As we reach the end of June and the halfway point of the year, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the bridal trends that have captured our attention so far. From statement silhouettes to sculptural details, these are the themes we’ve loved seeing emerge, and the ones we believe will continue to shape bridal fashion throughout the second half of 2026.

Short Is Sweet

The short wedding dress has firmly established itself as a key part of the wedding wardrobe. More and more brides are looking for options that extend beyond – or maybe before – the ceremony. Short styles are incredible for city events, rehearsal dinners, cocktail celebrations and destination weddings. Higher hems offer versatility and fun, but can also be extremely elegant. There are tailored mini dresses, flowing boho styles, softly structured tea-lengths and everything in between. Both playful and practical, they provide brides with an opportunity to express a different side of their personal style. Something we love even more… convertible styles that go from long to short with a snap of the fingers.
Styles We Love:

• KR by Studio Ellis
• Dando London  

Column Straight

Contemporary sheath and column gowns manage to balance a retro feel with understated elegance through precise tailoring, luxurious fabrics and impeccable fit. Free from excessive embellishment, these dresses allow fabric and proportion to be the star attraction, this results in a look that feels both high fashion and extremely wearable. Perfect for contemporary ceremonies, city weddings and minimalist brides alike, the straight silhouette offers effortless sophistication as well as a versatile foundation for statement accessories or detachable layers.

Styles We Love:

• Morilee
• Sassi Holford  

Petal Power 

Florals are in full bloom in bridal right now – loved for bringing that sense of romance, along with texture and artistry. We are seeing a real mix of media here; hand-painted motifs, intricate embroidery, woven jacquards and dimensional floral appliqués. Yes, this is an enduring trend, but that’s because it is endlessly versatile. Look out for 3D blooms and botanical lace used to create depth and movement. Rather than feeling overly traditional, today’s florals are refined and tactile, adding interest without overwhelming the silhouette.

Styles We Love:

• Pronovias
• Josephine Scott  

Bigger & Bigger

For a long time now, minimalist styles have reigned supreme, but big is back! Statement ballgowns have renewed confidence, celebrating volume without compromising on comfort. Modern construction techniques mean today’s full skirts are easier to wear and far more fluid than previous generations. The dramatic proportions are balanced by clean corsetry with sculptural bodices and luxurious fabrics; the silhouettes that have a really celebratory feel. Showcasing exceptional craftsmanship with couture-inspired construction, ballgowns will give an unforgettable entrance. 

Styles We Love:

• Justin Alexander 
• April Banbury  

Bubble Up!

Anyone else obsessed with the modern nod to 80s and 90s era fashion? Thought so! Our favourite? The bubble hem! It introduces playful volume through softly tucked fabrics that create sculptural movement and architectural shape. We have seen it on both full-length gowns and shorter party dresses, and (of course) wonderful high-low styles! This revived detail feels fresh, with modern interpretations favouring cleaner proportions and lighter fabrics, making the trend wearable while adding a distinctive couture-inspired finish.

Styles We Love:

• Halfpenny London
• Ouma  

The Finishing Layer

We’ve already established that today’s bridal wardrobe extends far beyond the dress, and nowhere is that more evident than in the rise of statement outerwear. Sculptural capes may continue to dominate, but tailored jackets, boleros and elegant cover-ups are proving just as influential. These pieces are an integral part of the bridal look, adding depth, versatility and a fashion-forward edge while allowing brides to effortlessly evolve their style from ceremony through to reception and party.

Styles We Love:

• Eva Lendel
• YEDYNA  

WORDS Anna-Marie DeSouza