Photography: August Kseniya, Morip Project
Newly engaged and already knee-deep in Pinterest boards, planners, and venue scouting? The thrill of possibility is intoxicating, but the sheer volume of inspiration can quickly turn into noise. That’s where we step in. Consider this your compass: THE WED's forecasted trends for 2026, created to help you cut through the clutter and carve out a vision that’s fresh, refined, and unmistakably yours. We’ve partnered with the industry’s most daring visionaries and tastemakers to reveal what will be shaping weddings in the year ahead. From fashion that rewrites the rules, to florals that double as sculptural art, and photography that blurs into pure cinema, here is your first look at the defining wedding trends of 2026.
Photography: Rozalina Pro, Natalia Gladkih
Event Design
Stainless Steel
2026 weddings will bring a new kind of metallic—forget warm brass and romantic gold, the cool, futuristic charm of stainless steel is stepping into the spotlight. Mallorca-based event design and styling studio Otro Cantar notes: “We’re seeing a strong move towards using inox in tableware, vases, and even floral elements. Its sleek, modern aesthetic is becoming a key feature in contemporary wedding design.”
Rrotatorr
FLOVER NYC
Ane Christensen
FLOVER NYC
Jil Zander / Photography: Jonathan Rodrigo
Rains / Photography: Creative Collective
Themed Weddings
In 2026, weddings are about to get a major glow-up with novelty themes reimagined through an experience driven lens and design-savvy mind. Think medieval-inspired celebrations with folklorish symbolism, circus maximalism laced with couture-level theatrics, golden age glamour a Riviera-casino flair, bohemian soirees with a festival feel, or entirely unexpected themes that speak to you and your partner's shared passions. Guests arrive in costume, music is curated to set the mood, and every element from décor to food and cocktails, leans into the concept, turning the celebration into a fully immersive world of its own. Let your imagination run wild!
Marin Montagut / Photography: Marguat Gayet
Open the Door Events / Photography: Joy Zamora
Addison Ross Home
Cobalt Blue
If there’s one color set to have a main-character moment in 2026 weddings, it’s cobalt blue. Electric, modern, and impossible to ignore, this shade is forecasted to become one of the year’s most defining signatures. “We expect rich tones like chocolate brown and burgundy to remain strong, with cobalt blue emerging as an exciting accent color for the season,” predicts event design studio Otro Cantar.
The F Lab / Photography: KT Marry
Ann Burtseva / Photography: Shumov Denis
Wagner Kreusch
Cube Studio
Mango
Balenciaga
Immersive Landscapes
Landscapes will become the ultimate canvas for wedding design in 2026. Rather than competing with nature, couples are expected to let it take center stage, framing celebrations within its natural drama. As Spain-based planners La Federica explain: “More and more, the landscape itself becomes the main character of the design. Mediterranean gardens, coastal cliffs, or even untamed fields serve as the backdrop—enhanced only with subtle, editorial layers that highlight rather than hide what’s already there.” Brazilian wedding photographer Ale Bigliazzi sees the same movement from behind the lens, noting that 2026 will bring more celebrations in singular, meaningful locations: “We will have more weddings in unique locations. Couples are seeking something unique and connected to their own personal values.”
Purple Penguin / Photography: Jad Flayhan Weddings
Buro Event / Photography: Egor Zabarovky
TKD 210
Tropical Weddings
Jacquemus-worthy tropical weddings are predicted to surge in 2026, with Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, Hawaii and more lush destinations becoming sought-after backdrops. Designs will draw directly from the raw beauty of the landscapes, embracing exotic fruit and floral varieties, natural materials, and bold color palettes that reflect the vibrant surroundings. The vibe is barefoot and couture—laid-back in spirit, but elevated in execution.
