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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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!

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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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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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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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Wedding season is approaching quickly, and whilst there are nuptials at all times of year, late spring and summer tend to hold the most celebrations. With that comes the inevitable question: "What to wear to a wedding?"

With different types of celebrations and levels of formality, there's a lot to choose from, and sometimes the best answers lie in this year's fresh alternative wedding guest trends. I'll be the first to admit I don't love dressing up, but this stems from my complicated relationship with dresses. Even at my own wedding, I changed out of my dress and into silk trousers and a crop top.

All that to say, I think it comes down to not being resolute in finding the right dress—but remembering that trousers and plenty of other alternatives exist for looking your best at a wedding. There are so many unique variations, cool fabrics, sleek colours and eye-catching silhouettes that make wedding guest attire so much more fun to plan. An alternative wedding guest outfit can be a major shift away from what you typically wear, or it can be a small change that makes a big impact on how you feel. This list is a blend of those things.

It features colours (like black and red), which weren't always go-to wedding shades, but are becoming far more popular. There are suits and trouser outfits that make sleek replacements for your standard dress. And some alternatives are subtler, like opting for a scarf dress or something with a sheer skirt, two details which make me feel more excited about wearing wedding guest dresses for the evening. There's an outfit for everyone, and with weddings themselves becoming more creative these days, you aren't short on options.

So whether you're like me and aren't a serious fan of the usual wedding guest attire, or you are simply looking to switch up what you typically wear, the following trends will suit you perfectly (pun intended), from black-tie affairs to city elopements to cosy garden dinner parties.

8 Chic Alternative Wedding Guest Trends To Adopt in 2026

1. A Power Suit

Style Notes: Nothing makes my fashion heart happy like a good power suit. As someone who has never loved dresses (and who rolls her eyes at stereotypical gendered expectations of dressing), a suit makes for the perfect alternative wedding guest attire. As London-based creative consultant Alexis Foreman shows, in an earthy neutral, you'll have a stunning outfit for all types of weddings. This alternative is ideal if you prefer not to wear dresses, like a jumpsuit or want something that feels totally different from a gown.

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2. Statement Black Dress

Style Notes: As black-tie dress codes have become more popular for weddings, so has wearing black to weddings. Seeing that this is my favourite colour, I've never been happier. There is something so sleek about a black dress, especially one with flair, like the one Danish content creator, Marie Jedig, is wearing. Black is elegant and sophisticated—think of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's and the icon status of the little black dress. This is a superb option if you're a fan of silk and satin dresses or opt for minimal colours in your wedding guest attire already.

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3. Silk Trousers

Style Notes: Silk trousers are a nice wedding guest alternative to a jumpsuit or black dress if you're more of a trousers person. Dutch style blogger Anouk Yve's styling of wrap-style trousers with a halter-neck is very chic. For more formal events, you could pair these with a cape or trumpet-sleeve top. If the wedding theme is garden fête, you could opt for more colourful pairs in green, pink or blue.

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4. Structured Blazer

Style Notes: If it's not a black-tie or ultra formal event, but you love the idea of a suit, a blazer and trousers can be a gorgeous alternative. London-based fashion influencer Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemak's choice of deep purple feels a little more interesting than a black or charcoal blazer. Pointed-toe shoes and a structured bag look lovely against this pairing. For warmer climes or destination weddings, a linen blazer is the perfect swap.

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5. Scarf Dress

Style Notes: Anyone who normally gravitates towards wedding guest dresses with ruffles, layers or fun prints will love a scarf dress—particularly one in a bold hue. This small detail can take a wedding guest dress from pretty to show-stopping. It feels sophisticated, and it works even for warm-weather weddings since the fabric is quite light.

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6. Two-Piece Set

Style Notes: Typically, for a wedding that calls for more relaxed attire, you might reach for a sundress or similar. As an alternative, two-piece sets make for a chic switch. A high-waisted look with a fun texture, like this style seen here, is so elevated. Silk and satin materials work for sleek dinners, but floral prints and bright colours can be fun for tropical destinations or more casual weddings. More neutral two-piece sets can also leave room for you to get more creative with your shoes.

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7. Sheer Skirts

Style Notes: I find some of the best alternatives simply come from reconsidering classics. A little black dress? A straight-cut dress? Classics. With a sheer skirt? It instantly feels fresh. This look is ideal for warm-weather celebrations and destination weddings, whilst also feeling ethereal for white-themed weddings that call for all guests to wear white.

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8. Bubble-Hem Tops

Style Notes: You've probably noticed the return of peplum outfits and the number of styles that have spun off from it. From waisted silhouettes to bubble hems, the last couple of years have brought them back, and they're chicer than ever. If you love a bubble hem dress or anything with ruffles or unique shapes, a bubble hem top and trousers outfit works as a great switch for the wedding you're attending. It's just as sophisticated as a dress but easier to wear (and dance in).

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What makes a great movie? Ask around our office, and inevitably, excellent style throughout and impeccable costuming come up top. A memorable soundtrack plays its part, of course, whilst pacing, dialogue and character arcs all weigh heavily too. But for many, a film’s value lies in its ability to thrill.

Some are drawn to explosive exchanges, and others are pulled towards quieter, tension-laced moments, but for me, a wedding has always been my cinematic kryptonite. Having racked up plenty of hours watching wedding scenes in my time, I've long believed that these moments capture so many of the elements that make a film unforgettable: drama, decadence, costume, passion and, of course, love. And now, as wedding season 2026 gathers pace in real life, I’ve found myself feeling a little more romantic than usual, prompting a desire to delve into some of the most iconic brides ever to grace our screens.

Whether you also love an on-screen wedding and are looking to refresh your watch list, or if you're searching for bridal inspiration for your own big day, below, discover my definitive list of the most iconic brides to ever walk down the aisle on film.

The Most Iconic Movie Brides of All Time

1. Apollonia Vitelli, The Godfather

Style Notes: With two weddings, a funeral, a baptism and more than its fair share of gunshots, The Godfather is hardly short of high-octane drama. Yet my favourite scene across its 175 minutes is one of the film's brief moments of calm: Michael and Apollonia’s wedding, set in a sun-drenched Sicilian town, feels worlds away from the violence that plagues the film. Though their romance burns fast and bright, the ceremony itself is languid, peaceful and steeped in Sicilian tradition. Apollonia wears a cascading lace-trim veil and a classic white gown adorned with delicate detailing. A smaller moment in a film brimming with towering characters, this scene alone is reason enough to revisit The Godfather this wedding season.

2. Jo Stockton, Funny Face

Style Notes: Perhaps one of the most iconic bridal looks of all time, Jo Stockton’s wedding to Dick Avery in Funny Face demonstrates exactly why 1950s motifs remain on bridal mood boards all these years later. Set in the French countryside, Jo’s gown embraces the era’s signature silhouette: a full-circle skirt cropped to mid-calf, paired with a romantic boat neckline and a sheer veil. Refined accessories—cropped gloves and simple stud earrings—work with her classic red lip and defined eyeliner to create a bridal moment that feels as charming today as it did all those years ago.

3. Juliet, Love Actually

Style Notes: No roundup of iconic on-screen brides would be complete without a nod to Love Actually. Juliet’s wedding look, unveiled in the film’s opening scenes, sees Keira Knightley styled in a cascading, subtly sheer gown. The custom design features a gauzy chiffon overlay that wraps softly around a pale, blush-toned skirt. Feathered accents woven through both the dress and her hair lend a sense of whimsy, capturing the playful spirit of the early noughties so perfectly.

4. Carrie, Four Weddings and a Funeral

Style Notes: Though Carrie’s on-screen wedding isn’t to the film’s protagonist—she ultimately chooses a life with Charles, sans vows—Four Weddings and a Funeral still treats us to a memorable bridal moment courtesy of Andie MacDowell. Quintessentially '90s, the bride wore a satin gown topped with a bolero, embellished with sequins and beads. The third of the film’s four weddings, Carrie's wedding scene delivers the charm, romance and English wit that makes the movie such a perennial favourite.

5. Marie Antoinette, Marie Antoinette

Style Notes: If decadence, hedonism and unabashed fancy are what you seek, then Marie Antoinette deserves a top spot on your wedding-season watch list. Sofia Coppola’s imagining of the life of the ill-fated Queen of France leans fully into Rococo fantasy, charting the gilded excess of Marie Antoinette’s life with lavish abandon. Staged at the opulent Palace of Versailles, Kirsten Dunst wears a gown designed by Milena Canonero, replete with embroidery, ribbons and exaggerated volume.

6. Lisa McDowell, Coming to America

Style Notes: As the film begins, our hero, Akeem Joffer (played by Eddie Murphy), flees an arranged marriage in his home country. From there, Coming to America builds patiently towards its grand, joy-filled finale, when the wedding finally arrives. Lisa McDowell’s iconic bridal look: a bubblegum-pink tulle gown, accessorised with an oversized diamond ring, a jewel-encrusted tiara and layers of dazzling adornments, creates a truly fairytale-worthy look. Theatrical and decadent, this easily warrants a place amongst cinema’s most iconic bridal moments.

7. Juliet, Romeo + Juliet

Style Notes: How could one of the most enduring love stories of all time not earn its place here, especially when brought to life by Claire Danes and Leonardo DiCaprio? In Romeo + Juliet, the clandestine wedding offers a moment of pure, fragile joy before the tragedy that follows. Set to the ethereal tones of "Everybody's Free (To Feel Good)", Juliet glides down the aisle in a minimalist satin slip dress. Delicate button detailing and a pared-back silhouette lend the look an inherent elegance, perfectly in tune with the film’s '90s sensibility. Unstated but striking, the simple gown allows the couple's inimitable love to steal the scene.

8. Pinky, Bend it Like Beckham

Style Notes: Few films have left as lasting an impression on millennial women as Bend It Like Beckham, and Pinky’s wedding plays a significant role in its cultural resonance. Positioned in contrast to her younger sister’s rebellious streak, Pinky embraces tradition, and when her wedding finally unfolds, it does so in a vibrant celebration of Hindu customs, rich in colour, music and joy. Pinky’s bridal saree reflects traditional Indian attire, adorned with intricate embroidery and layered with gold jewellery. In contrast to the many white weddings that pepper this list, Pinky's nuptials offer a visual feast that honours tradition whilst delivering a joyously memorable wedding scene.

9. Miss Havisham, Great Expectations

Style Notes: Few on-screen brides are as haunting as Helena Bonham Carter’s Miss Havisham in Great Expectations. Forever frozen in the moment of her abandonment at the altar, she remains in her decaying wedding dress, a ghostly relic of a day that never truly was. The gown itself speaks to her deterioration: once opulent silk, now faded and frayed, lace yellowed with time. And yet, I can't deny there's a romance to it; a gothic, melancholic beauty speaking to the darker side of love, heartbreak, obsession and the relentless passage of time.

10. Bella Baxter, Poor Things

Style Notes: Bella Baxter’s opulent, energetic and outlandish approach to bridal styling feels entirely in step with the character's unbridled innocence and exuberance. The film won the 2024 Academy Award for Best Costume Design, and designer Holly Waddington's gown eschews classic bridal codes, instead incorporating a Victorian influence through a surrealist lens. Leaning into exaggerated proportions—including sleeves so inflated they resemble balloons—Bella's gown reflects the avant-garde spirit that runs throughout the film. Whilst vows were never exchanged, the wedding scene offers a healthy dose of visual intrigue, drenched in a rich palette that cements it as one of the most visually compelling on-screen weddings.

11. Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City

Style Notes: Of course, I have to mention Carrie Bradshaw and her Vivienne Westwood gown. The exaggerated volume, sculptural folds and theatricality make it one of the most recognisable wedding dresses in film (and fashion) history. Paired with that unforgettable bird headpiece, the look mirrors Carrie's unrelentingly bold and playful sense of style.

12. The Bride, The Bride of Frankenstein

Style Notes: Long before modern cinema’s bridal icons, 1935's The Bride of Frankenstein offered up a bridal look that will forever live on. Wrapped in bandage-like drapery and crowned with that instantly recognisable streaked hairstyle, the otherwise-unnamed Bride's look is eerie, otherworldly and completely singular. Between the stark palette (exaggerated by the black-and-white film), the sculptural silhouette and the sheer theatricality of it all, there’s a strange elegance to her look. Decades on, it remains one of cinema’s most referenced and reimagined bridal aesthetics.

13. Maggie Carpenter, Runaway Bride

Style Notes: Julia Roberts's Maggie Carpenter offers up a series of bridal looks in the classic rom com Runaway Bride. The ultimate bride, having already bolted from the aisle three times where the story picks up, Maggie’s relationship with marriage is, at best, complicated. Still, it’s this very journey that makes her final walk down the aisle so satisfying.

It goes without saying that your wedding should reflect your personal style, but harnessing that—for what is supposed to be the most important day of your life—is surprisingly hard. Classic, cool, chic, unique: everyone wants to evoke a certain mood and ensure the day is as memorable for the guests as it is for them. But when presented with the choices for all the details (the invites, the dress, florals, cake, music, venue…), the list is truly endless, so even the most decisive people can face chronic decision paralysis.

I spoke to two brides-to-be with very different styles about their desires for their respective Big Day. I know both of them very well, as they're part of the Who What Wear UK team. Poppy Nash, our managing editor and resident bride-to-be with traditional taste, is getting married in late September this year. She, like her style, is sophisticated, minimal and polished—I'd expect her wedding spreadsheet to be as diligently organised, curated and colour-coded as the wedding itself.

Sophie Cookson, our in-house insights analyst and token cool girl, is more alternative. Yes, she works in data, but she's more of an eclectic (though always chic) dresser, a vintage fanatic and lover of colour. Whilst Sophie and her partner Jack haven't yet set a date or found a venue, they have a pretty good idea of what they do (and don't) want.

