“I want nothing more than for the bride—my friend—to be happy, but the thought of messing this up is keeping me awake at night,” says *Carla, a thirty-something content creator tasked with turning her friend’s wedding footage into a suite of reels and carousel posts she hopes will jump-start her influencer career.

What began as a single two-minute video quickly snowballed into two five-minute edits, then five to ten additional reels. “She asked me to give this to her as my wedding gift,” Carla says—on top of travelling and spending more than £1,000 to attend.

Carla is far from alone. Increasingly, the role of wedding guest comes with an unspoken add-on: content production. “Guests are now part of the content engine,” says Reneille Velez, founder of Gian Events, a luxury event planning and travel design agency. “There’s an immediate reaction of ‘I have to post this’ before the moment even settles.”

The blurring of celebration and content creation isn’t limited to guests, either. Just last week, Binky Felstead faced criticism after an illustrator claimed she’d been asked to create wedding designs free of charge in exchange for “exposure” on social media. In today’s frenzied wedding economy, worth a cool £14.7 billion annually in the UK alone, visibility is increasingly positioned as currency.

Perhaps no clearer example of this is the 2022 Dolce & Gabbana–branded nuptials of Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker—a trilogy of ceremonies staged across Nevada, California and the Italian Riviera. And yet even the Kardashians weren’t the first at this game. When Victoria and David Beckham sold exclusive rights to their wedding photos for £1 million, the hoopla was tightly controlled, professionally produced, and highly lucrative. Today, that process has filtered down; only now, the production is decentralised, and often unpaid.​

You don’t need a fashion house or a magazine deal to produce a wedding that looks like a campaign. You just need a camera roll, a content plan, and a guest list happy, or at least, willing to play along.

And increasingly, that’s exactly what a wedding demands.

Even the timeline of the day can start to resemble a shot list. “Couples are thinking about angles, lighting, and timing in a way that mirrors a production set,” Velez adds. “Moments become scenes.” QR-code platforms allow guests to upload photos in real time to shared galleries, while hired content creators capture behind-the-scenes footage designed for immediate posting. “A wedding is no longer just a private celebration—it’s a visual experience designed to be shared,” says planner Victoria Morris.

“I’m always happy to take photos,” Carla says. “But being in charge of the wedding video—and the edits—is very stressful.” It’s a dynamic many millennial women will recognise: somewhere between guest, bridesmaid, and unpaid production manager.

Weddings have always had a fairly performative element, cycling through the same acts: the aisle walk, the first dance, the cake-cutting. But increasingly, they’re being produced like campaigns, complete with creative direction, visual strategy, and built-in distribution.

The numbers only partially capture it. According to Hitched, 7% of UK couples now hire a dedicated content creator, while nearly a third spend over 18 months planning their weddings. Guests, too, are part of the equation: the average attendee takes 167 photos, with more than half admitting they’ve missed key moments while trying to capture them. According to research from Three, 43% of Gen Z say they are creating content to boost their own social media presence.

“I was at a wedding recently and couldn’t believe that more than one guest used it as a backdrop for their own content,” says *Emma, 27. “I checked their accounts afterwards, and there was no mention of the bride and groom; it was as if they were there just to get content.” Another guest recalls bridesmaids changing out of gowns—paid for by the bride’s family—to take their own photos under the flower arch. I appreciate a photo op as much as the next Millennial, but is this really how we want to be treating our friends?

Whether we like it or not, the reality is that most modern weddings have expanded beyond the day; it lives on feeds, in reels, and across group chats, like one long, ongoing piece of content.

Outfit changes are increasingly common, with some brides opting for multiple looks across the day to create distinct visual moments. “The word ‘editorial’ comes up constantly,” says Cat da Silva of The Bridal Edition. “Brides are thinking about how their wedding looks come together cohesively in the content they’re planning to capture and share.”

“We’re seeing a lot of brides using a ‘will it go viral?’ mindset,” says Leila Lewis, a wedding PR who works with content creators, pointing to the rise of photo booths, backdrops, customised “merch” and late-night fireworks; moments designed to generate content. It’s not enough to host a wedding; couples are expected to set a scene.

Katherine Rose Woller was 32 when she called off her wedding just weeks before the ceremony. “On social media, everything looked perfect,” she recalls. “But underneath it, the weight of expectations was pushing me toward something I didn’t actually want.” What began as a personal commitment had, she says, started to feel more like “a content production” she was responsible for.

But while the results can be visually spectacular, the line between sophistication and performance can blur, leaving guests feeling like unpaid stagehands. Who here hasn’t at one time or another been tasked with corralling drunk guests to visit the Polaroid station or make use of the artfully displayed disposable cameras?

“When a bride chooses her look based on how it will photograph, rather than how it makes her feel, something gets lost,” says Megan of Grace Loves Lace. “The content captures the moment, but it can’t capture what it felt like.”

That tension can course through the entire day’s or days' event. Guests document rather than experience; the couple anticipates the audience—the ones present and the more still who’ll only experience it through other people’s content. Vendors have to navigate the competing priorities of creating an experience and also capturing it.

Photographer Libby Clark has seen ceremonies delayed so vendors can film content. “Everyone wants their 15 seconds of Reel,” she says, “but it can come at the couple’s expense.”

The modern wedding may only be experienced once in real time, but it can be replayed endlessly—and increasingly, the second version shapes the first. It’s still a wedding, it just comes with a content strategy.

Astrology is becoming the latest addition to the wedding planning checklist, promising meaning, alignment and the “perfect” date. And after internet sleuths speculated that Dua Lipa may have timed her recent wedding by the stars—or, more specifically, the Blue Moon—the trend has never felt more mainstream. But as couples increasingly look to the cosmos for answers, Mischa Smith asks: is this a genuine ritual, or simply another way to optimise an already over-engineered day?

When Dua Lipa married Callum Turner in Marylebone Town Hall on Sunday, astrology accounts wasted no time analysing the date. Within hours, social media was awash with theories that the singer may have used electional astrology—the practice of choosing auspicious moments for major life events—to plan her wedding. There is no evidence that she did, but the speed with which the internet began searching for signs of cosmic timing was revealing. Astrology has become so culturally embedded that major milestones are now regularly interpreted through an astrological lens.

That shift extends far beyond celebrity weddings, too. Once considered a niche spiritual practice, astrology is increasingly being folded into the wedding planning process itself. Couples are consulting astrologers to choose dates, times and even locations for their ceremonies, hoping to imbue the day with meaning, alignment and, perhaps, a little extra luck. In an era of rising costs, endless choice and Pinterest-perfect expectations, the promise of cosmic certainty can be difficult to resist.

When one couple began planning their Ibizan wedding, they weren’t just thinking about the venue or the guest list; they were thinking about the energy. Working with astrologer Clarisse Monahan, they set out to create what Monahan describes as “a raucous wedding”, building the day around “a lot of fire energy” and an emphasis on excess. Set on a Balearic island already synonymous with indulgence—and with one of the couple’s Jupiter lines coursing straight through it—the wedding chart (an astrological “birth chart” for a marriage, not to be confused with the more traditional wedding seating chart) leaned into that atmosphere. “Very showy and over the top”, recalls Monahan, with the focus less on tradition or stability, but instead on spectacle and pleasure.

Where ceremonies were once defined by religion, and more recently by aesthetics—the perfect tablescape, photo moments, those all-too-ubiquitous namesake cocktails—they are now being treated as moments that need to carry cosmic meaning. Weddings today don’t just have to look good; they have to feel good, too.

For a growing number of couples, that feeling is being shaped by astrology. “Couples spend so much on their wedding anyway,” says Monahan. “So it makes sense to want to have the ideal time to do it.” Neda Farr, whose astrology-led relationship reels have racked up 170 million views on TikTok alone, has seen a similar shift: where clients once asked when they might get engaged, they’re now asking when to marry, and how to make sure “nothing is working against them” when they do.

Of course, none of this is entirely new. Astrology has long shaped wedding timing in places like India, where muhurats—auspicious times—are traditionally used to determine when a couple should marry. What’s changed is the framing, especially for Western couples who are navigating an ecosystem of abundant choice, pressure and personalisation rather than utilising inherited rituals.

If astrology is finding new relevance in weddings, it’s not happening in a vacuum. The modern wedding is an unusually high-stakes event: financially costly and often logistically fraught. Couples are expected not only to host, but to produce something memorable: an experience that feels seamless, unique, and increasingly, shareable. When a single day can cost tens of thousands—the average UK wedding costs £21,990—the pressure for it to be meaningful, if not perfect, is difficult to ignore.

At the same time, personalisation has become its own form of cultural currency. To choose well is no longer a private act. Weddings have always functioned as a form of social signalling, a way of demonstrating taste and discernment; yet where once that might have been reserved for the day alone and the guests present, today they live online forever.

Increasingly, weddings are being planned for how they will be seen, shared, and, in some cases, validated by external arbiters of taste. In a culture that rewards individuality, even individuality begins to look formulaic against a backdrop of hyper-curated aesthetics. Astrology, in that context, doesn’t just offer meaning, it offers a way of explaining why this date, why this location.

“I think what people want is an alignment,” says Chani Nicholas, an astrologer and New York Times best-selling author. “Astrology is not about control… it’s about meaning.” To choose a date under “good omens”, she suggests, is less about predicting the future than it is about creating a moment that feels intentional, and, above all, right.

Faced with an overwhelming number of decisions, couples are looking for ways to narrow the field. “A lot of the time, just knowing you’ve picked a good electional (date) gives you a sense of confidence,” says Monahan. “It makes you more thoughtful.” Rather than dictating every detail, astrology becomes a way of approaching those decisions with a degree of certainty, however provisional.

But astrology doesn’t actually give couples control, at least not in the way they might hope. Most arrive at it late in the process, after the major decisions have already been made: the venue booked, the Saturday secured. “Most of the time it’s like, ‘We’re getting married on this day—can you tell me the best time within that?’” says Nicholas. “You’re working within a lot of constraints.”

Then there are the exceptions where astrology doesn’t just guide the wedding, it structures it. Neda describes clients seeking “the perfect step-by-step” timeline: when to schedule beauty treatments, when to shop for a dress, when to get married. Rather than a single auspicious date, the process becomes a carousel of optimised decisions. “There are usually three good windows,” she says, “and one perfect window.” Whether that alignment has any measurable effect is, of course, harder to prove, but its emotional appeal is undeniable.

Astrology’s growing role in weddings is also a product of how widely it now circulates. Once the preserve of specialists, it’s become part of our daily language, delivered through apps like Co–Star and an endless stream of TikTok explainers. “People are learning tidbits of astrology… in slideshow form,” says Neda, often distilled into insights that feel immediate and personal.

That mainstreaming is also clear in how quickly astrology has been absorbed into the wedding industry itself. Sites like The Knot now publish guides to “lucky” wedding dates, while Brides offers zodiac-based advice on the best time of year to marry. Even dating apps are following suit: Tinder has introduced an “astrology mode”, using birth chart data to shape matches. According to insight analysts at TrendHunter, this signals a broader shift towards “hyper-personalised compatibility scoring”, where identity, rather than behaviour, becomes the basis for recommendation.

Taken together, it suggests a shift in how astrology is being used. What was once a reflective practice is increasingly packaged as a service: something you can use to optimise almost every aspect of your life. As Monahan cautions, that can flatten it into something reductive. “People are still reading for their sun sign,” she notes, a shorthand that risks oversimplifying a much more complex system. In that sense, astrology’s rise is not just about belief, but about how it fits into a culture already geared towards personalisation. The promise, then, isn’t just meaning, but a version of it tailored and sold precisely to you.

That desire for an entirely personalised experience reaches a fever pitch when it comes to weddings. Monahan describes working with a bride determined to create a fully Disney-themed wedding: dress, setting, atmosphere and all. To match that vision, the chart was built around Neptune, the planet associated with dreams, fantasy and illusion. “Disney for me is so Neptunian,” she explains, describing how the couple chose a date where those qualities would be most pronounced, with the aim of creating something “ethereal” and immersive.

It’s not Monahan’s typical wedding chart experience, but it is a telling one. In a culture increasingly oriented around individual expression, the pressure to avoid anything that feels ‘cookie cutter’ has intensified. Weddings aren’t only expected to be beautiful; they’re expected to be distinct. Astrology offers that.

For some, the question goes beyond timing altogether. Around a quarter of Neda’s clients, she says, are seeking reassurance that they’re marrying the right person in the first place. “They want to make sure that they’re cosmically aligned with that person they’re marrying,” she explains.

Astrology, of course, doesn’t remove all uncertainty. “You always have to beware—you might get the answer that you don’t want,” says Nicholas. And even the most carefully constructed chart, like the Ibizan wedding engineered for excess, can only help guide the mood, not the outcome. But for an industry increasingly shaped by pressure, cost and expectation, astrology offers something else: the feeling, however fleeting, that the moment has landed exactly where it was meant to.

So, you have the dress—or three, if you're following the current trend—and now you need the finishing touches to make it feel entirely your own. Welcome to the Marie Claire edit of the best bridal accessories, where we've rounded up the wedding gloves, bridal shoes, bags, scarves, brooches and more that are worthy of walking down the aisle with you.

Bridal accessories are, at their core, an opportunity to customise your wedding look. So the shoes, gloves and hat combination you put together is entirely unique to you, whether you opt for something new, something borrowed or something blue.

The questions to consider are plentiful. To veil or not to veil is the first; a pillbox hat, hair pins or a headband all make for excellent alternatives. Then there's the bag—do you carry your own, or entrust the essentials to someone else? And, of course, the shoes: a classic polished pump or something a little more spectacular. There's always the option to swap to trainers or flats come the evening, too, should the dancefloor beckon.

Bridal accessories also offer something rather clever: the ability to create the illusion of an outfit change without actually changing at all. A look styled with gloves and a veil will feel entirely different once both are removed. Some accessories offer more practical benefits, too. Sunglasses, for instance, will save you squinting in any outdoor shots if the sun is shining on your big day (here's hoping).

Scroll on for our bridal accessories edit. We've also put together a separate edit for bridal jewellery, in the hope of taking at least some of the stress out of wedding planning—or simply offering a little inspiration.

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I have loved weddings for as long as I can remember; long before I even fully understood what they were. The romance, the beauty, the fashion, the drama, the sense of occasion... There's really nothing quite like it. Over the years, I’ve found myself increasingly in awe of the people who bring them to life, and all the thoughtful details that make each celebration feel entirely its own. And despite being (somewhat begrudgingly) not engaged, I often find myself wondering: where would you even begin?

If you have your own nuptials on the horizon, it turns out that 2026 wedding trends offer a compelling place to start. I spoke to a host of industry insiders—from designers and florists to luxury event planners—to understand exactly what weddings will look like this year, and the ideas already shaping celebrations beyond it.

The result? A shift away from traditional, cookie-cutter events, towards weddings that feel more intentional, expressive and deeply personal. "Couples are moving away from replicating a Pinterest template and towards something that feels specific to them," explains The Fall Bride founder Annelise Sealy. "There’s also a noticeable emphasis on experience—weddings designed to be felt rather than just photographed—and a move away from 'timeless' as a safe default, towards something more authentic, even if that means it feels specific to a moment. Weddings are becoming less about perfection and more about atmosphere: how the day unfolds, how it feels to be there, how the people experience it."

This fresh approach also extends to the choice of wedding dresses, florals, locations and every detail in between. Below, five defining aesthetics set to shape weddings in 2026 and beyond—including real-life events and moodboards to take inspiration from.

Vintage Drama

Authenticity is high on the agenda for modern weddings, and The Fall Bride founder Annelise Sealy has noticed this reflected in couples' choice of location above all. "There’s a strong return to location-led weddings—locations that carry a sense of identity rather than simply acting as a backdrop," she explains. "There’s a noticeable shift towards venues with more edge and character, and we’re seeing interest in raw, unconventional locations like abandoned quarries, industrial spaces, and landscapes with a sense of scale and texture. They offer a stark, almost cinematic backdrop that feels very aligned with how couples are approaching weddings now: less about softness or tradition, and more about atmosphere and contrast."

For bride Jess, this meant heading to a rustic property on the outskirts of Naples, complete with wooden boats, ducks, and locals sunning themselves on the pebble beach nearby. Her chosen look for the occasion speaks to the emergence of a number of 2026 bridal trends, too. "Lace is having a big resurgence, alongside basque waists, vintage veils and softer silhouettes," says Gigi & Olive founder Georgie Le Roux. "We’re seeing a strong move towards nostalgia, with vintage inspired styling becoming a defining look."

Corsets are also set to have a major moment, inspired in part by the immense success of Wuthering Heights—but they make for a surprisingly practical choice, too. Jess bypassed the need for a full 'second look' by simply swapping out her ceremony skirt for a white mini later in the evening, and has since worn her corset with baggy jeans and heels to give it a life beyond the wedding.

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The 90s Minimalist

Nineties-inspired slip dresses are set to be big news in bridalwear for the foreseeable, and it's all thanks to CBK. "Lots of brides are now being inspired by the minimalist style of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, as seen in Love Story, so slip dresses are going to be a huge trend," say The Own Studio founders Jess Kaye and Rosie Williams. "The best thing about slips is that they are completely timeless (CBK’s gown hasn’t aged in 30 years!) and they can be layered with accessories across the day to transform the look and make it completely unique to you. Think chiffon scarfs, lightweight chiffon or lace capes, lace veils... there are so many ways to dress it!"

Bride Emma Ottosson leaned into the pared-back vibe by pairing her Own Studio slip-style dress with simple white leather heels, wearing her hair pulled neatly back, and carrying a posy of elegant white Calla lilies. Luxury florist Rachael Barker also predicts the imminent return of lily of the valley bouquets, as carried by Carolyn Bessette herself, pointing to the flower's "delicacy and heavenly scent" and associations with inspiring women throughout history.

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Low-Key Elegance

Once simply a Covid-induced necessity, micro weddings are back—but this time, out of choice. "This year more than ever, I feel brides are choosing to really do weddings their way, without worrying too much about what people think or bowing to the pressures of 'traditional' formats or what's 'expected' of them," says Hayley Neil, founder of Rolling In Roses. "I have 2026/2027 brides who are opting for micro-weddings with a tiny guest list and more chilled-out plans like celebrating nuptials via cocktails at a city bar."

As for the aesthetic? Keep it pared-back and low-key to match. Bride Lara Cantalapiedra kept things intimate with just 35 guests for her Parisian civil ceremony, before stopping off at a local café for an aperitif and then hosting dinner at a friend's apartment. Her classic tailored cream two-piece suited the laid-back mood, while also adding a certain timeless elegance to proceedings—and her Dior Bar jacket also speaks to a "growing expectation that pieces should have a life beyond the wedding," as The Fall Bride founder Annelise Sealy explains. "Whether that’s through modular design or simply choosing something that doesn’t feel overtly bridal, longevity is becoming part of the decision-making process."

The more casual event set-up also lends itself well to the new anti-cake trend: "The standard three-tier wedding cake is definitely something I'm seeing less of," says Liz Linkleter. "Now couples are increasingly creating large versions of their favourite desserts, like giant tiramisùs and crème brûlée instead."

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Fairytale Extravagance

For all the trends that emerge year after year, there’s much to be said for the sweeping vistas and fairytale romance that come with the more classical aesthetic of a wedding immersed in nature. Grand historic houses and estates in the British countryside continue to be a popular option, with Gigi & Olive’s Georgie Le Roux pointing to Wilderness Reserve, Elmley Nature Reserve and Cornwell Manor as current hotspots.

Luxury events planner Liz Linkleter notes that her clients are still most interested in Italy and France, while Menorca and Mallorca in Spain "are definitely having a moment". Florist Rachael Barker agrees, saying that “spring weddings in Europe have become a new favourite”. Bride Véronique de Vallière hosted her nuptials between Florence and the Tuscan countryside, and incorporated classical elements reflective of the setting such as Roman statue details and a princess-style gown with a boned bodice reminiscent of an ancient marble column. A heart-shaped cake and Alaïa heels amped up the fairytale romance, while a large, opulently decorated banquet table added old-world elegance—and touched on yet another trend.

"I've noticed that florals are becoming quieter lately," says Barker. "They are becoming a delicate addition to the overall design, with a huge focus on the wedding cake, the linen and the shape, scale and extravagance of the table itself. Arrangements featuring fruits and vegetables continue to be a popular nod to Constance Spry's legacy, but I think candles and candlesticks are actually starting to lead the way right now."

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The Date Night

As Liz Linkleter notes, "there's a real shift towards more personal, intimate and considered celebrations" happening right now—and while brides might take inspiration from trends, the point is to use them "as a jumping off point guiding towards something that speaks more closely to the couple and their unique story." Hence, the emergence of wedding celebrations that "feel more akin to the couple's favourite date night," as The Own Studio's Jess Kaye and Rosie Williams put it.