The F Lab / Photography: KT Marry
Byv Studio
Cube Studio
Bash Please / Photography: Kristen Marie Parker
Dada Island
Jacquemus
Bold Color
The bolder the palette, the better, that’s the unofficial motto of 2026 celebrations. After years of muted neutrals and “timeless” palettes, couples are craving vibrancy and unapologetic joy. Think spaces clothed in a singular monochromatic hue, tablescapes bursting with pops of eye catching color, and bold drapery dripping in saturated tones. So what color to choose? Check out the top colors forecasted for 2026 to get you started
The Attico / Photography: Gesualdo Lanza
Tables London
We Are Ona / Photography: Laurent Giannesini
Flowers
Arts & Crafts
Compositions with a creative edge and avant-garde spirit are expected to grow even bigger in 2026. “2025 was the year of the vintage, nostalgic aesthetic. 2026 will be all about an avant-garde feeling—really artsy and unexpected floral installations. Think art pieces rather than props, unexpected shapes, daring color choices, and designs that feel more like a gallery opening than a garden party,” says Oh, Maria Flores. That vision is echoed by design and styling studio Otro Cantar, who notes that “couples are increasingly looking for floral designs with character—unique, artistic pieces that become small works of art in their own right.”
For the florist team at PHKA, this shift feels like a thrilling opportunity for couples to express thier individuality. “What will distinguish one wedding from another are the crafty little details tailored to a couple’s preferences.”
Clemence Ryo
Hai Ihwa
Katarina Shukshina
Loam Studio
PHKA
FLOVER NYC
Sculptural Installations
One of the most exciting floral trends gaining attention in 2026 is the rise of sculptural installations. These high-impact compositions transform florals from mere decoration into statements. Wedding Planners La Federica share “Florals are moving away from sheer abundance toward form. We’re seeing flowers treated almost as sculptures—pieces that play with negative space, raw textures, and unexpected shapes. They interact with the architecture and landscape, becoming part of the setting rather than just an addition.”
Portugal-based flower design studio Oh, Maria Flores adds: “I’m seeing a move from the big tablescape moment to one or two jaw-dropping installations that set the tone for the whole day and get guests talking long after the wedding.”
Twisted Florals
In 2026, more couples will be saying “yes” to twisted stems and curly centerpieces. Playful, twisted floral compositions bring a sense of motion to the tablescape, adding rhythm and depth to what can otherwise feel like a static scene. The beauty of twisted blooms is in their dynamic quality—they bend, curl, and spiral in ways that feel organic yet artistic.
Castor
CARO
Regil Sisters / Photography: Alex Shevtsov
Nine Kole
Oh, Maria Flores / Photography: The Vernacular Photography
Fedotova Alena
Lotus Flowers
With the rising love for tropical weddings, lotus pods and flowers are forecasted to become a go-to pick for bouquets and floral compositions in 2026. Valued for their unique, sculptural shape and earthy texture, lotus pods add a quirky, unexpected touch to centerpiece arrangements. The lotus flower itself, with its layered petals and symbolic resonance, brings both drama and meaning.
Stationery
Mixed Metals
Unique materials for stationery? A resounding yes in 2026. Couples are moving beyond traditional paper, experimenting with metals and other tactile elements that transform invitations and day-of details into keepsakes. Looking ahead, NoNaked Design anticipates a rise in tactile, material-driven stationery: “NoNaked was created from the desire to pair traditional paper stationery with other materials, and this approach is only growing in popularity. Think ceramics, metals, fabrics, and unexpected textures—all reimagined into beautiful wedding pieces that go far beyond paper.”
EL AMOR Productions / Photography: Symphony of Light
NoNaked Design
CC-Steding
Signed by Shaun
Jordan Schiffer
Calika
Bold Palettes
No longer a quiet accent, color is predicted to drive the personality of the suite with bold, expressive energy. “Couples are no longer holding back: color is central to their wedding identity,” says Both. “From striking accents like red foil to fully saturated palettes across a suite, color drives the design rather than playing a supporting role. Invitations do more than announce the day; they set the mood and hint at the celebration to come.”
Both
Byv Studio
One Mimosa Please
Statement Shapes
Expect 2026 wedding stationery to be anything but square, with more couples leaning into sculptural suites and unique shapes that add depth, novelty, and individuality to their invitations. “Couples are choosing bold, custom shapes, die-cuts, and layered designs. Each piece is beautiful on its own, but even more powerful as part of a complete suite—invitation, detail, and RSVP card—working together as a cohesive, elevated experience,” share New York design duo Both, who forsee stationery transforming into a design experience rather than a formality.
