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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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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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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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

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.

Whether you're recently engaged or are in the final countdown before your wedding day, it's never too soon to think about your bridal nails. It may be a small detail amongst dress fittings, the seating plan or your wedding-day makeup or hair, but, your wedding manicure is a finishing touch that ties your entire look together. Not to mention, having a bridal manicure that you truly adore makes you feel like the very best version of yourself on your big day, so it's worth considering your wedding nails as you plan the rest of your look.

"Your nails will be in a lot of close-up photos—the rings, the bouquet, the champagne toast—so they should feel timeless and authentically you," says Faye Louise Dennis, a Bio Sculpture manicurist who specialises in wedding nails.

Not sure where to start? Ahead, we've compiled a complete guide to planning your wedding-day nails, from your bridal mani countdown to choosing a nail colour, as well as all the 2026 bridal nail trends to give you plenty of inspiration to be your most polished self. Trust us: these are the nail looks you'll want to say "I do" to.

Bridal Nail Trends 2026

1. "Veil" Nails

The popularity of the milky nails trend translates so perfectly to bridal nails. These sheer white polishes drape a floating veil of colour over the nails, instantly brightening the nail plate to make them look luminous and healthy. "Milky whites, like a thin layer of Biosculpture Gemini Nail Polish in Blanc (£16) or Seafoam (£16), will always be the most timeless bridal choices," says Dennis. Look for sheer, off-white finishes rather than opaque bright whites, which can often look too stark. Translucent finishes, on the other hand, are softer and can be layered up for a milkier finish if you wish, whilst remaining elegant. Westmoreland Cosmetics Vanilla Gloss Glass Gel 1(£25) and OPI Bubble Bunny are great choices for a milky manicure.

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2. French Fancy

The French manicure has had something of a renaissance over the past couple of years, and it's a timeless look for a bridal manicure. You can wear a classic French tip, opt for a micro-French or try a softer French manicure that blurs the pink and white together. "A modern French manicure is also incredibly elegant, especially when it’s diffused and soft," says Dennis.

"To achieve this look, I reverse the order of my French manicure, starting with a pigmented white on the tip, then placing a sheer `soft pink over the top for a natural-looking, 'your nails but better' French tip," she says. "Ombré-French gel manicures are also having a real moment, especially on shorter nails; they were previously mainly created on long acrylics."

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3. Shimmer and Shine

"One of the most noticeable bridal manicure trends is the glazed chrome finish. It catches the light beautifully," says Dennis. Chrome is a great finish to instantly elevate the base of your manicure, whether you opt for a simple pink nail colour or a French tip, leaving a beautiful glass-like effect that will look stunning in your wedding photos. You can only get the glazed look with a gel manicure topped with chrome powder, so experiment with different coloured powders and nail colour bases to find a combination you love the most. Not into chrome? Consider a shimmer nail polish, which will catch the light subtly and add a hint of sparkle to your bridal manicure.

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4. Sheer Blush

If you're stuck on a bridal manicure, many nail techs will urge you to go for a classic pink look. Specifically, soft, sheer pink or blush tones that are natural and make your nails look their very best. Think of them as a skin tint for your nails, subtly blurring imperfections, brightening the nail plate and leaving an expensive-looking gloss. The bonus is that the growout is barely visible, meaning you can get the most wear out of your bridal manicure and not worry about it looking like it needs redoing during your honeymoon if you're jetting off soon after your wedding. Dennis recommends soft pinks like Anthea or Dream from Bio Sculpture for bridal manicures, which lend a dreamy, soft-pink blush. OPI Bubble Bath and Chanel Ballerina are also beautiful choices for an expensive-looking nail colour.

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5. Bespoke Touch

It makes sense to opt for a classic bridal manicure on your wedding day. But if you love nail art, why not incorporate it? Even if you don't normally go for designs, adding some micro nail art can be a fun way to personalise your bridal nails. Perhaps a gold or silver accent to match your wedding band, or some delicate floral nail art on one nail to match your wedding bouquet. A pastel-blue French tip could even be your something blue, or what about lace nail art that matches the design on your dress or veil? Even if you're not into nail art, you can still achieve a bespoke finish by creating your own nail-polish layering combination to create a tailored bridal manicure colour that you can call your own.

