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Bridal fashion undergoes a continuous metamorphosis, in which designers challenge their views and push the limits of creating dresses for future brides. Long gone is the basic white dress; now, brides dress with personality and wear gowns that include futuristic embellishments, emphasise their best features, and radiate in the most vibrant colors.
So, it’s no wonder that the bridal trends for 2026 don’t disappoint. The latest Bridal Fashion Week in Barcelona revealed some of the most impressive details for the upcoming year. Of course, trends for bridesmaids are as striking, especially when it comes to aesthetic wedding palettes.
And let’s not forget about the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom: their outfits are as important, so we’ll dive a little bit into what’s to come for 2026.
When in doubt, put a bow on it
Considering the importance of the event and designers’ will to make brides feel powerful, the prospects for bridal gowns in 2026 are nothing but otherworldly. A small but impactful detail in some of these dresses is the inclusion of bows, which can add a refined touch to the dress without making it seem childish.
Designers like Sareh Nouri have created wedding dresses with bows carefully placed in the back, often paired with a low back cut. Others envisioned the bridal dress with maximalist bows that are both playful and sophisticated, whereas gowns with small bows alongside the body offer a modern twist on the classic dress.
Bows can also be present on top of the veil. This was showcased in the Monique Lhuillier Signature Collection, where the model wore a Mikado bow at the comb, a material made from 100% pure silk. It has a rich texture and exquisite finish, so it can update any simple wedding dress.
High necklines are making a comeback
Although high necklines are the opposite of the daring necklines we’ve been seeing lately, they’re making a comeback as a timeless aesthetic. They are perfect for any season and can flatter any body type. Of course, the 2026 ones are nothing like what we’re used to.
They include designs like turtlenecks, halter necks, or draped high necks that can be either sleek, modern, or romantic. Designers are seeking delicate, sheer lace or beaded embellishments for brides who desire bolder and more impressive high necklines.
Of course, a higher neckline requires a specific hairstyle, such as a sleek bun or a romantic chignon. Accessories should be kept to a minimum, like drop earrings, but a necklace isn’t necessary.
Snatch that waist with a detachable corset
For brides who want to be snatched but will need to change their outfit throughout the wedding, a detachable corset is the best trend to look out for in 2026. For example, you may want to wear something different from the ceremony to the reception, but are looking for a fast yet effective change.
A white corset, whether basic or embellished, can make wonders with your outfit. Wedding dresses from Katherine Tash or Danielle Frankel reimagined the corset to be both comfortable and chic, threw off-the-shoulder designs or arched seams for strapless dresses.
Detachable corset tops look best with voluminous tulle skirts, but can be paired with absolutely any other skirt shape, as well as pants. Therefore, they can highlight the bride’s personality while making them look amazing.
Bridesmaids get their share of vibrant gowns
Bridesmaids are some of the most important guests at a wedding, as they have the responsibility to uplift the bride and ensure she’s comfortable at any given moment. Therefore, this is a message of gratefulness towards every bridesmaid who contributed to the organisation of a wedding.
Regarding the trends bridesmaids should expect in 2026, we highlight the vibrant color palettes they could choose from. Golden-hour-inspired ideas for warm wedding themes, including burgundy and maroon for romantic weddings, as well as different shades of blue, will be in style.
Bridesmaids may also discover that the growing demand for vintage gowns is expanding to include their designs as well. This is a great tip for bridesmaids who don’t mind a mismatched look and would like their bridesmaids to look unique (and possibly save on their dresses).
Last, but not least, the mothers
The mother of the bride (MOB) and mother of the groom (MOG) have numerous responsibilities in helping their children settle into the wedding. For example, they might have to decide whether to host an engagement party following the proposal, discuss the guest list, and even organise family photos.
But on the wedding day, they should look and feel amazing, so here are some upcoming trends for their dresses:
A velvet evening gown is the perfect mix of sophistication and comfort, and since the material comes in different tones, both mothers can choose what looks best on their skin tone;
The embroidered tulle cocktail dress is perfect for spring or summer weddings, especially when presenting floral designs;
A ruffled A-line dress is also a great option for classical yet modest features, mainly since it can have a high neckline and sheer short sleeves;
A casual boho dress is designed for mothers who care more about comfort than protocol. Moreover, these dresses are lightweight and breezy;
Depending on the theme chosen for the wedding, the MOB and MOG can and should wear dresses that make them feel beautiful. After all, everyone knows who’s the bride, and no one can outshine her, but that doesn’t mean the other important ladies attending the wedding should not shine as well.
The 2026 bridal fashion trend brings back past favourites, such as vintage dresses and high necklines, while also introducing new elements, including bows and detachable corsets.
We’ve seen at the Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week how designers can break the barriers of common gowns and create sophisticated and unique dresses for the boldest of brides. On the other hand, we’ll see more color in
Bridesmaid makes bow-knot on the back of brides wedding dress, as well as elegant gowns for the MOB and MOG.