A prime example? Bride Julia Lamp, whose nuptials took place in her and her now-husband's favourite restaurant in the East Village. Miu Miu ballet flats, red rose table settings and Polaroids added to the more casual, date-night aesthetic. Meanwhile, Julia's Own Studio column gown taps into a growing tendency towards "brides purposefully choosing dresses they can reimagine after their wedding day," say Kaye and Williams. "Column dresses and slips are perfect for this—you can dye them to make the perfect black tie event dress so you can wear it again."

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I’m ashamed to admit that, having attended countless weddings over the years, I’ve become something of a lazy guest. Not in spirit, of course—but when it comes to my outfits. Faced with a calendar increasingly chock-full of nuptials, I’ve tended to default to the easiest possible solution: a “one and done” dress that requires minimal thought, yet does the job every time.

Reliable, yes—but also predictable and a little uninspired. My friends and family deserve better! And so too does my wardrobe, which is currently bursting with variations on floaty, floral, one-hit-wonders that rarely see the light of day again. That’s why, for 2026, I’ve tasked myself with putting together stylish wedding guest outfits that don't rely on a dress at all.

Because while a great wedding guest dress will always have its place, it’s far from the only option. In researching this article, I've found myself newly inspired to venture beyond my usual formula—and actually start having fun with wedding guest dressing again, by way of chic co-ords, statement skirts, breezy tailoring, elegant jumpsuits and more.

And now, I'm passing my learnings directly on to you. Below, my new favourite wedding guest outfit formulas to see you through the 2026 season in style—and all built around pieces you'll wear again and again.

The Printed Trouser Set

If you, like me, favour ease when it comes to wedding guest dressing, a jazzy trouser set is an excellent solution. Alémais is always my go-to for these, as it balances fabulous prints with breezy silhouettes, oozing an effortless chic vibe that Aussies do so well. The best sets are those that you know you'll wear separately, too: I'd pair this open-back top with jeans and flip flops, and the trousers with a plain white tank and sandals for more casual occasions.

The Monochrome Moment

Minimalists, this one's for you! Audrey Hepburn meets Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in this pared-back black-and-white look, that is as simple as it is timelessly elegant. Opting for cotton and linen materials will help keep you cool in the height of summer, while strappy leather heels and sculptural earrings add a sense of occasion.

The Elegant Jumpsuit

Can't quite resist the allure of a single-item look? Understandable, but change things up with a jumpsuit instead. Rat & Boa's voluminous Sicily style is an insider favourite, and cuts a particularly striking figure when worn with a chain belt at the waist. It'll work beautifully with flat sandals for beach dinners on your summer holidays, too.

The Statement Skirt

I've said it before and I'll say it again: every wardrobe needs a good statement skirt (or three). There's truly no end to all the different ways it can be worn—wedding guest look, included. Given the formality of the situation, sidestep the usual white t-shirt in favour of a silky cami, or a pretty cardi if the weather allows. I'd lean heavy into the feminine by adding pearly earrings and kitten heels to complete the ensemble.

The Sunshine Co-Ord

Co-ords make everyday style effortless, and they can do the same for wedding dressing, too. An embroidered cropped top and short skirt duo lends itself perfectly to a tropical or beach-side wedding—just add big sunnies, colourful beads, a designer bag and heeled flip-flops for good measure.

The Linen Suit

If a linen suit is a man's summer wedding go-to, there's no reason it can't be ours, too. Go mildly oversized, opt for a seasonal colour and pair with a lace-trim cami—then add heels and fabulous accessories to amp up the glamour.

Sofia Richie wore three custom Chanel wedding dresses, Hailey Bieber opted for a trio by Virgil Abloh, Ralph & Russo and Vera Wang—the latter paired with trainers for a turn on the dancefloor—and Jennifer Lopez looked to Ralph Lauren for three custom white gowns. Proof, if it were needed, that three is far from a crowd when it comes to wedding dresses.

And the numbers back it up, too. According to wedding specialists The Knot, wedding dresses are the most common expense among soon-to-be-wed couples, with 91% spending on a new dress compared to 76% on a cake and just 59% on a florist. Choosing what to wear is no small undertaking.

Anna Vesty, founder and creative director of Unbridled Studio, has witnessed this shift from one standout gown to a carefully considered handful first-hand. "A large proportion of brides who come to us want the opportunity to have some form of look transformation throughout the day," she tells me. "Sometimes this means a dramatic transition: a grand silhouette with volume for the ceremony, a more pared-back column gown for dinner, and a mini for the evening."

Ally Voss, founder of Clover London, echoes this. Brides who opt for three dresses, she explains, often want their look to evolve across a long wedding day. The ceremony, reception and evening each offering a distinct moment while still following a cohesive theme.

"Brides want to show different sides of their personality throughout the day rather than committing to one look. It’s much more about building a “wedding wardrobe” and enjoying the process" adds Georgie Le Roux, founder of Gigi & Olive. "It also gives brides the freedom to experiment a bit more, whether that’s with vintage pieces, tailoring or statement accessories, without feeling like they’re compromising. It just makes the whole day feel more personal and fun.”

More looks, however, means more budget. And when a wedding dress is generally worn just once, the cost-per-wear argument that justifies a new designer handbag or pair of shoes goes firmly out of the window. So, alongside searching for the perfect gowns, it's worth thinking about how to approach the three-dress edit a little more consciously.

Three different looks doesn't have to mean three entirely different dresses. "Smaller, subtler changes still make an impact," explains Vesty, "like layering on a transformative silk top or removing a statement skirt to reveal a satin slip dress underneath." Jackets, veils and gloves can also go a long way to creating distinct looks around the same base.

If you are after three separate dresses, it's wise to opt for at least one you could wear again—whether that's a versatile midi like those from Rixo, or a style that would look equally chic in a different colour or shorter length. The Own Studio offers a dyeing and tailoring service to make this process even smoother. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could always try the alterations yourself.

And finally, there's always the option of renting one (or all three) of your wedding dresses, or reselling the ones you're happy to part with after the day. Save yourself the attic space.

With all of that in mind, scroll on for inspiration on what to wear at every stage of your wedding day. Plus, more tips from our experts on what makes the best dress choice for each setting.

City Celebrations

"A chic column gown is always a winner for a city wedding," says Vesty, and Voss agrees. For registry offices or town hall weddings, she advises keeping things clean and contemporary, leaning into the unfussy nature of the location. Worth noting too: if you're planning street photography, a long train can be frustrating—and is unlikely to stay pristine.

For the ceremony, think sleek and understated. The Own Studio has a particularly strong column dress option that could, of course, be re-coloured down the line. For the reception, a vintage-inspired midi feels fresh, and a mini for the evening will see you through an evening on the dance floor.

City Ceremony

City Reception

City Evening

Countryside Nuptials

When looking at bridal trends that work particularly well for the countryside, lace is one that currently takes the top spot. "Often seen as dated or traditional, there are now many contemporary iterations of lace that feel clean, modern, but still deeply romantic," says Voss. Plus, a country house wedding is the perfect excuse to layer on the drama says Vesty. "Think something that gives a nod to the grandeur and history of a gorgeous Manor house but translated in a modern way," she adds.

Following their advice of creating multiple looks around the same base, both the ceremony and reception outfits have been built using separates.

Countryside Ceremony

Countryside Reception

Countryside Evening

Beach Festivities

"When thinking about your location, I know it might sound boring, but I always like to think practical. For warm climates or beach weddings, choose light, breathable fabric to stay cool and comfortable," says Voss. Vesty encourages you to look for silk organza fabrics, dresses that look just as good barefoot as they do with shoes and pieces with plenty of movement.

Beach Ceremony

Beach Reception

Beach Evening

For those who sit in the strictly traditional bridal camp, wedding jewellery tends to follow a predictable formula: a sparkly solitaire engagement ring, paired with a plain gold band. It's a classic, timeless combination, and one that's dominated the past few decades with good reason—but for the fashion crowd, it can feel a touch too expected.

Instead, the most stylish brides are approaching their ring stacks in much the same way they get dressed: less about matching, more about balance. And the priority? To let their personality shine through—not just in the engagement ring, but in the wedding band, too.

"We are seeing a real shift away from plain wedding bands toward pieces with more thought and design behind them," explains Will Wright, director of insider-favourite vintage jeweller Wave Antiques. "Yellow gold is still the most popular choice, but people want to make it their own now. We're seeing a lot more requests for texture and engraving, or even little personal details like a birthstone hidden on the inside of the band."

"Gold prices are high right now, but that actually seems to be making people more intentional," continues Wright. "Instead of just picking a simple band, they want to invest in something that feels unique and meaningful to them—that are an extension of their personal style."

Think: mixed metals, sculptural silhouettes, unexpected stone pairings, bold party jackets, and repurposed heirlooms that add depth, personality and individuality to a bridal ring stack. Below, some of the coolest fashion girl engagement ring and wedding band combinations I've spotted, to help inspire your own.

Nawal Al

"Growing up, I was always fascinated by vintage jewellery, and my grandmother was my greatest inspiration—and at the mighty age of 90, she still is. She is always the most glamorous woman in the room: hair blow-dried to perfection, and invariably adorned in something that sparkles or makes a statement. From a very young age, I had my eye on one particular piece of hers: a gold cut-out vintage band, originally from the Middle East. It was given to her by her mother, and then it was passed on to me by mine. When it came to my Taylor & Hart engagement ring, we knew we wanted it designed to complement the sentiment of my grandmother’s band. I love bringing those two worlds together—my past and my forever now."

@nawalalalalal

Georgia Radhakrishnan

“When it came to my wedding band, a plain gold design felt too similar to my engagement ring and a little too heavy alongside it. Instead, we chose platinum to complement the platinum in my engagement ring—I've always loved mixing metals. I also wanted a band that could stand beautifully on its own, and I’ve always been drawn to the timeless elegance of an eternity band. The stones were taken from a bracelet I inherited from my grandmother, which makes both pieces incredibly sentimental. I love how original they look together. Both are LYLIE Jewellery designs."

Rachel Boston

"The wedding band is from one of my earliest bridal collections: the Baguette Diamond Deco Ring. It has a strong, geometric profile with a flat top and tapered sides, set with white baguette diamonds. It was always intended to be worn either as a wedding band or as a standalone piece, and I’ve always loved its structure and presence. It has a beautiful hand engraving on the inside which has worn down and softened with daily wear. My engagement ring is a more recent redesign, created for my ten-year wedding anniversary. It features a 2.50ct octagonal geometric pear cut diamond, set on a knife edge band that tapers from wide to narrow, following the natural line of the stone in a subtle wave. It feels fluid, sculptural, and much more reflective of where I am now. I chose a white diamond this time, whereas my original ring had an icy grey stone, but I was still drawn to a distinctive and unconventional cut. On paper, the two rings shouldn’t really work together... The wedding band is very straight and architectural, while the engagement ring has a soft, flowing movement, and they don’t sit neatly side by side. But that contrast is exactly what I love. The rigidity of the band actually enhances the curve of the engagement ring. It feels more personal, less expected, and much more ‘me’ than a perfectly matched set."

@rachelbostonjewellery

Morgan Elizabeth Hall

"I have been obsessed with Spinelli Kilcollin for ages and was actually planning to buy one of the brand's rings for myself at some point. My boyfriend at the time knew that, but I had never thought of the brand as an engagement ring option... I didn’t even realise they offered that. He ended up designing my ring with the London representative, which made it feel incredibly thoughtful. He added emeralds into the band, which is his birthstone, so it has this really subtle sentimental detail woven into it. Later, when we were in New York, we happened to be near the Spinelli Kilcollin store and went in ‘just to look.’ I tried on a two-band linked stack over my engagement ring and instantly knew! It completed it. Now the full stack is five rings in total, all linked together, and it feels like such a statement. I love that it’s not traditional at all. It feels really reflective of my personal style."

@morgan.elizabeth.hall

Patricia Zhou

"I’ve always wanted something non-traditional and the unexpected combo of the chunky wedding ring with my custom WWAKE engagement ring feels a bit extravagant in a fun and different way, which is very much my style. I also love that my partner and I have matching vintage Cartier wedding rings—his holds a sapphire, whilst mine holds a diamond."

@patricia_zhou

Lucy Delius

"I have always been obsessed with kite diamonds. When I initially got engaged I didn’t design my engagement ring and ten years on I wanted to design something that reflected who I am now. I wanted to create something totally different that no one else had. As for the wedding band, why would you choose a plain gold style when you could have more diamonds?!"

@lucydelius

Serena Ansell

"I fell in love with this brown diamond ring years ago when I was working for my old boss, who is also a jeweller and an expert in rare stones. My husband, Ollie, was quite concerned about trying to propose to a jeweller, and knowing also that I am a romantic, knew that I would prefer a surprise—making his job even more difficult. However, Ollie knew I loved this ring, so when I left my job to start my own brand—Serena Ansell Fine Jewellery—he went back in and bought it without me knowing, and my dream came true. When it came to deciding on a wedding band, I didn’t want anything that took away from my engagement ring, but I also wanted the band to have a subtle beauty of its own. That's why I decided to embellish it with dainty milgrain: the pretty dotted pattern has a subtle but beautiful contrast against the plain setting of my engagement ring. It feels more 'me' than a traditional wedding band because I adore contrasting textures. It is something that I use in my jewellery designs a lot and, if balanced correctly, the results are stunning. I also love that the curve in the band allows it to sit flush next to my engagement ring—partly because of the slick echo of the design, but also because it’s comfortable to wear."

@serena.ansell

Lydia Njoh Nseke

"A traditional solitaire engagement ring is gorgeous but has just never felt like me. I wanted something you'd look at twice, that felt different... So I went for a coloured stone band of emeralds, and blue and pink sapphires, which has so much personality. I love colour and I love that it makes the whole thing feel a bit unexpected and joyful. I chose a diamond wedding band to mark our civil ceremony, and I'm going to get a simple band for our upcoming church wedding too. So eventually, the stack will be even bigger, and worn all together it will have even more meaning."

@lydia.njoh

Sophie Louise Tomlin

"I’ve always been drawn to emerald cuts and step-cut stones. When I first got married, I layered my engagement ring with two tapered baguette and pavé bands to echo the halo, but over time it began to feel a little busy—and the width of having three rings stacked wasn’t as practical for everyday wear. After seven years, I redesigned both my engagement ring and wedding bands into one single ring. I wanted to keep my original stone within the new design, so that became a side stone to retain its sentiment. I changed it all to full bezel setting (again for practicality). Working in jewellery, I wanted something fun, creative and distinctive. I worked with my good friend and client Jessie V E on both the original wedding bands and the remodelled ring."

@sophietomlin_

Stephanie Sofokleous

"It’s always been a thing in our 12-year relationship that my husband has never bought be jewellery because, in his words, ‘your style is always changing, and I know I’d get it wrong.’ So when he proposed with a Tessa Metcalfe ring, I was sure he’d had some help from my friends. I’d loved her jewellery for years, but hadn’t expected him to remember that. Turns out he’d been speaking with her for months to design the perfect ring. I love the design and how unique it is, but I love it more because he’d held onto that information and saved it for this exact moment. With such a unique engagement ring, I knew I’d need a wedding band to match. Not only something that worked with its shape, but something that would complement the design. A plain band just wasn’t going to work. The Tessa Metcalfe ring is so textured, so I wanted a textured band to work alongside it. Loveness Lee instantly came to mind: all of her pieces are inspired by natural textures, from cacti to mushrooms. Sadly, my grandmother passed away eight months before my wedding. She was so involved with the wedding planning, so when her own ring was passed down to me, I knew I wanted to make it my wedding band. I worked closely with Loveness to design something that that felt like me, adding five lab-grown diamonds to complement the sapphire in my engagement ring."

@stephaniesofokleous

Florrie Thomas

"I really wanted a ring that made a statement but also fitted with all the other jewellery I love to wear. I loved the idea of something chunky and I’ve always loved the gypsy set style. I liked the contrast of it with a super slim simple wedding band that I can wear it solo, too."

@florriet

When it comes to weddings, the question we get asked most as beauty editors is when to book in for all the treatments ahead of the big day. Planning a wedding is stressful and overwhelming as it is, without the worry of what comes first: the spray tan or the manicure?

And so to alleviate some of that unnecessary angst, consider this your go-to wedding beauty timeline. It tells you when to book your Botox, why you should consider a wedding nail trial and how much time should be dedicated to teeth whitening.

12 Months To Go

Most weddings take place a year after the engagement—give or take—so this is the moment to lay the groundwork. Small, consistent steps now will pay off later.

Sarah Chapman, super facialist to the stars, says that starting at this point gives you time "to really understand your skin, address any underlying concerns, and create a tailored programme that builds resilience, restores optimal skin health and allows the skin to perform at its very best on the big day." Her advice? She recommends regular facials every four to six weeks in the lead up to the big day.

However, if you don't have the time, she says that even with just three months, in-clinic facials and a robust homecare routine can deliver impressive results.

6 Months To Go

If you're considering permanent makeup, now is the time to book in. These treatments create subtle, long-lasting definition that will photograph really well.

"Lip Blush, a gentle tattooing technique that adds a soft wash of colour, helping define shape and symmetry for a fresh, radiant look, is a perfect bridal treatment as it enhances your natural lips without the need for fillers," says Karen Betts, founder of Karen Betts Clinics and an authority on permanent makeup. She recommends starting the process at least 16 weeks before the wedding, allowing time for healing and retouching.

For brows, Betts says that initial microblading appointments should take place around three months before the big day, followed by a perfecting appointment four to six weeks later. "This allows enough time for the brows to settle. Brows go through different healing phases, and the colour will soften and refine within six weeks, so it’s important not to leave it too close to the big day. Planning ensures the final result feels natural and they get exactly what they want for their wedding day and for the next 12 months.”

4 Months To Go

Let's talk about Botox. If you're thinking of having it done, plan for appointments.

"The first acts as a ‘trial’ treatment, ideally around three to four months before the big day, allowing us to understand precisely how your muscles respond and to refine dosing and placement in a way that feels completely natural," explains Dr David Jack, an aesthetic doctor.

"If someone has more established or deeper lines, I may recommend an additional earlier session. Repeated treatments over a short period can help soften etched lines more effectively by allowing a degree of dermal remodelling, rather than relying on a single treatment to do all the work."

The second treatment is done a month before the wedding, which gives enough time for the result to fully settle and, importantly, allows for a small top-up if required, he says.

You will already have been talking to your wedding hairstylist about hair trials, but it's also important to think about your colour. If you are looking for a big change for your big day—lighter, darker or changing tone—it's best to start a few months in advance. According to Ryan Bradford, a colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, that's because it allows time to build the colour gradually without compromising condition. You should also maintain a healthy hair routine, with regular trims and at-home conditioning treatments.

His top tip for brides is to think about tone in photos. "Very ashy or very warm tones can photograph differently, so aim for something more balanced and natural for your wedding day."

This is also a good point to think about hair removal. Jaimineey Patel, Head of VIP and Treatments at Blink Brow Bar, says that no matter which avenue you choose, a trial is important, especially if you are having a treatment for the first time. "Where possible, plan a full trial of your treatments at least 3–6 months before the wedding to ensure everything is tailored perfectly for you and you love the look."

2 Months To Go

When it comes to looking tanned on your wedding day, you can go down two routes: at-home self-tanning or a professional spray tan. If you decide to put your trust in the experts, then you should look at having a trial.

James Harknett, London's go-to spray tanner, says that it's as important as your dress fitting and makeup trial. "It’s a great idea to have your tan trial two days before a makeup trial so that your makeup artist can then match your foundation to the colour you want to be on the big day."

He also recommends trials because each spray tan solution will react differently to individual skin tones. "The undertone of the person is a huge factor in choosing the right tanning formula, so ensure at least one trial before your big day. It’s crucial you feel the colour is authentic and natural to your colouring."

This is also the ideal time for a nail trial. "It’s such a worthwhile step to see how your shade pairs with your dress and jewellery," says Faye Louise Dennis, a bridal manicurist who works with BioSculpture. "I’d recommend starting nail appointments two to three months before to find your ideal shade and shape." She also says this is the perfect time to start some at-home prep. Getting into the habit of using a cuticle oil and a repair cream for your feet will mean that come the big day, your hands and feet are in the best possible condition.

1 Month To Go

Want a whiter smile on your wedding day? Now is the time to think about teeth whitening. "For best, long-lasting results, we typically recommend completing a full at-home whitening course, usually four tubes of gel over a period of four to six weeks in the lead-up to your wedding," says Dr Shravan Chawla, a leading aesthetic, biomimetic and restorative dentist at Ten Dental. "For the most stable and natural-looking results, an overnight whitening system is ideal. This approach allows for a gradual, controlled brightening of the teeth, helping to achieve a more even and longer-lasting finish in time for your wedding.”

