At New York Bridal Fashion Week, the Spring Summer 2026 collections were unveiled, and designers launched the newest styles, which we’ll see lots of on the aisle. From dramatic accessories to structured ballgowns, the new collections are bringing the timeless allure of the past to our modern day. Here are some of the trends we think will grace the aisle…
Mira Zwillinger
Elegant Scarf Detailing
Justin Alexander
The bridal world, and fashion enthusiasts in general, have wholeheartedly embraced the enchanting trend of pairing strapless gowns with delicate, lightweight scarves. This exquisite styling choice adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the décolletage, elevating the overall bridal look to new heights. Brides seeking to infuse their strapless ensemble with a hint of glamour will undoubtedly adore this captivating detail. It is particularly well-suited for outdoor weddings, where the gentle caress of the wind can create an ethereal and breathtaking moment, as the scarf gracefully dances around the bride.
Basque Waist
Eva Lendel
The basque waist, a design element that cinches the waist and extends over the hips to create a flattering and elongated silhouette, has made a triumphant return to the bridal fashion scene. This iconic style, once a popular choice in past eras, has been reimagined and modernised by contemporary designers, captivating brides with its timeless elegance and dramatic flair.
The basque waist offers a unique blend of structure and romance, making it a perfect choice for brides who desire a fairytale ballgown with a modern twist. The fitted bodice and flared skirt create a classic princess silhouette, while the accentuated waistline adds a touch of drama and sophistication. This design element is incredibly versatile, complementing a variety of fabrics, necklines, and sleeve styles. From delicate lace and flowing tulle to luxurious satin and shimmering mikado, the basque waist can be adapted to suit any bridal aesthetic.
Bubble Hemlines
Ines Di Santo
The runways are witnessing a surge in playful and whimsical elements, and bubble hemlines are undeniably leading the charge. This trend offers a refreshing departure from the classic ballgown silhouette, injecting a dose of individuality and personality into bridal couture. Designers are recognising the power of these bouncy details to transform a dress into a statement piece that commands attention. The voluminous and whimsical nature of bubble hemlines resonates particularly with brides who are not afraid to express their bold and playful personalities through their fashion choices.
From subtle and delicate bubbles to dramatic and oversized ones, the bubble hemline trend offers a myriad of possibilities for brides to express their individual styles. Whether paired with a fitted bodice for a classic and elegant look or a flowing and romantic silhouette for a bohemian-inspired vibe, the bubble hemline is a versatile design element that can be adapted to suit a wide range of bridal aesthetics.
Laced Up
Lihi Hod
Lace, with its intricate patterns and delicate threads, has an enduring appeal that transcends fleeting trends. Its timeless elegance and romantic allure make it a perennial favourite for bridal gowns. The ethereal beauty of lace, whether adorning a vintage-inspired dress or a modern silhouette, adds a touch of sophistication and grace to any wedding ensemble.
The delicate craftsmanship and intricate detailing of lace evoke a sense of luxury and refinement. From the delicate Chantilly lace to the bold and dramatic Alençon lace, there is a myriad of lace varieties to suit every bridal style. Whether incorporated as a full overlay, delicate sleeves, or subtle accents, lace adds a touch of ethereal beauty and timeless elegance to any wedding dress.
Structured Silhouettes
Idan Cohen
The ever-evolving worlds of architecture and design continue to find a harmonious marriage with bridal fashion, and one trend that has captured the hearts of soon-to-be-brides is the incorporation of structured elements, either in the bodice or the skirt, or both. This contemporary interpretation of classic bridal silhouettes offers a transformative and fashion-forward statement without sacrificing the elegance and grace that are synonymous with bridal couture.
Structured bodices, whether achieved through boning, corsetry, or artful seaming, provide a sculpted and defined look that accentuates the bride’s figure. They can range from subtle shaping to dramatic and avant-garde designs, offering a versatile canvas for various bridal styles. Similarly, structured skirts, whether crafted with intricate pleating, architectural folds, or innovative fabric manipulation, add a touch of drama and modernity to the bridal ensemble.
The beauty of this trend lies in its adaptability. Structured elements can be incorporated into a wide range of bridal styles, from minimalist and modern to romantic and whimsical.
