Today’s bride is incorporating more of her personal tastes and favorites for an exclusive experience reflective of her couple style.
In 2026, the details take center stage as brides opt for more muted beauty looks and classic designs. Vintage accents and delicate keepsakes bring an intimate touch, serving as a gilded ode to the Renaissance and helping create a magical day guests are sure not to forget.
We talked to the experts to find out the hottest wedding trends this year, covering everything from the backdrop and vibe to the dress and style.
Before you finalize your wedding plans, these are the top 2026 wedding trends to consider.
The Backdrop
This year’s setups will be unique, drawing on each couple’s story for inspiration. Couples are finding new, unique ways to incorporate their personalities into their receptions, eschewing outdated traditions in favor of modern accents.
Creative Ceremony Setups
Increasingly, there is a concentrated focus on intimacy and interaction during wedding ceremonies.
“In 2026, couples are prioritizing intentional storytelling over flashy décor for their weddings,” says Irene Katzias, CEO, Lead Planner and Designer at Irene + Co Events. “Installations and ceremonies are now infused with more meaning than ever, such as repurposing lace from their mother's wedding dress or incorporating toasts and well-wishes from loved ones as part of the ceremony.”
“The wedding timeline is shifting away from strict traditions and is now centered around significance,” she shares.
Expect couples this season to forego the traditional aisle in favor of candlelit runways, serpentine aisles, curved seating and long tables.
“Think non-traditional arches, floating florals and ceremony lounges that feel like an elegant living room,” says Edwards.
Destination-Focused Settings
Couples are getting more and more creative with their venues each year, and 2026 will be no different.
Stefanie Grassley shares her perspective as co-owner of Tuscany’s Castello di Ristonchi. “Couples are choosing their destinations with more intention,” she says. “They are choosing venues that feel like a ‘world unto itself.’”
She defines these venues as “a single property where guests can stay, eat and celebrate to reduce logistics and elevate the sense of togetherness.”
At Valerie Joy Events, Edwards has had several high-end, destination-focused events. “More couples are turning travel into the event: cliffside vows in California, desert soirées in Scottsdale and mountain backdrops like Montana & Wyoming,” she says. “Your location now is the design.”
Instead of a ballroom, consider a private home on the lake, a beachfront picnic or a candlelit woodland canopy.
Multi-Day Celebrations
Who says your wedding has to last only a few hours? This year, many couples are planning multi-day celebrations over the course of the week or weekend.
As co-owner of Tuscany’s Castello di Ristonchi for the past nine years, Stefanie Grassley has hosted multi-day wedding celebrations for couples from the U.S., the U.K. and across Europe. She shares, “Multi-day celebrations are becoming the standard for destination weddings. Welcome parties the day before with dress codes – think all white or all floral,” she suggests.
Don’t forget about the day after the reception, Grassley says. “Couples aren't just having a farewell brunch anymore, they are extending the party by an entire extra day! The Recovery Day consists of a late brunch, a pool party with bar and music and lots of fun pool inflatables, maybe a relaxed BBQ or a cooking class and wine tasting.”
“Couples want a full multi-day experience that helps guests bond and feel truly hosted,” she adds.
Themed welcome receptions, post-wedding brunches and curated activities for guests are all ways to spend time with your family before and after your wedding when things are a little calmer.
Intimacy Rules
A blowout wedding isn’t for everyone.
Many couples are choosing micro-weddings for a private, easily Instagrammable ceremony. In fact, almost half of all weddings today consider a wedding with under 50 guests.
“Smaller guest lists = bigger impact,” says Edwards. “Think chef-curated meals, personalized vows, and luxury experiences for each attendee. The smaller the wedding, the more you can maximize your budget on catering, experiences, and event design.”
It not only makes the budget far more manageable but also gives you more room for personalized touches.
“I specialize in smaller, intentional events and elopements, and the trend that I've seen more lately into 2026 is couples splitting time between a smaller ceremony, either just the two of them or with a select group of loved ones, and a larger event later,” says Kaitlyn Holeman, a professional photographer, videographer and owner of Skyewater Photo + Film.
“Couples have more recently emphasized how much they love that there's flexibility now to find a compromise that feels more authentic and fun than feeling pressured to fit all their ideas into one day or one location,” Holeman explains. “It's also great for couples who struggle to decide whether to elope vs. have a traditional wedding. A multi-day wedding seems like the best of both worlds.”
International Weddings
Only 31% of weddings today are destination weddings; however, that number is growing.
International weddings have been a popular wedding trend, but the top destinations can change from year to year. In addition to mainstays like Mexico, Jamaica and Costa Rico, some new locations are topping the list for international weddings in 2026.
