The Modern Bride: How Brides Are Looking to Stand Out

Weddings have always been a momentous occasion, a celebration of love, but in recent years, the idea of the “traditional” wedding has evolved. Brides are now more than ever embracing individuality, pushing boundaries, and redefining what it means to say “I do.” The modern bride isn’t just looking for a fairytale gown, she’s curating an experience that speaks to her style and individuality.

Let’s dive into the exciting bridal trends taking centre stage, and see how brides are drawing inspiration from high fashion, celebrity looks, and bold choices.

Gone are the days of off the rack wedding gowns being the only option. More and more brides are opting for bespoke, custom made creations. With couture designers like Vivienne Westwood making waves in the bridal fashion scene, the modern bride is saying goodbye to cookie cutter dresses and hello to one of a kind pieces.

Expect to see more alternative fabrics, like metallic silks, luxurious velvet, and even bespoke patterns.

While white and ivory will always have a place in bridal fashion, there’s a noticeable shift towards colour. Brides in 2025 are experimenting with everything from soft pastels like blush pink and lavender to bolder hues like emerald green and royal blue.

Another exciting shift is the rise of textured fabrics, with layers of tulle, lace, or even fringe becoming popular choices. Whether it’s a statement sleeve or a 3D floral appliqué, texture allows brides to stand out with added visual interest. Brides like Kourtney Kardashian have leaned into the high impact statement, with her Gothic inspired wedding attire featuring a velvet gown adorned with lace details and a dramatic veil.

The modern bride is all about embracing diversity and inclusivity, and this is reflected in the growing trend of gender fluid bridal wear. Many brides are opting for suits instead of dresses, while others are choosing tailored trousers, jumpsuits, or even blazers as part of their bridal ensemble.

This trend isn’t just for brides who don’t identify with traditional femininity, it’s also a great option for brides looking to add an avant garde twist.

As sustainability becomes a core value for many couples, brides are turning to eco conscious options when it comes to their wedding attire. From vintage gowns and second hand couture to dresses crafted with sustainable materials, the modern bride is considering the environmental impact of her wedding day look.

Take Meghan Markle’s wedding dress as an example, while her gown was undeniably classic, it was also designed with a sustainable ethos in mind. The dress was created by Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy and Meghan wore a veil that was an heirloom piece, pure silk, incredibly detailed and decorative.

Brides are choosing to personalise their looks with statement jewellery, unique headpieces, and even floral crowns that make a statement of their own. From tiaras reimagined with vintage flair, to large, asymmetrical earrings, accessories are adding an element of intrigue to wedding attire.

Lily Collins wedding dress featured French Calais Caudry lace adorned with Swarovski beaded flowers and silk organza petals with a matching cathedral length lace cape with a stand out cloak style hood, adding a touch of elegance and drama to her ensemble.

Who says a bride has to wear a dress? The bridal jumpsuit is one of the most exciting trends of 2025, offering an elegant, modern twist on the traditional gown. Many brides are opting for sleek, tailored jumpsuits that give them the freedom to move while still looking chic.

Solange Knowles was a trendsetter in this department when she wore a white jumpsuit for her wedding in 2014, and since then, the look has continued to gain traction. Designers like Zuhair Murad and Chloé have incorporated jumpsuits into their bridal collections, creating elegant options for brides who want to keep their wedding attire fresh, bold, and functional.

For the modern bride, it’s not just about the dress, it’s about the experience. Couples in 2025 are increasingly choosing unconventional wedding venues. Think rooftop ceremonies, destination elopements, and even intimate affairs at art galleries or museums. With these non-traditional venues comes a more relaxed, free spirited approach to the ceremony itself, where the focus is placed on the couple rather than adhering to age-old rituals.

Brides like Hailey Bieber have embraced the simplicity of small, intimate ceremonies, making a statement with minimalist wedding dresses that are perfect for a low-key but still extraordinary affair.

The modern bride is no longer bound by the constraints of traditional bridal expectations. From colourful and couture gowns to sustainable choices and gender fluid designs, today’s brides are truly making their weddings their own. Whether they’re drawing inspiration from celebrities or creating their own path, brides are standing out by embracing their individuality, and that’s what makes them so unforgettable.