It’s wedding season and this year there is a lot to talk about. Despite the cost of living, weddings are still going ahead and with a bang too! So whether you’re just about to exchange vows or are planning an early autumn soiree in 2025, you’ll want to listen up because we’ve seen first-hand all the latest bridal trends sweeping the wedding world and the ones to pay attention to.
From breaking traditions to creating new ones, the return of old-school silhouettes, accessories, micro nuptials and a fresh focus on affordable style, the options are endless and perhaps a little overwhelming when it comes to planning a wedding. I’ve seen hundreds of new trends and details this year but to avoid adding to a new fiancé’s mental load, we’ve rounded up the top six taking the Australian wedding scene by storm. Read on and maybe open Pinterest too!
1. Bride Tribe
Despite bridal parties getting smaller or some choosing to forgo it, one of the most searched terms when it comes to weddings is bridesmaid dresses. Rather than the same dress for every member, this year brides are choosing to dress their posse in the same colour yet different silhouettes to add a little more interest and cater to different body shapes. Thankfully, brands like Sydney-based Runaway The label have the easiest, most affordable options to date launching six styles in seven trending colours, all for $159 each.
Shop the look: Runaway The Label Bridgitte Maxi Dress, $159 at Runaway The Label
2. Cinderella Moment
The most talked about shoe for Australian brides this year is the Raquel Mule in white patent from Lana Wilkinson. The stylist turned shoe designer has created the perfect peek-a-boo bridal photo opportunity with the heart motif over a transparent toe. This more modest shape takes the cake rather than a strappy stiletto but you’ll have to be quick as they sell out time and time again.
Shop the look: Lana Wilkinson Raquel Mule Heels, $239.95 at Lana Wilkinson
3. Anti-Bride
Looking for something off-beat and not the usual couture vibe? Australian fashion labels are taking the opportunity to release bridal capsules to capture this market of a more trendy, ready to wear moment rather than the traditional bridal look. Acler’s bridal collection, crafted with unique design elements and a sleek silhouette, is perfect for those in between moments, a second dress or low-key bride.
Shop the look: Acler Dress Grangecourt Maxi Dress, $550 at Acler
Furthermore, size-inclusive label, City Chic has also just launched their debut Bridal Collection, First Impressions designed for the fashion-forward curvy bride. Featuring 5 bridal dresses and a capsule of bridesmaid and event dresses in sizes 12-24, it’s a more wallet-friendly choice too.
Shop the look: City Chic Evangalista Dress, $299.95 at City Chic
4.Something New
Something new, borrowed or blue isn’t on a modern brides radar anymore- it’s often ticked off without even knowing. One of those new items is usually jewellery to help finish off the look. Whether it’s for your special day, hen-do or anything in between these Sydney-based jewellery brands have created accessible bridal collections that you won’t need extra budget for. Try Alana Maria’s ‘With Love’ collection for a chunky pearl moment or Saint Valentine’s, dainty drop earrings for a classic bridal look.
Shop the look: Alana Maria Lulu Necklace, $129 at Alana Maria and Alana Maria Elaine Earrings, $199 at Alana Maria
Shop the look: Saint Valentine Sloane Drop Earrings, $185 Saint Valentine
5. Accessorise, accessorise!
Vintage-style additions are making a comeback in a big way. From capes and gloves to pearls and detachable bows, accessories are outweighing the big statement gown this year. We suggest a simple dress and adding these extras to get that on-trend look without the luxury price tag. Thanks to brands like Shona Joy and their new bridal collection, these additions are affordable and accessible.
Shop the look: Shona Joy Lucero Bow, $480 at Shona Joy
Shop the look: Shona Joy Luminous Lace Gloves, $220 at Shona Joy
6. Return Of Black Tie
The elegance of a black-tie dress code has returned, with loads of weddings this year opting for this guest detail to create a more luxe feel on the day. For a while, casual dress codes were the norm, especially in Australia so this trend feels fresh and an exciting opportunity to look and feel your best. Wondering whether you can wear black? A formal dress code like black-tie means you can wear darker, moodier hues as long as the length is midi to full length. Need some inspiration? Aje and Meshki have our hearts when it comes to wedding guest dresses.
Shop the look: Aje Violette Bubble Hem Maxi Dress, $745 at Aje
Shop the look: Meshki Larissa Satin Maxi Dress With Ruched Petals, $239 at Meshki