- Kyoto, Japan
- Seville, Spain
- Provence, France
- Marrakesh, Morocco
- Corfu, Greece
- Courmayeur, Italy
- Cape Town, South Africa
Wherever you choose, a private hotel or resort overseas can turn your wedding into a multi-day celebration with your nearest and dearest.
The Vibe
This season, it’s all about quiet luxury. Renaissance and fine art-inspired decor whispers the romance of yesteryear, blending timeless elegance with a modern update for your wedding.
Metallics Rule
Given the heavy Victorian influences this season, shimmery silver, pewter and chrome are sure to dominate.
“Bronze, pewter, rose gold,” Edwards imagines, “but tastefully layered with soft neutrals or lush greenery so it feels custom.”
“There’s a clear shift away from decor that feels overly polished or performative,” observes Raphaëlle Granger, an internationally published wedding photographer working across North America and Europe. “Couples are drawn to materials with character, aged metals, vintage elements [and] layered textures, because they soften spaces and make them feel welcoming rather than intimidating.”
Consider tableware such as china and servingware with scalloped edges and shell motifs, complemented by candelabras and fine art frames.
“Heirlooms are making a big comeback: antique tableware, repurposed glassware and curated lounge furniture with stories behind each piece,” says Edwards. “I am also seeing clients wanting an 1800s-inspired event: think the Victorian Era.”
She Sells Seashells
Seashells are a popular trend for 2026 weddings, making an appearance as place cards or as an accent on your buffet for your bite-sized hors d’oeuvres.
The seaside vibe doesn’t have to be “beachy,” either, Edwards explains. “Expect sculptural shells paired with rich textures like suede, linen, and raw wood.”
Indulgent Fabrics
Billowy draping, ruched satins and exaggerated textiles are all in high demand.
“Indulgent fabrics like velvet, silk and draping are being used to shape rooms emotionally,” says Granger. “Even large venues are designed to feel contained and intimate, supporting conversation and connection.”
Edwards agrees. “Velvet runners, silk draping and boucle lounge seating bring a cozy richness that’s both photogenic and tactile.”
Cozy Ambiance
Warm lighting gives the room an intimate glow, playing up the luxurious setting. Think low lighting, like antique table lamps with lots of candlelight scattered about.
“Lighting is no longer an afterthought, it is the moment,” says Edwards, who suggests floating chandeliers, clusters of lighting and candelabras.
Interactive Receptions
Couples are getting their guests involved with fun touches that reflect their personalities and preferences. This can include handwritten notes at each place setting, custom craft cocktail bars, an oyster ice sculpture and favors that double as keepsakes.
“Guests are gravitating toward immersive, interactive experiences,” comments Lisa Ivler, a New Jersey-based wedding and event planner and owner of Lisa Ivler Events.
She shares some examples. “Strolling photo booths, live musicians like saxophonists moving through the crowd, statement flower walls and hands holding champagne built into the design all help create energy and surprise.”
The Dress
The Renaissance spirit continues here. With an air of romance, 2026 dresses unveil thoughtful, feminine details like delicate lace, satin buttons, statement bows, bubble hems and elaborate draping with soft silk and chiffon.
And that’s not all.
Corset Dresses
Corsets are making a comeback, highlighting structured bodices and basque waists and creating a striking hourglass silhouette with Victorian influences.
“We are seeing intricate details, such as corset-laced backs, where stylists are now being hired for the wedding day to properly dress the bride in this style,” shares Katzias. “It's all about capturing the essence of old charm while flattering any figure, regardless of shape or size.”
Drop Waist Dresses
Drop waists ruled the runways for the 2026 wedding season, bringing back 2000s couture with a dropped waistline that is a little more understated than the V-shaped basque waist.
“Expect elongated lines and effortless motion perfect for ceremonies and dancing,” says Edwards.
Catch the Light
Sparkly, shimmery details make 2026 wedding dresses shine with crystal details, glittered tulle, metallic accents and sequin overlays.
“Beads, subtle sequins, and ethereal tulle bring dimension without overwhelming,” explains Edwards. “If it catches the light, it’s in.”
Party-Ready
No longer is it about the dress, but rather, the dresses. Many brides are choosing a statement look for their ceremony before changing into a party dress for their reception.
“Brides are embracing multiple looks throughout the day,” comments Ivler of Lisa Ivler Events. “A bold, dramatic gown for the ceremony and reception is often followed by a second, shorter dress for late-night dancing or the after-party.”
Granger adds, “Multiple wedding looks now function like chapters in a story. Each outfit reflects a shift in energy throughout the day rather than a need for spectacle.”