Both
White Day / Photography: Aleksa Kapustina
La Robe Club / Photography: Georgia Burns
Evergreen Press
Iris and Marie
Swell Press
Designer Typography
In 2026, expect to see fashion and design-driven typography—elevated, yet intentional. As designers at Both describe: “Suites take cues from fashion magazines and contemporary art: clean, editorial, and intentional. Typography is designed to breathe, with generous white space and thoughtfully considered layouts. Cursive fonts are out; bold, modern type transforms each invitation into a work of art.”
Goods Gang
MAKTUBI
Studio More Human
Cakes & Catering
Sculptural Cakes
Cake or...? In 2026, cakes will be double-take worthy: is it art, or is it edible? (Spoiler: it’s both.) “The biggest trend we’re forecasting is definitely sculptures,” says Berlin-based cake artist Atelier Flora. “What’s already established in floral art will also be a big theme in the presentation of food and cakes. 2026 will bring sculptural dessert buffets and cakes. By integrating into the overall table setting, what may not be perceived as food at first glance can later be enjoyed with all the senses.”
Vegemamma
Love & Sweets
Cake Opera Co.
Sophia Stolz / Photography: Antonia Mayer
Vegemamma
Vegemamma
Monogrammed Food
Take cue from fashion's greats and monogram literally eveything. Predicted to takeover 2026 weddings, couples will extend personalization beyond paper, slapping their initials or custome monogram across textiles, décor, and even food. Stationery and design studio NoNaked Design explains: “Personalization has gone far beyond invitations and menus—couples are now branding everything. From hats to pool towels, food, silk scarves, matchboxes, and more, no detail is too small. The sky truly is the limit when it comes to making every wedding element feel custom.”
Disco Cubes
Daniel Molina
Jacquemus
Interactive Service
The next standing ovation at a wedding might just be for the dining experience. Joy Zamora notes: “Gourmet dinners are no longer simply served; they’re staged as interactive journeys, with unexpected pairings, sensory elements, and live culinary theater that turn the meal into a shared performance.”
Ilona Bilchuk / Photography: Pavel Golubnichy
Julie Rothhahn / Photography: David Hugonot Petit
Julie Rothhahn / Photography: David Hugonot Petit
We Are Ona / Photography: Ali Valdez
We Are Ona / Photography: Ali Valdez
Julie Rothhahn / Photography: Jordan Sapally
Edible Lace & Crochet
The boho revival is making its way into cakes, too. One of the upcoming trends cake artist Atelier Flora anticipates for 2026 is edible lace and crochet-inspired textures—delicate, intricate designs that blur the line between pastry and textile.
Lemon Tree Cakes
Atelier Flora
Jagodowo Mi / Photography: Bucholce
Planning
Immersive Experiences
The concept of “immersion” is set to define 2026 celebrations, transforming weddings from styled events into full-scale sensory journeys. “Luxury weddings in 2026 are no longer just beautiful to look at—they’re designed to be felt, heard, tasted, and remembered through every sense,” forecasts Spain-based wedding photographer Joy Zamora. “The focus is shifting from static aesthetics to immersive guest experiences, where décor becomes an environment rather than a backdrop, and every detail is orchestrated to draw people deeper into the celebration. This shift reflects a deeper cultural change in luxury events—away from formality for formality’s sake, toward celebrations that feel personal, fluid, and alive. Guests aren’t passive observers; they’re participants in a curated experience, where every moment has been considered not just for how it will look, but for how it will feel.”
Planners at La Federica expand on this idea, emphasizing that couples are redefining luxury in more intimate and intentional terms. “They value time, space, and meaning shared with their closest circle. Guest counts are getting smaller, and multi-day gatherings are becoming the standard, with every detail considered and intentional.”
Kraak / Photography: La Dichosa
Erased Studio / Photography: Eline Willaert
Roldan Milan / Photography: Efege
Serebro / Photography: Tatyana Sozonova
Celebrate It Now / Photography: August Kseniya
La Federica / Photography: Ivan Ladejo
Personalized Timelines
The rhythm of the wedding day is breaking free from tradition, unfolding more like a story than a schedule. For 2026, photographer Joy Zamora predicts that wedding timelines will look less rigid and far more fluid. “The cocktail hour is no longer a fixed point between ceremony and reception. Couples are experimenting with non-linear timelines: a flowing sequence where music, dining, ceremony, and party intertwine. It’s not unusual for a celebration to begin with dancing, pause for vows in the midst of a golden-hour set, then slip seamlessly back into the pulse of the night.”