When you work in a female-dominated industry like fashion, you tend to hear many anecdotes about your colleagues' lives, both the everyday stuff and the big things, too. As such, when one of them (or two, in this case) is planning a wedding, you get to hear about it from the inside. I can vouch that these two women, whilst sharing the same desire to evoke a celebration of love, joy and family, will want to create very contrasting weddings. From the flowers and location to the dress and décor, these are the (very different) elements on their wedding mood boards that will deliver their dream days.

THE "TRAD" BRIDE: POPPY NASH

"When it comes to style, mine is fairly classic with 'pretty' touches. My colleagues joke that I'm allergic to colour at times because my interiors taste and sense of style are so neutral, so it felt right that our wedding reflects this. If I had to describe the vibe, it would be classic, minimalist and English garden, with lots of white linen and simple stationery," says Poppy.

I ask her if there was a famous wedding (celebrity or one on TV or film) that evoked the overall mood. "Probably Kate Moss and Jamie Hince’s wedding in 2011—because of the English garden, boho and romantic vibes—with a sprinkling of Father of the Bride," she tells me.

In light of this, Poppy and her husband-to-be, Jack, chose Updown Farmhouse, a stunning venue in the Kent countryside. "There is no colour scheme, just all white everything," says Poppy, aside from, "Maybe pale-blue bridesmaids dresses, but that's still yet to be decided."

For florals, Poppy has landed on fluffy roses and hydrangeas, but instead of larger arrangements, she's prescriptive about wanting "tonnes of small setups" in—you guessed it—white, that will add to the whimsy and romantic vibe. The invites have been printed on simple, thick white card, with no fussy design, although she admits she "spent hours deciding on the right font." As well as lots of white flowers, for Poppy and Jack, the non-negotiables were "a big band, an acoustic musician for cocktail hour and lots of speeches. Oh, and whilst we didn't ask for gifts [on the invite], we did ask that every guest give us a card that we can read afterwards."

Choosing the dress, as often is the case, came with a lot of pressure for Poppy. "I’ll admit I felt quite anxious. I’m a real dress girl, and I’ve worn so many beautiful ones over the years, but I knew this particular one had to be the best of all time. I struggled to find something in boutiques that felt right; I didn’t want anything too traditional or covered in beading or lace, because that's just not me. Whilst I love those pretty touches, I hate anything overly fussy. I am, however, partial to a puff sleeve, so that may or may not feature. After trying on so many options, I realised that I wanted my version of a big white dress: something very simple but still impactful."

For beauty, Poppy's choices match the natural, romantic vibe of the wedding itself: "simple makeup, lots of pink blush and my hair will be up in a loose bun."

Reflecting on her choice to go for something more traditional, Poppy says she "always wanted that traditional marriage moment."
"Not boring, not cookie-cutter and not traditional in every way, but yes, I wanted to go all in on the weekend. When it came to planning the wedding, I definitely leaned towards a 'big white wedding' vibe, because I want that moment of celebration. I want to go all in on a day to celebrate us and all our family and friends. I felt like we—and all our loved ones—deserve that!"

THE "ALT" BRIDE: SOPHIE COOKSON

Sophie and Jack (yes, her partner is also called Jack) are your classic East London couple. He owns a pie bakery in Leyton, and she works in fashion. Their vision for their Big Day, although not yet set, reflects this to a tee.

"We want two weddings, essentially. The first will be a London registry office with close friends and family, followed by a meal at St John Bread and Wine, followed by a pub or maybe a gathering on a canal boat. Then we’d like to organise a bigger party at a rented house in the Lake District, where everyone can come together and party. Our vibe for the day will be casual, cool, fun and unfussy."

Whilst Sophie hopes the general mood will be very relaxed, the details and décor will be filled with colour and joy. "We’re going to do photo-booth photos for invites, we want an Irish or country band (with cowboy hats and the whole shebang, of course) and lots of colourful blooms. Instead of a cake, we’re leaning towards a larger dessert, something retro and a little kitschy."

Knowing Sophie well and Jack a little (I’m a frequent visitor to his bakery, Win's, in Leyton), I know they’ll both wear something very cool—perhaps a little vintage—but will make it look effortless. "His style is a little edgier than mine, but we’re both pretty eclectic in our tastes; I can see him wearing a bowler tie, and I’m quite keen on wearing a green dress instead of white.

"For the London wedding, I envision something either sequinned or a '70s or '80s vibe. The second wedding dress I hope to be secondhand—I’m thinking something lace, maybe sleek and long-sleeved. I’ll also definitely let my bridesmaids choose what they’re wearing to ensure they’re happy with their look. I don’t think we’ll have them in a singular colour, but there’ll still be a point of difference so they stand out from the crowd. Then, I’m asking all other guests to go OTT and extra; think sequins, feathers… the bigger and bolder, the better."

When seeking inspiration for what she and Jack want to achieve, Sophie cites two pretty iconic weddings. "I loved Blondey McCoy and Jennifer Murray’s wedding; some elements looked pretty traditional, but they did it in their own way and with a lot of personality. It looked so fun, free and just full of love. I also loved Lily Allen and David Harbour’s wedding. I feel like it's a bad omen to say now, considering she wrote a whole album about their break-up, but I love the idea of getting married by an Elvis impersonator and then going for fast food after. Something that feels intimate and carefree."

Adding to the fuss-free and intimate vibe, Sophie and Jack have already enlisted her mum and Jack's uncle to orchestrate the second ceremony in the Lake District, where Jack's family have close ties. They also want to include their beloved dog, Pepito, and will host a hike the next day for those who want to join (and aren't too hungover!).

Wedding season is in full swing, and I’ve already RSVP’d to what feels like hundreds of celebrations. There’s so much to love about attending a wedding, from seeing the dress to eating the food to the amazing after-party. However, if there’s one element of being a wedding guest that can be stressful (after you've got your outfit sorted, of course), it’s picking out the perfect gift.

Gift shopping for loved ones is always tricky, but it feels even harder for weddings. Not only does every couple have different tastes and aesthetics, but you're essentially competing with the entire guest list to pick the chicest present no one else will have thought of. Well, never fear, because that’s where I come in. I’m not trying to brag, but gift-giving is one of my love languages, and as someone who literally shops for a living, I’m constantly asked by friends and family for advice on the perfect present to buy for the newlyweds in their lives. Luckily for them (and now you), I’ve decided to make things even simpler by collating the most elegant wedding gifts on the market right now, and there’s something to suit every couple’s tastes, lifestyle—and most importantly, your budget.

From customised homeware staples for the interior enthusiasts to travel gift cards for the globetrotters, below, I’ve rounded up 36 of the chicest wedding gifts, all of which are sure to earn you a wordy thank-you card this wedding season.

The Very Best Wedding Gifts to Give in 2026

It's easy to get carried away with wedding planning, focusing on the minute details like the specific floral arrangements, the exact font of your matrimonial stationery or the precise playlist to provide the sonic backdrop for the evening; not to mention the bigger decisions like the dress and rings, meticulously picked out months prior. But ultimately, the most significant part, and the one which should enthral us most, is the person you’ll meet at the end of the aisle.

In an issue centred around the beauty of tying the knot, we felt it apt to turn a spotlight on what’s really the heart of a marriage. Indeed, witnessing the outpouring of love between two people committing to one another—an act usually kept so intimate and private through the everyday minutiae of a partnership—is the most moving element of a wedding, and it warrants a moment of its own.

But how do you know when you've met "The One", really? Is it a feeling of butterflies in your stomach when you see their name flash up on your phone when you first start connecting? The small but uncontrollable smile that breaks out across your face when you see them after a long day, even after you've lived together for a while? Or, is it the deep contentment that washes over you at night, just before you fall asleep, knowing that you get to do it all again, together, tomorrow?

The answer depends on who you ask, which is why we lined up three creative couples living in London to share their real-life experiences of meeting, falling in love, getting married and knowing it was meant to be. Because as Lana Del Rey croons in her ballad "Margaret", when you know, you know…

Real Life Couples on How They Met "The One"

Alex Thomas-Smith and Ciaran Thomas-Smith

• Occupations: Actors
• Star Signs: Cancer and Taurus
• Time Married: 7 months
• First-Dance Song: "We didn’t have a first dance, but we walked down the aisle to 'I Say A Little Prayer' by Aretha Franklin."
• Film or TV Couple They Identify With: "We are definitely Fitz and Olivia from Scandal (without the affair, obviously). The loving puppy dog and the bad b****."

It’s a sure sign that things are meant to be when you know this is your forever person from your first date, let alone from the moment you first lock eyes. For Alex Thomas-Smith, they knew that now-husband Ciaran was "The One" from the outset, even though they met on social media. "It was love at first sight; I definitely felt the spark when I first saw him," they note.

"I met Ciaran after he slid into my direct messages, replying to a story I put up about Princess Diana (that’s how I knew he had good taste). I saw his gorgeous face in his thumbnail, and we ended up speaking every day for a couple of weeks before we actually met. He had, and still has, this magnetic energy that just lights up [my] life. I was quite cynical when it came to love at [that] point in my life, so I tried not to get carried away, but our first date turned into a weekend that turned into two weeks. From the moment we met, all we wanted to do was be together."

So, that’s exactly what they did, proposing the idea of making this a forever thing on their one-month anniversary. "Ciaran, of course, said no, but told me to ask again in a few years," says Alex. "It was like we both knew that this was going somewhere. I knew even then that he was the only person I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. When I was with him, everything felt easy, and I wanted to keep that forever and build a life together."

This concept of feeling at peace with one another stands out for Ciaran, too. "There’s a sense of calm that I feel around Alex that I have never felt with anyone else before, an instant feeling of comfort that allows me not only to be myself, but to have the confidence to be the best version of myself," he explains.

"The love Alex and I have for each other goes beyond flowers or chocolates, although [those] are still expected. It’s a love where you know that person will be your biggest champion in whatever you do; Alex is and will always be my biggest supporter in life, and I try every day to show Alex that I will love them, whatever path they take in their life, as long as they are happy. It was deeper than just being 'partners', so it only felt right to get married."

"For me, it’s also so important that queer people get married," Alex adds. "We fought for the right to do so, and it’s something that isn’t lost on me. Our love is just as valid as anyone else’s, and our marriage isn’t just a celebration of our love, but it’s also an act of protest and resilience. Queer love isn’t going anywhere."

Iona Judd and Elliot Mason

• Occupations: Creative director and tailor
• Star Signs: Cancer and Taurus
• Time Married: 11 months
• First-Dance Song: "Set U Free" by N-Trance
• Film or TV Couple They Identify With: She says Seth and Summer from The O.C., he says Woody and Jessie from Toy Story.

There’s this belief that whatever is meant for you will find its way to you, irrespective of the circumstances. Such is the case for Iona Judd and Elliot Mason. It was a third-time's-the-charm affair, after previously meeting twice in passing at various events; the first on the dance floor at a rave in Ibiza super club Privilege (which neither of them says they recall), and the second at a mutual friend’s birthday party (he remembers, she does not) before finally connecting the modern way: Bumble. "Both of us remember that one!" Elliot says of the Sliding Doors-esque scenario.

"Elliot pointed out that we had met a handful of times before on our first date," Iona acknowledges, adding. "I hadn’t put two and two together. Fuelled by nerves, I ended up having one too many negronis and dashed off Cinderella style at the end of the evening, leaving Elliot on the side of the road. I didn’t leave a glass slipper, but I did have to send a damage control text the following day. Elliot had to be persuaded by friends to go on a second date, but the rest, as they say, is history."

Both admit there’s a cosmic feel around their relationship; not star-crossed lovers per se, though certainly something kismet at play. As Elliot says, "It’s no coincidence that the universe kept putting us together. It was meant to be!"

Still, there was a precise moment Iona realised Eliot was The One, during the latter half of their reception. "I think I had an idea quite early on; I finally felt comfortable being my true self, and that’s not something I had felt before," she notes. "Funnily, though, I think the moment I truly knew I’d married the right person was at the end of our wedding."

"We had to be forced off the dance floor at the end of the night, along with a few other stragglers who didn’t want [it] to end. Two of my bridesmaids had missed their taxi, and Elliot, being the extraordinarily generous-spirited person that he is, got in his car (he doesn’t drink) and drove them back to their cottage in the neighbouring village.

"It made for such a silly and special moment. It was the most perfect end to the night and just felt like a sign that I had chosen a man who was kind, open and always has a sense of humour—all the qualities you want in a life partner."

Rose Pilkington and Bryony Llewellyn

• Occupations: Digital artist and consultant
• Star Signs: Gemini and Scorpio
• Time Married: 9 months
• First-Dance Song: "Inner Smile" by Texas

When it comes to describing the process of falling in love with one another, Rose Pilkington and Bryony Llewellyn like to say it was a "can’t stay away from you" kind of thing. "We met in true modern-love-story fashion through online dating, and the amazing thing about it is that we ran in completely different circles and otherwise would have never met," Rose says. "Despite both of our friends' urging us to slow down, we immediately knew [differently].

"We sent voice notes to each other from the first day we matched, and there was immediately something so familiar about her voice. It was like I knew her, and she said the same about me. I think that must mean we knew instantly that we were meant to be together, like we already knew each other, despite only just speaking," explains Rose.

"When we finally met in London Fields on a freezing March day, it was everything we hoped it would be. As I was getting off the bus, it pulled away [to reveal] her standing behind it. I was flustered, thinking how perfect, tall and beautiful she looked." Briony remembers their first meeting with the same fondness. "I saw her running across the road towards me, and I thought, 'jackpot’. She was so endearing, she was flapping and flustered, and I loved it."

The couple say they were on the same page in knowing they were each other's "One" from the beginning. "From the very start, we would talk about marriage and being with each other forever. It’s a really amazing thing to feel so sure of something, and more sure of it every day. We were craving commitment; being girlfriends didn’t feel like enough. We needed to be more to each other and to be a family."