Inspired by Nature
Brides this year are opting for a natural palette, choosing sage, terracotta, mocha and cappuccino for bridesmaids' dresses.
“Our designs are embracing a moody tone!” exclaims Katzias of Irene + Co Events. “We are loving the incorporation of a cozy, intimate feeling through the use of deep greens, mauves, and merlot.”
“The dramatic yet feminine touch pays homage to a historic time in many ways,” she explains.
‘As people increasingly seek familiarity, stillness, and calm, these New England historic colors are coming into play more often than most realize.”
The Jewels
The vintage vibe continues on, leading into 2026 jewelry trends with an ode to the Renaissance era.
Minimalist Pieces
With today’s dresses featuring bold accents, brides are opting for minimalist pieces like delicate necklaces and basic studs, rather than the intricate, ornate jewelry of years past.
“Many modern wedding dresses already make a big statement: be it bold beading, unusual fabrics or asymmetrical details,” says Shirlene Tsang, Co-Founder of OBJKTS Jewelry. “If a bride is leaning toward a more understated look, she may want to allow her dress to speak for itself by opting for simple accessories, like dainty chain necklaces and adornments, small stud earrings or thin gold bangles.”
Personal Details
Personalized jewelry is key this year, offering a one-of-a-kind look through the addition of charms, initials and pendants that hold special meaning.
“This wedding season is all about personalization,” says Tsang. “Brides, straying from one-size-fits-all pieces, are picking out jewelry that tells their stories, adding meaningful charms, weaving in initials or having customized items designed that they can treasure forever.”
If you prefer to make a statement with your jewelry, vintage filigree and milgrain details are also extremely popular this season as an ode to the past.
Colorful Hues
Bright gemstones and layered metals make a subtle statement, providing a breathtaking accent to more understated looks.
While traditional bridal jewels have usually stuck to a formula of all-white metals and clear diamonds, a growing number feature colorful gemstones and mixed metals. These combinations also pair nicely with the bold shadow and accent lip trends, where sapphire earrings might elevate a flash of blue eyeliner.
Custom Style
Today’s brides are skipping the big jewelry chains and instead opting for custom pieces. Engraved and custom-designed pieces are popular for a keepsake that will stand the test of time.
Tsang explains, “In the current jewelry market, there are lots of affordable options that put custom and semicustom designs within financial reach. What’s most important is crafting something that feels unique to you, and that will be the start of a collection of wedding jewelry that you’ll wear for years to come.”
The Glamour
There is a lot of flexibility with your hair and makeup, with both natural and more daring looks dominating today’s trends.
Bold Eyeshadow
Increasingly, brides are choosing colorful eyeshadow in vivid colors that stand out and make a statement. Blue is a popular choice with brides choosing eyeshadows and colored eyeliners that complement their wedding look. (Bonus: it also serves as your something blue!)
“Bold purple or blue eyeshadow, in particular, has been very popular for anchoring a look,” shares Dominique Tufa, Beauty Consultant and Founder of Global Makeup Awards. “To create a quietly elegant look, go for dewy skin, natural brows and soft matte shadows.”
A Timeless Look
If bold colors aren’t your thing, many brides are opting for a more traditional look with natural makeup. For this style, consider a lightweight look with dewy skin, natural brows, matte shadows and a nude lip.
“Brides want to look like themselves, albeit an enhanced version,” says Madeline Hall, Licensed Cosmetologist of Era Organics.
Accent Lips
Combine these two looks by pairing natural makeup with a bold lip. Put away the nudes and instead, opt for warm peaches, sweet pinks, bold berries or classic reds for a beautiful pop to an otherwise natural look.
“The accent lip technique, where the rest of the face is minimally made up, is my preferred method,” says Tufa. “It’s the perfect balance that reads so well on camera.”
“Today’s brides are stepping out of the box and choosing what speaks to who they really are, and that’s what excites me the most.”
Ocean-Swept Waves
Brides are wearing their hair down in silken waves or opting for gentle curls that create a natural, timeless look. Consider adding hair extensions to create fullness for an especially voluminous look.
“If brides are opting to wear their hair down, they’re going for soft, ocean-swept waves that feel romantic and classic but are still easygoing,” says Hall. “If someone does not naturally have the volume we need to create these kinds of flowing styles, I am using good extensions, but only when it helps to create the full cascading effect.”
Sleek Styles
Instead of big hair, many brides are securing their hair back in low buns, classy chignons and sleek ponytails that can withstand the humidity of outdoor weddings.
