Not all brides want to wear white… and for that matter, they don’t all want a classic princess-style dress. So what can you offer to brides that don’t want to follow the norm? And where can you get inspiration from?

The best place to research different styles this season is Bridal Week Harrogate in March – and there is so much to see from the big labels and chic designers. Here’s our pick of alternative options.

Jumpsuits

Season after season, we are seeing more and more creative takes on bridal jumpsuits. Brides that still want something that feels ultra-feminine with plenty of movement will enjoy wider-legged styles that will still swish and move as they walk down the aisle or dance the night away. And other ways to get that feeling of movement is with an overskirt or detachable cape. The Adira Jumpsuit from Adore by Justin Alexander is a perfect look for contemporary brides, and for creating two looks in one. The crepe style has a cuffed off-shoulder neckline, with cigarette-pant trousers. The back detail is stunning – translucent with exposed boning and buttons. What elevates this style even further is the detachable chapel-length tulle skirt – it adds drama and volume to the elegance of the style. Brides looking for a high-fashion style will have lots to choose from. Form-fitting and corseted looks that have been well structured can give off a really dynamic look – and we really love the jumpsuit from Le Papillon’s new Eternal collection. We adore the exposed boning and bust-cup detail to the bodice – giving an almost cat’s eye vibe.

Two pieces

The trend for two-piece wedding ensembles is the embodiment of versatility and personalisation in wedding day fashion. We love that this option breaks away from tradition and offers brides the chance to build an outfit that they love, top to bottom. There are options to mix and match tops and skirts, trousers and more – the possibility to blend and mix textures and details is amazing. But… what we really love this season is the option to bare a touch of midriff for a relaxed and fresh vibe that is ideal for boho brides. The Ariana by Maggie Sottero is one of our favourites, with an embellished organza crop matched with a chic chiffon skirt. For something with a bolder silhouette and a pop of colour, we have another Ariana! This style is by by Wilderley, and features a stunning floral print on luxurious organza. The full A-line skirt looks perfect with the cropped top, with full and billowing sleeves.

Minis

From Kourtney Kardashian to Lily Allen and Sophie Habboo – celebrities have thoroughly embraced the minidress trend for their weddings in the past few years. And we are here for it! The mini trend is a refreshing departure from traditional long gowns, offering a playful edge. This trend caters to brides looking for a blend of sophistication and fun, with designs that range from sleek and simple to embellished and bold. One of our favourite embellished looks is from Casablanca – the Clover. This stand-out mini dress features an exposed front and back bodice, a flattering v-neckline with supportive straps, and a voluminous mini skirt with floral embroidered lace. Even better, brides can pair this mini dress with its matching step-out skirt for a totally different full-length look. Alfa Beta has a style that shows mini dresses can amp up the volume!

We love its 90s-vibe, from the straight cut neck to the ruffle and sash detail – it’s got plenty of texture and movement.

Colourful options

The trend for non-white wedding dresses is going nowhere, and we love seeing blush tones through to bold and vibrant options. One thing we really enjoy seeing is that brides can choose a colour that resonates with their aesthetic preferences and own traditions, rather than following the norm. We adore seeing colour matched with rich textures and intricate embroidery – shrinking violets can look away! Non-white wedding dresses can cater to a range of themes, from laid-back boho styles to formal black-tie looks and even ballgowns for princess brides. For brides that want to embrace a maximalist aesthetic, Zambia by Ronald Joyce is one to watch. This is a show-stopper of a dress; the ballgown features a delicately pleated fitted bodice and ruffled tulle skirt, creating fabulous texture with a subtle, swirling floral motif. At the complete other end of the spectrum, we are swooning over the vampy magic of Marilyn by Romantica of Devon. The A-line silhouette features a classic neckline and fold-over detail, with pockets and a subtle broached belt.

To view these collections and browse the latest pieces from over 200 more brands, claim your free pass for Europe’s first bridal buying event of the year by clicking here.