Of the specifics, they say it came down to the little things. "Every experience together felt like doing something new for the first time in our lives, even something like going to a pub or restaurant. Everything was a novelty, so we started doing weird dates just to experience [things].”

"We have been together for five years, but getting married has made it feel like we’re just beginning. Our relationship and the dynamic between us haven’t really changed, but there’s this new sense of excitement in our lives, like everything ahead of us is just getting started. It’s such a special feeling because we genuinely can’t wait to experience more of life together, and even the everyday moments still feel new. We often talk about the different phases of life we’ll go through together, and that shared anticipation makes every day so exciting."

Not so long ago, bridal jewellery meant classic pearl earrings, dainty diamond necklaces and, for some, the family tiara. But like everything else in the weddingsphere, the "rules" around wedding-day jewellery have now been quietly set aside.

"We’re seeing a real shift towards individuality and self-expression. Brides are still drawn to timeless pieces, but they’re looking for something that feels personal rather than super traditional," says East London-based jeweller Rachel Boston, as brides are moving away from matching suites and instead choosing jewellery they’ll wear for years to come. "The best bridal jewellery feels effortless, like an extension of your own style. Jewellery is something you’ll keep and wear long after the wedding, so it should feel like something you would have chosen regardless of the occasion," she says.

Not only is it a vessel for life’s most special memories and emotions, and a precious reminder of the big day, but fine jewellery is an investment that should last for generations, so it’s worth choosing with intention. "We often see sapphires chosen as a subtle way of bringing in that 'something blue', which feels both personal and rooted in tradition," says Jessica McCormack, whose antique-inspired designs are worn by the likes of Zoë Kravitz, Margot Robbie and Jessie Buckley.

"For me, it always comes back to how the jewellery makes you feel; if it makes you feel comfortable, confident and beautiful, then that’s exactly what you should be wearing on the day."

From the timeless classics that elevate any wedding look to the versatile styles that can be transformed from big day to every day, these are the wedding-day jewellery pieces that modern brides are choosing to wear now and forever.

The "Old Money" Aesthetic

"The 'old money' aesthetic, which is refined, understated and slightly vintage-inspired, seems to be a favourite at the moment," says Charlotte Freeman, founder of C Heinrich Diamonds. Sofia Richie Grainge and podcaster Alex Cooper frequently appear on her clients' mood boards, thanks to their pared-back yet glamorous bridal looks. "Brides are loving the understated elegance, which feels modern and wearable whilst still making a statement," says Freeman, whose pear-shaped diamond cluster studs in particular channel this Old Hollywood vibe.

Looking for a drop earring that pairs perfectly with a veil? Rachel Boston’s pear-shaped diamond Echo earrings are a fresh take on the old-money aesthetic, adding wow factor to the simplest look.

"Polished, effortless and modern" are the bridal buzzwords in 2026, says Madeleine Sangster, founder of Heavenly London, which creates imitation-diamond pieces to provide A-list style on a more modest budget. As brides are updating classic styles by mixing metals, stacking multiple earrings and choosing more unusual shapes, Heavenly’s emerald-cut or heart-shaped drop earrings tick the "timeless, but with personality" box nicely.

Anyone for Tennis?

Beloved by royalty in the 19th century, diamond rivière necklaces, also known as tennis necklaces, are becoming a firm favourite amongst contemporary brides as the perfect complement to a minimalist gown. "Tennis necklaces are incredibly popular; they strike a balance between classic and statement, and can elevate the simplest bridal look," says Freeman. Her Triple Bezel Tennis Necklace features mixed metals, ticking off another bridal jewellery trend for 2026.

Bezel settings (where diamonds are framed by gold) add a contemporary twist to this traditional style. Jessica McCormack's Signature Button Back Necklace leans into the gothic, antique aesthetic with its signature Georgian-inspired settings and blackened gold, whilst New York jeweller Jade Trau offers a plethora of modern diamond rivières of all shapes and lengths. Those in search of jewellery that packs a punch should start at Anita Ko; her Eternity choker nails the "classic-with-a-twist" style that makes the tennis necklace so popular right now.

Before you baulk at the cost, lab-grown diamond rivières offer a more palatable price point. Monica Vinader’s version features different shapes framed by gold-vermeil bezel settings, and Heavenly London has a lab-grown diamond version of its popular Nocturne necklace, set with 26 carats of lab-grown diamonds.

Modern Pearls

Pearls are a bridal staple for a reason: their creamy lustre flatters every complexion, alluding to radiance and beauty. "There’s something about pearls that feels very pure, fresh and bridal," says Sangster. But today’s designs are far removed from the quintessential strings, as jewellers transform the traditional style into something cool and wearable beyond the big day.

"Classic pearls are getting a cool update; think oversized, playful earrings with movement," says Eliza Walter, founder of Lylie Jewellery. Walter invites any bride-to-be who chooses a Lylie engagement ring to borrow a piece of jewellery for their wedding day, and the Dodola diamond and pearl earrings are the most requested style.

Jessica McCormack’s pearls are a favourite with fashion-focused brides, whether the seemingly random sizes strung together in the Beaches necklace, or the gleaming orbs that hang from the sculptural Rush Hour earrings. Jessie Thomas adds a modern edge to her pearl and diamond drops by pairing creamy pearls with clusters of bezel-set diamonds, and celebrates the organic imperfections of oversized baroque pearls.

Those searching for something wholly unexpected may already be familiar with Japanese house Tasaki, best known for its daring approach to pearl jewellery. Adorned with textured gold accents, its Square Leaf necklace is an eye-catching alternative to a simple string of pearls.

Timeless Wedding Bands

Despite being draped in diamonds at this year’s Oscars, it was Zendaya’s simple gold band that made the biggest statement, confirming that she and Tom Holland had tied the knot. She cemented the shift away from dainty pavé-set wedding rings towards something plainer yet more substantial.

"We’re seeing a strong preference for solid gold over diamond bands at the moment," confirms Freeman, whose undulating Wave band and rounded Puffy band are particularly popular. "It gives a more contemporary, cool-girl edge to a traditional engagement setting." This is proof that fashion's fickle trends and move away from quiet luxury haven't extended to our jewellery boxes, as they remain firmly grounded in longevity.

Transformability and Wearability

"Our brides prioritise versatility over anything else, choosing pieces they can continue to enjoy long after the day itself," says Walter, who designed the Lylie Dodola earrings to be transformable, as the pearl drops can be removed to create a timeless pair of diamond studs. Detachable drops are also popular among Jessie Thomas's clients, who might switch between pearls for the ceremony and diamonds for the evening event.

"We’re seeing brides choose pieces they genuinely love rather than jewellery that only works for one day. There’s a shift away from 'bridal costume' towards pieces that feel personal and wearable long after the wedding," agrees Madeleine Sangster. After all, the gown is a one-hit wonder, the bouquet and cake are soon forgotten, but a pair of classically elegant earrings or a chic pendant can be worn for every anniversary, night out or even coffee date for decades to come.

Since planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job, with as many spreadsheets, colour-coded to-do lists and video calls as your actual 9-to-5, we've put together a definitive guide to pulling off the chicest nuptials in 2026, from the nail polish that will take your manicure from bland to bridal to the off-the-beaten-track destinations that will inspire awe in your guests. Think of this as inspiration (rather than a blueprint) for how to host a wedding that is beautiful, memorable—and most importantly, 100% you.

Bridal Brands to Know

For Romantic Brides: WED

Founded by Central Saint Martins alumni Amy Trinh and Evan Phillips, WED has become the go-to brand for brides who want modern romance. Its 2026 collection includes a strapless gown in voluminous, stiff tulle with a draped flag hem trimmed with floral lace, creating the impression of handkerchief-like tiers. Another, also in tulle, features visible boning and is adorned with flattened bows and a semi-sheer layered skirt that both reveals and conceals. It’s less period drama, more Margot Robbie’s Catherine.

For Brides Who Value Craftpersonship: Róisín Pierce

Róisín Pierce’s pieces aren't billed strictly as "bridalwear", but her signature colour palette of fresh whites and focus on artisanal techniques such as crochet, lacemaking and smocking lend themselves nicely to the genre. If you’re looking for a wedding dress with a difference—something textured and sculptural, high-fashion and heritage—Pierce’s exquisite creations, where craft is showcased, you just might find it here.

For Minimalist Brides: Viktoria Chan

Swedish brand Viktoria Chan draws on "structured simplicity" and "modern sophistication", tenets that might ring a bell if your everyday mood is minimal but interesting. One gown has fine straps and a silhouette that gently curves away from the body, stopping at the ankle with an elegant train at the reverse. Another is shaped like a T-shirt, with a boat neck and subtly pooling hemline. Easy to wear yet heart-stoppingly gorgeous, they’ll ensure people see you, not just the dress.

For Glamorous Brides: Taller Marmo

Famous for its glamorously fringed take on kaftans, Taller Marmo’s bridalwear is similarly high-octane. Its 2026 bridal dresses are offered in a sumptuously rich shade of latte and feature ostrich feathers, caped arms crafted from fluid crepe chiffon or a shoulder-framing halter neckline.

It’s All Content

Credit: Content for Brides

A hashtag combining your names is now the bare minimum, FYI. In 2026, couples are hiring content creators. According to wedding planner Katrina Otter, "More couples have been asking about capturing additional content alongside a photographer and videographer. These elements are still the priority, but there’s increasing interest in the spontaneous, behind-the-scenes moments that unfold throughout the day," she says, recommending two businesses in particular: MB Weddings & Events and Content for Brides.

"My clients aren’t necessarily calling it a 'content strategy'; it’s more about making sure the atmosphere and energy of their wedding is captured in real time. Some are hiring dedicated content creators to film short-form, social-ready clips, whilst others rely on guests to share their perspective. It’s less about replacing traditional coverage and more about complementing it with immediate, shareable moments," says Otter.

Don’t Say "Yes" to the (Bridesmaid) Dress

Bridesmaid dresses are usually a point of contention. Chanel’s Haute Couture spring/summer 2026 show offered an alternative, albeit inadvertently, for the age-old question of how to find chic bridesmaid dresses. The answer, apparently, is to side-step dresses altogether (they often look too satin-y and/or insipid in a pastel-themed lineup), and opt instead for a suit. Chanel’s were pearlescent, pink and complete with a semi-sheer column skirt, but if you really want to make sure your girls are suitably comfortable, Bella Freud’s sky-blue trouser suit might just be The One.

The Top Table

Credit: @casadeperrin, Gigi and Olive, Content for Brides, @sofiethompson2

Adding vintage elements—anything from candlesticks to bread baskets—will help to personalise your tablescape. Gigi & Olive, a one-stop shop for the modern bride, has an entire section dedicated to vintage finds, with silverware, drinkware and even hankies (I think the pedestal-foot ice bucket with matching tongs is particularly tempting). Connolly England’s edit, meanwhile, includes a clam-shell plate set from the ‘70s that would take pride of place on any top table.

Instead of thinking in literal terms (cutlery, plates, glassware, bud vases and placecards), why not theme your table setting around your journey? As Laura Hoyos, founder of creative studio Hito Estudio, explains, "For me, curating a table begins with observation, poetics and research. I like to start by asking questions, for example, in the context of weddings, [questions about] your morning routine, how you met or the small moments that make you keep falling in love," she says. "These stories become the starting point. I proceed with research and editorial direction that translates these feelings, memories or prompts into materials, colours and gestures. The table then becomes a reflection of the couple’s poetics; a place where intention, food and taste come together."

Flower Power

Instead of a single trending flower this year, floral arrangements now sit at "dramatic extremes", according to Emily Sritharan, founder of Athlyn, who has made arrangements for the likes of Alexander McQueen, Loewe and Prada. "I've been drawn to delicate, understated arrangements that emphasise the intricacy, detail and beauty of each stem; petite bridal bouquets wrapped in fine ribbon, small piles of fragile pansies or slender arrangements of rare, small orchids." The flipside is "sprawling bouquets—oversized and dramatic, like one of my favourites from the past year for the photographer Annie Reid, with cascading orchids inspired by vintage bouquets," she shares.

And the flowers don’t have to stop at bouquets. In fact, the Dior Haute Couture S/S 26 runway provided a viable alt: an oversized corsage, positioned not at the wrist but the shoulder. Vivienne Westwood has yet another proposition in the form of a new fabrication for one of its iconic wedding dresses, the Nova Bagatelle, which comes printed with falling long-stemmed roses.

The New Places to Get Married

Credit: Getty, Content for Brides

Arguably, some European destinations have been overdone by wedding tourists—Tuscany? Again?—so why not choose somewhere on the continent but slightly more under the radar? Mark Niemierko, luxury wedding planner, suggests choosing somewhere that has resonance. "Couples are no longer picking random locations purely for shallow reasons. Instead, [they're choosing] places with meaning to them. It might be home, somewhere they met, studied or a place tied to family history. We’re planning a wedding this summer in Bulgaria, close to the couple's family home," he says.

Niemierko also name-checks three other destinations that are slightly more unusual. "Seville offers culture, architecture and sunshine, but still feels less saturated than many traditional destination wedding locations. Copenhagen is also interesting, offering a clean, stylish and slightly unexpected setting. And for Medieval charm paired with extraordinary views, Montenegro is hard to beat."

An Out-of-This-World Honeymoon

Credit: Content for Brides

What constitutes a "dream" honeymoon destination will vary from couple to couple, but many will be looking for a mix of activity and relaxation. According to Molly Crow, head of global travel at Audley Travel, "We are seeing a rise in bookings for hybrid trips, with two clear parts. A couple may choose to pair a Tanzania safari with time relaxing on the coast of Zanzibar, or Thailand's beaches with a stay in the tropical rainforest setting of Khao Sok National Park, including a night spent in a floating tented camp," she says, adding, "Adventurous couples may like the idea of searching for wildlife whilst hiking through Madagascar's rainforest, followed by a few days on the tranquil beaches of Île Sainte-Marie."