He says that it's important to time your treatment correctly, so that you finish your whitening treatments one week before the big day.

This is also your window for your final Botox appointment. "This timing strikes the right balance, as results are fully established by two weeks, leaving a comfortable window to review and adjust if needed, while still looking fresh and natural on the day itself," says Dr Jack. "Leaving it any later introduces unnecessary risk, as even subtle asymmetries or the need for refinement may not have enough time to settle. A wedding is not the moment for experimentation."

From here on, avoid introducing any new skincare products or booking in for any intensive treatments—your skin needs stability right now, not surprises.

If you are having a spray tan ahead of your wedding, now is the time to really prep your body. If you are getting married towards the end of the summer, try to keep your natural tanning as even as possible. Protect areas like your back and shoulders to avoid worrying about uneven patches. One of Harknett's top tips is to exfoliate the areas where your bra straps dig in. "Do this a good few weeks leading up to the wedding tan. The reason is the skin gets compacted by the tightness of the fabrics against the body and can lead to the areas of darker tan on bra strap lines and around the boobs, leading up to the armpit area."

Two Weeks To Go

Consistency is key within the last fortnight. Now is not the time to experiment, says Chapman. "Maintain a targeted routine that supports hydration, strengthens the skin barrier and keeps the complexion balanced and stable."

Now is the time to book your lash lift, brows tint or lamination, so that results look fresh, but not too done, on the day.

This is also the best time to visit the hair salon one final time. "Schedule a final refresh, with a gloss or toner, one to two weeks before your wedding," says Bradford. "This will keep your colour fresh and polished."

Your final haircut pre-wedding should take place between two and four weeks ahead of the event. However, if you have a short, graphic crop or a fringe, Samuel Broadbent, a stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, suggests a cut one week before, as you want that to look as crisp as possible.

One Week To Go

You're on the final stretch, so it's crucial not to rock the boat.

Your skin focus in the final days should be on hydration, nourishment and comfort. Use products that help to restore suppleness, plumpness and radiance. You can incorporate lymphatic drainage and facial massage to de-puff, define and lift. Chapman says to "use your skincare moments as a moment to pause within the busy lead-up, bringing both the skin and mind into a calm, balanced state ahead of the day."

Finish your teeth whitening treatments at the beginning of the week to allow for any sensitivity to subside.

Around three days before, schedule your final facial hair removal appointment. This allows any redness to settle while keeping the finish clean and defined.

Two days before you walk down the aisle is the perfect time to get your manicure and pedicure done. Dennis explains that way, you get the fresh finish you want, as close to the nail bed as possible. If you are having a spray tan, make sure they use a barrier cream and gently wipe the nails post-application to keep your nails clean and true to colour. Harknett assures us that "a good tanning therapist always protects the hands and nails and wipes any spray residue from them after application."

The Day Before

If your schedule allows, Chapman says a facial a day or two before the wedding is beneficial. "The key focus will then be on sculpting, hydration and radiance boosting – similar to how we get celebs ready for big red carpets! At this stage, we avoid anything overly active or new. Instead, we use calming LED therapy, lymphatic drainage, and my signature massage techniques to de-puff, define and reset the skin—creating that sculpted, well-rested, confident look every bride deserves. A good boost can be EMFACE for a non-invasive, needle-free lift. Endymed Radiofrequency is another favourite for tightening and firming with zero downtime."

If you are going down the spray tan route, having it done the day before is the best time. "Most brides decide that the day after the spray tan is when it looks its best," says Harknett. "It's best to have around three cool showers, which ensures all guide colour has been washed away. This gives peace of mind that nothing will rub onto the inside of the wedding dress. Also, having a day or two of gentle cleansing settles the colour on the face."

His top tip is to ensure that your spray tan is your very last pre-wedding beauty treatment. "For example, you don't want to be going for your manicure and pedicure and soaking your hands and feet post spray tan, as this will lighten these areas. Also, make sure your hair removal is done well in advance. Tanning straight after waxing is a disaster, so wax a good two to three days before the tan. You can shave 24 hours before."

If you're in the throes of planning a wedding right now, shoes might seem like the last thing you need to worry about—and you'd be correct in thinking so. Not because they're unimportant, however—far from it. The right pair can pull your entire bridal look together, add a little pizzazz to even the simplest outfit, carry you from ceremony to dance floor, and live on in your wardrobe long after the big day.

No, the reason you can rest easy is that I, as a fashion editor and footwear obsessive, have pulled together all the best wedding shoes of 2026 right here in one place—so all that's left to do is choose your favourite pair.

From timeless satin heels and the minimalist Manolos loved by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, to playful pops of colour, sparkly details and directional, cool-girl silhouettes, you can rest assured that every style in this edit comes fashion insider approved. My advice? As with every aspect of your wedding, forget what tradition dictates and lean into what feels most true to you—shoes included.

If you're on the hunt for honeymoon outfits, congratulations are in order. From everyone here at Marie Claire, we wish you and your partner many, many years of happiness—here's to you.

If our guides to the best wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and wedding hair came in handy, we're happy we could help. Now we're here to see you through the final stage of any wedding: the honeymoon. So if you're jetting off somewhere exciting, scroll on for packing inspiration.

For those setting off on safari, khaki is not only recommended by every animal tracker but makes for easy outfit planning too—and don't forget binoculars and a jumper, since the early mornings are colder than you'd think. Any couple bound for the beach is probably familiar with the essentials, but for brides, a white swimsuit feels particularly special. And for a cultural city break, it's always fun to lean into the theme.

Ready to see what belongs in your suitcase?

The Caribbean Calls For Colour

Swimwear label Away That Day recently launched a dedicated bridal edit, complete with white lace cover-ups and a handful of swimsuits. Why not keep the all-white look going? Then you can add boldly coloured accessories to truly lean into island life.

Paris Beyond The Beret

Heading to the city of love? Prepare to get your steps in. Flat shoes, jeans, a suede jacket and a mini dress—white again, to keep the theme going—will see you through sightseeing strolls and long lunches alike. The neck scarf is just for fun.

Italian Vineyard Aesthetic

Whether you're heading to Veneto, Tuscany or Piedmont, smart casual is the way to go for an Italian vineyard getaway. Think linen blazers, elevated sandals and a swimsuit that feels effortlessly put-together—and ensures you're ready for a dip once you've completed those all-important 'tastings'. Don't forget a pair of trainers for evening strolls, either.

Greece From Beach to Taverna

Greece offers the best of beach and city life, meaning you'll want a wardrobe that works for both. Practical sandals, easy layering pieces like a white shirt, and swimsuits that double as a vest will all help your packing list stretch further. Plus, be sure to take a look at Sézane's new-in pieces—they're some of the best around right now.

Safari Chic

Safari chic is a key trend for Spring/Summer 2026, so if you're planning to experience the real thing, you'll find no shortage of options to shop. Khaki shades and practical pieces are always wise—as are elasticated-hem shorts and trousers to keep pesky mosquitoes away.

Maldives Beach Bum

With undisturbed beaches and open ocean to explore, the Maldives is the perfect setting for luxurious seaside style. Silk shorts, extra-wide straw hats and starfish-studded accessories feel more than appropriate.

Recently, my Whatsapp group chats have been filled with engagement announcements, first house purchases and baby scan photos. Call it the 'turning-30 effect'—or in my case, turning 33... And with it comes a whole host of questions, including, very importantly, where to find the best bridesmaid dresses. So, I've made it something of a habit to pitch in wherever I can, sourcing options that we'd all actually want to wear again.

Now I'm here to share everything I've learned. There's a lot to consider when choosing bridesmaid dresses—certainly more so than when choosing a wedding guest dress—largely because if you're dressing multiple people in the same thing, the dress has to be a genuine crowd-pleaser.

Key questions to keep in mind: what shade will work with the colour palette? Printed or plain? And what length best suits the occasion? And that's before you've even considered which styles are trending for spring and summer 2026.

Budget is worth thinking about early-on, too, as the figure will depend on how many bridesmaids you have and your overall wedding budget—or, how much your friends are willing to be set back by.

Clearly, there's a lot to consider, but get the above right and you'll be well on your way to finding something everyone (and most importantly, you) loves. Whether you need a final nudge or some initial inspiration, below is my edit of the best bridesmaid dresses to buy in 2026—midi, maxi and mini styles included.

The Best Bridesmaid Dresses of 2026

It’s been four days since Charli XCX wed DJ and drummer for The 1975, George Daniel (now George XCX), in what will go down in our great city’s history as one of—if not the—most quintessential East London wedding of all time. And still, I cannot rid my mind of the events of the day, chief among them: the wedding mini dress. Both of them, in fact. For the ceremony, there was—of course—Vivienne Westwood and for the afters at Ellie’s bar in Hackney: another white mini wedding dress, this one, a 60s-tinged off-the-shoulder style by Anthony Vaccarello for Saint Laurent.

I’ve long suspected that what makes a wedding great is authenticity. Now, ‘authenticity’ is one of those annoying buzzwords that gets bandied around and subsequently loses all meaning. Authenticity, in the case of this wedding, translated to a gloriously low-key affair that felt—dare I say it—very Brat.

Eschewing tradition—especially when it comes to celebrity weddings—there was no glossy multi-page magazine spread, no frothy gown, no star-studded spectacle (*cough* Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez). In their place: wraparound rave shades, lime bikes, cigarettes served on silver platters and £8 martinis. It’s enough to make a wedding oppositionist (me) say ‘I do’ I only threw this party 4 u.

Is the tide finally turning on ostentatiously lavish weddings? It’s precisely that wishful thinking which led me to lose a few hours earlier this week tracking down the best and brattiest bridal styles...

Shop Charli XCX’s Wedding Mini Dress Looks

It is supremely iconic that a wedding which seemingly had no official photographers has sent the internet into such a tailspin. Searches for ‘Vivienne Westwood wedding dress’ are up 271%, ‘wedding mini dress’ searches are exploding (up 397%) and ‘Off-the-shoulder bridal dress’ searches have also shot up by 270%.

It’s giving Jennifer Lopez wearing Versace to the Grammys in 2000 and subsequently birthing the internet as we know it today. It’s giving—if you’ll excuse me mixing pop culture references—breaking the internet.

Also iconic: you can rent the exact Vivienne Westwood Nova Cora mini wedding dress from By Rotation.

Being an outfit repeater is very brat. Being an outfit repeater on your wedding day? We’re gonna need a new metaphor. Charli XCX first wore this swishy 60s-style at We Love Green festival in Paris earlier this summer. For the second outing, the knee boots were switched for a pair of pointed Jimmy Choo Amita pumps, which emphasised the retro mood. A satin clutch and signature buggy sunglasses completed the look (see: authentic).

Shop Wedding Mini Dresses

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are not married, so let's all slow down a little bit. Rumours that the ultra-famous couple had had a secret wedding started spreading earlier this month when the wedding planner for NFL player Cole Kmet, of the Chicago Bears, shared behind-the-scenes pics from his nuptials with wife Emily Jarosz.

Speaking on her Instagram Story in early June, wedding planner Ellie Nottoli inadvertently shared a letter addressed to "Taylor and Travis Kelce," who were fittingly destined for table 13 (13 is famously Taylor's lucky number), as reported by Page Six.

Never mind that Taylor and Travis weren't actually at Emily and Cole's wedding because they were attending another wedding scheduled for the same day, Ellie explained: "We all know Taylor and Travis were at a different wedding in Tennessee. But each guest had an envelope that was adhered to a beautiful backdrop, and Emily wrote love notes to all of her guests."

Because the letter was addressed simply to "Taylor and Travis Kelce," implying a silent "Taylor Kelce," fans lost their absolute minds over it online, wondering if the couple were in fact secretly married.

But the "Fortnight" singer made fast work of shutting down that particular narrative (one which she would very much like to be excluded from.....) when she visited a children's hospital in Hollywood, Florida, this past weekend, according to ELLE.

In footage shared on social media, a patient can be heard asking Taylor — who was wearing a beautiful sage green sundress — why she's in Florida, to which the popstar responds: "My boyfriend is training here... so I just thought I'd come and see how you're doing, just to drop in on you, you know what I mean?"

Whether deliberate or not, the use of the word "boyfriend" here is a clear indication that the marriage rumours are unfounded. Incidentally, Taylor is no stranger to this kind of gossip. While she was dating Joe Alwyn, from whom she split in April 2023 after six years together, rumours that the two were secretly married or engaged emerged all the time during their relationship.

Although celebs do in fact often tie the knot without first alerting the press or the public, in Taylor and Joe's case, the popstar's publicist Tree Paine absolutely slammed rumours spread by the gossip account DeuxMoi in late 2023. "Enough is enough with these fabricated lies about Taylor from DeuxMoi," Tree posted on X at the time (via Billboard). "There was NEVER a marriage or ceremony of ANY kind. This is an insane thing to post. It’s time for you to be held accountable for the pain and trauma you cause with posts like these." Strong words, and perhaps a cautionary tale when it comes to similar rumours about Taylor and Travis.

It’s the start of summer and your social calendar is filling up fast. One weekend it's a wedding, the next it’s the office summer party, and then you’re hopping on a coach to head to the races. Whether you're sitting in a pew or settling into a picnic spot, one question remains the same: what do I wear?

Fortunately, there are a few trusty brands you can always count on for occasionwear—and Phase Eight is a firm favourite. The brand even has an entire section on its website dedicated to every kind of event, featuring everything from jumpsuits and printed midi dresses to polished jackets that take the guesswork out of getting dressed.

Or, if you already have a go-to outfit in mind, a carefully chosen accessory can totally transform it. A fascinator or hat brings a dash of glamour for more formal settings. A statement shoe can instantly elevate a pared-back look. And a chic cover-up has the power to completely change the aesthetic—proof that the art of outfit repeating lies in how you style it.

All of these wardrobe heroes (and more) can be found in Phase Eight’s summer occasionwear collection. Plus, the brand is the official partner of Goodwood, making race day dressing exceptionally easy. So, consider this your solution to every “I have nothing to wear” dilemma. Scroll on to discover our favourite picks for the season ahead.

shop phase eight occasionwear

When it came to wedding make-up, I felt a bit lost. Despite being a beauty editor and trialling make-up for a living, I wasn’t sure where to turn for the big day. I knew I wanted something timeless, but I didn’t gravitate towards that ‘no-make-up make-up’ look that seems to fill most bridal make-up artist pages. They were beautiful, but I knew I wanted something a bit more glam.

Then I discovered Charlotte Tilbury’s bridal make-up service. As a long-time fan of the brand, I had high hopes that it was the perfect solution. And, after having my make-up done by one of the Charlotte Tilbury bridal make-up artists, Sophie Mabel, I knew right away it was the ideal choice for my wedding make-up. It was exactly as I’d wished for and more.

So, here’s everything I think you should know about Charlotte Tilbury’s bridal artist service.

Step 1: Enquire

The first step is enquiring, which you can do super easily on the Charlotte Tilbury website. Simply let the team know all of the details of your wedding day to check availability and that you’re a good match. Doing this as early as possible can help avoid disappointment.

Step 2: Phone consultation

Once you’ve agreed to the terms and a bridal make-up artist is chosen for you, the team will set up a phone consultation where you can chat to your bridal artist. Sophie and I chatted about all things make-up for about 30 minutes: we spoke about my day-to-day make-up, looks I like, looks I don’t like, my inspiration, and what Charlotte Tilbury products I have used before. She was warm, professional, and asked all of the right questions to figure out my style and to settle any nerves surrounding the big day.

Taking my preferences and using some of my inspiration photos, Sophie created a mood board to show what to expect from the final look—it was a lovely touch.

Step 3: Trial appointment

Next was the make-up trial day. I met Sophie downstairs at the new (and incredibly gorgeous) Charlotte Tilbury boutique in Covent Garden where she had all of the products laid out and my mood board ready. She had mentioned wearing white as it can help you to see what the make-up will look like when you're wearing a wedding dress, which is a great tip.

Sophie started on skin prep, and we discussed my skin type, routine and any products I will be using ahead of the big day. She then moved on to my eyes—my only request was not to use too much pink since I have rosacea. With each step, Sophie showed me what she was doing and asked if I was happy. She asked plenty of questions, and honestly, I told her to do her thing—she knows far better than I do, and I trusted her knowledge.

Finally, it was on to complexion products, which is what I was most nervous about. Sophie understood that I wanted my skin to look natural but still glam; flawless both in real life and on camera.

It was a two-hour appointment, which gave plenty of time to tweak and refine the look, though I hadn’t a single amendment—I was so happy with what Sophie had created. It was one of my favourite beauty experiences to date (and as a beauty editor, I’ve had many). I came away feeling very excited about my wedding day and relieved knowing I have Sophie, whose calm and kind energy is appreciated on such a big occasion.

Step 4: The wedding day

It wasn't long before it was time for the wedding day! Sophie arrived at my hotel room at 9 am to do my mum's make-up (which looked beautiful) before moving onto mine. As I had no requested changes from the trial, she cracked on straight away. First using some eye gel patches (great if you didn't sleep well the night before; though, I personally slept the best I have in my life, I'm not sure what that says about me!) before moving on to skincare prep. She used Magic Serum Crystal Elixir, Magic Cream and Invisible UV Flawless Poreless Primer, which was a great shout because it so sunny on the day.

Sophie has her work cut out on the day because, of course, I woke up with perhaps the worst skin I've had in 3 years! No matter how much skincare prep you do, the stress may just catch up with you on the day. But I didn't stress about it because there's nothing I could do but let Sophie work her magic to cover up those pesky spots.

I adored my make-up on the day; it was fun and looked great in photos. I loved it so much that I asked Sophie to do my make-up for my wedding party celebrating with friends a few weeks later.

On the day, Sophie allows one and a half hours for the bride and an hour for the bridesmaids. It's plenty of time, since we got the look down on the trial session.

The Charlotte Tilbury bridal team will travel to your wedding location and can be on hand for any touch-ups, too, if you need them—though you’ll want to specify all of this while enquiring.

And if you’d prefer to do your own make-up, the team also offers make-up lessons.

Best Charlotte Tilbury Bridal Make-Up Products

Complexion

Eye make-up

Lip products

When it comes to weddings, timing is everything—and that’s particularly true for beauty treatments. That goes for wedding injectables, spray tans and, of course, hair colour. As a bride and a beauty editor, working out the ideal timelines for my beauty treatments has been high on my to-do list, and the first thing that went on that list was sorting out my hair colour. I've had every colour under the sun, so I understand just how long it can take to get from one colour to the next—you have to factor in growth, condition and the hue you want to achieve.

To help you on your bridal hair colour journey, I spoke to top colourists to understand everything you need to know about dyeing your hair for the big day.

Bridal hair colouring timeline

When to start wedding hair colouring?

Once you’re engaged or know you’re getting married in the near future, book a consultation appointment with your colourist. It might seem overzealous at first, particularly if your wedding is two years away, but this allows plenty of time to try new techniques, treatments and allow your hair to be exactly how you want it for the big day. As Luke Tyrrell, hairstylist and colourist, sums up brilliantly: “Bridal colour is a curated journey, not a one-off appointment.”

Your colourist can help you decide what colour is best for your wedding and what prep is involved, including when to book your appointments. “I recommend starting the process three–six months in advance. This allows time to refine tone, condition the hair properly and ensure the result is photo-perfect from every angle,” explains Luke.

“For blondes, I work over a series of sessions to ensure the perfect balance of depth and tone. For darker bases, I typically schedule two pre-wedding glossing services to assess fade and durability, especially for brides opting for warmer climates on their big day.”

During your initial consultation, they should discuss what you’re hoping to achieve, any limitations and how many appointments you need to prepare for the final hair colour. This is also where you should give your colourist any information about your hair, including whether you’re going to wear hair extensions for the day, so those can be dyed ahead of time.

If you’re not much of a planner then you need at least six months out from your big day to get your wedding hair colour planned. This gives enough time to prep and plan before that final colour appointment.

When should you have your last colour appointment before the wedding?

Most colourists recommend two weeks before the big day to have that final colour done. “I typically recommend the final colour appointment take place one to two weeks before the wedding. This allows time for the colour to settle, and for any tonal refinements to be made,” says Luke.

For a root tint, Yissel Tucent Herrera, colourist and stylist at HARI’s, suggests one week before to make it as fresh as possible, and to ensure it conceals any grey hairs, if that's an aim. Luke echoes this: “For high-impact blondes, or anyone requiring grey coverage, timing is key. I’d suggest scheduling closer to the day, around 5–7 days before, to ensure root coverage is immaculate and toners are at peak vibrancy.”