Pasion / Photography: Joy Zamora
Cordero Atelier / Photography: Dias de Vino Y Rosas
Place of LB / Photography: Jack Henry
Unique Activities
Guest activities in 2026 are expected to become more interactive, creative, and personal than ever. Think tattoo bars, bracelet-making stations, tarot readings, and disposable cameras placed at every table to capture the night from the guest’s POV. “Destination weddings are evolving into mini private festivals," note planners at The Wedding Bliss Thailand. “Guests are hosted for 3–4 days of curated experiences — sunrise yoga on the beach, local culinary workshops, sunset cruises. Each day reveals a new facet of the couple’s world, blending travel and celebration.”
Simone Rocha
Wedding Bliss Thailand / Photography: BMSN
Caroline Kinsey
Andrea Savall
Nous Nous
Wedding Artwork
New Luxury
Luxury in weddings is no longer defined solely by scale or spectacle. Instead, 2026 is predicted to bring a new vision of opulence—one that values artistry, individuality, and atmosphere over convention. “For the past decade, luxury has often meant scale: champagne towers reaching for the ceiling, jewelry catching every flash, and sprawling castles as the ultimate stage. In 2026, a quiet but powerful shift is emerging—couples are redefining what ‘luxury’ means, moving away from pure opulence toward risk, personality, and creative audacity,” shares photographer Joy Zamora. “2026 will bring weddings that stand out for their singular vision: an unpolished warehouse filled with avant-garde floral installations, a dawn ceremony on a remote cliffside, a reception in an artist’s studio where guests wander between easels and live painting. The focus is on meaning, atmosphere, and an unforgettable sense of place, not on ticking the boxes of traditional prestige. By stepping away from the traditional symbols of luxury, these weddings feel more intimate, more immersive, and, paradoxically, more precious.”
The Wedding Bliss Thailand see a similar approach. “Couples are commissioning details on the same level as haute couture—embroidered linens, monogrammed tableware, hand-painted dance floors. It’s not just customized, it’s created as something singular and lasting.”
Alice Wilkes / Photography: Ha Nguyen
Parker’s Pictures
Otro Cantar / Photography: The Brothers Martens
Photograpy, Videography &
Content Creation
Mixed Media
Mixed media is set to become the new language of wedding storytelling in 2026. Australian wedding photographers and filmmakers at Dear Vincent explain: “A majority of luxury photographers are now shooting mixed media, and we’re about to see that bridge into wedding filmmaking. Lo-fi photography aesthetics are seeping into motion work—as brides from the noughties generation step into the aisle, expect a resurgence of handycams, DV tapes, and raw, nostalgic textures blended with high-end cinematography.”
The result, as photographer Joy Zamora observes, is a fascinating mix: “In 2026, the lines between wedding photography and cinematography are dissolving faster than ever. We’re seeing a fascinating mix emerge: the nostalgic grain and softness of Super 8 film or vintage camcorders, woven seamlessly with the immediacy of iPhone clips captured in the moment. It’s not just about variety for variety’s sake—it’s about crafting a narrative with multiple textures, so couples can relive their day in ways that feel both timeless and right-now. The power of this hybrid mindset is that it frees the couple from having to choose one perspective. It celebrates the day as it truly was—layered, complex, and full of contrasts—and honors the idea that memory lives not in a single frame, but in a symphony of them.”
Unique Compositions
2026 will bring wedding galleries filled with uniquely composed, high-fashion, editorial-inspired shots. Expect split-focus portraits, dramatic perspectives, and creative angles that give timeless moments a sense of depth and boundary-pushing edge.
Briars Atlas
Romanova Photography
La Dichosa
Briars Atlas
Efege Photo
The Ferros
The ‘Less is More’ Movement
Luxury wedding photography is entering a quieter, more intentional phase. “In today’s world of saturated media, luxury photographers are slowing down,” notes the team at Dear Vincent. “Many are trading high-speed, high-volume shooting for slower, more intentional tools like Leicas and medium format cameras. This shift fosters images with depth, patience, and artistic intention — and we expect the same philosophy to influence wedding filmmaking, bringing a more deliberate pace and refined visual language to moving images.”
