bookmarked across different social media platforms, from Instagram to Pinterest, where an untold number of people see the flowers, menus, and after-party looks you spent hours meticulously planning. As a result, weddings are far more visible and exposed than ever before, placing new pressure on brides to make all of their decisions with a digital audience in mind. The main wedding look, in particular, carries a lot of weight: It has to photograph well, stand out, and—perhaps most stressfully—earn approval from those online. In this landscape, nearlyweds are left asking a set of questions. How can I look unique and memorable on a day that everyone will see? Where do I find something that no one else has worn or will have? More importantly, how can I still feel authentically myself when dressing for a digital gaze? For many, vintage has emerged as the answer.

Vintage bridalwear possesses irreplaceable charm, history, and character. This distinctiveness, paired with a wider range of choices, prevents the sameness sometimes found in the traditional bridal space. Alexis Novak—founder of Tab Vintage, a Los Angeles–based archival vintage studio—explains to Who What Wear, "The modern bridal offering is gorgeous but only has a few select seasonal options, so the likelihood that those who are getting married during the same season wear something similar is high." The inherent uniqueness of vintage is a key driver of its appeal. Lily Kaizer—founder of Happy Isles, a luxury vintage bridal salon in NYC and L.A.—agrees. "While there's a whole host of reasons that brides opt for vintage on their wedding day, such as style and sustainability, the desire for brides to find something that feels special and not like something they've already seen on Instagram a million times is the major driving factor in the growth of vintage bridal," she shares.

The vintage bridal market is expanding before our eyes. According to Zola's First Look Report, the percentage of respondents who thrifted or sustainably sourced their wedding looks jumped from 14% in 2024 to 17% last year, and this upward trend is projected to continue through 2026. This growing interest is evident in the business: "There's an extreme increase in brides wanting to wear vintage on their wedding days," Novak says. "The bridal requests used to trickle in, and now, it's a primary pillar of our business."

Still, this surge in demand is relatively recent. "When I started Happy Isles in 2016, vintage bridal wasn't really a thing," Kaizer says. "Ten years later, you'd be hard-pressed to find a fashion-minded nearlywed who doesn't have a vintage bridal salon on her must-visit list." Lizzie Wheeler—the founder of Studio Dorothy, a Brooklyn-based vintage and archival bridal studio—traces the spike in interest back to 2023, when nearlyweds began reaching out to her through her previous Instagram page, @shit.u.should.buy, for sourcing help. "I felt the demand directly because brides sought me out to fill it before I even advertised that I was a vintage bridal resource," she says. That momentum ultimately led to the launch of Studio Dorothy in late 2024.

Of course, the growing popularity of vintage doesn't make finding "the one" any easier. In fact, most people getting married find the process more challenging when vintage is involved. "[Vintage shopping is] genuinely harder than shopping new," Stevie Barbieri, a celebrity groomer who wore a vintage John Paul Ataker tea-length dress for her wedding, tells Who What Wear. "I started with vintage, but it's truly the luck of the draw. Nothing felt meant to be, so then I tried the new-dress route. I quickly found that the quality and price point didn't align the way they do with vintage bridal, and I couldn't bring myself to commit to anything."

Barbieri was still stuck but ultimately embraced the idea of "something borrowed." She inquired about her mother's wedding dress and her grandmother's veil. Remarkably, the veil, which had been left at the dry cleaner's 34 years prior, was still there and perfectly preserved. Drawn to the third-generation headpiece, Barbieri decided to build her entire bridal look around it. "I kept coming back to the fact that something new didn't withstand the test of time," she explains. "The veil had survived decades, and a brand-new dress hadn't."

With a clear focus on the vintage route, a client recommendation led Barbieri to Sophie's Vintage Bridal boutique in New York City. "Sophie [Madorsky, founder of Sophie's Vintage Bridal], truly did the rest," Barbieri recounts. "She knew how to contrast my tattoos with something soft and unexpected, understood my love for my grandmother's headpiece, and shared my obsession with 1950s and '60s [The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel] aesthetics." The first dress Madorsky pulled was the one Barbieri chose. The moment brought forth a sigh of relief, as she had tried on over 30 dresses at that point.

Samantha Greenberg, a longtime admirer of vintage fashion, also felt "totally lost" when she began looking for a wedding dress. "Part of me wanted to go to the classic bridal stores and try on those kinds of dresses, but I just could not picture myself there, so I never went!" she tells Who What Wear.

Greenberg's search took a decisive turn after she discovered Tab Vintage on TikTok and secured an appointment with Novak. At the time, appointments were available only to stylists and by referral, so her stylist friend had to contact Novak for her. One thing led to another, and she found herself fully entrusting Novak with finding her dream dress, a process that took some time. (The best things usually do.) After Greenberg tried on numerous options at a Tab Vintage pop-up in New York City, Novak pulled out one final option. "It basically looked like a bedsheet with slits in it," Greenberg recalls. It was a 1991 cut-and-slash Vivienne Westwood gown. "Alexis said, 'Don't say no. Just try it,'" Greenberg adds. "I put the dress on, and it just clicked."