If you want an otherworldly setting near a tapestry of waterways, lagoons and islands, meanwhile, Abercrombie & Kent’s Baines' Lodge reopened last year after an extensive rebuild. Situated in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, its six private suites rise on stilts from swaying papyrus reeds, with opportunities to spot hippos, painted reed frogs, lions and leopards by motorised boat or canoe in the wetlands.

A Modern Trousseau

Your honeymoon wardrobe shouldn’t be a mere afterthought. Gigi & Olive has collaborated with swimwear brand Away That Day to produce a bridal swimwear collection that will make for chic poolside selfies (the sweetheart-neck one-piece, complete with corsage, is a favourite). Birkenstock’s Arizona sandal recently got the wedding treatment courtesy of bridal label Danielle Frankel, which has edged the sandal's straps with micropearls and chiffon-embellished florals, whilst SKIMS has just launched its wedding shop, including a draped silk-chiffon slip dress that’s perfect for a hot-weather honeymoon. Oh, and don't pack your case without a pair of chic heels from Malone Souliers' wedding edit—the pretty pink-and-gold mules have "party" written all over them.

Something Old

Credit: Knatchbull, Gigi and Olive, Content for Brides

More and more brides are opting to make their "something old" a meaningful part of their bridal look. At Knatchbull, Savile Row’s first and only shopfront exclusively for women, brides often want personal items incorporated into their outfits. "We’ve found that, particularly for brides who no longer have a parent with them, this can be a very meaningful way to include them in the day. For example, we recently worked with a bride who had her late mother’s veil transformed into a pocket square for her bridal suit—a beautiful way to keep her mother by her side on the day," says Daisy Knatchbull, founder and CEO, adding, "I really love the hidden details that we can weave into a bridal suit, whether it’s embroidered messages on the inside of the suit, a personalised lining or something even more tender and secret."

Beauty Mood Board

This year’s bride might want to embrace a more experimental beauty look. At Diotima, what resembled a fine, shimmering white powder was lightly spray-painted across one model’s left eye socket, brow and forehead, creating an ethereal kind of shadow that could substitute for a veil. Pauline Dujancourt’s models had lace manicures, and one even had nails that perfectly matched her high-neck, long-sleeved capelet. As for hair accessories, diamanté crowns, worn on the hairline instead of the top of the head, appeared at Simone Rocha. What better way to keep your hair off your face if the weather is windy? And finally, it may be pretty traditional, but we have to mention the blushing-pink lipstick at Erdem, applied to create the perfect rosebud pout. There’s romantic, and there’s next-level romantic.

Old-Fashioned Flower Girls

"Chic" doesn’t feel like quite the right word to describe the intended "look" for a flower girl, but modern brides are turning back to traditional flower-girl dresses with classic silhouettes for an elegant take on childrenswear that doesn't include glitter or rainbows. That’s why the smocked, puff-sleeved and cotton-sateen dresses from Smock London and La Coqueta should be your first port of call for adorable outfits that won't date in photographs.

Bridal season hasn't even officially started, but I’ve already RSVP’d to what feels like hundreds of weddings. And although I’m extremely excited for all of them, there’s one particular wedding that I didn’t get an invite to, but that I cannot stop thinking about: Zendaya and Tom Holland’s.

Now, of course, the jury is still out as to whether Zendaya and Tom Holland are actually officially married yet or not, but between Zendaya’s stylist and image architect, Law Roach, stating, "The wedding’s already happened!", the fact that she's recently been spotted wearing a wedding band and that the couple is known for their privacy, we can't help but speculate here in the Who What Wear UK office. Where did they get married? How was the venue decorated? And most importantly, what did Zendaya wear?

Well, thanks to the recent press tour for Zendaya's new movie, The Drama, we’ve been able to take a small peek into what she might have worn to her wedding. All week, we’ve spotted the star in white outfits (including the Vivienne Westwood gown she wore to the 2015 Oscars, but more on that later). And in true Zendaya and Law Roach fashion (no pun intended), every look has been sleek, polished and giving major bridal vibes.

Below, I’ve rounded up an edit of the very best all-white outfits that Zendaya has worn. Keep scrolling to see the looks, and then shop my edit of bridal-coded pieces inspired by the star.

Zendaya's Bridal-Coded Press Tour Looks

Style Notes: At The Drama’s L.A. premiere, Zendaya wore the same Vivienne Westwood dress that she wore over a decade ago. We first saw this elegant number when the star wore it to her first Grammys in 2015. Did someone say “something old”?

Style Notes: For those of us who love a statement dress, Zendaya’s sleek Louis Vuitton number featured a low back, middle slit, and a large black bow that doubled as a train.

Style Notes: The star hasn’t only been spotted in elegant dresses recently. Just look at this chic lace corset and pencil skirt set. Between that and the white heels, this is a look that I can see every stylish person recreating this season, whether they’re a bride-to-be or not.

Style Notes: It wouldn’t be a Zendaya outfit round-up without some form of tailoring in the mix. This Louis Vuitton shirt dress that she wore to the brand's Fall/Winter 2026 presentation ticks all of the boxes—an exaggerated collar, a waisted silhouette and a bubble hem high-low skirt.

Style Notes: Inspired by Prince’s iconic 1985 all-white stage outfit, demi-couture fashion designer Harris Reed used up-cycled lace for Zendaya’s bridal look.

More of Zendaya's Bridal-Coded Looks We Love

Style Notes: This Ralph & Russo ensemble proves that white doesn’t at all have to be basic.

Style Notes: I never even considered wearing a jumpsuit in place of a traditional dress, but the above look from Zendaya is convincing me. Simply swap out the trainers for a pair of strappy heels.

Style Notes: There's just something so chic about a short wedding dress.

Style Notes: For the brides that want something that’s slightly more elevated than your classic dress, this maxi skirt suit that Zendaya wore to the Challegers premiere in Rome is definitely one to consider.

Style Notes: Between the embroidered white dress and the statement diamond accessories, this look is just so elegant.

Style Notes: The Drama press tour is not the first time Zendaya has served up bridal realness. This tulle Louis Vuitton dress that she wore for the Challengers was complete with a diamond choker and diamond stud earrings.

Style Notes: If you’re more of a classic bride, this minimal halter dress from Louis Vuitton is for you. It’s simple, elegant and timeless.

Style Notes: The Hat! The Tailoring! The Colour! There’s so much I loved about Zendaya’s Met Gala look.

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When I got married in 2024, it didn't take long into the planning process to understand why weddings are considered one of life's most stressful milestones. Among the many challenges and logistical headaches, bridesmaid dresses proved to be one of the biggest contributors to sleepless nights in the run-up to the big day.

I had four, and while I committed to a mix-and-match approach with each bridesmaid picking a shade within the wedding's colour palette, I was adamant they'd end up with a dress they truly loved, not just something worn out of obligation. I hadn't realised the challenge I'd set for myself until I saw the limited offerings available to a bride with a budget, who wanted to order online in a range of sizes and send to bridesmaids who were scattered all over the country.

Two years ago, online wedding collections were only just gaining momentum, with a handful of high-street and mid-range brands offering small edits of bride and bridesmaid dresses. It took countless orders, video calls, returns and trips to the local tailors for the final line-up to be complete. Since then, that handful of brands has grown significantly, and those small edits have become extensive, considered yearly collections, making the life of any 2026 bride infinitely easier.

This year, the selection on offer is the best yet, with brands delivering everything from classic shapes in trending colours to runway-inspired silhouettes incorporating new textures and prints. Sizing is also more inclusive than ever, with most brands now stocking beyond a size 16.

So whether you're a bride with a specific vision or a bridesmaid with a brief, I've researched the best online brands to shop for bridesmaid dresses. In the interest of saving you stress, time, and moodboard overload, read on to shop the edit.

THE BEST ONLINE BRANDS FOR BRIDESMAID DRESSES:

1. RIXO

STYLE NOTES: If you're looking for classic with a twist, don't sleep on Rixo. When applied to bridesmaid dresses their signature vintage aesthetic is elegant, timeless and wonderfully unique. There's something for everyone, from minimal and muted slip dresses to bold printed gowns. They also stock up to a size 20!

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2. REFORMATION

STYLE NOTES: Reformation's dresses were so loved by loyal shoppers that they became a go-to for occassionwear, with many fashion-industry brides turning to the brand for bridesmaid dresses long before the launch of their wedding collection. The collection for 2026 is full of moody blooms, subtle polkadots and fresh colours such as navy, butter yellow and red, as well as new silhouettes, incorporating skinny scarves and asymettric necklines into a mix of more classic syles.

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3. ASOS

STYLE NOTES: Asos is a great one-stop-shop as they stock so many incredible brands, but the Asos Design range is perfect for minimalists who want a touch of flair. With a collection made up of muted pastels such as sage green, dusty pink and lemon yellow, it's a capsule in itself with each dress working perfectly alongside one another.

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4. Nobody's Child

STYLE NOTES: Nobody's Child's wedding edit launched back in 2023 and has gone from strength to strength. Known for its on-trend prints and great quality fabrics at a lower price-point, the brand has been a reliable place to shop for brides, bridesmaids and wedding guests.

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5. WHISTLES

STYLE NOTES: Whistle's bridesmaid dress collection is a minimalist bride's dream. The colours are muted, the cuts are paired-back and sophisticated and the details are elevated enough for occasionwear without feeling frilly. It's a curated collection of pieces that mix well but also look incredibly striking on their own.

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6. SELF-PORTRAIT

STYLE NOTES: If you're after wow-factor, Self-Portrait is the brand for you. The attention to detail is next level, from 3D floral appliqué and cleverly placed ruffles to contrasting fabric panels and impeccable pleating. This is not your average bridesmaid dress.

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7. OMNES

STYLE NOTES: The variety at Omnes is unmatched. There isn't a silhouette they don't stock, and every style is available in several colours and prints. And yet, they all work in harmony with one another as the brand's quality and design is consistent throughout. If you're opting for a mix-and-match set-up for your bridesmaids, send them here and thank me later.

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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 favourite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

"We met during the pandemic, when the world was turned upside down. As restrictions started to lift, we went for long walks and got to know each other the old-fashioned way. Walking side by side in the countryside. No drinks or restaurants, just us and the muddy footpaths in front of us. Our first meal together was a picnic on a park bench with homemade supplies.

When Mike first told me he loved me, we were at a vineyard in Alfriston, so it was the perfect place for our proposal. He proposed to me in a secret corner of the vineyard, amongst the vines and with the Cuckmere valley surrounding us. We practically skipped our way around the vineyard after getting engaged, and then sat together eating bread and drinking wine in the September sunshine."

"I got ready with my mum, my sister and my dog, Nala. My sister wrote me a handwritten letter for my wedding morning, so I sat with her as she read it to me. It was a special moment I’ll cherish forever. I did my own makeup, and I had my hair done by Katya Valentina in a half-up, half-down style. I wanted my hair down because my dress was a bandeau, but I knew we were going to be by the coast, and it was sure to be breezy! So having it half up allowed me to know it would be practical too. Mike got ready in the room next door with his mum, and there was a lot of laughter back and forth as we tried to avoid bumping into each other in the corridor before our first look."

"When we first got engaged, we found out that one of my best friends had got engaged on the same day! What are the chances? So we made a dream become even more dreamy; we caught a train to Paris and went wedding-dress shopping. It felt like a scene from a movie; walking into the bridal boutiques in Paris, the rails of exquisite dresses urging us to try them on, with the sounds of the sewing machines whirring away in the rooms next door.

"I found the most stunning Calais lace fingerless gloves. They were my first wedding wardrobe purchase. The delicate lace with scalloped edges on both sides was so intricate and delicate. They instantly elevated any of the dresses I tried on, so I knew I had to have them. I built my wedding day outfit around these."

"I designed my wedding dress with AYM. I drew out many designs and shapes, but kept circling back to the shape that finally became my dress. I knew I wanted something timeless, elegant and subtly sculptural. I opted for a bandeau that would allow my shoulders to be bare, something I think is extremely chic. We created a corseted bodice with boning in the sides to hold the shape together. I wanted to feel comfortable but also have a shape that was a little bit sexy too, so I created a gathered section over the tummy, so that we could tighten the fabric around the waist and allow it to flow over the tummy area, creating a silhouette that feels flattering and still empowering.

"It’s always a challenge to create a fit around the hips that isn’t tight around the lower tummy but has a shapely fit around the bum. With a lot of back and forth with Gabby, we created a shape that fit beautifully, allowing for comfort in case of bloating and a shape around the back that felt feminine and sculpted. I opted for no slit in the dress as I didn’t want it to blow open; I wanted to be able to focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about holding my dress (and my dignity) together."

"For the shoes, I brought in something blue and went for a pair of Jimmy Choo [Elsy 70s] in a soft powder blue. I also wore our styling scarf, draped softly over my shoulders for an added layer of easy elegance."

"The bouquet was designed by Zara of Zara Flora. I wanted cascading lilies wrapped with pearls, so it felt like jewellery; a delicate finishing touch that tied the whole look together."

"The wedding band and engagement ring were from G Collins. When I met Mike, he was helping his cousin work on the G Collins workshop, so it felt like a full-circle moment when he designed my engagement ring with them. He created a stunning emerald-cut sapphire with step-cut trapezoid diamonds on either side. Our wedding bands are simple, also from G Collins."

"Mike's outfit was an earthy-brown suit from P Johnson. His shoes were from Russell and Bromley. P Johnson has a casual suit option. Mike wanted something that felt relaxed and to bring a bit of his personality into his outfit, especially as we were planning to walk around the countryside after our ceremony. Inspired by the earthy palette of the landscape we were going to explore on our wedding day."