“For outdoor ceremonies, sleek, pulled-back looks like low buns, chignons or sleek ponytails are most popular,” shares Hall. “The through line between both of these trends is [that] they are intentional styles.”
“They look like they have been thoughtfully styled but not overwrought, which is what we are seeing across the board in bridal beauty this season.”
The Glow
Beauty prep is all about enhancing your natural beauty, whether it is well-hydrated, healthy skin or pearly white teeth for a picture-perfect smile.
Outer Glow
This era is all about the glow.
Brides are forgoing heavy glitter and highlighter for a natural look that plays up the skin’s natural glow. It’s all about dewy skin with delicate makeup that plays up your natural features for a healthy-looking complexion.
“I have noticed a real change in bridal beauty towards a more natural aesthetic,” says Hall. “Brides are not shying away from a glowing, dewy complexion, but they want their skin to look healthy and bright, not caked on.”
Regeneration
Brides are adding regenerative treatments and biostimulators to their wedding prep for a long-term effect that will carry well beyond their honeymoon. From jumpstarting collagen production to regenerating tissue growth, these treatments encourage a healthy look for your bridal beauty.
“The final piece of the puzzle: amping up your wedding-day glow in the most strategic way possible — and today, the bridal beauty arsenal is more high-tech than ever,” explains Dominique Tufa, Beauty Consultant and Founder of Global Makeup Awards.
“The biggest trend I’m picking up on is in the world of wedding-prep skin care, with brides investing in regenerative treatments and biostimulators months before their big day because they know good skin glows from the inside out,” she shares. “Collagen production and tissue regeneration have a lasting impact, and for the results to continue, so should your treatment schedule.”
Ecotin
Ecotin is the season’s newest craze, creating a splash as a natural amino acid derivative that increases hydration while reducing irritation and inflammation. It also protects against environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution.
“I’m excited to see that ingredients such as Ecotin are starting to trend in the same direction as the clean beauty movement,” says Hall, a clean beauty and hair expert. “As an avid reader of product formulations, I especially appreciate that it’s a natural amino acid derivative that boosts hydration while calming inflammation and protecting against environmental stressors.”
“Brides who prep their skin in the months leading up to the big day can achieve the lit-from-within glow themselves — no heavy highlighters required,” she adds.
Pearly Whites
Professional teeth whitening remains preferable to at-home treatments, offering immediate, longer-lasting results with more comfortable treatment.
Dr. Khalife, General Dentist and Owner of Lux Smiles NYC, explains the difference. “Due to the strength of its whitening agents, professional whitening can achieve incredible results in just one session that over-the-counter strips or trays won’t ever be able to match.”
“The procedure is more comfortable than it used to be and, most important, effective,” she adds. “The results last much longer than any over-the-counter treatment, so you can count on having a bright smile through your honeymoon and beyond.”
Invisalign
Invisalign remains the top choice for teeth straightening, helping you get your smile camera-ready.
“For brides who plan well ahead and are determined to achieve a perfect smile, Invisalign remains the gold standard,” says Dr. Khalife. “[Brides] want their smiles to match the beautiful, natural look of their makeup — to be something they want to show off, not hide.”
Newer technologies mean less noticeable trays and shorter treatment times. “Treatment times have also been dramatically reduced so that you can start six to nine months before your wedding and still have the smile of your dreams.”
“I remind my patients that your smile is one of the best investments you can make in the course of your wedding planning,” Dr. Khalife explains, “as it outlasts just about every other expense, lighting up every picture and anniversary celebration for decades to come.”
“Your smile is featured in almost every image of you, and is often the most notable feature that creates a lasting impression.”
The Vacay of a Lifetime
The honeymoon is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding. The stress is over, and now it’s time to relax.
With an average $6,500 honeymoon budget, only 23% of today’s honeymoons are domestic, with most couples reaching for their passports instead.
Honeyfund’s 2026 honeymoon destination rankings show Hawaii again topping the list, with Italy and Japan following. Interestingly, it is the first year Mexico has not placed in the top three destinations.
- Hawaii
- Italy
- Japan
- Florida
- Mexico
- Greece
- Jamaica
- Bahamas
- Tennessee
- Dominican Republic
“International weddings continue to rise, with couples wanting unique landscapes, heritage architecture, and a built-in cultural experience and vacation with their favorite people,” says Grassley of Castello di Ristonchi. “For American couples, many say they can have a multi-day wedding for the same price in Tuscany [as] a 6-hour event in their hometown.”
Bottom Line
Today’s bride is all about honoring the past while integrating modern accents. Wedding plans run the gamut from intimate courthouse elopements to tropical beach ceremonies and opulent ballroom receptions. 2026