If you’re getting a gloss, Yissel also recommends you get it a week before as it “gives an amazing shine” before the big day.

Bridal hair colouring tips

Consider this for destination weddings

Hairstylist Chlöe Swift makes an excellent point that where you're getting married needs to be taken into consideration. “If you have a destination wedding in a warm climate, take a neutralising conditioning mask, or something with violet tones to help neutralise yellow out of the hair."

Placement matters

Going to a stylist who understands colour placement is super important. “Strategic colour placement can elevate a bridal style dramatically,” explains Luke. For updos, he likes to focus on the hairline placement with diffusion and depth underneath to avoid flatness in photos.” Chlöe echoes this: “Adding extra highlights around the face or top layers can show up nicely in updos, otherwise, the hair can look quite flat, especially in photographs.”

“Balayage is brilliant here as it creates soft contouring and movement throughout the lengths, while toners or glossing adds luminosity for a high-shine, editorial finish,” Luke adds. “Your wedding colour should look just as beautiful in person as it does under a camera’s flash.”

Virgin hair needs TLC, too

Repeat after Luke: “Healthy hair has its own glow.” And I couldn’t agree more. Prioritising the health of your hair will always yield amazing results.

He recommends Kérastase’s Fusio-Dose treatments. “These can be personalised in-salon based on the bride’s hair needs (be it smoothing, shine or strength). For brides who want a ‘lit-from-within’ finish without colour, steam treatments are a great addition to the wedding hair journey as they aid deep penetration of reconstructive or moisture treatments,” he continues.

Ace at-home colour care

Hair colour doesn’t just happen in the salon; it needs great after-care, too. ”Healthy hair holds colour better and photographs flawlessly,” says Luke, so it’s always a good idea to prioritise at-home care.

“In the lead-up to the wedding, I treat homecare like skincare prep for your colour,” the stylist tells me. Yissel recommends masking up to twice a week with a moisture mask if you have the time. As someone who works from home and has pretty dry hair, I’ve been letting masks marinate during the day while working, and it’s made a massive difference to the condition of my hair.

Luke also suggests using L’Oréal Professionnel’s Metal Detox products to “remove copper particles that oxidise in the hair fibre and destabilise toners.” I personally love this range, too, so I have incorporated it into my routine.

Best bridal hair colouring products

Growing up in the 90s and early noughties, the pinnacle of adulthood looked like a frothy white wedding dress and a ‘happily ever after’. Weddings were the climax of so many of my favourite films and TV shows. Gossip Girl—which enraptured me so much that I took to calling my friends by their last initial only—literally ends with (spoiler alert) Dan and Serena’s long-awaited nuptials when they were, oh, I don’t know, 23.

The fact that weddings were so often the closing act for my favourite stars got me wondering what happened to these women after they were married. If this, as I was led to believe, was the happiest day of their lives, did everything go downhill after? That seemed like a grim fate to befall my favourite heroines, even if they were fictional.

I began getting suspicious about weddings. While friends would while away sleepovers wistfully planning their Big Day, I became increasingly baffled by the whole thing (though I still harboured fantasies of being a flower girl and later a bridesmaid). And so it has been all too easy for me to report on the rise in divorce parties, hen party horror stories and bridal store secrets (“The bride brought six friends and a ring light. They filmed everything.”) I took smug comfort in the fact that I would never be that bride because I’d never be a bride at all, ha!

But, like the chronic overthinker I am, after a while of writing these wedding stories, I started to question my ideas about matrimony and realised that what I really take umbrage with is the idea that it should be the greatest achievement of a woman’s life, as so many stories I read, watched, and listened to as a kid told me. I suspect it’s this very idea that has led to some of the wedding regrets shared by brides for this story.

I might not have gotten married myself, but I know that from the moment a couple gets engaged, there’s a flurry of expectations, and the desire for that ‘perfect day’ can quickly sour into a source of stress. And so, void of any actual first-hand experience, I took to that great message board of our time—Instagram—to find out what real-life brides wish they could change about their wedding day.

Read on to make sure the same fate doesn’t befall you.

“My husband has turned out to be an absolute monster”

“My wedding was wonderful, so there’s very little about the actual day that I regret, but I do know that my husband has turned out to be an absolute monster. I regret him. I regret getting sucked in and believing all the bullshit and when I look back at the messages, realising I’ve been bloody love-bombed. I thought I was completely and utterly head over heels in love, but there were so many red flags. I think I ignored them because I was 39 when we met and I was just a few days away from turning 41 when we got married. We planned this huge wedding in 2020, which obviously got cancelled, but a lot of my friends still say it was their favourite ever wedding because it was 30 people and it was amazing, but he’d been out the night before with the boys and I always just felt a bit let down. Now I've got to deal with divorce and all the messiness that comes with it and realising that I just didn’t pick a good one, and it’s really sad and we wasted a lot of money and such a special day and all those lovely memories are just tarnished by the fact that it wasn’t real.”

- *Sally, 44

“I wish I had not rushed the aisle walk”

“I wish I had not rushed the aisle walk, my brother was trying to slow me down, he was like “You’re walking too quickly, slow down”, which was true, because in my head I was like, “Oh my gosh, this is awful, I just wanna get it over and done with, this is so intimidating, I feel very vulnerable”. But now, or even as soon as it was done, I wondered why I hadn’t soaked in this once in a life thing. It makes me emotional thinking about the fact my whole family was there. I wish I had more of a visual image of it, but because I was so trying to rush it and get through it, I kind of blocked it out other than my brother telling me to slow down, which I think is sad. I always say to brides: it’s really nerve-wracking but try and get a visual of it and try and soak it in because it feels very significant after.”

- Sarah, 33

“I wish I’d been more brutal”

“I would definitely have cut down on the guest list. Some people I haven’t seen since the wedding, I wish I’d been more brutal.”

- Penny

“I never had the dress moment”

“Because we cancelled our Italian wedding, and then didn’t decide to do the COVID wedding until like a month before, I didn’t do any of the going to the shops and trying on wedding dresses and finding that perfect wedding dress. I literally just bought one off Zara that came a couple of days before. That was a big regret as I never had the dress moment”.

- Alice, 31

“Too much evening food”

“Too much evening food. I knew there would be but you still feel the pressure to provide just in case, but it results in so much waste! Too many deserts, (worrying about catering to everyone's needs too much) should have kept it way more simple and just done a pile of chocolate brownies (they were the winner). Also, getting parents and friends to do the clean up, awful and unfair decision. I should have just paid a team to do it.”

- Emma, 33

“We don’t have any couple photos”

“Photography. We don’t have any couple photos from either wedding. We have natural ones at the COVID one in the garden, but we didn’t do any staged couple photos. I always joke that one day I’ll get a wedding dress and we’ll go and stage some couple-y, posy photos — something I can put in a frame.”

- Grace, 30

“Our engagement was way too long”

“My partner and I are both in agreement that our engagement was way too long. We’ll have been engaged for 22 months by the time we get married in June, and while I fully appreciate that planning takes time, it’s also true that you can give yourselves too much and lose the magic and excitement a little bit, instead getting weighed down with family politics, admin and logistics.

We’ve really tried to keep the whole vibe of ours lowkey, intimate and relaxed - we’re having a backyard wedding in my partner’s parents wildflower meadow - but even despite that, I feel like all I’ve spoken, thought or dreamt about for the best part of two years is the wedding. It also reaches a point where it’s all anyone asks you about, and you feel like all other aspects of your personality get forgotten about. Having such a long engagement also meant we went round the houses on small decisions that really didn't need that much time or energy dedicated to them, simply because we had the time to. If we’d settled on a date with a quicker turnaround, we would’ve had to be more final with our decisions - which would have lead to far fewer disagreements.”

- Ally, 29

“I regret not being more organised with my dress”

“I regret not being more organised with my dress, it would just have been nice to feel like 10 out of 10.”

- Jackie, 27

“We had a friend do our wedding photos”

“The photos! We had a friend do our wedding photos and she did a great job but we are missing some of the key, more “traditional” shots. We didn’t think we weren’t so interested beforehand but now wish we had more.”

- Ashleigh

“I made all my decisions worrying about what my guests wanted”

“The biggest bit of advice I would give to anyone getting married now which is probably very obvious but I completely didn’t bear in mind: DON’T be a people pleaser otherwise the wedding just ends up being for everyone else and not for you. I realised I made all my decisions worrying about what my guests wanted and ended up forgetting about myself.”

- Jenny

“I wish I’d paid £500 more and had two photographers”

“Not getting a second photographer. My friend went over-kill with photographers and videographers and we spent aaaaaages on the photos, so I didn’t want that. I wanted people to be enjoying the day not being herded round for photos. The price also put me off but I wish I’d paid £500 more and had 2 photographers because we only ended up with two photos of my grandad from the whole day.”

- Rachel

“I wish I’d rented”

“I regret spending so much money on heavy Indian dresses I’ll never wear again! Same goes with jewellery. I wish I’d rented it instead or went down a vintage route of wearing my mom’s or aunts’ pieces.”

- Pooja Shah

“Getting tan lines”

“Getting tan lines as it ruined the look of my dress from the back.”

- Natalie, 34

“My wedding dress was such a letdown”

“My wedding dress was such a letdown. I searched for months to find a dress that matched my identity but ended up persuaded into a gown that was completely wrong for me. While the dress appeared beautiful on display and received compliments for being “classic” and “timeless”, my photos revealed I just felt like I was wearing someone else’s concept of bridal attire. The bodice fit poorly which required frequent adjustments throughout the day thus spoiling the elegant look I wanted.”

- Grace, 34

“Drinking too much getting ready”

“Drinking too much when I was getting ready and then doing a spontaneous speech at dinner.”

As someone who got married last year, I understand that the pre-wedding to-do list can often feel overwhelming—let alone choosing what to wear for your big day. But given my job title, I’d be lying if I said that deciding what to wear wasn’t the top priority of all.

Although it’s part of my job to scour the internet for the best wedding dresses, after living and breathing all things bridal for the past two years, I can confidently say I’ve become something of an expert in finding the best options out there—and at a reasonable price, too.

Any bride-to-be knows that bridalwear often accounts for a significant portion of wedding expenses, and it’s not hard to see why. “Bridal dresses often come with a high price tag due to the hours of craftsmanship involved—from detailed hand-finishing to premium fabrics, and the many hours invested in each piece,” say Henrietta Rix and Orlagh McCloskey, founders of Rixo.

Yet, a new wave of contemporary brands—as well as the high street—is paving the way for highly stylish options that won’t break the bank or compromise on quality.

“We believe brides shouldn’t have to compromise on quality or style because of cost. Additionally, we’re witnessing a shift away from traditional gowns, with many brides opting for two or three looks across a wedding weekend, and towards pieces that feel less formal and can be worn again. Our collection reflects this, blending effortless style with a vintage-inspired feel. It’s important to us to offer more accessible pieces that still feel special, timeless, and beautifully made,” add Rix and McCloskey.

Whether you're looking for an option to slip into after the ceremony, a town hall look, or outfits for your hen do, I’ve been consistently impressed by how many spectacular, affordable options are available—many of which come in under £1,000.

Courtesy of brands like Rixo, Sleeper, and Reformation, these styles can be repurposed and worn again long after the big day, giving you even more bang for your buck. Meanwhile, high-street heroes like Mango and Zara continue to cater to those seeking more inexpensive options that tap into this year’s biggest bridal trends—drop-waist dresses, I’m looking at you.

Which is precisely why I’ve rounded up the ultimate list of affordable wedding dresses, suitable for any setting. Below is a curated selection that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to find your perfect look.

Hen Do Dresses

A highlight of the wedding celebrations, hen parties are the perfect opportunity to go bold and experiment with different silhouettes and hues. Why not opt for modern embellishment with Rotate’s party-ready midi dress? Or choose Vivienne Westwood’s signature corset silhouette, reimagined in a playful mini style.

Second Look Dresses

Second looks are becoming increasingly popular among brides who want to change into a party dress that’s easier to move in for the more social part of the day—not to mention those who simply can’t choose just one outfit. From Reformation to Rebecca Vallance, you really can’t go wrong with any of these.

Beach Wedding Dresses

Comfort and practicality are key when it comes to beach weddings—but that doesn’t mean compromising on style. Opt for breezy fabrics like silk or organza to keep cool while complementing the relaxed, outdoor setting. Brands like Rat & Boa, Réalisation Par, and Mango offer hardworking options that feel both timeless and perfectly suited to a beachside celebration.

Short Wedding Dresses

Brides looking to invest in a short dress, inspired by Charli XCX—whether for the reception, after-party, or more casual bridal events—need look no further. Self-Portrait offers a range of styles in varying lengths, complete with delicately sewn embellishments for those seeking added drama. Meanwhile, Aligne and Zara present a selection of minimalist options that are equally striking.

Long-Sleeve Wedding Dresses

Whether Kate Middleton's iconic wedding gown has made its way onto your moodboard, or you’re simply looking for a more covered-up, elegant option, long-sleeve dresses are forever chic—not to mention more practical for cooler days. Consider Sleeper’s maxi dress with detachable sleeves for a modern take, or turn to Rixo for something simple yet sophisticated.

Corset Wedding Dresses

Corset dresses create a flattering silhouette that many brides-to-be simply can’t resist. Typically featuring an internal structure inspired by traditional corsetry, the bodice is designed to sculpt and support—offering a more comfortable fit without the need for shapewear. And yes, you’ll still be able to breathe in these modern iterations.

London-based label Odd Muse’s bridal collection is a go-to for this cinched-in silhouette, often finished with delicate embellishments, while ASOS offers a corset dress with a tiered skirt for a more ethereal feel.

They say that picking your bridal gown is one of the biggest decisions you can make in your lifetime, but as a beauty journalist, I’d argue that your choice of a wedding foundation is no less important. Whether you’re getting your make-up done professionally or opting to do it yourself, it’s no secret that nailing your base can make or break your entire look.

Even outside of wedding prep, choosing a foundation is still one of the biggest beauty headaches. After all, there’s so much to consider: the finish, the coverage, the undertones (and the list goes on). But when you’re a bride, the stakes are pretty much doubled. On top of everything else, it also needs to photograph beautifully, hold up through teary toasts, and keep looking fresh through hours of dancing, wining and dining.

In my time as a beauty journalist, I’ve reviewed hundreds of make-up products, yet I consider myself the harshest critic when it comes to foundation. Apart from how it looks upon application, I always take note of how it oxidises throughout the day and whether it layers well underneath the rest of my make-up without resulting in any patchiness or lifting. Needless to say, over the years of constant testing, I’ve developed a pretty good eye for formulas that are truly bridal-worthy–the kind that will have your guests complementing your lit-from-within skin all night long.

Whether you’re team full coverage, a sucker for a natural finish or somewhere in-between, I’m here to help you find your best match with a formula that ticks every single box in your bridal make-up criteria. I’ve also enlisted the help of top MUAs to share their go-to application tips. So without further ado, let’s dive in.

How to choose your wedding foundation, according to experts

Pro makeup artist Vincent Ford says that your wedding foundation “Should feel like the best version of your skin.” He recommends opting for long-lasting formulas that match your skin tone and skin type perfectly to ensure a seamless finish that best enhances your natural complexion. “Your everyday foundation is all about quick and easy, but for your wedding, you need something more long-wearing and polished,” he continues.

“You want to make sure the foundation feels comfortable throughout the day—the key is to meet your skin’s needs. However, it’s important to avoid foundations that don’t work well with your skin type or don’t have the longevity you need for such an important day,” agrees Rebecca Moore, senior make-up artist at NARS. “If you have oily skin, you may want to go for a matte finish that helps control shine, while for dry skin, a radiant, dewy foundation can help keep the skin looking fresh and hydrated,” she explains.

What finish and coverage is best for bridal foundation?

Vincent suggests that a formula that has “a soft matte or a natural radiant finish” is a foolproof and universal choice for most skin types. But if you’re after a foundation that will best meet your skin’s needs, Rebecca recommends the following: “If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a more matte foundation might be your best bet to control shine and ensure your skin stays smooth and matte throughout the day. If your skin is dry, you’ll likely want a more radiant or glowy foundation to help give you that dewy, fresh-faced look.”

Coverage-wise, both Vincent and Rebecca advise going for a formula with buildable, medium-to-full coverage for easier control and customisation.

How to apply foundation on your wedding day

“Apply it in light layers with a brush or fingers for more natural-looking skin,” says Vincent. “Build up the coverage until you feel you have an even overall look, then use concealer to spot correct—this ensures you look great in person and in photos without a cakey look,” he explains.

Rebecca suggests applying foundation using your hands for that “second skin finish.” The warmth from your fingers should help melt the formula right into your skin, while minimising the chance of streaks. “The key to ensuring your foundation lasts all day is in the prep and setting. Start with a clean, moisturised face, and always apply a good primer suited for your skin type,” explains Rebecca.

Vincent also reiterates the importance of powder and setting spray to lock in the look: "It's all about layering product without overloading." He also suggests to avoid using anything too dewy or greasy as part of your skin prep as "that might flash back in the photos. Basically, avoid anything that might melt or interfere with the camera lights," he adds.

Best wedding foundations

Your wedding day is a time where you want to look like the very best version of yourself; that's certainly true for me as I approach my big day. I want to look well-rested (despite not being as rested as I should be) and glowy. As such, my beauty routine includes injectables. It’s not something everyone opts for, but as someone who works in the industry and has tried plenty of treatments, I’ve seen just how transformative a few tweaks can be.

Whether you're a seasoned pro, and want to know how to make the most out of your appointments, or if you're a newbie to it all, I’ve rounded up everything you need to know about getting injectables ahead of your wedding.

Dos of wedding injectables

Go to someone reputable

Now is not the time to get a few quid off by going to someone cheap, and likely not great. You should always go to someone reputable with up-to-date qualifications.

Firstly, you want to ensure you don't get any complications as a result of your injectables, and if you do, your injector needs to know how to deal with them. It sounds obvious, but a lot of backstreet injectors don't know what to do in case of a contraindication. "Make sure when you look at their before and afters. You want to look like their patients, and as natural as possible—and you can tell that immediately when you see their work. They're going to highlight their best results, so you want to make sure you like it," says Dr Ash Soni , founder of The Soni Clinic.

You also want someone who has spent a significant amount of time training in the industry. An injector who has had years of experience will deliver a better result than someone who did a 1-day online course (yes, the latter exists and isn't illegal in the UK, shockingly). Check their qualifications are legitimate. For example, "plastic surgeon" isn't a protected term in the UK, meaning any doctor can use it. Make sure you visit someone like Dr Soni who has completed years of dedicated training to become a fully qualified, GMC registered, plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

Once you find someone you trust, Dr Soni recommends having a consultation and seeing how you feel during the appointment: "Do you trust them implicitly with your face? Make sure what they're saying correlates with your aesthetic goals."

Give yourself plenty of time

One of the main things that Dr Soni sees in-clinic are brides who want a glow-up before their big day, but they've left it too late to do many of the treatments he would have recommended. If you know you want to amp up your skin for your wedding, visit your injector as early as possible. This means they can create a tailored plan for you, giving ample time for the treatments to get to work. For example, you might choose a collagen-stimulating treatment like Sculptra or polynucleotides, which take a minimum of three months to see results. You may also want to get a skincare routine created for you to maximise injectable results.

Get to know all types of injectables

Many people think injectables are just for the face, but there are plenty of other areas they can be used. One of the most common ways Botox can be used, aside from the face, is to treat excessive sweating under the arms. Brides opt for this if they're particularly bothered by excessive sweating because it can stain clothing (particularly white, such as wedding dresses).

You can also use collagen injectables on other areas of the body, such as hands and neck, if those are areas you wish to treat.

Don'ts of wedding injectables

Don't experiment

Now is not the time to experiment for the sake of it. Reversing injectables isn't always guaranteed, and it can take time, so if you're not sure you want a treatment, hold off until after the big day.

It's best to be 100% sure you'd like a treatment and not be pressured by any injector to try something.

Don’t get treatments too close to the wedding day

Even gentler treatments like Hydrafacials shouldn’t be done for the first time too close to your wedding day. If you've had them before and know exactly how your skin is going to react, then great! Otherwise, don't risk it.

There’s always a chance with any skin treatment that you may react and experience irritation and redness. So, just before the big day, just let your skin be, and use what you know works.

Don't give in to pressure

You should never feel pressured into getting a treatment or injectable that you don’t want. It sounds obvious but it’s hard to say no when you’re in the moment. Your injector should never pressure you into any treatment; even if it’s one you’ve booked in for. You’d much rather lose a little deposit money than go through with a treatment you end up regretting—promise.