"We rented a house in the countryside for a week and stayed there with our mums and sisters. The house had never been used for a wedding before, but the hosts were incredibly accommodating when we reached out to them and asked if they would be happy for us to host a small ring ceremony.

"The house is a traditional Kent Oast house, featuring a round Oast section that lends it considerable character. As our legal wedding was so intimate, with just our mums, we didn't host any welcome events. But we all had a cosy dinner at the cottage the night before, and we had a pamper night. Mike included!"

"We had our invitations created by Lindsay at TPel Paper & Press. The invitations featured woodland scenery inspired by our home. We’re renovating stables in the English countryside that are surrounded by ancient woodlands, so we wanted to bring our home into our invitations. We had two woodpeckers on the front, and silver birch leaves decorating the archway motif with draped branches. We wanted our guests to be able to interact with our invitations, so we created layers that could be opened like little chapters in a book, revealing different details of the day."

"We got married in Eastbourne Town Hall. It’s a stunning building. Very grand and has this gorgeous staircase lit by a stained-glass window. We chose the Mayor’s Parlour, as it was only four of us! We got married with our mums as our witnesses. It was incredibly intimate."

"Following our legal ceremony, we went to the beach. It was stormy, with the waves being whipped up into big frothy splashes of white, and we had to take our shoes off to manage on the cobbled beach. (My Jimmy Choo's didn’t like the cobbles very much!) I absolutely loved walking along the cobbled British beach as newlyweds; people must have thought we were totally bonkers."

"We spent the rest of the day driving around in a vintage car, with a picnic and enjoying the landscape around the South Downs. We walked down to the Seven Sisters, and Benjamin took the most magical photographs of us in the stormy weather."

"We got absolutely drenched by the rain, so we drove back to the house we were staying at and did what any sensible couple would do: pushed a little rowboat out into the pond. We paddled through the rain, just the two of us floating there on the reflection of the trees."

"We wanted to embrace the elements of the Sussex countryside, from spending time by the sea and enjoying the rolling hills of the South Downs, to being outside as much as possible."

"The wild ruggedness of the Seven Sisters cliffs especially resonated with us. Inspired by these surroundings, I loved the idea of bringing sculptural elements into the dress. The earthy tones that Mike picked for his suit complemented the palette perfectly."

"When we returned from Seven Sisters, I changed into the Gaia Dress. It felt like the perfect transition piece: effortless, romantic and made for movement. I wanted something that felt lighter and freer, a dress I could truly live in. The Gaia Dress offered the perfect balance of elegance and ease, so I could enjoy every moment in complete comfort."

Bride: @aliemackintosh
Groom: @mikejb22
Photography: @benjaminwheeler
Venue: @uniquehomestays
Hair: @katya.valentinahair
Dress: @aym.studio
Shoes: @jimmychoo
Flowers: @zarafloraflowers
Catering: Pip & Seed
Stationary: Tpel Paper & Press

So far this year, I only have one wedding in the diary—compared to 2025 where five of my friends got married across the UK and Europe, it was a busy summer. But that's not to say I won't take 2026 wedding guest dressing any less seriously, as I love to be nosey and know what to expect from everyone's outfit plans. Plus, it'll help to make my one outfit a good one. While on a quest to suss out the best occasionwear this season, I chatted to some of the fashion industry experts to find out the key wedding guest trends this year.

Eager to find out? To sum up, Rixo's co-founder Orlagh McCloskey wants to make sure everyone embraces the more-is-more aesthetic, "we love encouraging women to embrace individual style and to feel confident", and the new collection is packed full of the boldest prints and the brightest shades. And on the topic of colour choices, the design team for the premium ARRANGE collection at ASOS has pinpointed icy pink as the pastel du jour for spring/summer. Add to this Bambi-inspired prints, the return of the peep toe and the forever-growing rental fashion trend, and it looks like wedding guest dressing for 2026 is going to be a fun one! These are the key trends, according to the experts in the know.

2026 Wedding Guest Outfit Trends:

1. Icy Pink

Style Notes: After getting an email about the stunning new ARRANGE collection, this was my first destination to get some insight on the occasion-ready collection. Jess Spernaes, senior designer for ARRANGE at ASOS, told me "pastels will be huge for spring/summer and the icy pink hue feels very elevated. Our dress with square cut shape and the 3D texture adds an element of fun to occasion dressing." After researching the shades, I too noticed that the fresh light pink hue is quite literally everywhere at the moment.

Psst, pastels are also a popular bridesmaid choice, though, so maybe just check in with the bride first.

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2. Fawn Print

Style Notes: With instantly recognisable prints, Never Fully Dressed always has outfits you can easily spot in the wedding crowd. I asked founder Lucy Aylen which print is going to be key for the upcoming nuptials, and it's all about animal-inspired.

"For wedding guest dressing this season, we are loving fawn print. It gives you the impact of animal print with a lighter, more romantic feel—perfect for celebrating in style," and team Who What Wear already agrees that deer print is a big one, so it's worth getting one step ahead and investing in the Bambi print already.

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3. Rented

Style Notes: “People are attending more weddings than ever, and the celebrations themselves are becoming increasingly lavish. Guests want to look incredible for each event, often in something that's designer or really special, but it’s not realistic to buy a new luxury dress every time you have a wedding in the diary, which is why we’re seeing such an explosion of rental," Georgie Le Roux, founder of Gigi & Olive shared with me.

And it seems TikTok is playing a part in how we'll all pick our outfits this year, "we’re seeing more brides sharing mood boards or dress guidance with guests, something that’s been hugely amplified by TikTok, where the overall look and feel of the guest list has become part of the visual storytelling of the day. As a result, guests are looking for pieces that feel elevated, fashion forward and aligned with the brief, and rental gives them the freedom to do that." And as someone who often borrows an outfit for weddings, this is the main appeal for me, getting to wear a dress by a designer I love but wouldn't want to buy for one occasion.

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4. Be Expressive

Style Notes: Rixo will forever be the destination for the most beautiful occasionwear looks, so I asked co-founder Orlagh McCloskey her thoughts on this year's biggest trends—it's set to be a fun one, "as we head into the next wedding season, we are celebrating personal curation. We love the idea of guests expressing their individual style through expressive prints like our Dahlia, bright colours like our Jess, and flattering silhouettes like our Abi."

When it comes to guest dressing rules, there are no rules, Orlagh adds, "At Rixo we’ve always believed wedding guest dressing should feel celebratory and personal. There are no rules. We love encouraging women to embrace individual style and to feel confident. We hope customers choose a look they feel special in but still authentically themselves. It's important a wedding guest dress is more than a one-occasion purchase and something that will transition effortlessly from the dance floor to an everyday wardrobe."

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5. Peep Toe Heels

Style Notes: Shoe designer Andrea Wazen creates the most perfect pairs for brides-to-be, guests and anyone who just loves luxury footwear. Speaking about the key trend this year, Andrea told me why peep-toe heels are going to be making a comeback at weddings this year, "peep toes bring a timeless femininity to wedding guest dressing, elegant with a hint of sensuality. It softens the silhouette and brings a subtle sensuality that complements occasion dressing. The Katy style is a favourite of mine and the angular peep toe adds a modern, edgy twist."

Luckily, they're everywhere right now, so I've chosen the styles you'll want to add to your wedding guest looks.

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They say a wedding dress is the most important piece of clothing a woman will ever wear. Well, where’s the beauty in that if the style you’ve chosen to walk down the aisle in is far too elegant for everyday settings? For an increasing number of brides, the styles they selected to tie the knot in aren’t floor-grazing or aisle-dragging. Instead, short wedding dresses offer something altogether quite contemporary and unconventional. Indeed, call this their ‘something new’ in the way they’ve bucked convention, but as more couples opt for ceremonies that cater to their own tastes rather than adhere to traditions, it’s unsurprising to see cropped hemlines come to the forefront.

This isn’t just a response to modernity, however. Whilst perpetual brat, Charli XCX, might’ve made the most prolific endorsement for short wedding dresses when she wore Vivienne Westwood’s Nova Cora off-shoulder mini, but it’s not just the Aperol Spritz-adoring pop star who has chosen the unexpected for their big day. In fact, short wedding dresses have a storied history of being worn by prolific women who weren’t afraid to blaze their own trail, whether that be Mia Farrow, Audrey Hepburn, Sharon Tate, Lily Allen or Cindy Crawford. The most famous short wedding dress, however, remains Yoko Ono, who wed John Lennon wearing a pleated thigh-baring dress at the British consulate office in Gibraltar.

These women weren’t dressing to meet expectations. They were dressing with intention, just for themselves,” explains Annelise Sealy, founder of London-based bridal boutique, The Fall. “Choosing a short dress signals that same mindset—fashion-forward, self-assured, and unafraid to stand apart.”

Speaking about the ascent of short wedding dresses, she explains that several factors have contributed to the rise of this style. (And no, I’m not just referring to the length.) “Modern brides are more empowered than ever to make choices that genuinely reflect who they are,” Sealy adds. “Marriage no longer feels like a rigid rite of passage; it’s a personal milestone, so the dress doesn’t need to follow a prescribed formula.”

“I think a short wedding dress carries an inherent sense of confidence,” acknowledging that they put the focus on the woman, not just the gown. “It's the opposite of the prescribed norm, whilst feeling fresh, intentional, and fun. It also offers freedom—both literally and stylistically—as it’s easier to move and enjoy the day without managing layers of fabric or a long train.”

This last point resonates with the way most brides are approaching their ceremonies, too. “Short wedding dresses reflect how weddings themselves have evolved—smaller guest lists, city ceremonies, destination celebrations, and multi-day events,” Sealy continues. “They suit that modern pace and versatility, and lean into a sense of individuality rather than excess.”

As for wearing one well? “It’s definitely all in the details and styling! Sheer layers instantly elevate a shorter length, or you can play with volume by adding a dramatic sleeve or detachable train. A veil, gloves, bold heels, or statement jewellery can transform a short dress into something unmistakably bridal while still feeling fashion forward.”

So, whether you’re seeking something to wear to your civil, a second look moment or are simply wanting to find ‘the one’ in a style that’s more cropped, scroll on to see a fashion writer’s edit of the best short wedding dresses of 2026.

The Best Short Wedding Dresses to Shop in 2026

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

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 favourite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

"We met five years ago, and our first date took place during the pandemic. Cevin picked me up to go drifting, and afterwards, we ended up at his agency, sharing a glass of wine. The funny part? It was technically our first date, but I stayed over that night, and in a way, never really left.

"The proposal happened on my 30th birthday in Ibiza. We had rented a house with my closest friends, and Cevin surprised me with the proposal out on the terrace. It was completely unexpected (as we were still a little hungover from the night before), but it turned into the most beautiful moment, especially because we got to celebrate it with my friends right afterwards.

"Everything about our story has always moved fast. We already have a two-year-old daughter, and now, after just five years together, we are married. From the very beginning, we’ve been living life at full speed—like going 270 km/h in the fast lane—and that energy has carried us all the way here."

"Our wedding had a pastel theme, inspired by Cevin’s art, which is full of soft, colourful tones. I designed the invitations myself in lavender and soft pink to introduce the [colour palette] right from the start."

"On the morning of the wedding, I got ready at the Chateau Royal in Berlin, which was also where we spent our wedding night. I was joined by my best friend Antony, who was also my best man, and we even shared our first glass of champagne, making the morning full of laughter, excitement, and special moments."

"I chose to have my dress custom-made by Berlin designer Franziska Burgert. One of my closest friends had previously had her wedding dresses designed by Franziska, and I had always been impressed by her work. I wanted something special, something tailored exactly to my body, rather than picking a dress off the rack"

"My makeup was done by Patricia Hoos, a talented makeup artist from Berlin who came highly recommended. Since I usually wear very little makeup, I wanted something a bit stronger for the wedding but still natural, and Patricia executed it perfectly. Originally, I had planned to wear my hair down, but in the end, I opted for a sleek braided updo so that my scarf and the corsage of my dress could really stand out."

"Originally, [I planned to] wear white wide-leg [trousers] with a crop top and maybe a cropped blazer. But as the process unfolded, I realised that this was such a special day, and I wanted to wear a skirt instead. Franziska tried a corsage on me just to see how it would feel, and the moment I put it on, I fell in love. From that moment, it was clear that I wanted a corsage with this skirt.

"The final look was the perfect fit for me: elegant yet cool, sexy but not overdone. I wanted to avoid a traditional “princess” vibe and instead go for something edgy and modern, something that really fits the Berlin spirit. The outfit was completed with a scarf, adding an extra unique touch. I wore silver Jimmy Choo shoes, and for jewellery, I wore my engagement ring, wedding ring and additional gifted pieces from the day, all from Tiffany & Co., which beautifully completed the look."

"Cevin wore a custom-made suit from SteelSupply, featuring black trousers, black shoes, and an off-white double-breasted blazer paired with a bow tie. His look perfectly complemented mine. Together, we looked amazing."

"Originally, the plan was to have a small civil ceremony in Berlin and then host a larger celebration in Mallorca. But as the planning unfolded, the Berlin ceremony kept growing, and before we knew it, we had nearly 60 guests. At that point, it felt natural to embrace it as our main wedding celebration, especially since it allowed our families in Germany to be part of the day.

"We chose Hallesches Haus in Berlin, which turned out to be the perfect setting. What makes the venue so special is its beautiful outdoor space. Having dinner outside was non-negotiable for us as we wanted one long table where all of our guests could sit together. That sense of connection and togetherness was the most important thing: no separation, no small groups, just one big table of conversation, laughter and joy."

"Since our ceremony was civil, we had limited space and could only have 15 people inside. That meant it was just our closest family and our daughter, Ida. She was our adorable ring-bearer, bringing the rings to us after we exchanged vows. It was such a sweet and memorable special moment."

