7 Wedding Dress Trends for 2023
Written by Lindsey Chronert
There’s so much focus around what to wear on your wedding day. Trying to find the perfect dress can be daunting. There are a ton of styles, techniques, designers, fabrics and looks. We’re going to help you block out some of that noise by highlighting some of the trends from the world’s top bridal designers. From researching Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week to scouring 2023 lookbooks, I’ve put together seven trends that we’ll see moving into 2023 and 2024.
If you’re shopping for your own dress, dreaming of your future engagement or just along for the ride, I hope this is a fun one for you. Enjoy!
Multiple Looks
There are plenty of opportunities to unveil more than one outfit—think welcome party, ceremony, wedding reception, dance floor and brunch the next day. Having multiple looks is something we’ll definitely see more of in 2023 and 2024. One of my favorite trends within a multiple look weekend is a bridal suit: sophisticated, modern and elegant. We’re also seeing more blazer-inspired jackets paired with a short party dress or long billowy trousers and a cropped top. Dresses are now styled with easy to remove extravagant bows, petticoat, sleeves or a cape for an easy multi-look in just the reception alone.
Necklines
We’re seeing a diversity of styles happening with necklines in 2023. Designs are featuring a square or straight neckline, strapless, or off-the shoulder gowns. Wedding dress trends are also continuing to show higher necklines or the demure mock neck. It feels classic, royal, modest and elegant.
Corset
Delicate and feminine gowns with body hugging silhouettes that accentuate the figure have always been in style, but the boudoir inspired corset bodice is trending strong and portrays an edgy but regal sophistication. Cat eye corsets and necklines, along with attention to detail in the embroidery, lace or beadwork are all popular in this style of torso.
Color & Prints
Many cultures embrace colors on their wedding day, so why not go bold! Many brides are stepping out of the pandemic wanting to do away with the traditional white norms. We’re seeing a lot of soft colors: honey, blush, periwinkle to corn flour blue, pastels, and peaches. We’re also seeing colorful floral prints hit the runway, for both your rehearsal or your big day. When you’re wearing a bold gown, keep the accessories minimal and let the gown speak for itself.
Unexpected fabrics & Attention to Detail
Tulle is having a big moment, whether it’s tiered or cascading. Beyond that, extravagant and unexpected fabrics are making a debut. Silk chiffon, taffeta, sheer layering, frothy tulle, and detailed lace. And when it comes to details, think hand-sewn jewels, crystals, and pearls. We’ve been seeing more 3-D effects and hand-embroidered appliques, especially when it comes to floral designs. Even the frill, lace, and feathers will be big next year.
A nod to the 90’s
As with all of our fashion trends, we’re seeing a nod to the 1990’s with the dress silhouettes. Gowns are exuding romance and rebellion with straight necklines, thigh-high slits, open backs, or a minimalist slip dress. With the 90’s look, let your jewelry shine. Big earrings are definitely in!
Maximalism
Bigger is better. Voluminous, extravagant, over the top, fairytale dresses are back. Ruffles, trains, big oversized skirts, balloon sleeves, flared sleeve. If we learned one thing stepping out of the pandemic is that we are stepping into big and bold personality when it comes to fashion trends.
Overall, we’re seeing vintage-meets-contemporary wedding dresses with notes of elegance, sophistication, romance, and couture-level attention to detail. Being in southern California, we’re lucky to have access to local San Diego boutiques like Dress Theory, White Flower and Grace Loves Lace. Orange County has great showrooms, including Monique Lhuiller in South Coast Plaza and Love & Lace Bridal Salon.
A few tips for kicking off the search for the ideal dress:
After reviewing the dresses above, which designers or styles are you drawn to? Lean into that, do research on those designers, styles or trends specifically.
Think about the other factors: location of where you’re getting married, budget, vibe you’re going for.
Create a Pinterest or start saving those styles you love.
Schedule an appointment with a boutique and share your inspiration.
Do your hair and make up before trying anything on. #confidence
Try on a handful of dresses at different boutiques. If you’re trying on more than 15-20 dresses with no luck, you may need to go back to the drawing board and get clear with what you want out of a dress.
Bring your #1 cheerleader to the appointment. Only invite the people who adore you and will support your decisions.
Say “yes” only when it feels 100% right.
Stay open minded and have fun!