My tried and tested pre-wedding skincare essentials

I may not be getting married anytime soon, but even I know, deciding which products to opt for on your big day is a high-pressure decision. Not only do you want to achieve a seriously flawless wedding make-up look, but you need to ensure the products you choose can stand up against everything the day has in store. That means foundations which won’t turn patchy throughout the day, setting powders prepared to keep shine at bay and lipsticks worthy of your you-may-kiss-the-bride moment.

While your make-up artist will undoubtedly be able to advise on their best recommendations, if you want to go to your make-up trial prepared, or, if you’re planning to do your make-up yourself, you may be looking for some added advice. To help, I spoke to six beauty editors to find out which products they couldn’t be without on their own wedding days. From the best long-wear foundations ideal for hot sunny days to how to scent layer to make your wedding day beauty routine feel extra special, they had some great advice. So without further ado, I’ll hand over to them…

7 beauty editors share their wedding day beauty essentials

1. Lauren Wigley, Freelance Beauty Journalist

“There’s no denying I’m an oily-skinned girlie. Pair that with a summer wedding, nerves and overexertion on the dance floor, and things really could’ve been a hot mess. Luckily, my favourite high-performance powder from Charlotte Tilbury saved the day. A generous sweep was used to set my make-up first thing, and I had the mini version on hand for tactical top-ups. My skin stayed fresh, smooth and shine-free without any caking in sight.”

2. Rachael Martin, Beauty Editor at Grazia

“If you told me a month before my wedding, I’d be switching out my beloved Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk for another shade of lipstick, I wouldn’t have believed you. However that’s exactly what I did for my big day. Instead of the cult nude pink shade, I opted for Wedding Belles, from Charlotte’s Look of Love collection, which is described as a rose-bud pink hue. By comparison, it was slightly darker, which meant it translated well in pictures as well as working in harmony with my full wedding glam. Plus, it came in the dreamiest bejewelled case, making top-ups feel extra luxe.”

3. Adeela Crown, Celebrity facialist and Contributing Beauty Editor at FT How to Spend it

“I can’t recommend La Prairie White Caviar Illuminating Système Light Concentrate enough. This little luxury serum worked wonders, brightening, firming, and giving me an enviable glow as though I’d just returned from a two-week vacation in the Maldives—without the jet lag.

“The star ingredient here is their exclusive white caviar extract, which helps brighten and even out skin tone while targeting dark spots. And while caviar might sound like a decadent treat, it’s packed with regenerative vitamin A, cell-renewing vitamin B12, and collagen-boosting vitamin D—ingredients that help restore skin elasticity and strength. This is the skincare equivalent of putting on your favourite highlighter… except it's not just a momentary glow, it’s a full-on skincare investment.”

4. Mica Ricketts, Freelance Beauty Editor

“There is one product that I undoubtedly couldn’t have gotten through my wedding day without, and that’s the Bobbi Brown Skin Weightless Powder Foundation. I have oily skin anyway and my wedding was in a London pub in the middle of summer—suffice to say I was clammy at times!

"Having this compact in my bag meant that I could ensure my skin stayed looking as perfected as possible (bearing in mind I did my own make-up) and that my shine was easily dialled down. It isn't the foundation that I used when doing my full face of make-up at the start of the day, but it layers up well over other products so you won't end up looking cakey or patchy. Plus, the compact itself has a huge mirror inside and a sponge, so you don’t need to worry about having anything else with you.”

5. Matilda Stanley, Freelance Style Editor

“A couple of make-up artists had recommended this foundation to me for my big day as it is well known for its staying power. It’s a little more expensive than my usual base products, but I’m glad that I treated myself, as it managed to stay put all day (even after some ugly crying during the speeches!) and kept my complexion looking clear and fresh without having to touch it up. It’s full coverage but doesn’t feel heavy or thick to wear, and it left my skin looking happy and glowy.”

6. Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion and Beauty News Editor at HELLO

“I was well aware of the fact that my wedding day would whizz by in a total flash; so I decided to use my beauty knowledge to create the ultimate memory. Sounds a little far-fetched, I know, but I invested time in selecting a wedding perfume ahead of the big day, so I knew I could smell it in years to come and be transported back.

“I opted for fragrance layering, using two scents to create one unique aroma. I layered Jo Malone London's Peony and Blush Suede, which is the ultimate plethora of floral goodness, with Creed's Love In White, which is efflorescent with citrus top notes. The combined pair gave an elusive scent which lasted all day without being too heady. Every time I spray them now, I remember the day, hence why I would always recommend researching and trying out wedding fragrances before your big day, to find one you can connect with.”

7. Jess Beech, Beauty Editor at Woman and Home

“My naturally pale skin tone means I burn rather than bronze in the sun, but nothing makes me feel better about myself than a tan. I wanted a faux glow for my wedding day and knew it had to be a professional spray tan, this was not the time for streaks or missed spots. Thanks to James Harknett, I walked down the aisle with a tan so convincing you’d be forgiven for thinking I’d already been on my honeymoon.

If you do want to do your glow yourself, however, a gradual tan applied in the run-up to your big day will minimise the chance of any tanning mishaps."

You've booked the venue, finalised the guest list, sorted the seating plan, and found the dress—so, what next? For brides getting married this summer, it's time for the fun part: thinking about what swimwear to pack for your upcoming hen and honeymoon.

Of course, it goes without saying that you don't need anything (else) new to be able to celebrate in style. While going big on all-white-everything dressing is a sure-fire way to extend the festivities beyond the big day, you can very well channel the bridal vibes using items you already have in your wardrobe. But if you were looking to upgrade your swimwear selection ahead of the summer anyway, this feels like the perfect excuse.

Whether for a sun-soaked hen party getaway, the obligatory post-wedding-day pool party with friends, a far-flung tropical honeymoon, or all of the above, investing in some beautiful bridal swimwear is all part of the fun. And luckily, some of our favourite brands have launched special bikinis, one-pieces and cover-ups with these very occasions in mind.

Just last week, for example, the London-based, influencer-favourite label Away That Day dropped a special swimwear collab with wedding experts Gigi & Olive, made up of pieces for every sun-soaked bridal moment.

Skims, too, recently re-launched its bridal shop, which includes a stylish ruffle bikini that's perfect for a post-nuptials beach day, while cool-girl favourites like Hunza G, Monday Swimwear, Reformation and Maygel Coronel have also released a selection of bridal-inspired, all-white pieces worthy of an "I do".

So, without further ado, we've found all of the best bridal swimwear to shop now—and wear long beyond your wedding day. White is a classic summer shade after all, and nothing will make your tan stand out better.

Shop the best bridal swimwear

Recently, my group chats have been filled with engagement announcements, first house purchases and baby scan photos. Call it the turning-30 effect—or in my case, turning 33. With it comes a whole host of questions, including, very importantly, where to find the best bridesmaid dresses. So, I've made it something of a specialty to pitch in wherever I can, sourcing options that we'd all actually want to wear again.

Now I'm here to share everything I've learned. There's a lot to consider when choosing bridesmaid dresses—more so than when choosing a wedding guest dress—largely because if you're dressing multiple people in the same thing, the dress has to be a genuine crowd-pleaser.

Key questions to keep in mind: what shade will work with the colour palette? Printed or plain? And what length best suits the occasion? And that's before you've even considered which styles are trending for 2026.

Budget is worth thinking about early, too, as the figure will depend on how many bridesmaids you have and your overall wedding spend.

Clearly, there's a lot to consider, but get the above right and you'll be well on your way to finding something everyone (and most importantly, you) loves. Whether you need a final nudge or some initial inspiration, below is my edit of the best bridesmaid dresses to buy right now—midi, maxi and mini included.

Shop the best bridesmaid dresses

From TikTok debates over the ‘tradwife’ trend to global backlash over JD Vance’s remarks about “childless cat ladies,” it’s clear that our view of traditional gender roles is shifting. And as we rethink these outdated norms, marriage traditions are also getting a modern update. Brides today are rewriting the rulebook—taking control of their weddings and ditching patriarchal customs in favour of something more authentic.

From swapping permission for partnership to safeguarding their big day with wedding insurance, here are five ways modern brides are taking the reins on their special day.

1. Blessings over permission

The tradition of asking a bride’s father for “permission” to marry dates back to ancient Rome, where grooms would offer a coin to signify the bride’s transition from one man’s household to another. Today, this custom feels, well, archaic. So many couples are replacing it with something far less transactional: seeking a blessing. By doing so, the focus shifts to partnership, respect and the bride’s autonomy—because her decision to say yes has nothing to do with anyone else’s approval.

2. The rise of double-barrel surnames

While many brides still take their partner’s last name, a growing number are redefining this tradition. According to a Guide for Brides study, one in five brides now opt to keep their maiden name, while others embrace a stylish compromise: the double-barrel surname. It’s a chic, empowering choice that symbolises equality, where both partners make a change to reflect their shared future. Plus, let’s face it—double-barrel names just have that je ne sais quoi.

3. Mixing up the wedding party

Gone are the days when wedding parties were strictly gendered. Modern brides and grooms are embracing inclusivity, assembling mixed-gender wedding parties that reflect the most important people in their lives—regardless of gender. This shift also creates space for non-binary friends, who may not feel comfortable with traditional titles like “bridesmaid” or “groomsman.” For some couples, this approach is also a way to navigate the emotional challenges of wedding traditions. Couples who’ve lost parents, experienced family estrangements or have complex relationships with loved ones find mixed-gender wedding parties offer more flexibility to honour the people they cherish without adhering to old-fashioned norms. Ultimately, this inclusive approach makes for a more meaningful and personalised celebration.

4. Rethinking the walk down the aisle

The image of a father walking his daughter down the aisle is iconic, but it’s also steeped in the patriarchal notion of “giving her away.” While this tradition is still popular, couples are finding alternatives. In Sweden, for instance, it’s customary for the bride and groom to walk down the aisle together—a symbol of equality. This practice could start gaining traction globally, offering a solution for same-sex couples, those estranged from family or anyone who wants to break away from old-school norms.

5. The practical bride: Wedding insurance

The modern bride knows there’s a difference between a special wedding and a perfect one. Life happens—wine spills, suppliers cancel, weather takes a turn—and perfection isn’t the point. That’s why wedding insurance is becoming a must-have for some brides. Companies like The Insurance Emporium offer tailored policies that cover cancellation and rearrangement, financial failure of suppliers and more. With coverage of up to £75,000* for events big or small, it can help brides and grooms to focus on the planning of their big day knowing they’re covered.

Good things happen in the Insurance Emporium.

Learn more about wedding insurance options at The Insurance Emporium.

Please note: The Insurance Emporium’s policies do not cover cold feet!

*Cover level “Platinum” includes up to £75,000 cover for cancellation and rearrangement of up to two ceremonies and receptions.

The Insurance Emporium offers a variety of cover levels, so please check the policy cover suits your needs before purchasing. For your protection, please ensure you read the Insurance Product Information Document (IPID) and policy wording, for information on policy exclusions and limitations.Lifestyle Policy Limited is an appointed representative of The Equine and Livestock Insurance Company Limited. The Insurance Emporium ® is a trading name of The Equine and Livestock Insurance Company Limited (registered in England and Wales no: 294940) which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority no: 202748. 

I’m calling it; this is the era of the Loud Breakup. Divorced Girl Summer, anyone?

New search data from Etsy shows that Brits are getting into the breakup spirit (and burning their wedding dresses)- the e-com platform has seen a 266% increase in searches for divorce celebrations. Banners, bunting, and bracelets now come splashed with statements like ‘In My Divorced Era’, ‘Just Divorced’ and ‘You Deserve Better’. You can even get a candle that ‘Smells Like Freshly Signed Divorce Papers’, which I guess is better than Gwyneth Paltrow’s vagina.

“Making lemonade out of lemons” is—at the time of writing—the latest comment on @emrata’s Instagram post bitingly captioned “divorce rings ©️ @alisonlou” - you have to respect the simplicity of it. The post has a crisp one million likes, which is, in no small part, down to a burgeoning new trend - the Loud Breakup.

I might recoil at hen party paraphernalia (stay away from me with your penis straws), but I have to admit the idea of a divorce party is cheekily alluring. It’s giving Blu Cantrell ‘Hit ‘Em Up Style’, it’s giving Lizzo ‘Truth Hurts’, heck, there’s even a whiff of Jojo in there (Leave, Get Out!). I am here for it.

That said, don’t invite me to your divorce party.

I am not a hopeless romantic; I’m a jaded realist at best, but if I’ve spent £419 on your wedding—which is the average guest cost according to data from Experian—and £779 on your hen party (if it was in the UK, research from Aviva shows it goes up to £1,208 if it’s abroad), I’m tapping out a divorce present, though know I am rooting for you.

Like all bad habits, I suspect this trend is trickling down from the ultra-wealthy. I might even go as far as to blame Gossip Girl (the original, of course) for popularising the concept, lest we forget the infamous Shepherd divorce, which was almost as iconic as the Shepherd wedding. Ahh, the scandalous lives of Manhattan’s elite - it’s far from over, as Emily Ratajkowski slicing her gargantuan £50k multi-carat wedding ring into two divorce rings proves. TikToker Starkissez was right when she commented under Allisonxxa’s viral divorce party post, “Being divorced sounds so rich”.

29-year-old influencer Sabrina Philipp would disagree with me. She celebrated her 30th by throwing a Divorce Party replete with a lingerie shoot, candlelit dinner for 18, and a tiered cake dusted with the words ‘HOTTEST EX WIFE EVER’. Bittersweet indeed. Oh, and she slingshot her wedding band across the Miami harbour; “I had my friend Andrew act as the ring bearer to present me with my ring and the slingshot. Slingshotting the ring was definitely emotional. But cathartic”, says Phillip. The whole thing cost $30k (approximately £24k).

I suppose I can’t disagree with Bianca’s comment, “I wish my parents did this instead of one of them getting arrested,” but there is something to be said about the humble divorce. #DivorceParties currently has 36.4 million views on TikTok, and as Bumble Sex and Relationship Expert Dr Caroline West puts it: “The era of vague ‘conscious uncoupling’ announcements made popular by the likes of Gwyneth and Chris is over. In its place, we’re seeing the rise of the ‘loud breakup’”.

West says it’s mainly women driving this trend and feeling “empowered to embrace their single status and be more open about the end of a relationship.” For Phillip, she says that after a long and difficult divorce process, it was important to celebrate the completion of one chapter and the beginning of another. “I’ve spent a lot of time healing, and for me, this party was living.”

Female empowerment is a hill I will die on, but when seen through the lens of aesthetically pleasing parties, champagne towers and lavish holidays, it makes me wonder if divorce is set to become the next status symbol like the diamond ring before it?

Research from Bumble shows that in the UK alone, more than one in three people surveyed have recently ended a marriage or serious relationship. Will these people feel pressured to turn every occasion into a parade on social media, and if so, at what *literal* cost? A report by Aviva in 2018 found that the average cost of divorce in the UK was about £14,561, but Ann Robinson, head of Family Law at Blacks Solicitors, says once you get into financial remedy proceedings, the cost can exceed £100,000. Eeesh.

Etsy Trend Expert Dayna Isom Johnson notes that marking milestone events can bring comfort; “life after a big breakup can be seen as something to celebrate and look forward to, and we’re clearly seeing a rise of these attitudes.” Phillip says the shame around divorce is archaic and inherently misogynistic. She wants women to know that there’s no such thing as a failed marriage.

It’s brilliant that divorce is less of a social stigma, and given that I’m neither married nor divorced, the diplomatic response would be “do whatever is right for you”. Just don’t expect me to fork out for your divorce party.

Weddings are big business — it costs guests on average £451 to attend one, according to Experian. Brides and grooms aren’t escaping the financial burden either, the same report revealed that the number of people taking out wedding loans has increased by 6% in the last two years. There’s also been an increase in people getting married. On the most popular wedding date of the year—Saturday 23rd August—over 3,500 weddings will take place.

But hold your applause because it’s not all (something) blue skies and confetti. There’s bridesmaid burnout, zero plus-one policies, and another costly new phenomenon—the divorce party, which leaves many wondering, are brides okay?

As I’ve said before—and will again—celebrities are to blame. Trend analysts are the beauty concierge service, Fresha, have explored how high-profile weddings influence and shape public interest and behaviour and found that “celebrity weddings captivate millions, from the fashion and decor choices to the themes and location, which many prospective brides use to inspire their own weddings.”

Is this why some brides-to-be take on the air of a minor celebrity and begin treating their guests as lowly co-stars? Experian’s data reveals that 33% of wedding attendees interviewed don’t believe the Bride or Groom took the income of their guests into consideration.

Weddings give free rein to our Main Character fantasies, and thanks to social media, the bar for weddings is being set ever higher because we have immediate access to the lives—and nuptials—of the rich and famous.

This might explain some of the horror stories shared with us by 15 former and current bridal store assistants. In my own decades-long experience as a shop girl, I recall (and recoil) the entitlement customers would feel as soon as they crossed the threshold from the pavement to the store. Parents would relinquish all responsibility for their children, leaving me—a timid teenager with zero childcare experience—trying to prise sticky-pawed toddlers away from 10-foot freestanding mirrors or clutching a newborn outside the changing rooms when all I was really meant to do was advise customers about the latest pair of Miss Sixty jeans.

So, while my shopfloor life was limited to low-rise denim and Diesel bags (when it was cool the first time), I can relate to these bedraggled bridal store girls. I knew I’d found a sister in arms when one former Saturday girl told me, “The most entitled bride I ever encountered left a soiled nappy in the changing rooms — she hadn’t even attempted to wrap it up”. That, too, happened at the shop where I worked. So maybe it isn’t just brides; maybe there’s something about bricks and mortar stores that fundamentally alters our brain chemistry and turns us into monstrous little divas; chuck in some complimentary fizz, and it’s a disaster waiting to happen, as these bridal store assistants know all too well...

Bridal store secrets from 15 anonymous wedding dress assistants

“It was emotional terrorism”

“Everything the bride tried on, her Maid of Honour just nodded. No compliments, no feedback. Just… “hmm.” It was emotional terrorism.”

- *Jessa, 19

“Women would starve themselves”

“Women would literally starve themselves to fit into their dress the day of the appointment. They’d joke about consuming only water or vegetables leading up to that day. The result of this, I am sure you can imagine, was women feeling extremely ill at the appointment.”

- *Andie, 30

“Mothers would make comments about how fat their daughters looked”

“I saw many brides accompanied by their mothers — not all, but a large number of mothers would make comments about how fat their daughters looked or how unflattering the dress was on their body type. I can only imagine that this played a major role in how these brides viewed their bodies.”

- *Jessica, 38

The “just looking” marathons

“I can’t tell you how many brides come in saying “I’m just browsing, not buying today,” then three hours and eight dresses later, they’ll start asking questions about putting dresses on hold, which you know they’d never come back for.”

- *Jim, 42

“The bride brought six friends and a ring light”

“The bride brought six friends and a ring light. They filmed everything. Our poor Saturday girl ended up on TikTok opening curtains, holding shoes, and even lint-rolling a train.”

- *Demi, 46

“Brides would literally pass out”

Many brides would feel overwhelmed and physically ill from stress leading up to the big day. At various appointments (both fittings and pickups), brides would get either close to or fully pass out from stress and anxiety. One woman almost passed out and then had to sit for 30 minutes while we gave her tissues to wipe the sweat off of her (she was perspiring like it was 95 degrees, and she had been doing jumping jacks for 3 minutes straight). By the time she felt well enough to complete her fitting, her time slot was up, and we needed to take care of the next customer.

- *Rebecca, 46

“The horror Maid of Honour”

Brides can be a nightmare, but this one time the bride was actually a really sweet woman but her maid of honour, my god. Every time the bride would try on a gown, her MoH would gasp, “Oh that’s exactly like my wedding dress!” She wasn’t even engaged. By dress four, the bride asked if she wanted to try one on herself and she did!”

- *Dan, 43

“She called us after her final appointment to tell us that the wedding had been called off.”

“One extremely memorable bride was an older woman, probably in her 60s, prepping for her third marriage. She made her mind up on a dress that was only sold online, so she purchased the one that was left that was about seven sizes too big. In the alterations department, the expectation was that seamstresses would be able to take a dress down TWO sizes only. Otherwise, they are fully taking apart the dress and reconstructing a new garment, which was not their job.

This woman brought her dress in for an initial fitting about seven months before the wedding day. We did 6-8 appointments with her to find a way to make this dress that was not even close to her size work. She also had a massive wedding party, which included her four daughters. All the women in the party bought their dresses in the store and had them altered with us. She called us after her final appointment to tell us that the wedding had been called off. She came in the following week with a massive pile of bridal dresses, asking for a refund on her months of alterations. In the end, out of pity, my manager gave this woman a portion of her money back on the bridesmaid dress alterations because the labour put into those was less than of the wedding dress.”