"A funny moment happened with the music. I had prepared a USB stick with a song for our entrance, but I didn’t realise that the old sound system could only play one track at a time. I had actually created a folder on the stick with the song labelled 'Song for Ceremony'. When we entered, the official plugged in the USB, and suddenly a groovy house track started playing!

"Everyone was surprised and a bit confused, and my mom even came out to ask if this was really supposed to happen. For a moment, I panicked, thinking the moment was ruined. But in hindsight, it was so funny, and actually perfectly fitting, since it was a song I normally play as a DJ. It added a natural, playful touch to the ceremony that made it even more memorable."

"Despite the small space and the unexpected music, the ceremony was incredibly beautiful, intimate and emotional. We even exchanged a few personal words with each other. Normally, civil ceremonies are said to be very formal and 'dry', but ours felt deeply personal, romantic, and truly memorable. A moment we will always cherish."

"After the ceremony, we had our couple’s photoshoot, and in the afternoon, the reception began at the venue. A singer performed acoustic versions of some of my favourite songs from Rihanna, Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. When we joined later, the singer performed 'Freed From Desire', and everyone sang along. It was an incredible vibe!"

"As mentioned, our wedding had a pastel theme, inspired in part by Cevin’s artwork, which is full of bright and cheerful colours. We wanted the day to feel joyful and lively, and the pastel palette set the perfect tone. The dress code for our guests was also pastel, creating a cohesive, colourful look that would shine in photos and make the celebration feel extra vibrant."

"Our florist tailored the flowers to match the pastel theme, using soft pinks, lilacs, creams and delicate dried blooms. The flowers complemented the charming courtyard, with its green chairs and leafy walls, creating a beautiful, harmonious overall look. Candles in pastel shades added warmth, whilst the menus were printed in soft lilac tones, perfectly matching the table décor. With everything from the flowers to the table linens and candles working together, the result was a stunning, cohesive setting that felt both elegant and playful—a perfect reflection of our vision for the day."

"As a special 'personality gift', each guest received a bottle of wine from Rheinhessen, selected by winemaker Juliane Eller, with our logo on it. In addition, we wrote personal letters to every guest, sharing heartfelt words and memories. These were placed on their plates just before the meal, and seeing everyone’s reactions—tears, smiles and hugs—was incredibly moving. It was such a meaningful way to show our appreciation and connect with our loved ones on a deeper level."

"Dinner followed around 6.30 pm, served family-style at one long table, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The mood remained playful throughout, with a funky '70s and '80s house playlist. Guests were already dancing—some grabbing the microphone—and an impromptu dance circle formed outdoors. Around 10 pm, we moved inside to cut the pastel-coloured cake, inspired by Cevin‘s artwork.

"One of the most special moments of the evening was the speeches by our respective best friends and witnesses. Both gave absolutely beautiful speeches, finding exactly the right words, and everyone was completely captivated and emotionally moved."

"Our first dance was a highlight of the evening. I have danced my whole life, and Cevin also has a dance background, so we prepared a small choreography with three different songs. It was completely unexpected for our guests, and their surprised, excited, cheering reactions made it an amazing, unforgettable moment. After that, the party continued all night with incredible energy and unforgettable joy."

Bride: @maddi_bu
Groom: @cevinparker
Photographer: @erikxwinter
Wedding Ceremony Venue: Hallesches Haus Berlin
Ceremony Dress: @franziskaburgert.atelier
MUA & Hair: @patricia.hoos
Flowers: @schokohama

There are certain items of clothing that you remember forever. In a Proustian sense, the memory of when and where you wore it is proverbially stitched into the very material of the piece. Unequivocally, a wedding dress is one of them.

“A wedding dress is so much more than clothing—it’s the tangible expression of someone’s identity at the exact moment they step into a new chapter,” explains Annelise Sealy, the founder of London-based contemporary bridal boutique The Fall Bride.

“It holds emotion, history, personality and intention,” Sealy continues. “At The Fall Bride, we see brides choose pieces that capture how they want to feel: powerful, modern, romantic, effortless. A wedding dress anchors the narrative of the day and becomes part of their personal story.”

But how to actually make it to the aisle wearing a piece you adore as much as the person you’re meeting at the end? And what wedding dress trends are on the rise for 2026?

“2026 is shaping up to be the year of romance reimagined. Silhouettes feel fluid and feminine, but beneath that softness lies impeccable structure and considered craftsmanship,” Sealy notes on the overall mode set for bridal fashion.

Even more so, the limits for what constitutes a wedding design are blurring in 2026 and beyond. Your design could be the dress you’ve been dreaming of since you were a girl, something that arrived via DHL Express the evening before or something you plucked from the high street set in the weeks leading up to the big day. Either way, the notions around what constitutes a wedding dress are becoming quite antiquated.

Still, there is so much pressure to find The One, even if you are armed with the information about the key emerging trends and styles that could be read as dated in a few months' time. On that, Brigitte Stepputtis, design director of couture at Vivienne Westwood, suggests newlyweds-to-be should “let go of the myth of the ‘perfect’ dress. She continues, “If the dress shifts your posture, sharpens your confidence and makes you feel slightly more yourself, that’s The One.”

This is a trait we’ve seen a lot of already from Charli xcx's leg-baring, off-the-rack Vivienne Westwood gown for her Hackney Town Hall civil ceremony to Lana Del Rey’s Victorian-inspired custom Cinq creation for her ‘Love on the Bayou’ themed nuptials. These are pieces that are considered in the sense that they capture the quality of who they are, but are equally carefree in their approach. In fact, a dress chosen without the pressure of selecting something perfect will actually be the most precious of all.

And in an era where exchanging vows can sometimes feel like a performance for a digital peanut gallery, there’s something so liberating about intentionally embracing a wedding dress that solely caters to you—your tastes, your history, your traditions and your future. “In essence,” Sealy adds, “2026 brides are embracing softness, but it’s with intention, designed with the precision of couture and the poetry of eras past”.

But this is only helpful in theory. So, whether you have a date set, are in the nascent stages of planning or are still simply picking out engagement rings, keep scrolling below for the 8 expert-approved wedding dress trends of 2026.

The 8 Key Wedding Dress Trends of 2026

Style Notes: It would be remiss to discuss the key 2026 wedding dress trends without beginning here. As the brat songstress said, everything is romantic, and one of the biggest trends encourages brides to embrace this sensibility through a refined lens. “2026 is shaping up to be the year of romance reimagined,” explains Sealy. “Silhouettes feel fluid and feminine, but beneath that softness lies impeccable structure and considered craftsmanship.”

Rosie Williams, co-founder and creative director of The Own Studio, a contemporary bridal studio located in the heart of Shoreditch, echoes this. “For 2026, we’re seeing a balance between structure and softness,” she says. “Think: hidden corsetry and structure with fluid draping on top. It’s all about having that really amazing, containing feeling on the inside, but still an element of romance and fluidity in the fabric.” Tender touches like stitching a quote into the lining of your train—perhaps in a robin's-egg blue in an homage to that traditional “something”—or upcycling a family member’s gown for your veil are ideal ways of expressing this trend.

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Style Notes: Whilst predicting future trends can sometimes feel like gazing into a crystal ball, take solace in knowing that there’s a rich history of fashion trends to mine, especially if looking too far ahead feels daunting. “Vintage references are coming through with unprecedented subtlety,” says Sealy.

“Rather than overt costume, we’re seeing whispers of the Baroque, the opulence of Rococo, and the sculptural femininity of the Belle Époque translated into modern silhouettes: ornate brocade reinterpreted as lace motifs, elongated corseted waists softened with fluid drapes, and embellishment that pays homage without imitation.”

A designer who excels at the New York City-based modern bridalwear maven, Danielle Frankel. Establishing herself as a definitive destination for contemporary women seeking something cool and with couture sensibilities, the brand’s latest collection draws inspiration from illustrations by Erté, the 20th-century Russian-French artist known for his hand-crafted costumes.

Slightly Art Nouveau, slightly Art Deco, the designs render a century-old tradition with a new outlook. “Trapunto stitching, corded trellis embroidery, boned bodices and hand-painted facades are just a few of the signature details that make up an imaginative compilation of cinema-like pieces, each with its own personality,” the brand says in a press release, which also reflects a desire for weddings to play out like an event. “Brides want their wedding day to unfold like theatre,” explains Stepputtis.

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Style Notes: Though the aforementioned trends speak to the overall vibe for 2026 wedding dress trends, bridal designers are also forecasting the return of specific elements. Draping is one of them. “Draping continues to play a pivotal role, bringing movement, softness and dimension to gowns that feel both contemporary and timeless,” explains Michelle Aznavorian, the founder and creative director of ready-to-wear and occasionwear label Misha.

More specifically, designers are embracing draping that feels “poetic rather than fussy”, as Sealy notes. “Soft folds that skim the body, cascades of silk that ripple as the bride moves, and sculpted ruching that gently shapes without ever feeling rigid,” she continues. “It’s sensual, but never showy, a quiet luxury with a decidedly modern hand. This is shown through corseted bodices with a fluid drape through the gown, sculpted without looking stiff, and deeply flattering and romantic.”

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Style Notes: Ask any upcoming bride, and they’ll tell you about the concerns they have about wearing one of the most contentious parts of bridalwear: lace. Is it slightly too old-fashioned? Will you resemble a crocheted doily your grandmother has over her lounge room? Fortunately, not. “Lace is coming back in a big way,” Sealy foretells. Williams also adds that whilst lace is back, it’s very much reimagined. “It’s more about interesting motifs, trim details and clever placement versus all-over lace gowns,” she notes. “Look for French lace, which is delicate, soft to the touch and deeply chic. Corded or more graphic lace can feel too traditional or stuffy,” Sealy explains.

For Sydney-based bridal designer Prea James, lace is a fabric that she's been using for over ten years. “When I first launched the label nearly a decade ago, lace was on its way out as minimalism was coming in,” she says. “If brides aren’t feeling a full lace gown, they can still incorporate the trend through subtle touches, like lace trims or a lace veil. It’s a beautiful way to bring in the texture and romance of lace without feeling overwhelmed by it.”

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Style Notes: The naked dressing trend isn’t a silhouette that would traditionally translate into bridal wear, but as these designers note, the conventional wedding dress rulebook is being rewritten for 2026. “Sheerness is no longer about overt sensuality, but instead introduces a whisper of allure through delicate layering and refined fabrication,” Aznavorian explains. “Brides are pairing sheer lace, tulle, and organza tops beneath gowns, creating a delicate interplay between transparency and opacity,” Sealy adds. “The future isn’t glossy, but it has a soft sheen, layered translucency, and tactile textiles that come alive on camera.”

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Style Notes: Blame it on economic constraints or the fact that many brides are looking to have several ‘moments’ throughout the day, but the act of having multiple dresses continues to dominate in 2026. However, it’s taking a slightly different format, as instead of wearing several gowns, people are looking to re-up one singular dress through adjusting and tweaking elements over the course of the nuptials. Enter: removable elements.

“The art of layering takes centre stage in 2026,” Sealy remarks. “It’s an unexpected approach that adds depth, dimension, and personalisation, allowing a single gown to feel effortlessly ceremonial for the aisle and stripped-back for the reception,” she continues. “For 2026, we’re seeing detachable overskirts and sleeves being the trend, as well as an accessory change-up like adding a neck scarf for the reception.”

It’s a trend designers themselves are besotted with, too. “I love this trend and love designing for it, because you can create two very different looks with just a few thoughtful changes,” adds James. “Our Mariska dress, for example, pairs with multiple detachable trains—the Eloise Tails, Daphne Train, and the Grace Overskirt—and also looks incredible on its own. This style is up around 230% from this time last year! The trains or overskirt give that dramatic ceremony moment, and once removed, they reveal a sleek column-style dress for the reception.”

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Style Notes: One of the more radical wedding dress trends to emerge for 2026 is reversible silhouettes. This isn’t just about turning your gown inside out, but intentionally displaying the internal structure of a gown in a way that displays the artistry and skill that goes into creating a gown.

“This trend celebrates the work and craftsmanship in wedding gowns—an honesty in design that lets the internal architecture become the aesthetic,” explains Sealy. “It also offers a point of uniqueness and intentional design in a market that has become incredibly saturated with options. Visible boning and construction elements reflect structural beauty and a sense of modern craftsmanship.” One of the most prolific designers to do this—and has been for decades—is Vivienne Westwood. As Stepputtis adds, “we’ve long celebrated the poetry of construction and showing the bones of a garment is a way of honouring its engineering”.

“This also echoes another design code of the house; undergarments worn as outerwear. One could almost see this as a visual result of the bride’s intentions. They have been seeking authenticity, a rejection of perfection and craving a "transparent" identity.”

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Style Notes: Another unconventional trend to rear is to head is anti-stark white wedding dresses. “We're moving away from sharp, optic-bright whites,” explains Sealy. But fret not, this pendulum swing isn’t towards darker hues, but rather muted and pastel colours that add dimension and intrigue to a gown. “Sophisticated tonal palettes—buttery cream, and even rose pinks— that flatter all skin tones and lend gowns a warmer, more romantic aura are taking their place,” she adds.

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What Wedding Dress Trends are Considered "Dated" in 2026?

With new styles entering the canon of wedding dress trends, the pendulum must swing against some styles. Whilst these will never truly be "dated", especially since, as we've professed numerous times, a wedding dress is a deeply personal choice, there are certainly some styles that aren't as popular as others.

"The minimal slip has had its moment, but 2026 demands more. Brides aren’t rejecting simplicity, but they’re seeking gowns with more structure and support," Sealy observes. Brides are also gravitating away flat matte fabrics with no dimension. "The ultra-matte finishes that dominated previous years are quietly exiting," Sealy notes. Brides are craving nuance through fabrics with depth glow, texture, movement."

What to Look Out for When Buying a Wedding Dress?