The search is always only one part of the story; the other is the emotional component. When the right vintage piece finally finds its wearer, it doesn't just fit the body—it connects the wearer to a deeper feeling. At that moment, there's a quiet realization that what you're wearing not only holds promises of the future but also memories of a past, and they somehow feel meant for you. For some, their personal story is intrinsically linked to that connection.

As Barbieri puts it, her love story "is the furthest thing from off the rack," so it only made sense that her dress would be too. She also felt that choosing vintage was a safe investment. "As a queer woman who doesn't plan on having children, I couldn't justify a one-time-wear dress," she explains. "When I put on the first dress Sophie pulled for me, my now-wife took one look and said, 'That's the one.' I immediately spun in a circle and felt like the coolest tattooed, rule-defying bride who'd time-traveled from the '50s and was single-handedly dismantling what capitalism did to wedding culture."

For Greenberg, the feeling was a little bit different. "The dress was exactly what I wanted but could never describe," she shares. "I hadn't ever seen anything like it before and knew no one would wear something like it in the future." What solidified it for her, though, was the value it held from its past. "Knowing that I was bringing a piece back to life after decades of being hidden away was really cool," Greenberg says. "Also, to know that Vivienne herself slashed the fabric made it incredibly special to me. The dress is truly art."

Even if it's not the main gown for the aisle and reception, today's brides are finding every excuse to weave archival fashion into any part of the wedding weekend. "My typical client comes to me for the additional looks: civil ceremony, rehearsal dinner, reception, after-party," notes Wheeler. Kaizer echoes this sentiment, stressing that the secondary looks—especially the rehearsal-dinner outfit—are key for Happy Isles. "Truly, brides are dancing between the two: A '00s Dior for her rehearsal, something from LOHO Bride for her ceremony, and dancing the night away in an '80s Bob Mackie for her after-party," Kaizer argues. "It's no longer that you're 'a vintage bride' or 'a contemporary bride.'" The two now coexist. "That is the modern bride," Kaizer concludes.

Perhaps it is this balance of old and new that makes vintage bridalwear resonate so deeply today. In a world increasingly shaped by the homogeneity of social media, vintage offers history, individuality, storytelling, style, and a challenge to uniformity—all of which will captivate a digital audience.

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This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

There's no reason that shopping for a wedding guest dress should be any more difficult than shopping for any other occasion, yet every time I sit down to take a stab at it, sourcing the perfect style feels just shy of impossible. I have several weddings on my calendar this year, which means I've been spending a considerable amount of time finding a dress to wear to each of them, taking into consideration the season, setting, and dress codes on the invite. Today, though, I'm diving into the top wedding guest trends of the moment.

We’ve already reported on the biggest bridal fashion trends to know for 2026 brides, but now it's time to discuss the trends shaping what guests will wear to weddings this year. There are already several themes emerging—from the trending colors defining the standout dresses to the personality-driven accessories to wear with them, these are all the elements of what defines a winning wedding guest look this year.

After analyzing overarching wedding trends, 2026 dress trends, and chatting with bridal stylist and fashion editor Corinne Pierre-Louis and bridal stylist Kennedy Schmidt, these are unquestionably the major trends in wedding guest dressing to know this year.

Consider Skipping: Scarf Necklines

"Scarf necklines have been everywhere lately (on brides and guests alike), and I think this trend has run its course," Pierre-Louis says. "As we head into the 2026 wedding season, I’d love to see guests lean into other silhouettes, like a soft off-the-shoulder neckline, which is a nice alternative."

The Top Wedding Guest Trends of 2026

Bright Color

If there's one trend we're seeing the most of at weddings right now, it's bright, vivid color. 2026 as a whole is already being defined by this explosion of high saturation—from the runways to our everyday outfits—and now the same is true of our occasion wear. "Instead of the standard little black dress," Pierre-Louis explains, "guests are choosing vibrant colors like yellows, blues, greens, and playful prints that feel much more celebratory. Weddings are supposed to feel joyful, and color helps tell that story." Of course, there's a practicality to it, as wearing anything in the area of white or ivory is to be avoided, while many brides choose a no-black dress code to maximize color in their wedding photos. "Whether it’s painterly florals or sharp color blocking," Schmidt says, "it brings personality and freshness to traditional wedding guest dressing."

Built-In Hardware

Of course, not every wedding guest look need be the loudest (especially so as not to upstage the bride), and one more minimalist trend on the rise right now is built-in hardware. It's all about sleek and pared-back silhouettes that, with the addition of a single sculptural detail, are simplistic but hardly boring.

Dramatic Draping

Each season, there is always some inevitable crossover between what's trending on the runways and in the weddings space, and draped dresses are a defining trend for both this year. "Architectural dressing is having a major moment," Schmidt confirms, "especially for black tie weddings. Structured draping, exaggerated shapes, and couture-inspired construction make these gowns feel modern, directional, and almost like wearable art."