Documentary Style
In 2026, documentary wedding photography is about to thrive like never before. Think less posing, more living—with guests playing an active role in the story. New York wedding photography duo Love Bears explains: “Guests are increasingly becoming participants rather than spectators, and we focus on capturing interaction-driven moments—like laughter at a live cooking station, dancing with roaming musicians, or the intimacy of bespoke gifting experiences.”
That sense of realness is carrying into videography and content creation, too. Olivia & Living Event Content says: “Delving further into documentary and vlog-style content creation, with more real-time voice overlays and organic background noises utilized during the editing process.” Australian photographer Jack Henry elaborates "Content creators are going to become even bigger, it's more raw and real than traditional photography. It won’t replace photography, at least not straight away, but it will become just as important.”
Dos Mas En La Mesa
Ale Bigliazzi
Dos Mas En La Mesa
Love Bears
Kristin Piteo
Stas Moiseev
Cinema-Worthy Films
Wedding films in 2026 are expected to take a more narrative-driven turn, moving beyond glossy highlight reels toward edits that unfold as fully realized stories. As Dear Vincent anticipates, “Instead of purely aesthetic highlight reels, couples will lean into narrative-led edits that incorporate cinematic techniques like foreshadowing, callbacks, and emotional resolutions. Expect films that unfold in acts—setting up the anticipation, building tension and intimacy, and delivering a satisfying emotional close—creating a wedding film that feels like a true cinematic journey.”
Nostalgia Rules
2026 will be defined by reinterpretations of eras and aesthetics. Rather than sticking to a single look, couples are expected to draw inspiration from different time periods and reimagine them in modern, meaningful ways. California-based wedding content creator Little Nostalgic Moments forecasts: “We’ll see more couples embracing vintage media, capturing their day on Super 8 film or home-style camcorders to create wedding films that feel deeply personal and nostalgic.”
As couples embrace vintage media, Australian wedding videographer John Kurt believes this will translate into a stronger focus on authenticity: “Camcorders, Super 8, and nostalgic formats will become more popular, with a focus on genuine connections with family and friends. More intimacy, less show. Storytelling that feels true, almost like leafing through old home movies and photo albums.”
Style
Shape Shifters
2026 will usher in bridal silhouettes that push beyond the expected, experimenting with form in bold, sculptural ways. Expect architectural intrigue around the body—exaggerated shoulders, accentuated hips, and curves reimagined with couture-like precision.
Quine Li
Tatyana Kochnova
Nicklas Skovgaard
Tess van Zalinge / Photography: Jasper Abels
Danielle Frankel from LOHO Bride
Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen / Photography: Camila Falquez
Corseted Separates
The corset will step out of the gown and into the spotlight as a stand-alone piece, giving brides sculptural elegance on the aisle and wearable versatility after. “While corsets have been in for a while now, we’re seeing separates heat up, especially drop-waisted ones,” shares LA luxury bridal boutique LOHO Bride. “Brides are loving that they can wear the tops again for their anniversary, which has been a cool and sustainable approach to their wedding looks.”
KYHA
Isabel Sanchis
Danielle Frankel from LOHO Bride
Arts & Crafts
Crochet accents (or even complete crochet gowns), upcycled materials, 3D-printed elements, papier-mâché details—2026 is expected to embrace a more handcrafted, artisanal aesthetic. The more artisanal the look, the stronger the statement. “Something that excited us most at the bridal market this year was hand-painted veils and dresses. They truly make for wearable art,” shares LOHO Bride.
Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen
Les Fleurs
Jacquemus
Danielle Frankel from LOHO Bride
Zoe Gustavia Anna Whalen
XI SCORPII
Unique Waistlines
Bridal fashion in 2026 will put a fresh focus on the waistline. “Basque and dropped waists have been gaining popularity for the past few seasons, but in 2026 we’re also going to see more styles that add a sense of drama and a feeling of couture,” notes luxury bridal fashion stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz.