- *Sara, 42

Every dress had to pass the “grid test”

“This one bride would take mirror selfies, post them privately to a burner account, and wait. If it didn’t get the desired reaction in 10 minutes, it’d be out. She brought a ring light to her fittings.”

- *Erin, 24

“Someone was always crying by the end of it”

“People loved to go to brunch with their wedding party before the appointment and get drunk as hell on mimosas. At Least these appointments were funny, but they drove me insane because they always ran long. Someone was always crying by the end of it. ”

- *Josie, 32

“The bridesmaid was also engaged”

“Halfway through the appointment, it was revealed that one bridesmaid was also engaged, but hadn’t told anyone. She ended up trying on a dress “Just to see what it looks like…””

- *Amy, 38

“We called her The Purple Lady”

“I had a woman who was such a delight that I actually looked forward to her appointments. We called her The Purple Lady. She bought a purple prom dress and wore it as a wedding dress because she couldn't find a purple dress that looked like a traditional tulle-filled gown. She had a purple car with a purple interior, had purple hair and nails, and was always in a completely purple outfit. She was such a delight. I loved how authentic to herself she stayed even though what she wanted was different from all of the other brides who we saw come in. I met a lot of women like this; they were really interesting and had their own style that they stayed true to! This was definitely the best part of my job.”

- *Kristen, 27

“Most brides were so entitled”

“I think the worst part was how entitled brides would be. They’d really expect the silver service. Being clicked at was commonplace, and of course, they’d neck as much complimentary champagne as they could, which would make things ten times worse. I don’t think I’d have minded if it was an upmarket bridal shop, but this place was cheap, and I was working minimum wage.”

- *Tara, 33

“Bridesmaids would often show up tipsy from brunch...”

“Bridesmaids would often show up tipsy from brunch, but this one girl fell backwards on a pouffe and spilt mimosa down the back of a sample dress. The bride looked mortified, but the bridesmaid was totally nonplussed.”

- *Anne, 50

“I was some kind of wedding dress whisperer”

“I used to work at a small wedding boutique in my hometown and we used to do a lot of the wedding fairs (which was way worse than the shop). Brides would often show me obscure dresses they’d found on Pinterest and expect me to know where they could find that exact style, as if I was some kind of wedding dress whisperer.”

- *Rebecca, 31

Lately, I’ve been lamenting the lack of weddings in my life. Sure, I don’t want to get married, but would it hurt one of my friends to put on a frothy white dress and throw a big party for all our best friends? Of course, I’m kidding (kind of, I do have a dress I’ve been dying to wear), but friends, colleagues, and kindly strangers have been quick to point out the flaw in my thinking.

Weddings are expensive, and according to new research from Experian, over one in ten of us have gone into debt by attending one. The same report reveals that attending a wedding costs guests nearly 20% of their monthly salary. The Maid of Honour and Best Man bear the brunt of this cost, spending approximately £211 more than other attendees.

“I think it’s insane that I’m expected to pay 1k for a wedding,” replied one embittered bridesmaid to my open call about soaring wedding costs. She’s not alone. When I asked for stories about the financial burden bridesmaids face, my inbox was flooded with tales of wedding woe.

“I wish brides would realise it’s their “biggest day”, not mine.” messaged *Amy, 26. She remembers the lurching feeling in her stomach as her phone blurted with news of another hen do. “The bride’s sister set it up, and as soon as I’d shown any interest, it was “Great! That’ll be £1,500 for a week in Marbella, here are my deets x””. Amy says she felt she couldn’t back out even though the trip was more than a month’s salary, and she didn’t feel she’d ever fully committed.

It’s become a right of passage for brides to expect their friends to fork out triple figures for their hen do, and it’s a vicious cycle. As Hattie, 37, says, “I’ve paid so much for my friend’s weddings over the years, I have a rough estimate in my mind for how much I expect them to pay for mine when the time comes.” Is this really how we should be viewing marriage? To quote the Black Eyed Peas, where is the love? And what’s the emotional cost of seeing friends as indebted to you?

Despite three in four bridesmaids saying pre-wedding celebrations are too extravagant and expensive, the trend shows no sign of slowing. “It’s no secret that the cost of living is also impacting both weddings and hen parties, but this isn’t stopping people from organising and celebrating the new chapters in their life”, confirms Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy’s Trend Expert.

In a maddening twist, Etsy reports another burgeoning trend—the divorce party, which is being popularised by influencers like Sabrina Philipp who spent $30k (£24k) marking her newfound freedom. Look, I’m not entirely against the idea of celebrating a breakup (despite refusing to attend one myself), but if swaggering down the road, arms outstretched like Christ the Redeemer, was enough for Nicole Kidman, why isn’t it enough for us? I mean, she was married to Tom Cruise, so if anyone deserved to slingshot her wedding band into the ocean, it was her.

From marriage to divorce (don’t even get me started on baby showers), being a friend in 2025 is an expensive business. No wonder these bridesmaids needed an opportunity to offload. Read on for the honest accounts of 15 anonymous (and aggrieved) bridesmaids.

How much is too much to pay for a friend’s wedding?

“Why can’t they see its cripplingly expensive for us singletons?”

“A few years ago I was privately struggling with money and was heading to the airport for my fifth wedding of the year with less than £20 in my bank account, anxiously waiting for my wages to drop in.”

- *Emma, 30

“It’s changed my perspective on certain friends”

“The amount of uncomfortable positions we’ve been put in this year with hen dos, stag dos, and weddings where the hosts assume we have £1-2k to spend on a weekend has honestly blown my mind. It’s changed my perspective on certain friends and, in some cases, threatened friendships.

The worst one we’ve had is a wedding in the middle of the week in November (meaning we have to take 3+ days annual leave) where we’ve been told we must stay in accommodation on site that’s £300 pp per night, must buy certain outfits to be approved by the bride and groom, and are expected to be at and cover the cost of the rehearsal dinner and breakfast the morning after, too. As it’s one of my partner’s oldest childhood friends, we can’t say no, but I’ve found it difficult to swallow. So many couples have unashamedly put us in situations like this, leaving us stressing about money and dreading the day. I think it’s just the assumption that we have this money to spend that I find the hardest to digest - sadly, unlike them, we don’t.”

- *Louisa, 34

“A selfish part of me also wants to recoup everything I’ve put in”

“I’ve put in time, money and effort for so many weddings over the past decade and often worry that I won’t get the same level of enthusiasm when I get married. It makes me want something super toned down to keep other people happy - but a selfish part of me also wants to recoup everything I’ve put in.”

- *Caty, 29

“Take me back to the 1920s”

“We now live in a society where having a London hen that requires you to drop +£300, a hen abroad (we’re talking £500-1000k) PLUS the actual wedding (££priceless££)…And, then the happy couple’s gift suggestion of ‘a kind donation’ (£££!!) towards their honeymoon, is acceptable and the norm. Take me back to the 1920s. However, when it comes to mine, I’ll probably be doing the same.”

- *Andie, 36

“The only way to mobilise your friends once you enter your 30s is by getting pregnant or getting a man to give you a ring”

“A friend announced she was getting married abroad, and of course, the initial reaction was pure excitement. For me, honestly, it’s not so much about the wedding, but finally cashing in on that elusive friends’ holiday that has never quite happened. Although, it’s incredibly infuriating that the only way to mobilise your friends once you enter your 30s is by getting pregnant or getting a man to give you a ring. But then, reality kicks in. The chosen destination was not exactly my dream pick, and the cost was not exactly the cheap and cheery price tag promised. I will reluctantly pay and silently mourn the friend’s holiday that will now not happen for another five years at least”.

- *Kirsty, 27

“I’ve started Googling ‘how to say no’”

“Being a bridesmaid can be both a lovely honour and a financial curse - I’ve stepped into the role so many times now that I’ve started Googling ‘how to say no’ in case anyone else asks me…”

- *Jazmine, 40

“The bride suggested we all get matching tattoos”

“I once went on a hen party where the bride (who I wasn’t even that good of a friend with) suggested we all get matching tattoos of Calla lilies, which were her wedding flower.”

- *Kia, 37

“The gift registry is £200+”

“I’m stuck between buying a wedding present or buying a plane ticket to attend my friend’s wedding as the wedding is on the other side of the world, and the gift registry is £200+.”

- *Olivia, 28

“Attending weddings as a single woman has been a financial stab to the heart”

“I love celebrating the people who mean the most to me, but whenever I’ve attended weddings as a single woman, it has been a financial stab to the heart. Pricey hotels, flights, hens, celebration dinners, pre-wedding parties, post-wedding parties, expensive gifts…it can feel endless, especially when there’s no one to split costs with, and altogether would cost me almost £1k per happy couple.”

- *Hannah, 38

“She hired a make-up artist”

“When my best friend got married, she hired a second make-up artist (she had her own) for her mum, sister, and me (I was her Maid of Honour), I assumed that as she hadn’t mentioned it, and I certainly hadn’t asked for it, that she was fronting the cost, but I get a £300 bill about two weeks after the wedding.”

- *Nai, 27

“You shouldn’t complain about how much it costs - what did you expect!”

“No one will agree with me, but I really believe that if you helped to decide where the hen is and chose the Airbnb, then you shouldn’t complain about how much it costs, because what did you expect!? And please do not ask me to transfer £1.50 for some straws.”

- *Lucy, 25

“Life is too short to fork out hundreds of pounds for the sake of someone else’s happiness alone”

“I think how ‘worth it’ a hen is depends on the context surrounding it: am I very close to the bride? Is the getaway somewhere I’d genuinely like to go myself? Will I enjoy the company of the other ‘hens’ in attendance? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘no’, I won’t be going. No offence, but life is too short and money too precious to fork out hundreds of pounds for the sake of someone else’s happiness alone.”

- *Ellie, 32

“The admin is endless”

“This is obviously a privileged position because I’m quite a high-earner, but I don’t mind a lavish wedding, especially when it’s abroad and I get to basically have a holiday with my friends. What I *do* mind is the admin. The bridesmaids’ meetings, group chats, outfit approvals, Pinterest boards...it’s endless.”

- *Cara, 35

“I’ve essentially paid for a small wedding of my own”

“I’m happy for her, but I didn’t realise I’d be so financially involved in their union. Between the £200 dress, the £500 flight, and the £150 hen party deposit, I’ve essentially paid for a small wedding of my own.”

- *Jody, 28

“The bride demanded each bridesmaid have three looks”

“A few years ago, I was at a hen do in the Cotswolds and the bride demanded each bridesmaid have three looks: ‘bridal shower white’, Fresher’s neon (she met her husband at uni), and ‘something blue’. I basically live in black, so it would’ve meant buying three new outfits. I did buy some accessories, but honestly, it was beyond extra.”

- *Robyn, 40

Going to a wedding without a +1? Here’s how to make the most of it (and have fun)

Going to events (usually alone) is part of my job, but does that make the prospect of turning up and not knowing another living soul any less daunting? Absolutely not. I am forever haunted by the memory of going to a very chic fashion event at a prominent industry person’s home where everyone knew each other except for, yep, you guessed it, me. In a desperate attempt to shake me off, the host loudly proclaimed, “Look at that!” and when I turned back, she’d vanished—some party trick.

I have the dual curse of hating my own company and also being—at times—painfully shy, which means I move through life in fear of looking like an Edward Hopper painting—hopefully, that redhead in Nighthawks because at least she’s hot—(I never said I wasn’t vapid).

I recently attended one such event, which began with me skulking in the literal shadows of the sun-drenched terrace at Coal Drops Yard, voice noting my friend and colleague, Natalie, wailing, “I feel like I’m at a wedding, and everyone knows each other except me!” I looked out at the beautifully laid table set for 100 guests as part of Self Space’s Supper for the Soul (ironically in aid of combating loneliness) and debated fleeing. No one would even notice I’ve gone, I reasoned/sulked. All around me was the lively chatter of old friends. Or so I thought.

Later, when I’d muscled into the conversation of my two nearest table mates, a fellow journalist (hello, Alice!) and comedian Laura Smyth (more from her later), I discovered they’d also just met each other and—here comes the clanger—they’d also felt nervous about not knowing anyone else. Buoyed by this knowledge, I decided to find out how other people tackle the panicky business of going to events alone. Are we all just faking it? Is bounding up to strangers like they’re a long-lost friend the answer? I figured it’s high time I got to the bottom of it. Here’s everything you need to know about how to go to a wedding alone.

How to go to a wedding alone - five experts share their best advice

What's your best advice for attending a wedding or social event alone?

Fake confidence. Shoulders back, chin up, and have an easy interest in it all, looking on like an old relative who’s happy to be out of the house.

What things should people avoid?

Avoid desperately scanning the room for people you might know; it will make you look furtive - like you’re there to pickpocket or buy cocaine.

What’s your best line for striking up a conversation with someone?

“How do you know the bride and groom? Or organiser? What is your connection with the event?” It’s solid and gives people a chance to talk about themselves (which they love). And when they ask you, you can lie - you don’t owe these people anything.

Do you have any positive experiences of attending an event alone that you could share?

Lots - I was once at a rooftop supper with a Marie Claire journalist - now she asks my opinion on all sorts! I’ve made it, baby!

Weddings can stir up feelings of loneliness; what advice can you share about how to tackle this?

Treat yourself kindly in this space, and take care of yourself in ways that you can. It’s ok to feel lonely. It highlights something we need, want, or are trying to create space for in our lives. Use it as information for your future self and honour that. Don’t stay too long if it’s too much; seek out people at the event that create a more positive air for you. Manage how much you drink (remember it’s just a way of hiding mostly from what’s hard, and it’ll make you feel more rubbish in the long run), and plan something nurturing for yourself for the next day, so you have that to look forward to. Try to have at least one meaningful conversation while you’re there, perhaps sharing how you feel with someone. Only give out what you have in the tank; you don’t need to deplete yourself further.

How can readers overcome their anxiety about going to events alone?

I suggest not overcoming it but instead allowing yourself to feel it. Accept what you are nervous about and ask yourself what you need to make it easier for yourself. Be with it, honour that it is hard for you, and then meet yourself with compassion for it all. The harder we try to overcome or remove these feelings—which are very natural—the more consuming they can feel.

What’s your best memory of going to an event alone?

As a single woman in my early thirties, I attended many, many events solo. Weddings, birthday parties, engagement drinks – you name it, I’ve done it. I did it so many times I completely fell in love with socialising solo. The more I went, the more I was able to enjoy it. I always saw it as an opportunity to try something new or meet new people. There is so much to be gained by becoming a naturally confident person, and this is just one of the many ways you can strive towards that. I liked to tell myself, “Even if I have a terrible time, it will make a great story!”.

What’s your best line for striking up a conversation with someone?

For me, honesty is the best policy, and often, once people realise you are at an event alone, they open up and are more likely to include you in conversations or interactions. Women, in particular, can be great allies. There’s no shame in saying, “I actually don’t know a single person here!” it’s a great conversation starter and showing a glimpse of vulnerability can go a long way. Don’t forget, you’re unlikely the only person there alone. So when in doubt, seek the others out and form your own crew. Remember that people love to talk about themselves. Try giving someone a compliment or asking something interesting about them.

What things should people avoid?

A great visual exercise is to think about what sort of person you might be drawn to at a party and then do your best to embody that. Fake-it-till-you-make-it style. If you saw someone standing in the corner on their phone all night, would you be compelled to chat with them? Probably not. Confidence is sexy, and people are naturally drawn to it. Hold your head up high, shoulders back and smile! Don’t just sit back and expect people to approach you. I would encourage you to make an effort, step out of your comfort zone and strike up conversations. If you’re feeling shy, remember to ask yourself – “what’s the worst thing that can happen?”.

I always remind myself that I’m not the only one who might be feeling a bit uncomfortable or alone at an event. Before heading out, I pop in my earbuds and listen to some feel-good music to pump myself up. Once I arrive, I take a deep breath, stand tall, and walk in with a confident smile. Small changes like improving your posture and smiling can instantly boost your demeanour. We’ve all had those moments where we rush into an event, still fumbling with our bags, and end up feeling insecure. Taking a moment to compose yourself before you enter helps you avoid those awkward feelings and lets you step in with confidence.

What’s your best advice for attending a wedding or social event alone?

If you are unsure about your outfit or the environment, check out the venue ahead of time on Instagram or social media to get a feel of the vibe. That always helps me when I feel anxious entering somewhere new alone.

What’s your best line for striking up a conversation with someone?

Complementing someone’s outfit is ALWAYS a great way to start a conversation. Even if it’s just in passing or in the restroom - when you run into them again, you might feel more comfortable continuing another conversation.

Do you have any positive experiences of attending an event alone that you could share?

I recently went to LA and was honestly wanting to back out of an event due to anxiety moments before. However, I had got all ready and travelled all the way there for it, so I couldn’t let my anxiety win again like it does back home. I forced myself to go, and I met so many new friends. I honestly had a blast. At first, I felt like a loner, but then I just kept having little conversations with girls in passing and ended up making friends. I also just forced myself to go to a Nashville event alone, and from the second I walked in, I just went straight up to a group of girls and started talking. It can be scary at first, but I promise it’s all in your head!

As a beauty editor getting married next year, you can bet that aside from the actual marriage part of it, my hair and make-up on the day are the next most important thing. That's why I've searched high and low for the best wedding hairstyles and wedding make-up looks to get all the inspo I need. And now I'm in search of the best lipstick to compliment my bridal look.

But there's so much to consider - the shade, the finish, the longevity. Even as someone in the beauty industry, I'm confused about where to start. So, I enlisted the help of a pro make-up artist to help me figure out how to choose the best lipstick for a wedding.

How to choose a wedding lipstick?

Choosing your wedding lipstick and feeling comfortable in it during the day depends on your everyday make-up. You've first got to consider what sort of make-up you wear day-to-day.

"Brides want to look like the best version of themselves on their wedding day, not like someone else," says make-up artist Lisa Caldognetto. This is why she recommends sticking to lipstick that reflects your signature style. In short: it might be best to reserve the red lipstick for your hen-do rather than the big day if you never wear it in your daily life.

There are two main routes for bridal lipstick: nude or bold.

For a classic look enhancing your lip colour to be 'you but better', Lisa recommends a nude lipstick, keeping it close to your natural lip colour but going slightly deeper. Although some people choose to go slightly lighter, a foolproof way to keep your lip colour natural is to experiment with neutral tones. "A barely-there look with peachy warm tones gives a soft, elegant feel", says Lisa. "It pairs beautifully with a soft and bold smoky eye with bronze tones."

If you're not one for neutrals day-to-day and consider a red lipstick your version of a staple white T-shirt, then an "old Hollywood glamour, romantic statement in an iconic red is a must", Lisa says. A red lip can also be a great addition to those wanting more drama for the evening, particularly if you're changing into a second outfit. "A bright chilli red looks modern and playful while nicely brightening the complexion", says Lisa. "A blue-based red looks classic and makes your teeth brighter, too."

Now, you don't have to buy dozens of lipsticks to find your perfect shade. If you're working with a make-up artist, they can help you decide during your trial or might recommend some shades to play around with ahead of time. If you're doing your own make-up, I suggest hitting up some make-up counters and asking for some help finding your signature shade. Try different brands and then note down which you like before going through a process of elimination to find your perfect match.

How to make your wedding lipstick last?

Once you've chosen your shade, the next most important aspect to ensuring it lasts through the day. There are three things to consider when on the hunt for a long-lasting lipstick: prep, texture and application. If you nail these then you're onto a winner.

"Prep your lips like you would your face," says Lisa. Her non-negotiable two-step routine includes exfoliating using Kiko's Scrub And Peel Pads (use these sparingly since they're not sustainable). She tears a thin strip and massages the dead skin away. The next is slathering lip balm on, "leave them to marinate while doing the main make-up application".

Next up is to consider the finish or texture of your lipstick, which Lisa says is key to longevity. "Something more glossy and sheen is generally sheerer in colour and wears off quicker, therefore you'll need regular touch-ups."

However, a satin or matte texture (a solid or liquid lipstick formula) has much longer wear. "These formulas have a low-level sheen and provide instant coverage with strong pigment", Lisa explains. In addition, lip liners are a great way to add longevity, "especially if you not only trace the lip line, but also fill and blend it into the lip", she adds. Lip liners are a must for wearing a glossy or hydrating texture to get longer wear.

