Combining elements of traditional bridal elegance with a touch of vibrance, colourful florals are emerging and making a fashion statement for 2024 brides and beyond. Designers and fashion houses have embraced this style, crafting a whole range of dresses with colourful printed floral fabrics, floral embroidery, appliqués, and more.

Throughout history, flowers have rich symbolic meanings and have been used by various cultures to convey messages of love, unity, and growth – hence why they have always been such a popular element in bridal day fashion. So, by incorporating and highlighting florals in a dress, layers of meaning and tradition are instantly added.

“Floral fabrics in soft colours are huge this year,” says Maria Ryan of Gaia. “Brides love the soft feminine tones that feel pretty and bridal – keeping the bridal party happy, but also having something that little bit different and putting their own stamp on their wedding gown.” The label has incorporated a number of floral styles in its collection, which mix printed fabrics, embroidery and 3D detailing. Florentina is an A-line gown with a delicate print, a lace bodice, and slim straps. Rose is another A-line, with a plunging neckline, and offers beautiful pops of colour through the rose floral print.

Something Different

We know that modern brides are continually looking for ways to express their own unique style and personality, and colourful florals offer a pretty way to do just that. This use of fabric and detailing is a simple way to move away from the classic white gown, and the contrast the florals offer can make a bride’s dress really stand out.

“Weddings have undergone a total transformation in recent years – couples are throwing caution to the wind, casting off customs and opting to plan days that truly represent who they are,” says wedding expert Zoe Burke, editor of Hitched. “One thing we’re seeing more of as part of this shift is colourful wedding dresses. Your wedding dress is the easiest way to express yourself on your wedding day, and more nearlyweds are choosing to ditch the all-white tradition in favour of bold and bright.”

She continues: “Post Meghan Markle, clean, crisp satin had a resurgence, but this trend is winding down in favour of florals – in pastels or bright shades – and fun, colourful embroidery that allows the wearer to express their personality and truly stand out as an individual on their wedding day.”

Allie from Ronald Joyce’s Annabelle line is romantic through and through, and is perfect for brides who want to make a colourful statement. Exquisite floral appliqués cover the entire dress, giving depth through a wonderful montage of texture, detail and bright spring colours.

Natural Inspiration

For 2024 and beyond, nature-inspired themes in weddings will continue to be popular. The trend is nothing new, and this nature-inspired aesthetic is somewhat representative of how modern couples wanting to embrace more natural elements in various aspects of their lifestyle. Floral patterns fit perfectly with outdoor events, garden party ceremonies, or rustic-themed days. Thus, choosing floral patterns can forge a harmonious link between the bride and the nature-inspired backdrop, whatever that might be. 

This is a look that is perfectly suited to brides who love boho style and want to take their free-spirited aesthetic into their wedding attire, while still feeling special and head-turning. Undoubtedly, florals offer a beautiful way to add a touch of whimsy and earthiness. IndieBride’s Wynona dress is an embodiment of this. It is packed with whimsical charm, and the beautiful lilac-toned florals add a vintage vibe and plenty of rustic beauty.

Taking things a step further, and thanks to the variety of different dresses on offer, brides can pick their floral prints or embroidery to be tailored to match the seasons if they wish. Whether it’s the soft pastels of spring, the vibrant hues of summer, the warm tones of autumn, or even the subdued colours of winter. 

For spring brides, we adore the look that Marta by MiaMia offers. It’s a dreamy fairy-tale dress, and the botanical print lends an ultra-pretty vibe that works harmoniously with the graceful silhouette, dropped shoulders and voluminous sleeves.

Winter brides will love the boho luxe vibe of Teresa from Rebecca Ingram’s latest line. This off-shoulder A-line has an irresistible silhouette and an unexpected flourish of blue florals – the icy tones are stunning. Another gown with icy tones is Style 2608, Persephone by Morilee. It is one of designer Madeline Gardner’s favourites from her new collection. The tulle gown with a mermaid silhouette is brought to life with its beautiful frosted floral embroidery.