We generally find there are two types of brides: those who know exactly what they want and what suits them, and those who really don’t know where to start," explains James. If you're the latter, these are the exact elements to keep in mind when buying a wedding dress:

• Silhouette: "The silhouette is the foundation, do you feel more yourself in something structured or something softer? You’ve got to feel incredible in the shape of the dress as a starting point," says Williams. "Exploring a mix of silhouettes to see what feels good on your body will naturally help you narrow down what you love," James adds.

• Occasion: "It’s also worth considering how each style aligns with the wedding you’re planning, whether it’s a formal affair or a more intimate restaurant celebration," James notes.

• Fabric: "Fabric is so important and completely changes the mood of a dress," says Williams. "Structured fabrics create presence, fluid fabrics give a sense of ease. If you’re considering dyeing your dress after the wedding, it’s important to choose a fabric that is suitable for dyeing." Sealy also says that matte finishes feel "cleaner and modern" whilst textured materials "add dimension to simple cuts" and satin finishes are "timeless and romantic".

• Time: Most wedding dresses will require several months to make, so you need to have an idea of your timeline when shopping. "Make sure you give yourself enough time to explore different shapes and styles so you can get a feel of what suits," Williams adds. "Save trying your favourite brand on until the end as, by that stage, you’ll have a much better idea of what you’re looking for."

• Length: "A small train is classic, but a larger train can add drama and theatre," Sealy explains. "No train creates a cleaner, more modern editorial feel."

• Volume: "Ask yourself how you want your dress to behave. Flowing? Sculptural? Architectural? Minimal? Volume can also be concentrated (skirt only) or evenly balanced," she continues.

• Silhouette: Consider your silhouette, Sealy also stresses. "Structured means your gown will be more sculptural, corseted, supportive and flattering on any figure. Fluid means bias-cut silks, soft movement, effortless and no structure to support, so undergarments become even more key"

• Necklines: "Square and scoop feel clean and sculptural. Plunge adds sensuality without being “overt”. Strapless is polished but not fussy when paired with a minimal overall design."

• Mood: "Most importantly, what feeling do you want to embody? Modern? Romantic?Architectural? Playful?

How to Choose a Wedding Dress?

So, how to actually choose The One, especially when the market is so saturated and it can almost feel like everyone is a critic? "There’s already so much planning that goes into your wedding day; feeling rushed or pressured will only add unnecessary stress," James says.

"Once you’ve narrowed things down to your favourites, remember that you need to be the decider. If you’re bringing anyone to your appointments, make sure they don’t have overpowering opinions, because at the end of the day, it’s your dress, your wedding, your choice.

"And once you’ve locked in a dress, stay off social media to avoid confusing yourself—you don’t need more noise."

Sealy also stresses this. "The myth of The One can be overwhelming. My advice is to not chase perfection—chase comfort, confidence and authenticity," she explains. "There may be several dresses that are right; the key is which feels aligned for your day and the format of your wedding. Don’t get hung up on bridal 'rules'. Focus less on pleasing others and more on feeling like your favourite version of yourself. When the dress supports your personality rather than overpowering it, it usually becomes “the one."

How Many Wedding Dresses Should a Bride Have?

"More often than not, weddings now have at least one satellite event attached to them, whether that’s the night before or a recovery day after. Each event has its own distinct vibe, and it’s the perfect opportunity for brides to lean into different looks that reflect different sides of their personality or style," says Williams. Whilst there's no exact rule for how many wedding dresses a bride should have, it is increasingly popular to have many dress changes.

"I think this stems from more couples getting married overseas and therefore having multi-day events, which creates the need for multiple looks," James adds. "It’s then filtered down to one-day weddings, with brides choosing a more statement dress for the ceremony and a fun party dress for the reception. I personally think it’s lovely when the reception dress ties in with the main dress. It still needs to feel equally as special in its own way — you don’t want to change out of a beautiful gown you felt amazing in and slip into something that doesn’t hold the same magic. So if you’re going to make a change, keep that in mind and perhaps time it for later in the evening."

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Ask any fashion editor to share their favourite high street stores, and I can almost guarantee that Zara will be among them. A fashion oasis delivering on everything from trend-led pieces to timeless classic styles, there are few high-street stores that offer quite as much variety, newness, and, let’s be honest, instant add-to-basket appeal as the Spanish fashion brand. I can say from my own personal experience that whenever I have an invite roll in, and I find myself questioning, ‘What am I going to wear?’ Zara is often my first port of call—even when it comes to wedding guest dressing.

Because, while at first glance, a wedding may seem like the perfect occasion to splurge on a luxe one-of-a-kind outfit, if you were to look at things from a practical standpoint, I’d actually argue the opposite. As many of us rarely get the opportunity to wear and rewear the wedding guest dresses we painstakingly spent so long searching for, they often sit languishing at the back of our wardrobes after use, not to mention never truly delivering on their usually elevated price tag.

By comparison, in true Zara style, the high street hero not only delivers on the chicest styles ideal for more elevated weddings and events but also on pieces that can often be re-worked throughout the year for a whole host of different occasions. I recently bought a satin slip dress, which I wore to a friend's wedding during spring, yet all it took was a quick switch-up of accessories to make it the perfect dress for packing in my holiday suitcase a few months later.

Not to mention that Zara is currently spoiling us with limited edition collections and exciting collaborations, leading to pieces that feel incredibly elegant and will give many designer brands a run for their money.

To prove my point, I’ve rounded up 15 of my favourite Zara dresses that are perfect for all styles of weddings this winter. From trending scarf dresses to gowns that can pass a black tie dress code with ease, these are the best Zara wedding guest dresses to shop now, along with a few helpful tips on how to style them, too.

The Best Zara Wedding Guest Dresses:

There are only a few pieces of jewellery that you carry with you forever; the string of pearls you received upon your graduation à la the ladies of The First Wives Club, a signet ring that has been passed down from generation to generation, perhaps even a luxury watch to commemorate a milestone birthday. Still, none of these are as important or significant as your engagement ring. “Engagement rings are meaningful because of the intention behind them, which is to carry your shared story,” explains Lucy Folk, the founder and designer of her eponymous jewellery, apparel and accessories brand

A manifestation of the love felt between two people, engagement rings are the physical representation of their commitment to one another and a symbol of their reciprocal devotion. Like a memory poised on the second finger to the left, an engagement ring is a proclamation of affection and a reminder that, like the style your partner has chosen, you’ve found ‘the one’ to spend the rest of your life with..

In this way, the stakes in choosing an engagement ring are incredibly high. Unless you’re someone like Victoria Beckham, who boasts an impressive collection of nearly 15 engagement rings, the cut and setting you choose now will likely be the one you wear forever.

“Where an engagement ring is concerned, it’s about wearability, character, and longevity, rather than following a trend,” celebrated New Zealand-born, London-based jeweller Jessica McCormack tells me over email. With a niche for incredibly poised pieces that become modern heirlooms, the renowned designer has courted a loyal customer base that includes Zoë Kravitz, Zendaya and Dakota Johnson. “I think couples are looking for something that feels personal and timeless.”

“The ring will always be special and significant,” Folk notes. “It's the shared history that is embedded in the ring over its lifetime that enhances the allure of the piece and your story.” Part of this tale is the process of finding the right fit. There are, of course, classic styles that have been around for centuries, like the brilliant diamond ring finished in a six-prong setting created by Tiffany & Co., all the way back in 1886 or the emerald-cut diamonds worn by everyone from Jennifer Lawrence to Elizabeth Taylor. But in order for something to truly be considered timeless, it needs to be offset by the contemporary styles of the day, which brings us to the key engagement ring trends of 2026.

“Classic with a twist” is how Folk describes the collective mood for engagement ring trends in 2026. “People are connecting with storytelling, and there’s a real desire for rings that hold personal meaning,” she adds. “It’s very much about individuality, pieces that feel intimate, expressive, and unique to each love story.” On a more practical level, this translates to rings featuring a trilogy of stones styled in bolder settings, bezel cuts that truly spotlight the diamond and antique rings that accentuate an eternal bond.

When it comes to actually shopping for an engagement ring in 2026, McCormack advises that the most important thing is “to buy a ring that you really love”. Whilst she admits this sounds obvious, she emphasises this point because this is a piece of jewellery that you’ll wear day in and day out. “Finding a design that you’ll want to wear every day comes first, so I always recommend really loving the stone. Couples need to consider the comfortability of the ring; how it sits and looks on their finger, if it moves around and whether that is something that works for them and fits into their daily lives.”

So, whether you’re a future bride or are just curious to know what styles are shaping up to be the defining ones of the year ahead, I’ve consulted leading jewellery designers and experts to identify the 6 key engagement ring trends of 2026. Uncover them all, ahead.

The 6 Key Engagement Ring Trends of 2026

1. Jaw-Dropping Stones

Style Notes: Speaking to Cushla Whiting, a Melbourne-based jeweller specialising in fine jewellery, rare stones and art deco designs, during her recent London trunk show, she explained that one of the biggest trends of 2026 will be a return to maximalism. “With the accessibility of larger lab-grown diamonds, big stones have completely dominated the space,” she adds. “Elongated shapes such as ovals, elongated cushions and radiants are in particularly high demand. Where a one-carat diamond was once considered ideal, couples are now seeking two carats and above.”

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2. Bolder Bands

Style Notes: “We are also seeing a shift in settings to support these larger stones,” Whiting adds. “Bold, chunky gold solitaires are taking precedence over the fine, minimal metal bands of previous years,” she explains. The focus is on statement pieces that feel substantial, luxurious and confidently modern.”

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3. Antique Cuts

Style Notes: Whilst a majority of these engagement ring trends look ahead to the future, it’s also important to look to the past for inspiration. “For 2026, I’m especially excited about finding some beautiful old cuts, which I think look so perfect in an engagement ring,” McCormack notes. “I have always loved working with antique stones, but by nature, they are harder to come by, and while Old Mines are particularly rare, once found, I think they are worth the search! I think there is something very special about having an antique diamond engagement ring.”

“There is a growing desire for engagement rings that tell a personal story, moving away from the classic white diamond solitaire toward pieces that express unique taste and values, like genuine antique diamonds,” Whiting adds. Of course, Taylor Swift’s stunning engagement ring from Travis Kelce helps underscore this message, but it’s not just amongst the rich and famous where this lust for vintage stones is being expressed.

“The appetite for antique diamonds continues to be a strong niche within our studio, driven by clients seeking one-of-a-kind pieces with unmatched history and charm.” As a result, she developed the LA CUSH™ diamond collection, which is a series of proprietary diamond cuts inspired by the character of antique stones and conceived by her brother and the brand’s in-house gemologist, Hamish Whiting. “Each cut reinterprets antique traditions through a modern architectural lens, designed to Hamish’s exact specifications and cut from Antwerp-sourced roughs with full transparency.”

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4. Multiple Stones

Style Notes: Folk also notes that singular diamonds are also being eschewed for a collection of multiple stones, be it in trilogy, cluster or toi et moi settings. “Our clients are also excited by combining cuts that are not traditionally presented together,” she tells me. “This ranges from cuts like emeralds, baguettes, rounds and ovals presented on one plane, with equal weight to designs that are diamond-heavy, but with no hero or central stone or regular pattern.”

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5. Full Spectrum Styles

Style Notes: Alongside these more flashy cuts, modern brides are also looking to express their uniqueness through the colour they select. “Naturally coloured stones such as champagne, light yellow, and richly toned sapphires in green, teal and Australian parti hues are increasingly sought after for their rarity and character,” Whiting tells me. It’s a consensus shared by Sydney-based goldsmith, jewellery designer and gemologist, Monika Ruggerino. “Designs are more daring than ever before, with my clients requesting bespoke personalised elements added to my signature designs and opting for colour over traditional white diamonds,” she adds.

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6. Bezel Settings

Style Notes: Where a lot of emphasis is placed on the stone itself, Folk reminds me that setting is equally important when factoring in your chosen ring design. “Our clients want to live and love in their rings!” she stresses. “Bezel settings, or diamonds embedded into surfaces that protect the edges of the diamonds and can keep up with a life well lived, are what people are drawn to. These styles are full of texture and spirit. They are magnetic, and I think our customer feels this energy.” This sentiment is echoed by Whiting: “Chunky gold bands, bezel settings and personalised engraving are also making a return, offering the perfect blend of individuality, craftsmanship and timeless appeal.”

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Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

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 favourite fashion people getting married. For upcoming features, share your submissions here.

"In June of 2011, it was my 18th birthday. I was ready for my party with my best friend Charlie; we were eagerly awaiting guests in a marquee which had been erected for the occasion on my parents’ lawn. As familiar guests started to arrive, so did the unfamiliar- incoming gatecrasher, Luke. Supposedly, if you were a handsome gatecrasher, you could stay, so Luke’s place at the party was safe. I happened to know quite a few of Luke’s friends before I met him, the same friends who were officially invited had convinced him to just come along anyway. We met and had an instant connection, partied late into the night, and went on to date for a decade after. Luke quickly became part of the family, and I knew, fairly instantly, we had something special.

"In the summer of 2024, Luke proposed in Santorini. We were staying at the Nobu Hotel in Imogiveli, a quaint and charming part of the island. The hotel is situated on a cliff top, offering beautiful views of the Caldera. We were getting ready in our room, and before dinner, he called through from the lounge area while I was in the bathroom. 'Are you wearing your necklace tonight?' (Referring to a diamond necklace I frequently wear). I did think this was a strange question as he’d never usually ask what jewellery I wore. I replied, 'Yes', to which he responded, 'I’ve got something to go with it.' With a mix of instant excitement and nerves, I came out of the bathroom to find him on one knee. We headed straight to celebrate with a beautiful dinner right by the sea in a cove below Oia. It was serene, and we soaked up every last moment."

"When we got home, we decided we wanted to mark the occasion with our closest friends and family by hosting an engagement party. The party was held in October, at the private dining room in the Maine, Mayfair. It's one of our favourite private dining rooms in London. With its very personal feel, it was the perfect backdrop to raise our glasses with loved ones to the exciting year ahead."

