For over 40 years, Bridal Week Harrogate has been the go-to destination for retailers to connect and for a plethora of passionate designers and suppliers to showcase their latest collections all under one roof. This year saw boutique owners from across the country gather together in the idyllic, old spa town of Harrogate not only to curate their 2024 assortments, but also to discover standout trends, seek inspiration from the industry’s most renowned professionals and, most importantly, to relish the opportunity of being surrounded by likeminded business owners. To defeat the inevitable post-show blues, we talk you through the highlights of Bridal Week Harrogate 2024.

Standout Collections

Of course, we must firstly start by shining a spotlight on the designers who showcased their 2024 collections at Harrogate this year. A multitude of top industry names unveiled their highly anticipated Spring 2024 selections: at Dando London, each gown from Christine’s California Dreams assortment exuded a timeless yet modern allure, combining lavish intricate beading with sleek silhouettes. Maggie Sottero’s mesmerising 2024 collection embraced the maximalism trend with captivating 3D embellishments, extravagant cathedral length trains and resplendent gold hues. Oversized bows and stylish detachable sleeves took centre stage at Monica Loretti, who presented an alluring selection of romantic, ethereal gowns truly fit for a fairytale. Nevertheless, each and every designer’s unique talent truly shined through.

Key Trends

What makes Bridal Week a great experience is that every collection on display is so different, and this year’s versatile array of talent meant that there was something for every boutique’s bride. Of course, each collection undoubtedly showcased their label’s individuality, however despite this we definitely spotted several standout trends set to soar this upcoming season. This year, the spotlight shone on the more is more, maximalism trend. Minimalistic satin and simplistic shapes were replaced with embellished lace and dramatic silhouettes, indicating that many designers are amping up the drama within their newest collections. Sheer corseted bodices and glamorous drop waists certainly had their moment, making repeat appearances throughout the stands. In response for the demand for drama, brands such as Casablanca, Teresa Atelier and Dando London didn’t hold back: incorporating pearls, beads and all things sparkly to create truly show stopping looks. 

Education from the best of the best

The inspiration didn’t just come from the collections. The Bridal Retail Success Academy made its return to Harrogate this weekend, and this year’s programme provided business owners with insightful seminar sessions and tailored Business Advice Clinics, designed to support them in navigating the ever-evolving world of bridal. Hosted by a seasoned panel of experts including Megan Garmers, Stacy Hughes, Diana McMann, Maria Musgrove-Wethey, Abi Neill, Ella O’Keefe and Julia Smith, retailers were provided with the perfect opportunity to learn from the industry’s shining stars. The dynamic seminar series covered a diverse array of topics, from the most innovative marketing techniques to establishing how you can build strong connections with customers. It’s safe to say that attendees left feeling truly inspired! 

A Night To Remember

Of course we can’t forget the event that everyone had been waiting for, the Bridal Buyer Awards! On Monday evening, the highly anticipated ceremony took place, celebrating incredible bridal industry talents across the board, with the most awards given out on record! The entire bridal community came together and applauded each other’s successes, enjoying a spectacular night of drinking, dancing and delicious food. You can view all of the winners here.

Our Next Show

Can’t wait for the next big bridal buying event? Great news: White Gallery is just around the corner! Taking place at the Truman Brewery in London from the 8th-9th May, the hottest new designers will join industry icons in presenting their new collections to the world’s coolest bridal boutiques at this truly unmissable buying event. 

Register For White Gallery Now