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Planning Your Wedding Manicure

"One of the most common mistakes is leaving the booking of the manicure too late or skipping a trial altogether," says Dennis. "Your wedding nails should feel just as considered as your hair or makeup to make sure they look exactly how you would like, which is why I recommend starting at least three months before," she says. However, if you want to grow your nails longer or have damaged nails, she recommends starting earlier and using nail strengtheners and cuticle oils to boost nail health and growth. "Preparation is key, and regular manicures, cuticle oil and gentle nail care make a huge difference," she says.

The type of manicure you choose will also influence its longevity. Using normal nail polish will make chipping or smudging more likely (which aren't issues you want to deal with on your wedding morning), whereas a gel manicure or BIAB manicure will dry instantly under a lamp, remaining chip-free and lasting for several weeks.

"Choosing a nail system that cares for your natural nail, rather than masking damage, makes all the difference," says Dennis. "It has helped my clients achieve their dream nails for their big day," she says. Bio Sculpture also offers a dedicated bridal package that includes three manicures in the lead-up to your wedding. It's a great way to try different shades to find your favourite and ensure your nails are ready for your hen do, wedding day or honeymoon.

"For the actual wedding, have your manicure up to two days before so they’re still looking fresh and aisle-ready," recommends Dennis. "After your manicure, regularly applying cuticle oil is key to keeping nails nourished and glossy. Simple habits, like wearing gloves for household chores and avoiding using your nails as tools, also go a long way in preserving that fresh nail finish," she says.

Choose the Shape

"Ideally, a nail trial should happen at least three months before the wedding. This gives you enough time to test shades, perfect the cuticles and make adjustments to the nail shape if needed," says Dennis.

"Soft, elegant nail shapes tend to be the most flattering and timeless. Oval nails and soft almond nails are particularly popular because they elongate the fingers and look very refined," she says. "A short squoval (a square nail shape with rounded edges) is also beautiful for brides who prefer a more natural, understated look," she says. It's a great option for shorter nail lengths. Keep in mind that almond nails require more length to create a tapered result.

Ultimately, you should choose a nail shape that you already wear and love. But if you're unsure, spend some time experimenting with different shapes and lengths over your next few manicure appointments to find your perfect match.

Choose the Shade

"The goal of a wedding-day manicure is to enhance the natural nail and make the hands look radiant in photos. There’s no one-size-fits-all, so adapting the shade to my client’s skin tone is so important," says Dennis. "Those subtle choices are what make everything feel polished and beautiful."

Pinks and neutrals are timeless, classic nail colours that you won't ever regret for your wedding nails. But if you're faced with an overwhelming number of shades or a sea of neutrals in the salon, there are a few things you can consider to help refine your choice. "For fair skin tones, cooler pinks like Bio Sculpture’s Rose (£16) work beautifully. Medium or olive tones often suit peachy nudes or rosy beiges like Spun Out Of Dreams(£16), which bring warmth to the nail bed. For deeper skin tones, richer caramel nudes look incredibly chic. Lyrics of a Lily(£16) is my go-to," says Dennis.

Also consider the shade of your wedding dress. "If you’ve chosen a crisp white, you may want to complement that tone with a cooler pink, or if you’ve gone for an ivory dress, opt for a warmer tone, as you don’t want the colours and undertones to clash," says Dennis. It can be helpful to time your wedding nail trial with your dress fitting so you can visualise how it looks all together. "However, definitely have fun exploring different styles in the lead up to the big day to see what you enjoy the most," says Dennis.

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."

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!).

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.

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.

If you're getting married this year, then I can safely bet that you've got your wedding nails down. But a wedding pedicure is often overlooked in the run-up to the big day. Of course, it's a small detail in the grand scheme of things, and it's probably less important than your nails, which will be in every photo. But if you're wearing open-toed shoes for your wedding, then now is the time to start thinking about what you want your bridal pedicure to look like.

Even if your toes will be hidden away in your wedding shoes, there's nothing like a fresh pedicure colour to help you feel your most confident self on the day. And, if you're heading away on your honeymoon or mini-moon shortly after your wedding, then having your pedi done is one less thing to worry about on your never-ending wedding admin to-do list.

If you're after some wedding pedicure ideas, then you're in luck. I've scrolled through the very best bridal pedi designs to bring you all the inspo you'll need ahead of your salon appointment. Plus, I've rounded up the best at-home products if you're doing a pedicure at home, too. Scroll ahead for the wedding pedicures you'll want to say "I do" to, from classic pink pedicures to the French pedicure, there's something for every bride here.

Wedding Pedicure Ideas

1. Chrome

Chrome is an easy way to add a chic and elevated twist to your regular pedicure colour.