Margot
Danielle Frankel from LOHO Bride
Marmar Halim
One-of-a-Kind Looks
Brides will increasingly pursue one-of-a-kind fashion moments, choosing pieces that speak to individuality and expression. As Gabrielle Hurwitz emphasizes: “More and more brides are looking for that one-of-a-kind moment when it comes to their wedding wardrobe, whether that means working with a designer on something bespoke, finding the perfect vintage piece, or taking an existing design and tweaking it to make it uniquely their own.”
Claudia Twisk / Photography: Pablo Laguia
Ilya Migmoon / Photography: Misha Moon
Ilya Migmoon / Photography: Misha Moon
Ellie Misner / Photography: Alli Woods
Christopher Kane from Something White Styling
Super Yaya / Photography: Freda Banks
Something Borrowed
In 2026, the most stylish brides may be digging into the family closet. Passed-down gowns, worn untouched or cleverly reworked, bring nostalgia and intimacy to the wedding wardrobe.
Vintage Christian Dior / Photography: Pernille Haugen
Grace Lane London / Photography: Weddings By Lou
Happy Isles Salon styled by Gabrielle Hurwitz / Photography: Norman & Blake
Shoes & Accessories
Juliet Caps
The 2026 veil will take a Shakespearean turn with the comeback of the Juliet cap. “Rather than wearing a traditional veil, brides are leaning into the Juliet cap, referencing Kate Moss’s 2011 wedding,” says styling and fashion rental studio Something White Styling. “The iconic accessory, rooted in early 20th-century glamour and Shakespearean romance, is making a comeback. Whether your vibe is boho, Old Hollywood, or minimalist, it adds a deeply romantic, personal touch to contemporary wedding style.”
Siobhan Moylan / Photography: Colin Dancel
Cinq
Claudia Llagostera
Bouquet Bags
A playful twist on the classic clutch, floral bags are aniticipated to bloom in 2026. Designed as functioning accessories—or sculptural forms with handles—they’re crafted from living blooms and double as an alternative to the traditional bouquet. Equal parts fashion statement and floral art, they give brides a chance to carry flowers in a whole new way.
Floral Asylum
MORIP
Katerina Shukshina
MORIP
Katerina Shukshina
MORIP
Hooded Veils
In 2026, expect hoods to reemerge as one of the most striking bridal accessories. Hooded veils bring a sense of mystery and high-fashion drama, while still feeling airy and romantic when crafted from light fabrics. “Hooded veils are so dramatic for an editorial moment,” shares LOHO Bride. “When done in tulle, they feel light and feminine.”
Margot
Annie's Ibiza
Mia Atelier
Fine Jewelry
Bold & Chunky Rings
2026 will see rings taking on bolder proportions—thick bands, oversized stones, and sculptural silhouettes. Chunky designs are less about subtlety and more about making a striking, fashion-forward statement. Case in point? Dua Lipa’s bold engagement ring.
Maggi Simpkins
Uniform Object
DYNE
Cleopatra’s Bling
EREDE
AZLEE
Grandma’s Jewelry Box
Everything old is new again: in 2026, expect engagement rings and wedding bands to channel vintage inspiration. As if borrowed from your grandma’s jewelry box, they’ll bring back filigree, intricate settings, and Art Deco drama reimagined with a contemporary edge.
MEADOWLARK
Kinn Studio
Olive Ave Jewelry
Statement Earrings
Large, eye-catching earrings are forecasted to have their moment in 2026. “More bold pieces, whether chandeliers or sculptural shapes, frame the face and add instant drama. They’re a playful way for brides to express personality while complementing modern, minimal gowns,” shares Sarah Ysabel Narici, founder of New York fine jewelry brand DYNE.
Hernan Herdez
Tabayer
Abby Hart
Nina Raasch
DYNE
Givenchy
Custom Jewels
In 2026, jewelry is expected to carry deeper emotional weight, moving away from purely traditional choices and into pieces that feel personal, symbolic, and unique. “One-of-a-kind or limited-edition pieces from artisans will carry more emotional weight. The appeal comes from craftsmanship, witnessing a part of the bespoke creation process, and the sense that no one else will have the same piece,” notes DYNE. “Brides and grooms will choose jewelry that feels more personal and symbolic rather than purely traditional. Custom touches like engraved details, heirloom redesigns, or stones with personal meaning will stand out. This shift reflects a desire for jewelry that tells a story and feels truly unique to each couple.”
