2022 Bridal Trends + Obsessions
⟡PEARLS⟡
This is probably the #1 trend for 2022 and it’s being taken on from all angles. Pearls will be seen everywhere this year as people are leaning more towards simplistic and minimalistic designs. Millennials and Gen-Z are shying away from loud, overly done looks so pearls are the perfect middle-ground. You can overuse them and still make it work.
Style-wise, they’re a timeless classic and exude sophistication. Metaphysically, pearls are “calming and centering, and can nurture our faith, loyalty, integrity, and purity. They also help women connect with their “inner goddesses” and men with their feminine attributes" (Gaia). They’ll be seen in wedding decor, broaches, shoes, gowns, veils, and even garters - watch out!
⟡FUN WITH FABRIC⟡
Whether it’s patterns, shapes, or layers, brides are stepping outside of the box this year. Ruffles and intricate designs are making a huge return along with new contenders in the fabric game. The stars (see below) are a welcomed change to the typical tulle dress and I see more of this coming soon - texture, polkadots, and geometric patterns will likely be big in 2022.
⟡MENSWEAR CROSSOVER⟡
Regardless of gender or sexuality, men’s inspired looks are here and we’re loving it! From the hats and necklines to the shoes and overall design, this new masculine energy is being beautifully transformed in the bridal space. I look forward to seeing brides sporting bowties, blazers, pant suits, and more emphasis on their shoulders.
⟡FUN GLOVES + SLEEVES⟡
This one excites me the most because the possibilities are ENDLESS. I’m amazed by what I’ve already seen and I can’t wait to see what else wedding creatives come up with this year. With gloves, brides are incorporating personal touches like butterflies, pearls, and fur along with using them to completely change their look. It’s a very small way to add a noticeable change to your look AND increases your individuality as a bride.
Now sleeves are all over the place and my mind is blown. We’ll be getting dresses made with sleeves, some that are detachable, and some that are worn separately but are a part of the look (see below). There’s nothing I love more than when brides create their own path and do what they like, not what they think they should do. Working as a consultant, my most memorable brides are the ones who went for bold colors, fantastical designs, and ground-shaking alterations. Be as unique as you feel and remember that Normal is Boring.
⟡UNIQUE NECKLINES⟡
As designers try new things, we’ll naturally see boundaries being pushed and a lot of progress is already being made on necklines. We are beyond the days of simply Sweetheart, Straight, and V Neck baby! Brides want something different and special so get ready for an array or draping, ruching, and ruffling to create aww-inspiring necklines.
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As COVID continues to affect important life events, couples are more-often opting for elopements and micro-weddings which don’t involve as much work, planning, and money. With this, we’re seeing more emphasis on personal style and making memorable moments vs. tending to guests + decor.
This started as a wedding trend list but in retrospect, it’s all about ‘the look’ because weddings themselves are evolving to be centered around the couple, not the event. Brides are becoming more empowered to express themselves and not inviting the whole family has encouraged them to feel free with their choices.