2. Milky Lilac

Milky hues are a huge spring pedicure colour trend right now, but they remain timeless and elegant no matter the season. I adore this milky lilac hue.

3. Classic French

A French pedicure remains a timeless choice as a wedding pedicure if you want something simple and neat for open-toed shoes.

4. Blush Shimmer

A shimmery nail polish in a timeless shade such as pink adds a pretty twinkle to your toes.

5. Pink French

A brighter pink French pedicure makes a great change from a sheer pink base, as this pretty pedicure proves.

6. Milky French

How pretty is this milky pedicure too? This is a strong contender for 2026 wedding pedicures.

7. Pastel Blue French

In need of something blue? Why not try a baby blue French tip on your pedicure? It's the perfect pairing of a classic nail art design with a colour twist.

8. Jelly French

Another stunning French pedicure I've saved, but this time, the base has a jelly-like pink hue. And it's so pretty.

9. Veil White

Why not lean into the bridal vibe and go for white? Off-white shades tend to look best as opposed to bright white, so look for sheer white nail polish and muted white shades that match the tone of your wedding dress.

10. Peachy French

This peachy French pedi would be so pretty for a summer wedding.

11. Ombre Pedi

An ombré pedicure allows you to blend two of your favourite hues together, and looks beautiful in pink and white for a soft French manicure effect.

12. Neutral Pink

A timeless, elegant nail colour such as a blush pink will always be a good wedding pedicure option that you'll never regret.

13. Milky Pink French

Another great choice.

14. Milky + Red Combo

If you're going for closed shoes and jetting off on your honeymoon soon after your wedding, then why not go for a bright red pedicure hue?

15. Neutral French

A neutral or beige-toned colour makes another great shade for the base of a French pedicure.

16. Double French

There's something so satisfying about a matching mani-pedi, and the French manicure and French pedicure pairing is a timeless choice for brides.

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Hollywood is always a place of glitz and glamour, but never is a time when this is more apparent than during the annual Academy Awards. However, for the 2026 Oscars, it wasn’t chintzy sequins, naked dresses, or bold bombshell looks that paid homage to the Golden Age of cinema that dominated the red carpet—though all of those were present—but a slew of bridal white looks.

It’s a fitting move considering an industry that’s been dominated by matrimonial discourse over the past few weeks since Law Roach dropped that bombshell alluding to the fact Zendaya and Tom Holland might’ve tied the knot. For her part, the actress did not choose to honour her possible new nuptials by wearing a white gown as she did at Louis Vuitton’s autumn/winter 2026 collection presentation during Paris Fashion Week, though she did spend the weekend that just passed at Las Vegas’ Little White Wedding Chapel promoting her upcoming A24 dark romantic comedy, The Drama.

Of course, with so many iconic movie brides to reference—Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate! Sophie in Mamma Mia!—Juliet in Love Actually—it’s only fitting that this trope gets thrust into the spotlight on film’s night of nights. Leading the charge was none other than Emma Stone, who arrived in a bespoke Louis Vuitton gown. Featuring an open back, shimmering details, and severe capped sleeves that emulate the Empire era, the two-time Best Actress winner arrived at the Dolby Theatre to mark her seventh nomination at the ceremony.

Later in the evening, Gwyneth Paltrow, who recently made her comeback to the screen as a past-her-prime actress in Marty Supreme, made an appearance to add another entry in her canon of memorable red carpet looks. But rather than wearing a blushing pink taffeta Ralph Lauren number or burgundy velvet Tom-Ford-for-Gucci suit as she did in the ‘90s, she took a far more risqué route in an ivory silk Giorgio Armani Privé gown that featured an exaggerated slit up the side.

And whilst there were plenty of more bridal white looks and pseudo wedding dresses to take note of, including Nicole Kidman, Priyanka Chopra and Mia Goth, the most breathtaking was Elle Fanning in a custom Givenchy dress designed by Sarah Burton. The strapless gown was nothing short of ethereal, with a cloud of silk taffeta following the first-time nominee as she made her way into the Dolby Theatre.

Speaking to VOGUE, Fanning revealed that the dress also held sentimental value as it was embroidered with wisteria motifs that paid tribute to the flowers that clung to her childhood home in the American South. Continuing the botanical illusion, she paired the look with a wisteria necklace from Cartier that dates back to 1903.

Ethereal, elegant and looking of love, scroll through for the best bridal white looks that dominated the 2026 Oscars red carpet. (And the after party to boot!)

All the Bridal White Looks on the 2026 Oscars Red Carpet

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