That same pursuit of individuality is echoed by New York fine jewelry brand Uniform Object, which forecasts unique ring settings gaining momentum: “We predict clients will move away from traditional ring settings or look to reset their diamonds into more unique designs.”
Loewe
Uniform Object
Uniform Object
Grooms
Fashion-Forward Menswear
Groom style in 2026 won’t be playing it safe. Just like brides, more grooms are expected to experiment with their looks, drawing inspiration straight from the runway and the latest designer collections. As Gabrielle Hurwitz notes: “Brides have been embracing the concept of a wedding wardrobe for the past few years, but in 2026 we’ll be seeing grooms start to participate in this trend too. More and more, we’re seeing grooms make bold fashion choices, especially for auxiliary events. Even the classic black tuxedo has been getting a makeover with unique trims and updates, like a wider lapel or a double-breasted silhouette.”
S.S. Daley
Dries Van Noten
EGONLAB
EGONLAB
Jacquemus
EGONLAB
Vintage & Heirloom Touches
Heirloom accents are predicted to make their way into groom’s fashion in 2026. A borrowed brooch, a grandfather’s cufflinks—small details carrying big meaning. This is exactly what Something White Styling sees on the rise: “Vintage and heirloom accessories with a meaningful story for brides and grooms are a special way to incorporate family history. Brooches have become a must-wear piece and cherished keepsakes. For grooms, cufflinks, lapel pins, and brooches add individuality and give formalwear a refresh.”
Varon
Tanner Fletcher
Le FLEUR / Photography: Luis Perez
Artistic Boutonnière
Boutonnieres in 2026 are predicted to move far beyond the simple rosebud. Think sculptural mini-arrangements, unexpected materials, and bold color palettes that echo the wedding’s overall design language.
FLOVER NYC
Fabien Montique
Emotions & Math
Rena Jewelry
Sasha DK
Yuzu.pl
Beauty
Skin First Approach
Glowing, hydrated, and fresh skin with minimal coverage will remain the ultimate beauty accessory. “The shift toward a ‘skin-first’ approach will continue to dominate bridal beauty for 2026,” says New York makeup artist Maria Shevchenko. “Heavy foundation will be giving way to sheer, luminous textures—think skin tints, light-reflecting highlighters, and strategically placed cream products that enhance rather than conceal."
Kristina Yakovleva
Tamara Ralph
Maria Shevchenkom / Photography: Anastasia Fursova
Retro-Inspired
Nostalgia is set to influence not just event design and fashion, but bridal beauty in 2026 as well. Australian makeup artist Katie Moore of The Future Mrs. anticipates a return to refinement with a retro edge: “We’ll see brides embracing a pared-back look with a hint of retro—soft winged liner, skin-like finishes, and more matte textures. With the rise of intimate, elopement-style weddings, often with more structured, slightly nostalgic styling, we will see a lot of makeup that feels refined yet nostalgic, with a timelessness that won’t date in photos.”
Phoebe Walters / Photography: Joss McKinley
Harold James / Photography: Guel Sener
Aimée Twist
Helen Rose
Mateus Cordeiro
Ana Buvinic / Photography: Bagaak
Toasty Makeup
Next on the bridal beauty horizon for 2026? A warm, bronzed, sun-kissed glow that enhances the skin’s natural radiance. Lisbon-based makeup artist Tom Perdigão calls this the “toasty makeup” effect: “This look gives the impression of light softly touching the skin, which feels very modern but also romantic at the same time.”
Isabelle De Vries
Tom Perdigão
Katie Moore of The Future Mrs
2000s Black Eyeliner
Black eyeliner’s punk-rock energy is gearing up for a major comeback—in 2026, even at the altar. Makeup artist Tom Perdigão views its revival through a nostalgic yet refined lens: “Black eyeliner on the waterline is a nostalgic reference to the 2000s that has come back strongly and continues to feel fresh. It defines the eyes with intensity while still keeping a sense of elegance. It’s a statement detail that works beautifully for brides who want something timeless but with personality.”