Once you've prepped and chosen, you've got the application to master. Lisa's top tip is to blot and lightly powder in between layers of product application. "Blot with a tissue then use a single-ply tissue to apply a translucent powder over the top", she explains. This works as it takes excess moisture out of the lips, so repeating this step makes a long-lasting lip. If you want it to be glossy in finish, Lisa explains that you can then add a sheen or gloss on top to add volume to the lip and change the final look.

Best lipsticks for a wedding, according to a beauty editor and make-up artist

1. Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Colour in Blush Lightly

2. Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk

3. Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick in 35 Cheeky

4. Chanel Rouge Coco Flash in 54 Boy

4. Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in Light My Fire

6. Victoria Beckham Beauty Posh Lipstick in Pout

A quick scan of the recent bridal runways in New York City, celebrity weddings (hello, Sofia Richie) and the Spring/Summer 2024 catwalks revealed some telling tips about where this year’s trends are headed. While brides-to-be are more daring than ever before when it comes to experimenting with colour, shapes and hemlines, a timeless appeal is still a core requirement for the D-Day look. Think: Bianca Jagger-esque jumpsuits covered in sequins or royalty-worthy capes in airy chiffon.

Nostalgic at times, but with a modern appeal, the aisle styles this year feel a little more grown-up than the last (wedding makeup looks and wedding day perfume included). Don’t worry, the bows, mini dresses and separates that flooded our feeds aren’t going anywhere, but below we unveil some new contenders for the 5 top bridal trends of 2024 with the help of Laurie Field, menswear and womenswear buying manager for Selfridges and Jess Kaye, co-founder of bridal label Own Studio.

All Frills

For the bride looking for the swish effect as she glides down the aisle, these gowns with cascading ruffles are the answer. “Ruffles are a flattering and sultry trend; this season, we have seen brands play with proportion and placement to create pieces that move elegantly,” says Field. Don’t be shy—opt for XXL layered frills that will turn your gown into a fashion moment. Fashion designer Molly Goddard’s latest drop includes plenty of frothy frocks cut just above the ankle for maximum bounce.

Cape Crusade

“Cape dresses is another silhouette we see customers invest in,” says Field. “This flattering cut looks great on most people and brands such as Alberta Ferretti, Jacquemus, and Stella McCartney have created dresses in bright bold colours, soft crepes and woven fabric that we have seen gain popularity.” Capes, previously a dramatic style favoured by the blue-blooded, are now a dominant choice amongst modern brides looking to eschew the veil for a bold train. Shimmering with embellishments like those by Jenny Packham or sheer and ethereal like the handmade cape by The Own Studio, capes of this season have been given the royal treatment.

Power Posies

Flowers on a wedding dress? Not-so-ground-breaking. But the 3-dimensional buds on the latest gowns might say otherwise. We’re talking sculptural roses moulded onto the hips like those on a cream Valentino confection, or at the centre of a draped column like that of an Ana Radu dress. These are blooms so bold even Miranda Priestly wouldn’t dare object.

Fancy Pants

"Over the course of a wedding brides want to be able to express different sides of their character and personal style, and they want this to be reflected in their outfit choices too,” says Kaye. “Tailoring is super popular especially for brides who love that super chic Bianca Jagger look." But don’t be mistaken: there’s nothing simple about the jumpsuits on offer this season. Once the shy sister of bridal looks reserved for civil weddings and elopements, jumpsuits have been given the big-day makeover. Paired with a floral bodice or attached to a cape, these trendsetting trouser styles offer just as much glamour as they do sleek comfort.

Sheer Joy

Naked dresses? So 2022. Today, brides are looking for that peek-a-boo effect that, rather than reveal more skin, adds a touch of fairy-like gossamer—and personality. "Multiple wedding looks also mean that even more importance is placed on brides being able to re-wear their pieces long after the wedding day,” says Kaye. “Sheer overlays are loved because they look so unique on the day itself but then our brides love re-wearing them afterwards." That means an opaque bodice that flows into a diaphanous skirt, a sheer overlay that can be taken off to reveal the shoulder-baring afterparty look or a detachable, full organza overskirt that forms a floaty train.

I know you're here to read about the wedding beauty treatments I've had, but before we get into that, I want to make one thing clear: I am not someone who has made my wedding my entire personality. Have I spent hours looking at wedding make-up inspiration and the best wedding hair looks? Yes. Did I have my wedding-day perfume determined before I even got engaged? Also yes. But, for the most part, I like to think I've been pretty chilled about it all—I bought the first wedding dress I saw online, I wanted my bridesmaids to pick their own outfits and I've decided against having a hairstylist on the day.

Truth be told, I've always considered the pressure of needing to 'look your best' for your wedding archaic and, frankly, a bit toxic. Of course, I want to feel like the best version of me on what is sure to be one of the best days of my life, but I don't want to turn on myself in the process. As a beauty editor, I had a game plan from the get-go: start with the wedding beauty treatments as early as possible so that I could have the best canvas to work with. My intentions were good, but with two weeks to go I'll admit I hoped to be further along in my pre-wedding glow-up journey—and the pressure has started to kick in. (Although, my choice to not have any professional photography or videography on the day has made this a lot easier to deal with.)

Because I know I won't be the only bride-to-be feeling this way, I wanted to share my pre-wedding beauty treatments. I'm not doing this for inspiration, by the way. I am a beauty editor who has access to every beauty treatment and product out there, usually free of charge or with a hefty discount, so I don't want you to use this as a shopping list. Instead, I want to share the treatments I have found helpful and the things I have learned along the way, purely as some food for thought for those who are feeling stressed right now. And, truthfully, we all love to be a bit nosey when it comes to other people's weddings, don't we?

So, here it goes: the grotesquely long (and expensive) list of every beauty treatment I've had in the run up to my wedding. Take it with a pinch of salt, please—I'm not proud of it.

1. Hair colour

Historically, I get my hair colour done around twice a year—and, if I'm being honest, I haven't been in for a cut much more frequently, either. My hair is a hindrance to my life. It's flat, fine, thin and doesn't hold a curl even if a can of hairspray is emptied onto my head. For this reason, I knew I needed to wear it straight on my wedding day.

Although my natural colour is a dark brown, it's also speckled with greys, so over the course of the past 18 months I have gradually been going blonder via balayage in a bid to blend it all in. Throughout my entire career, I have never been loyal to one hairstylist or colourist, but my biggest piece of advice in the run up to your wedding is to find someone and stick with them—especially if your colour is a work in progress.

With around six months to go, I booked in to see Maxine Heale, hair colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, for a consultation, and I immediately knew she was the woman for the job. I had a full head of balayage when my hair was mostly dark (and had about four inches of re-growth at the root). I then booked in for another full-head of balayage with six weeks to go, with the view that this would be my final proper colour appointment. My reasoning for this? When it comes to getting balayage on naturally dark hair, I always think it looks best once it's settled a little bit and grown into itself.

And I'm pleased I made that decision—I'm really chuffed with the way my hair is looking right now. Having said that, because I'm wearing it down and straight, I knew that root regrowth was going to be an issue. So, I have booked in for a root blend and a trim (with the whizz that is Samuel Broadbent, also at Hershesons) two days before my wedding to ensure things look absolutely perfect on the day itself. My biggest piece of advice? Tell your colourist your plans as early as possible—achieving your dream look will likely take more than one appointment, and it's wise to let the experts work out a schedule for you.

2. Botox

Remember, I'm being totally honest here. Do I think I need Botox at the tender age of 29? No. However, I had my first Botox treatment the week after my 27th birthday purely because it's my job to understand the treatments I write about, and I felt as though I wanted to try it.

I know for certain there are heaps of women out there who, for one reason or another, want to get Botox in the run up to their wedding. So, for those of you who are very much in that camp, I'm sharing my advice and experience. If you're not in that camp, please skip this section.

I have been getting Botox injections in my forehead and between my eyebrows for nearly three years, so for me it wasn't a question of if I wanted Botox for my wedding day but rather when I would have it.

I am loyal to my aesthetics doctor, Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, but my biggest piece of advice (not just for your wedding day, but always) is to ensure you are seeing a registered doctor for any injectable treatments. Around a year before the wedding, I let Dr Ahmed know the date of my nuptials so that he could tailor my dosage and appointments around it. It's worth noting here that I would never recommend having your first-ever Botox appointment in the run up to your wedding—it's not a reversible treatment and can take months to wear off. Instead, I'd suggest having an initial appointment with a year to go and taking it from there.

As someone who has regular Botox injections, my results tend to last for around six months (so that's around two appointments a year), but I know that I'm happiest with the way my face looks throughout months 2-4. Dr Ahmed has been tailoring my doses over the course of a year to ensure that I was ready for a top-up with two months to go—and I'm happy as a clam with it.

3. Teeth alignment

In 2024, it feels as though teeth alignment is a thing for brides-to-be. While I don't believe anyone should feel pressured to fork out a fortune on having their teeth straightened for the sake of one day, I understand all too well the desire to have the perfect smile for your wedding pictures. While I know many, many people opt for Invisalign treatments, I went for a very similar treatment called Impress (it's all the same technology, it's just carried out slightly differently). Instead of visiting my own dentist for my teeth straightening, I visit an orthodontist at one of the Impress clinics in London. With two weeks to go, I'm still not finished with my treatment—but honestly, I'm so over the moon with the way things are going, I'm really not that bothered by it. My smile looks so much better already.

That being said, I have some learnings and some advice that can be applied to all forms of teeth realignment—from Invisalign to Impress and even fixed braces. Firstly, allow yourself double the amount of time it is expected to take. I don't know a single person whose teeth straightening has gone without a hitch. My initial scans estimated my finish date to be around a month before my wedding, but I've had to have some adjustments (as most people do), so am expecting a few more months until I'm done. Sometimes, your teeth just don't behave in the way they're predicted to. Teeth realignment is a medical procedure—everyone's treatment is different, so it's crucial to remember that nothing is ever set in stone.

The other thing I want to point out is that if you are in a position where your treatment isn't finished and your big day is approaching, you have options. Speak with your dentist and let them know your wedding is coming up—many dentists will agree to remove the 'attachments' from your teeth for a short period of time. They can also advise on how long you might be able to get away with leaving your aligners out on the day without it jeopardising your timeframe. Personally, I'm in a unique position right now where I actually like the way my smile looks with my aligners in. And, because I'm not having professional photographs, I'm more than happy to keep them in place for the wedding.

4. Polynucleotides

Okay, this is where things get a bit crazy. I didn't plan to have a polynucleotide treatment before my wedding but I did—and I don't regret it. With around two months to go, polynucleotides started cropping up on my beauty-editor radar. The 'salmon sperm injection' headlines were everywhere, and I wanted to know what all the fuss was about. So, naturally, I booked in with Dr Ahmed to give them a go in order to determine whether they were worth us covering here at Marie Claire (they were)—as always, we don't recommend something unless it's tried and tested.

As a quick explainer, polynucleotide injections are a form of skin booster that aim to reduce the appearance of dark circles with natural-looking results. I had two treatments, three weeks apart from each other. Dr Ahmed actually recommended I have a third treatment to see the best results, but that would have meant having my final appointment three weeks before my wedding. And while I know my results would have been even more impressive (honestly, I'm chuffed to bits as it is) and that things would have most likely been fine, I wasn't prepared to take the risk with a new-to-me treatment.

Why? Well, because polynucleotides are injected into the under-eye area with a cannula that is inserted around your cheekbone, and that means risk of swelling and bruising. As you can see in the above picture (taken five days after my second treatment), I didn't experience any bruising, but there was some evident swelling. In both circumstances, this swelling was totally gone after around a week, but I just didn't want to risk it.

5. Cryo facials

Some of my most asked questions over the past year have been around what my facial plans are in the run up to my wedding—and this is something that I knew was going to be a bit of an issue for me. You see, if you are having injectable treatments you have to carefully plan when you can have facials. Most facialists aren't going to want to (and really shouldn't) go ham on your face within around a month of having any injectables.

With quite an intense injectable schedule, I knew I couldn't start a facial plan until four weeks before my wedding. With that in mind, I wanted facials that packed a real punch in terms of results but weren't too invasive (i.e. no microneedling). Having tried most facials available in London, there was one I knew I wanted to lean on in the run up to my wedding to ensure my acne-prone skin looked its glowing best—the Sunday Riley ICE Clear. It entails an hour of cleansing, masking, exfoliation, extractions and, importantly, cryo therapy.

If you're after a sculpted, lifted, glowing finish, I can't recommend a cryo therapy facial enough. I had one with four weeks to go, and will be having a shorter, express version (without the extraction) a few days before the big day.

6. Regular manicures

I am famed amongst my friends and peers for having grossly neglected nails. However, when there's a special occasion I do book in for a good gel manicure—almost always at my go-to salon, Townhouse.

I absolutely have not been going in for regular manicures. However, I do have a good tip. My hen do was six weeks before my wedding, so I booked in for a full works gel manicure on the day of, with exceptional cuticle work. Four weeks later, I am only now having that gel removed, and my cuticles are still looking pretty good. This gives me two weeks to get my nails in their healthiest state again (that means cuticle oil every day and keeping a file in my bag at all time) before my actual wedding manicure, which is booked the day before my wedding.

7. Scheduled rest

Scheduling in treatments that champion rest has been my single most effective pre-wedding endeavour—and I recommend it to every bride. As a beauty editor, I'm obviously all about treatments that deliver quick results, but I promise you that nothing will make you glow more than taking time to rest and reset in periods of stress.

This week, I booked in for an express version of one of my favourite facials in existence—the Wildsmith Radical Botany facial. Typically, this facial is an hour long. And while I consider Wildsmith skincare products to be some of the most impressive around (I actually think it might be my favourite skincare brand ever), it's the restorative aspect of this treatment that puts it on a whole other level. Naturally, with only two weeks to go, I'm very short on time at the moment, so when I saw that the brand had a pop-up in Liberty offering express versions of my favourite facial, I knew it was meant to be.

While the treatments at the brand's home, Heckfield Place, are (in my opinon) the best in the world and the Radical Botany Facial at Fortnum & Mason is elite, I simply didn't have the time or the funds to treat myself to either. The express version at Liberty featured half an hour of guided meditation and some of the most soothing facial massage you can imagine—it was a total reset. Sadly, it seems I'm not the only fan, and every single appointment at the Liberty pop-up is currently sold out (but do keep an eye on the site for any cancellations). However, take it from me—making the time for even half an hour of R+R (whatever that looks like to you) before your wedding will do you wonders.

Beyond that, I have also leant on sound baths to keep me functioning over the past few weeks. I have been having one-to-one sessions with Farzana Ali for well over two years now (although, if you're interested, she also does group classes at Re:Mind in London), and I truly believe they are the only thing that keeps me semi-balanced in times of high stress. If you've never tried sound therapy as a form of meditation or relaxation, I highly recommend booking in for a session wherever you are—there are various forms of group sessions available all over the country, most commonly in yoga studios, so do a quick Google search.

After getting engaged, you can probably guess what was at the top of my to-do list as a beauty editor? Yep, getting all of the inspiration, from wedding hairstyles to bridal fragrances, I've been researching it all. Next on my agenda? Wedding make-up looks inspiration. 

But knowing where to start can be a huge hurdle. Until I began seriously researching, I had no idea, and I'm surrounded by make-up artists on a regular basis. You see, the most popular make-up trends don't always make for the best bridal looks. Many of the top make-up artists out there say it's all about feeling like an enhanced version of yourself. "You want to feel amazing, but you also want to feel like you," says make-up artist and Sculpted By Aimee founder Aimee Connolly. "When you look back at the picture in years to come, you want your look to be timeless, so I always suggest keeping it in the realms what what makes you feel like you—just a super special version of that," she adds.

With that in mind, I've turned to Instagram to find some of the best wedding make-up looks out there to take inspiration from. And I think it would only be fair of me to let you in on that research, too. When it comes to making sure my glam is on point, I don't waste a second. The outfit on the other hand? Well... that can wait. 

1. Radiant base 

Okay, while I'm calling this the radiant base, I want to stress that radiant doesn't mean perfect. You do not need to have perfect skin for your big day, after all, that's what make-up is for. For this kind of look, nothing beats Armani Luminous Silk with some lit-from-within glow added, courtesy of Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter. 

2. Smokey eyes 

If a barely-there bridal look isn't for you, take inspiration from this beautiful smokey eye. This is definitely one to work with a make-up artist to adapt it to your preferences and eye shape to give you the best smouldering look for your big day. 

3. Winged liner 

A winged liner can look absolutely stunning for a bridal look. Done well, it can complement the other elements of the look without taking attention away from elements like the lips. The glossy lip here pulls it all together. 

3. Dazzling eyes 

Thinking of going a little more extra for your big day? Try a glittered topper on your eyes. Or, if you're not quite ready to go all out for the entire day, try adding some sparkle before your reception to switch up your look half way through the big day. 

4. Matte lip

A matte lip and dramatic lashes are the stars of the show with this look and we can't get enough of it. Try one of MAC's Macximal shades, which is everything you want in a matte lipstick without the horrid dry feeling. 

5. Pink lip

Going slightly more pink with your lip shade can change the entire look in the best kind of way. Working to complement your eye colour and skin tone here can really pay off, which it certainly has on this beautiful bride. 

6. Beautiful bronze

I love a bronzy look and this one shows that you absolutely never need to look orange when going slightly warmer and sun-kissed. Here, the make-up artist uses Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer with a dusting of Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush. 

7. No-make-up make-up 

It doesn't get much better than this example of a no-make-up make-up look, enhancing your natural features and making you feel like the very best version of you. From the natural-looking, radiant base to the eye shadow choice and the perfect match glossy lip, this look is perfection. 

8. Classic red lip

Don't feel yourself without a red lip? Then wear one on your big day! Although many people choose to go ultra natural with their colour choices on their wedding day, plenty of people choose red, too. As shown here, it can look absolutely phenomenal. The key here is choosing a red lip that suits your skin tone as if it were made just for you. 

9. Shimmering smokey eyes 

Can't decide between a shimmery or smokey eye? Choose both and the result is effortless, like it is on this stunning bride. Pair this eye look with a neutral lip and dusting of blush. 

10. Pink tones 

When chosen to suit the bride specifically, pink is a sure winner on your wedding day. I can't get enough of this perfectly pink lip complementing the bride's hair colour like a dream. The full, fluffy brows look great, too! 

11. Ultra natural

This is a great example that wearing make-up on your big day doesn't mean you have to cover up your features. You can celebrate your features like this beautiful bride's freckles. 

12. Golden lids 

The golden shimmer is subtle enough that you might've missed it in this look at first, and that's exactly what makes it so special. A little shimmer isn't always supposed to jump out at you, sometimes a bit of glimmer is all you need. What a beautiful eye look for the big day. 

13. Copper eyes 

I love a copper on any regular day but on a wedding day? I love it. This copper look is bold enough to notice it but not too much that it takes our attention away from the other make-up elements. 

Can you hear that? Wedding bells. And with the 2026 wedding season right around the corner comes the age-old question that lands like clockwork in every group chat at this time of year:What shall I wear?

As invitations begin to slowly arrive, so too does the pressure to find something that feels special yet appropriate, memorable but never overshadowing, and just the right level of fun for the occasion. Which is precisely why we’ve put together our expertly curated (if we do say so ourselves) edit of the very best wedding guest dresses to invest in now for the new season. Consider it your shortcut to seeking out the perfect outfit.

Notably, we can precisely see what you’re searching for, no matter the location or dress code. From beach wedding guest dresses to 'something blue' shades. And the often more complicated black tie wedding guest dresses, which are receiving quite a bit of scrolling attention on Google.

Although, unsurprisingly, what we're also hearing is that you're after something that nobody else has—a wedding guest dress that feels very much like you and not also Susan sat three seats away. Challenge accepted.

Just scroll below to see what we've found, covering wedding guest dresses for city soirées, coastal celebrations or black-tie affairs. Just try to remember what it is you ordered for dinner.

The Best Wedding Guest Dresses of 2026

Pastel Wedding Guest Dresses

Floral Wedding Guest Dresses

Maxi Wedding Guest Dresses

Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

Blue Wedding Guest Dresses

Beach Wedding Guest Dresses

As a beauty editor who just got married, I'll put my hands up and say my planning was somewhat chaotic. Something I had been thinking about a lot, however, is what wedding-day perfume I was going to wear. It seems silly, I know, but as a beauty editor who specialises in the best perfumes, my wedding scent meant a lot to me. While I'd given my wedding hair and wedding nails some thought, I spent many hours to-ing and fro-ing over which wedding fragrance I'd opt for on the big day.

And while I'd been talking to literally anybody who will listen about my wedding-day fragrance conundrums (I had changed my mind a lot), I'd realised that virtually everyone I know wants to talk about bridal scents. Turns out, it's a big deal to a lot of people. 