"Controversially, I wore a black Taller Marmo one-shouldered dress, the sleeve had ostrich feathers, which shouted party glamour. I paired it with a miniature sparkle-adorned Prada bag. Custom menus and mini Diptyque candles greeted our guests as they took their seats at the table. We had a small wandering band, which played some favourite classics, including Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, and Marvin Gaye. An evening to remember!"

"After a quick turnaround in wedding planning time, we wed this past June at Holywell Hall in Stamford."

"We wanted all the formalities of a ‘traditional’ wedding, so we sent physical invites via post with a traditional return via postcard in which guests would state their attendance status. We were so taken aback by the venue itself that we wanted to incorporate an element of it into the invitations, so behind the water-coloured gates of Holywell Hall, the details of our day sat."

"The day began, as with any bride and bridal party, with an early wake-up call. I got ready with my mother, sister (the maid of honour), nieces (the flowergirls) and my bridesmaids, who are my closest friends. It was a still morning with a beautiful sunrise, and I felt completely at ease surrounded by those who had been constants throughout my life."

"I wanted the outfit on the morning of the wedding to be as special as any other outfit that was part of the day. I searched high and low for the perfect pair of pyjamas, and I found a set fit for the job on Daily Sleeper. The cuffs and hems were adorned with layered silk flowers, but the set also felt simplistic, which is exactly what I wanted."

"I trusted none other than Ieva Genovesi for my wedding hair and makeup. I actually met Ieva on the morning of my sister's wedding, as she was assisting my sister’s make-up artist. We instantly had a connection. I think it makes a real difference if you have a genuine connection with your suppliers. She not only made us all look and feel our best but was so much more than a hair and make-up artist on the day; she was incredibly caring, relaxed, and kept us all entertained on the morning of the wedding throughout the hours of glam time, giggling at our stories and keeping us all in check!"

"For my makeup, I really wanted a natural, glowy look in which I felt completely myself. I usually wear natural makeup anyway. Ieva created the natural, glowy look perfectly. A few of her secret weapons included the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blusher, Nars Soft Matte Primer, and the TikTok-viral Urban Decay Moondust in shade Space Cowboy (this creates the most flawless glow on your lids!)."

"I wore the iconic Manolo Blahnik Hangisli white satin jewel buckle slingback pumps, which I have to say were very comfortable, and I managed to last in them all day! I got them in December before the wedding and wanted to make the day feel special. My mother and I went to London to the small Manolo boutique in the Burlington Arcade. Richard, the incredible shop assistant, made it a brilliant experience, and once the final decision had been made, he gifted me a Manolo Blahnik Christmas bauble alongside a handwritten note which I will always treasure."

"For my jewellery, I wore my mother’s diamond tennis bracelet, which I haven’t taken off since the wedding, a single solitaire drop diamond necklace that Luke gifted me on the morning of the wedding, and a pair of bespoke diamond earrings custom-made by Jayce Wong. Jayce is a purveyor of fine jewellery and can make just about anything. She worked with me to create exactly what I wanted and took every little detail of the day and the style of the dress into consideration when designing the earrings for me."

"My other favourite accessory on the day was my Anya Hindmarch Tie the Knot clutch bag. The satin matched the shade and texture of my dress to a tee! I wanted my wedding bag to be a little statement piece on its own, and the Anya Hindmarch bag was perfect. I love all the other bags in her bridal collection too; she always manages to put a fun twist on something classic."

"The dress was hard to pin down. I’ve never been one of those people before getting engaged who knew what they wanted to wear or even imagined what I might wear, so I really was starting from scratch. I went to half a dozen stores, including Browns, Halfpenny and The Fall Bride and admittedly didn’t really fall in love with anything I tried on, but left with a much better understanding of what I liked and didn’t like. It was a real process, but I eventually found the one in Pronovias on Bond Street."

"It was from Vera Wang's 2025 collection. I fell in love with the simplicity of the dress and, most importantly, I felt myself in it. The bodice sat perfectly and stopped at a very flattering point of my hips, and the bow detail across the bust felt fitting for the black tie occasion. So it was decided. 'And the bride wore Vera Wang', for all my fellow Sex and the City fans."

"For the veil, I loved the drama of something which covered my face. The simplicity of the dress meant the veil could either be heavily embellished or lacey. I found the V-Blooming Veil at the same shop, and it trailed beautifully behind the dress."

"We did a classic first look with my father before we left. He looked so proud, and I will always remember this moment."

"Luke wore a custom suit from Cad and the Dandy on Savile Row. He always wears understated quality items, so a totally classic tux was exactly what I expected him to choose. The trousers were slightly high-waisted with a traditional cummerbund placed over the top.

The cummerbund and bowtie were from La Bowtique, where the amazing Mickael Korausch handmakes the items, amongst so much more. His book Modern Black Tie sits on our coffee table, and is so interesting in a world where formal dressing is taking a back foot, and styles are becoming increasingly more casual."

"To complement his traditional style, Luke chose the Crowndale Wholecut Oxford shoes from Joseph Cheaney, and to finish his look, I gifted him the Wax Seal Decor cufflinks from Cartier. His final touch was the most precious gift of all, from his best man, Alex, a Black Tank Must de Cartier. Alex is a procurer of fine watches and had offered to lend Luke the watch as it matched his suit perfectly.

Much to Luke’s surprise, they shared a moment before the ceremony where Alex subtly commented, 'Enjoy wearing it today. It matches everything—it’s perfect. And also for the rest of your life. This is my gift to you, it’s yours, my friend.' They embraced, and Luke was deeply touched."

"Once I was ready, we headed to the charming Holywell Hall, the venue was magical and is one of those rare places where you visit and it leaves a lasting impression on you. It’s a private property that hosts five weddings a year."

"It instantly felt right, and if you know Luke and me as a couple, we always stay at boutique hotels and enjoy intimate settings. We loved the private and intimate feeling of the property; it really felt like home for the day."

"We got married in St.Wilfrid’s Church, which was a very small church located on the grounds of Holywell Hall, another big deciding factor when choosing the venue. We loved that once you were through the gates, you were there all day, from the ceremony to the dancefloor. It was a traditional Church of England service with my sister, our brother-in-law, and a dear family friend all doing readings throughout for a personal touch. The readings were a mix of religious and non-religious, and each meant something to us."

"Our order of service was made and designed by the incredible Aisling Erin; her attention to detail is simply breathtaking. Our pocket-sized programmes were finished with a rope detail and featured our names on the front in the same detail as on our invitations. Aisling held my hand through every part of the design process, as I believe at this stage I was suffering from decision fatigue!"

"After signing the register and a final blessing of Jerusalem, we walked down the aisle hand in hand to the noise of joyous cheering from everyone we love. It was totally perfect!"

"Moments into marital bliss, we were whisked out the back of the church whilst friends and family gathered for the confetti moment. I loved this moment as it gave us a chance to take a moment for ourselves to celebrate that we’d just officially tied the knot!"

"I wanted to have all the photos shot very candidly, which is why we chose our incredible photographer, Benjamin Wheeler. I’ve always admired his work and how he really captures the essence and atmosphere of the day with his candid shots. We did, however, have the classic family photos outside of the church for ‘legacy’ purposes, as Ben described, which we loved."

"Working with Ben was amazing, we didn’t feel like we missed any part of the day, he works seamlessly alongside the flow of things, capturing as the day unfolds. He simultaneously shot on film; we loved the nostalgic feel of these images."

"Next, we moved into the walled garden where guests enjoyed champagne and canapes under the lattice of greenery. We loved greeting guests with the backdrop of music by our incredible wandering band from Salut."

"By far our most fashionable guest, my dear friend Ryan flew in from LA and wore custom Saint Laurent. I’ve known Ryan since I was 6, and his presence is always wonderful. Alongside Ryan, my mother wore a buttermilk Taller Marmo Dress contrasted with a burgundy Loewe bag."

"Our vision for the reception was a classic Sperry Tent, with lots of greenery. We wanted the classic elegance of a traditional English wedding with a touch of American East Coast charm. I was so lucky to have had my most admired florist, Fine Stems, bring my floral vision to life. Kate’s take on florals is so fresh, and she just gets it right every time. I loved the whimsical shapes she created. She's a true artist, and her team worked tirelessly to make everything perfect in the summer heat."

"For the tables, I worked with Maison Margaux to bring the tablescape to life. I wanted to keep the dark green theme throughout. I spent a painstaking amount of time deciding on the tablescape; it was my most loved and loathed part of the planning, but the outcome was worth it!"

"We opted for an escort card table rather than a seating plan. This is actually more of an American wedding tradition, but I loved the interactive element of picking up your card and finding your name."

"One of our favourite moments of the entire day was entering the marquee to the upstanding roar of our nearest and dearest. Everyone had their napkins swinging and hands in the air. Luke and I wanted to keep the day fun and the energy high; this really set the tone for the afternoon and evening ahead."

"The speeches were, in my humble opinion, the best wedding speeches of all time, given by the most cherished men in my life: my father, my husband and our best friend and best man, Alex. They were equal parts sentimental and equal parts funny, as you can see from guest reactions!"

"Our band, Salut, came into full swing post-food to get the party started, and they did. Guests swooped up one of the hundreds of cocktails, including spicy margaritas and espresso martinis, which were ready and waiting on the bar that had been strategically placed centrally in the marquee. Cocktail in hand, they immediately gravitated to the dancefloor."

"I didn’t have an outfit change. You only get to wear a wedding dress for one day, and I think you should relish every moment!"

"Once the band set finished, we had an amazing DJ set from Dan Healy. I must say, Luke has impeccable taste in music, so he curated an amazing playlist alongside Dan, and the vibes were immaculate. I don’t think Luke and I left the dancefloor and even joined the band on stage at one point. We partied until just past midnight and collapsed in a grateful and heart-brimming state after the best day of our lives with memories to last a lifetime."

Bride: @naomicnolan
Videography: @sobyfilms
Photography: @benjaminwheeler
Wedding Co-ordination: @katrinaotterwed
Venue: @holywellhallweddings
Hair & Make Up: @ievagenovesibridal
Dress: @verawangbride
Shoes: @manoloblahnik / @josephcheaney
Suit: @cadandthedandy / @labowtiquebowties
Flowers: @finestems
Marquee: @frameandtailor_
Furniture: @houseoffurncollection
Tablescape: @maisonmargauxltd
Catering: @cccambridge
Band: @salutband
Stationary: @aisling_erin_design
Dress alterations: @essexsewingroom

We talk about wedding season, but in my experience, wedding season is January-December. If, like me, you have already attended a variety of different weddings this year and still have plenty to come, you've probably become a pro at mentally planning your outfits in advance. Choosing an outfit as a wedding guest can be tricky, and that's before you even start decoding the dress code. While there are some obvious no-nos (wearing any shade of white being the obvious one), there are other rules that aren’t quite so easy to get to grips with.

While I’ve never attended a black-tie wedding myself, a friend of mine recently did, which got me thinking, what actually is a black-tie dress code and how do you dress to attend a black-tie wedding as a guest? So after hours of research and tapping some experts for their advice, I present to you everything you need to know about how to dress as a guest at a black-tie wedding.

What Does the Black-Tie Dress Code Mean?

Undoubtedly the most formal of dress codes, black tie is all about embracing the more-is-more approach to dressing. Elegance and sophistication take center stage, with the finer details making all the difference. Here, being overdressed simply isn’t possible, but being underdressed certainly is. As stylist Laura Weatherburn advises: “This is the kind of wedding you pull out all the stops for. Clean lines, floor length, sleek and form-fitting. Think: showstopper.”

Simply put, a black-tie dress code is reserved for formal events. The term "black tie" actually derives from the literal description for a man's dress code of a dinner jacket and a black tie, so women actually do not have any specific rules. It all comes down to interpretation, but as a rule of thumb, dress hemlines should be floor length, or as close to it as possible—think evening gowns and formal cocktail dresses, with men in tuxedos. It is expected that guests dress to the nines, as this is the most formal dress code after white-tie attire. But, just because it is “black tie” doesn’t mean it has to be a black dress—Sofie Tyers, a personal shopper for Net-a-Porter, suggests “any colours are suitable as long as they are a muted tone and definitely no patterns. A strapless floor-length gown in pale yellow would be perfect for a modern twist while keeping the elegance required for black tie attire.”

With such a formal dress code, it really does come down to those finer details. The key to really pulling your outfit together is in the accessories—keep that more is more motto in mind. Crystals, pearls and anything a bit OTT to really hone in on that showstopper vibe. Weatherburn's advice would be “amp up the glamour with crystal-everything - bags and shoes included. I always look to Alessandra Rich for some inspiration and seriously good magpie-worthy jewels.”

It’s no easy feat shopping as a black tie wedding guest, so I’d recommend going in with an open mind. Don’t have your heart set on one specific colour or brand, as it may lead to disappointment if you can’t find anything quite right that is within the realm of the dress code requirements. When it comes to knowing where to start looking, it can be quite overwhelming, so Weatherburn suggests “Solace, Reformation, Victoria Beckham and Self Portrait have some really beautiful options this season, and they tend to transition seasons beautifully. ASOS is also great for occasionwear and is definitely a more purse-friendly option. "

What Should I Avoid?

As this is a formal event, the dress code is strict and, out of respect to the bride and groom, should be adhered to without taking on your own interpretation or trying to put a more modern or personal spin on it. Weatherburn advises “avoid anything floaty and sheer, cut-out or short and body-baring.” Likewise, anything beachy, bohemian or more casual wedding attire wouldn’t be appropriate either, with mini dresses being off the cards.

With all of this in mind, I’ve rounded up the most appropriate black-tie wedding guest dresses available with every kind of budget in mind to help you nail that dress code.

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