The Ultimate Guide to Bridal Fashion

Cover Photo by Karen Willis Holmes on Unsplash

It’s official—we are entering the 2022 wedding season. And this one promises to be bigger and better than ever before!

So many brides had to postpone or downsize their weddings over the past two years due to the pandemic. With restrictions lifting, wedding experts predict that 2022 will be one of the biggest years for weddings yet!

As we look forward to the upcoming wedding season, we’re keeping our eye on bridal fashion trends. Here are 10 wedding trends that are expected to make a huge splash in 2022.

1. Sleeves as accessories

Sleeves are no longer just part of the wedding gown; they’re an accessory in their own right! Detachable sleeves, intricate shoulder pieces, and even gloves are making an appearance in this year’s collections. Brides are using sleeves to express their personal sense of style, whether in over-the-top ways or through nods to the Old World.

2. Non-traditional styles

Bridal gowns have transformed over the years. In the post-pandemic world, we are witnessing another style shift. No longer are gowns the only option for wedding day attire. Jumpsuits, pantsuits, and two-piece ensembles are all the rage for both courthouse and venue weddings. 

3. Regency inspiration

For decades, brides have looked to contemporary pop culture for inspiration. In 2022, the influence of Bridgerton is in full force. For the past year, puffy sleeves dominated bridal fashion with no signs of slowing down. However, the visible corset and pearl accents are also rising in the ranks, largely due to this Netflix period drama. 

4. A pop of colour.

White weddings have been the norm for as long as anyone can remember. Fun fact: Queen Victoria is credited with popularizing the trend of the white gown at her own wedding in 1840. Since then, the trend has remained pretty constant. This year, other colours are entering the scene and making their mark on traditional wedding gowns. Some subtle shades like champagne, mocha, and blush have been around for years. But gowns in various colours and shades such as red or black are popular, too!

5. 2 (or more) looks

“Go big or go home” is the mantra for many 2022 brides who have waited through postponements to finally get their big day. In light of this, brides are opting to select two or more looks for their big days. Often, these brides will have a gown for their ceremony, and a shorter, more fashionable dress for the reception. These multi-outfit bridal looks are a great way to separate the events during the wedding day!

6. Sustainable fashion

All around, people are making moves to be more conscious about their impact on the environment. We’re seeing these decisions impacting the wedding industry, too. Upcycled, handmade, and vintage dresses are mainstream in this year’s bridal trends. Additionally, deadstock and organic fabrics are preferred by brides looking for a more eco-friendly approach to their big day!

7. Squared necklines

Yet another vintage callback is the squared neckline. The squared neckline trend is an obvious revival of the squared necklines common in Regency and Renaissance-era gowns. This old classic style can be switched up to fit whatever vibe you’re going for, whether it be romantic or sleek. No matter what you choose, this look is sure to wow guests!

8. Lace

Lace has been a trend that has ebbed in and out of favour with brides for years. In 2022, it’s making a huge comeback in a few ways. Delicate lace is a beautiful way to add a bit of romance or a fairytale vibe to a look. However, floral lace ties in the botanical trend in a beautiful way as well. A lot of brides are opting to add sheer lace over their skirts to create a multidimensional look with several layers.

9. 90s throwback

The 90s are back, baby! Nowhere do we see this fashion resurgence more than in wedding trends. 2022 brides are taking style tips from previous generations and leaning into more minimalist retro trends. The satin slip dress is particularly favoured among the chicest of brides. 

10. Colourful florals

Fun, colourful flowers aren’t just for bouquets! Floral accents have long been a popular choice for spring brides. But with these colourful prints and embellishments, floral is being done in a way that’s bigger and better than ever before. With a nod to the ever-popular cottagecore aesthetic, this trend has a very natural and earthy vibe. These gowns are simply perfect for living out all your garden party dreams.

Did we miss any 2022 bridal trends? Tell us in the comments which trend you’re excited to see this wedding season!