So, in a bid to deliver some scent inspiration, I reached out to a number of in-the-know beauty and fashion editors who have every and any perfume their heart so desires at their finger tips to find out exactly which scents they opted for (or plan to opt for) on their wedding day. So, whether you're looking for wedding scent inspiration or you're just feeling nosy, here are the 12 best wedding day perfumes, according to editors (and they're not all florals) ...

Shannon Lawlor, Executive Beauty Editor, Marie Claire UK

Key notes: Mint, blood mandarin, rose absolute, cinnamon, leather, wood, amber, Indian patchouli

"My wedding is coming up in April, but I've been thinking about what perfume I'll wear for years. (It's the beauty editor in me, what can I say?!) Acqua di Parma Colonia means a lot to me, and I've worn it for the entirety of my relationship. Having been the boyfriend of a beauty editor for over 9 years, it's needless to say my fiancé is into his fragrance and has already settled on his—Maison Francis Kurkdjian l'Homme À La Rose for the ceremony and Penhaligon's Terrible Teddy for the reception the following day. I wanted my fragrance choices to pair with his, and Colonia's fresh, citrus scent will blend beautifully with his choice for the ceremony. For the reception, I'll be reaching for Colonia's slightly darker sibling, Acqua di Parma Colonia Essenza—a deep, but fresh, soapy cologne that I consider the best fragrance of all time." — Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK

Sofia Piza, Producer, Marie Claire UK

Key notes: Blackcurrant liqueur, rose de mai absolute, freesia, patchouli, oakmoss

"This fragrance has been a key staple in my repertoire for the past two years. I've always leaned into the super-sweet or super-woody extremes and this fragrance feels like the perfect combination of both. It holds fresh notes of freesia and honey combined with oakmoss and patchouli, making it the ultimate combination to say 'si' to on your big day." — Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer at Marie Claire UK

Emma Spedding, Freelance Fashion Editor

Key notes: Marigold, jasmine sambac, benzoin extract

"When it comes to wedding fragrances there is a lot of discussion about finding a new scent that will then remind you of and take you back to your wedding day. However, I decided I didn't need to buy anything new or make a big thing of finding a new fragrance. Instead, it felt special to wear my favourite perfume, Jasmine Sambac & Marigold by Jo Malone London (it was also a gift from my husband). We have jasmine and lunaria hanging from the beams of our venue, so the room already had a beautiful smell of jasmine." — Emma Spedding, Freelance Fashion Editor

George Driver, Freelance Beauty Editor

Key notes: Cherry, freesia, lily of the valley, amber, musk

"I always knew what I was going to wear (because I'm a massive sap). I have a perfume from when I first met my husband when I was 18, which I wore all through uni. I don't really wear it anymore but I have half a bottle left that I keep on my dressing table. I wear it once a year and it smells super nostalgic. It's L'Occitane Cherry Blossom. It's far sweeter than any perfume I would wear now but it's so evocative and nostalgic when I do that my wedding day felt like the perfect time to wear it. I think because of my job people expected me to wear something quite sophisticated, but actually I always knew I was going to wear that." — George Driver, Freelance Beauty Editor

Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor, Marie Claire UK

Key notes: Marigold, jasmine sambac, benzoin extract

"I took all of my fragrances that I wanted to consider for the wedding and I got loads of perfume blotters and sprayed each of them. I lined the kitchen table with them and I had my now-husband go through and talk me through what he thought of each one. I wanted him to tell me which one he thought reminded him of me the most. We came up with Jo Malone Jasmine Sambac & Marigold." — Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK

Mica Ricketts, Freelance Beauty Editor

Key notes: Peach, plum, violet, peony, patchouli, leather, vanilla

"Despite being a pretty laid back bride—I wore the first dress that I ordered online and tried on, did my own hair and make-up and we got married in a pub in Camden—fragrance felt like a really important decision for my day. I knew that I wanted something that I hadn’t worn before so I would always associate it with our wedding and I wanted it to feel special. At the time, I was working as a content manager for a beauty subscription box so I didn’t have the access to some of the amazing brands that I do now as an editor, but I knew that everyone in the industry was obsessed with Byredo. I remember heading to Liberty after work, rather sheepishly as these perfumes were way more expensive than anything I'd ever looked at before, and smelling every single perfume they had. I instantly fell in love with Bibliotheque. Admittedly, as a huge bookworm, the name was part of the appeal but it was a perfume that somehow smelt like home to me. It has a leathery warmth, sweetened with notes of vanilla and plum, and contains a note that runs through basically all of my favourite perfumes—violet—which lent it an almost powdery familiarity. Looking back, it’s quite an intense choice for a June wedding, and definitely a far cry from the typically feminine florals that you might expect, but I am so glad that I decided on it. I super cheesily wear it on all of our anniversaries now, or on the rare occasions that we get a special date night, and five years later it still instantly transports me back to our amazing day." — Mica Ricketts, Freelance Beauty Editor

Humeara Mohamed, Freelance Beauty Journalist

Key notes (Vanilla|28): Vanilla orchid, tonka absolute, amber woods, musk, brown sugar

"Our wedding was somewhat of a shambles. Set in the midst of a Covid-19 lockdown, a handful of witnesses attended over Zoom, and Jack and I were huddled in the middle of an Imam's living room after we failed to get an internet connection in the Mosque. It was all a bit spontaneous and adventurous and unknown —nothing like the big event I'd grown up dreaming of —but somehow hilariously perfect all the same. When it came to my fragrance, then, I needed something comforting and familiar to keep me feeling calm. KAYALI Musk|12 layered with a touch of Vanilla|28 was the obvious choice. The two together feel like a warm hug, mixed with memories of days spent baking cupcakes, thanks to notes of creamy jasmine, musk, Madagascan vanilla and brown sugar." — Humeara Mohamed, Freelance Beauty Journalist

Madeleine Spencer, Freelance Beauty & Wellness Editor, Evening Standard

Key notes: Angelica flower, vanilla, pink pepper, cedar

"When I got married, Jo Malone had released a limited edition set of perfumes which included milky and cucumber ones. I love both sorts of smells—milky being creamy and comforting and skin-mimicking, cucumber adding a shot of freshness. I applied the milky one to my skin after moisturising for a haze of softness, and the cucumber one as a mist to walk through once dressed. Sadly, Jo Malone never made either perfume permanent, but were I to pick now, I’d spritz Guerlain Angélique Noire on my skin for a warming, cashmere hug, and then add a dash of Aerin Rose de Grasse, which smells precisely like a very dewy morning rose." — Madeleine Spencer, Freelance Beauty & Wellness Editor, Evening Standard

Mollie Burdell, Freelance Beauty Editor

Key notes: Fig leaf, lotus flower, vetiver

"I was torn between wearing my signature scent, Parfums de Marly Oriana, or picking something entirely new so each time I smelled it, it would take me right back to my wedding day. I decided on the latter, and booked in for a ‘Scent Your Wedding’ experience with Jo Malone London which I’d highly recommend. I brought my now husband along with me as he is ridiculously fussy when it comes to perfume and it was actually really nice choosing one together for me to wear. We experimented with different fragrance combinations before settling on Fig and Lotus Flower Cologne paired with the Wood Sage and Sea Salt Body Crème—a moisturiser helps the fragrance cling to the skin longer. As my wedding was in June, I found this to be an absolutely perfect fit." — Mollie Burdell, Freelance Beauty Editor

Grace Day, Freelance Beauty Editor

Key notes: Cinnamon, cardamom, carrot, orris butter, ginger, papyrus, patchouli

"For most people, choosing a wedding dress is the biggest decision to be made ahead of the big day, but as a beauty editor, I’ve spent far more time thinking about what perfume I’ll wear. I was originally supposed to get married back in 2020 (thanks Covid), so I’ve had quite a lot of time to dwell on the matter, and have changed my decision more times than I can remember. Potential candidates have included Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 (before it went TikTok viral), Penhaligon’s Juniper Sling (until I started wearing it every day) and Acqua Di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Ginepro Di Sardegna (which sadly was discontinued). Right now, the current candidate is Byredo Eyes Closed. As soon as I smelled it I knew it was wedding perfume material. It’s at first papery and powdery, thanks to notes of papyrus and iris, but settles into something warmer and spicier as it melds with the wearer’s natural scent. It has great longevity and projection, which is important to me, because I want to be able to smell it throughout the day (and night), and it also smells incredible on my fiancé. I love the idea of us wearing the same scent and being forever able to associate it with our wedding day." — Grace Day, Freelance Beauty Editor

Kristina Rodulfo, Freelance Beauty Editor

Key notes: Neroli, jasmine sambac, magnolia

"I wore Dior J'adore Parfum d'Eau. I for married in a tropical destination, so I wanted something light and fresh. White florals are my favourite—this fragrance has a base of jasmine flowers which was also special because jasmine flowers are the National flower of the Philippines and the scent is pretty nostalgic to me. I wore it throughout the wedding week, so now it's tied to those memories!" — Kristina Rodulfo, Freelance Beauty Editor

I don't know about you, but I love a wedding. Nothing is better than watching my loved ones tie the knot, and getting to celebrate with them is the icing on the cake. That being said, after being a bridesmaid more than a few times now, I'm very aware of how stressful weddings can be, especially for the bride.

One thing that you always want to go smoothly on your special day is your hair and make-up, so you feel your very best when walking down the aisle.

However, is it just me or does there seem to be a million different hairstyles to choose from? If you're a bride-to-be and you're not sure what to go for, not to fear, as I've rounded up the biggest wedding hair trends to try this season.

Not only that, but I've spoken to the experts to find out exactly how to achieve these styles, and what products they recommend. Keep on scrolling for everything you need to know, and for more inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to the chicest wedding nail ideas and the biggest wedding guest make-up trends. That's right, we've got all bases covered.

1. Slicked-back bun

Even though Sofia Richie's wedding was a while ago now, the slicked-back bun remains a strong contender for any bridal updo. This sophisticated hairstyle is super easy to achieve, and it's great for both day and evening, as it won't get in your way on the dance floor. I swear by a hair pomade and a wax stick to keep my slicked-back bun in place all day. Shop my favourites below.

2. Floral accessories

The flower crown had a massive moment back in the 00's, but it's back for 2025. If you're not a fan of the bohemian look, don't worry—there are a lot of modern iterations, which are more chic. One of my favourites involves matching the flowers to your bouquet or using really neutral white and pink tones, which complement your dress.

Emma Vickery, Creative Stylist at Percy & Reed, suggests going over the look with hairspray to maximise longevity.

3. Loose waves

For something a little more subtle, why not opt for loose waves? Paul Percival, founder of Percy & Reed, says that this trend comes from the 70’s Californian surf/beach vibe, and I happen to think it's the perfect choice for any boho brides.

"If you're looking for that really sort of effortless beachy look, the thing that I find always works amazingly well is water," explains Percival. "Shampoo and blow dry your hair with the Wonder Balm and then use our Volumising Mousse. Once your hair is dry, take a curling wand, and working in sections, mist in our Session Hold Hairspray onto the section before you turn it. Whilst the hair is still warm, just pull the hair so it becomes straighter while it cools down, so that way you get a much looser wave.

"Once you've worked your way all through the hair, mist a tiny bit of water all over and then shake it out. You don't want to make the hair wet, but just mist it. What this does is it makes the overall finish of the hair feel much more natural, and it will appear like your hair naturally dried that way."

4. Pearl detailing

How stunning is this look? Pearls are absolutely timeless, so this trend can work every single year. Although the hairstyle is probably best left to the experts, you can purchase pearl accessories to achieve a similar look at home.

5. A middle parting

A middle parting is simple yet effective, and perfect for achieving that 'modern bride' aesthetic.

"Use the Hold & Define Finishing Cream to create a shine whilst giving hold," says Emma. "Use a pin tail comb (a comb with a pointy metal bit on the end) to get the centre parting nice and clean."

6. Big curl energy

Curls have always been on trend, but this year, it's all about big, voluminous waves. In order to achieve this, Percival recommends using a hair primer on wet hair to tame flyaways, and then applying a volumising mousse when blow drying. "The key is to get it all the way to the root as that is where you want the hold."

The curls themselves can be achieved in multiple different ways, and I'm personally a big fan of using rollers for this sort of look.

7. Embracing natural texture

"2025 is definitely about working with, rather than against, your hair's natural texture," says Percival. "To help get the best out of your natural texture, I would recommend applying a golf ball size of Percy & Reed’s Volumising Mousse to wet hair. Then dry with the Babyliss Hydro-Fusion 2100 Hair Dryer. It's all about using products and hair cuts that embrace who you are rather than trying to create a different type of hair texture that is hard work for yourself."

Over the past few summers, many of my friends have tied the knot, and this year is no different. I have three weddings to attend, and after the stress of finding multiple wedding guest dresses to rent, I now have to think about what hair and makeup I want to do to complete the look.

When it comes to this year's make-up trends, there are lots of options to choose from. However, I want to ensure that my make-up will work with my outfits, stay in place all day (and all night) and not smudge when I inevitably tear up watching my bestie walk down the aisle. So, I took it upon myself to research the biggest wedding guest make-up trends of the year, and I made sure that every one featured below fit all of my requirements.

Keep on scrolling to see which trends I will be trying out, and for more inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to the best wedding nail designs to wear on the big day to tie everything together.

1. Cloud skin

You may have seen this trend all over TikTok, and I happen to think that it's the perfect base for any wedding guest make-up look. If you're wondering what on earth it is, it's essentially the perfect mix between a dewy and a matte finish, giving your skin a soft, cloud-like appearance. The key to this look is to prep the skin with hydrating products, but finish with a demi-matte foundation and a blurring powder.

2. Pastel pink blush

Ok, so we know Sofia Richie rocked a pretty pink blush on her wedding day, but we also think that this trend is great for any wedding guests, as it's a subtle way to add a pop of colour to the cheeks. If you want to be a little more glam, opt for a blush with a hint of shimmer.

3. Underpainting

Created by Hailey Bieber's make-up artist, Mary Phillips, this trend is the perfect way of creating a naturally contoured look. The trick is to apply your bronzer and a highlighting concealer under your foundation. Pretty clever, right?

4. A bold red lip

When I attend a wedding, I don't like to do too much eye make-up because, as mentioned before, I always end up crying when I watch the bride walk down the aisle. Because of this, I like to opt for a bit of a statement lip instead, and nothing makes a statement quite as much as a bold red lip.

5. Natural brows

There have been so many brow trends over the years, from super skinny brows to bushy, laminated looks, but this year it's all about embracing your natural eyebrows. A little bit of brow pencil and a clear gel is all I will be using for wedding season.

6. Neutral tones

And finally, a timeless trend that I go back to again and again. Neutral-toned make-up looks are great as they will work with any outfit, and are easy to recreate.

Whether you're a traditional bride or your aesthetic veers more towards alternative bridal dresses, there is no denying that choosing a wedding dress is an incredibly big decision. After all, your wedding day is a moment that you will look back on for the rest of your life, so ensuring you have a gown you love is paramount. 

With planning for 2023 and 2024 weddings well underway, we turned to expert Phillipa Lepley, to understand exactly what kinds of dresses are expected to gain prominence this season. Lepley is a London-based bridal couturier with thirty years of experience in the industry, so there is no doubt she knows exactly what she's talking about. 

From the rise of colourful dresses to the resurgence of classic silhouettes, keep scrolling for Lepley's insights on the 3 wedding dress trends we can expect to see this season. 

1. Colourful Dresses

According to Lepley, "We are seeing a shift in more brides opting for colourful dresses." Though, this doesn't necessarily mean we're about to see bright, saturated shades walking down the aisle. Lepley clarifies, that we're seeing brides opt for "soft elegant shades of pink and coloured floral embroidery in soft tulle overlays." It's all about a subtle use of colour. 

2. A return to the classics

It seems this year, brides will make a case for the traditional. "There will be a return to a more classic look," Lepley explains. Think full skirts, cathedral-length veils, clean satin dresses and full lace. 

In addition to this, Lepley predicts that brides will be drawn towards looks that have the ability to be modified. "There will also be more top layers and removal sleeves," she said. These items can be added or taken off after the ceremony to create an entirely new look.

3. The rise of personalisation

"Personalised elements are becoming increasingly popular," Lepley says. From monogrammed initials to hidden sewn in dates, and even paw prints. "People are wanting to tell their story through their dress!" 

Lepley explains that she's also seeing more brides opts for multiple dresses, further enhancing the personalised element of their day.  

When it comes to planning your wedding, there is a lot to think about. From the perfect wedding dress to a signature scent that will always remind you of your big day, to the table plans, flowers and whether or not you want the DJ to play cheesy classics towards the end of the night (answer: always yes). 

There are also a number of strange wedding traditions that many follow without knowing the reasoning behind them. For example, did you know that the bride tends to stand on the left due to an old custom? Apparently, the groom needed to have his right arm free to fight off any potential suitors who wanted to steal his bride.

And it turns out there's an equally unusual reason why bridesmaids all wear the same dresses. 

While some brides choose to shake things up a bit and ask their bridesmaids to wear different dresses in the same colour, or the same dress in varying hues, the tradition is for the bride's nearest and dearests to wear the same dress as they watch their loved one say 'I do'. 

So, where exactly does it come from?

It is a custom said to originate from the days of the Ancient Romans, according to Mental Floss - however, back then, the bridesmaids didn't just wear the same dresses as one another. Oh no. They also wore the same dress as the bride.

Why?

Essentially, the lady to be wed would surround herself with decoys so as to distract from evil spirits and the dreaded exes who might be on the lookout to win her back. Scary. 

So dressing a handful of female friends in the same outfit would protect the bride from spirits and exes by confusing them, giving the couple enough time to march down the aisle without interruption. 

Well, now you know!

Kate Hudson and her fiancé Danny Fujikawa are certainly loved up, but they're not taking any big next steps in a rush.

The actress recently appeared on the red carpet for her new film Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, a sequel for 2019's Knives Out, and talked about where her priorities really lie at the moment.

When asked if she had any concrete plans for an upcoming wedding, Kate told Entertainment Tonight: "Absolutely not."

She added: "I mean, I love that man. He's right over there, hiding, but the last thing we're doing right now during the holidays is planning anything but the holidays."

She proceeded to hammer in her point, just so we're all clear on it: "Yeah, we're in no hurry," she said.

So that's a no on the wedding planning right now, then?

Kate and Danny made their engagement public in September 2021, when the How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days actress posted a photo of them together, feat. a ring on *that* finger.

The lovebirds started dating around 2016 and share daughter Rani Rose, now 4. The little girl is Danny's only child, but Kate is also mum to Ryder, 18, and Bingham, 11, from previous relationships.

Kate was married to Ryder's dad, Chris Robinson, between 2000 and 2007.

The actress stars in the Knives Out sequel alongside huge names such as Janelle Monáe, Daniel Craig, Kathryn Hahn and Leslie Odom Jr. And if that wasn't enough to sell you on it, there are even appearances from Ethan Hawke, Hugh Grant, Serena Williams, and the late Stephen Sondheim.

Kate brought both her husband-to-be and her mum Goldie Hawn to the film's Los Angeles premiere, for which she donned a sumptuous floor-length sequined gown by Elie Saab. The dress features shades of beige and brown, with long draped sleeves, a cinched waist, and a high neckline. The star accessorised with jewellery by Candy Ice, Kallati and Simone Jewels, for the full sparkling queen effect.

London-based label The Own Studio is renowned for its contemporary take on bridal wear. The brand prides itself on creating garments that are made to live on beyond, just your wedding day. 

Undoubtedly, a creation for the modern bride, The OWN Studio champions individuality and a unique take on the traditional wedding look. In fact, their latest collection has been made to offer brides complete customisation.

The brand's founders, Jess Kaye and Rosie Williams, believe that 2023 will be all about deconstructed dressing and have subsequently created a collection entirely catered to this concept

"Detachable sleeves and overlays, sleek trousers and mini, maxi and midaxi skirts present brides with the perfect opportunity to plan and personalise every aspect of their wedding wardrobe," Williams explained. 

"Brides love how separates allow them to change up their look from day to night with minimal effort," Kaye added. "Not to mention the added eco-benefit of being able to rewear them long after the wedding day." 

The brand has introduced "Build Your Own Bridal Wardrobe," allowing brides to mix and match varying separates to fully customise their looks. Bustiers can be styled alongside skirts of varying lengths. Overlays made from organza or feathers can be purchased to create unique additions. Essentially, the range gives brides complete autonomy over their looks.

The new collection is made up of 26 separate pieces, yet each piece can be mixed and matched endlessly creating far more than just 26 looks. "By building up and stripping away different elements of their outfit, brides can reflect every part of their personality within one changeable look,” Kaye explained. It's genius really. 

Keep scrolling to see and shop The Own Studio's new collection: