2022 Wedding Trends

So let's do the math, shall we? 
2020 took us off the rails before Easter. 
2021 reminded us that we are resilient, if not impatient to get back to the business of living and going and earning and CELEBRATING. By summer of this year, the "wedding make-up season" was in full swing, and it is just now beginning to wane.

Bridal Traditions - like other pros in our industry - experienced one of the busiest late summer and fall wedding seasons in history. It was busy, it was filled with frenzy and smart scheduling, flexible vendors and eager couples. And it has been wonderful. THANK YOU BRIDES AND BRIDAL PARTIES for the robust 2021 season. 
Time for 2022, and this year in weddings will focus on fun new pivots to the past, classic looks, some of the same modern favorites, more color and texture - and yes, accessories.

Color is Invited

We're not saying that you have to start your dress journey here, but colorful wedding gowns were the standard from medieval times. It was Queen Victoria, who chose to wear white on her wedding day in 1840, who started the virginal, pure white wedding gown trend that we've seen the last 180 years. Before her, brides wore their prettiest gown or dress they could find, and these were usually colorful patterns that were readily available.
Are you bold enough? Think about adding color! More than a few brides have left Bridal Traditions with a black gown, blue gown or non-white wedding dress. 

Corsets are visible

They were the bane of every woman alive for more than a century, but somehow we've come to embrace them once more. Unlike those that didn't let you breathe, corsets are now suggestive without being "too much." Ladies love to show off a corset and while some are less demure and more provocative, corsets are popular and here for another year.

photo credit: Waterhouse Studios

Ballet-inspired

So you may be asking: "Aren't all wedding gowns sort of ballet-inspired?" I mean, you've got gossamer skirts, layers of tulle, corsets and cinched in waists. The answer is an easy yes. Add color, add a body suit and ruffled skirt and you have a newer version of the classic ball gown. 

Florals 

Florals are not going away either, ladies. Whether on the bodice, throughout the lace, or all over a gown, flowers and natural patterns are glorious all year. English garden weddings are finding their footing in North Carolina and worldwide. Cottage core meets nostalgia. Even if you don't think you "prefer flowers," we urge you to consider trying on at least one dress with blooms.

Accessories

With some gowns, the dress is plenty. Add a veil and maybe a belt and then let the bride shine. But in 2022, accessories are being worn with gusto and earrings are the big winner in 2022. Statement earrings - statement jewelry altogether - is a way to show your unique personality or give a nod to your childhood, your travels or just your taste in baubles. GO FOR IT.

The Bridesmaids

Our bridesmaids' gown game continues to be strong, and the color options in satin and chiffon fabrics are a deep dive into the fun end of the pool: eucalyptus, agave, evergreen, mist, marigold, new gold, spice, and desert rose are just a few and they are all very muted, and soft shades.

Photo credit for group image below right goes to Ashley Swofford Photography.

Menswear

More and more of our grooms are deciding to buy their wedding attire, and we are happy to facilitate from our JFW Collections. Guys still prefer navy, black and grey, but others are veering into fun realms with the addition of coordinating ties, socks, and handkerchiefs.

​When you buy your own tux or suit, not only are you investing in something that you can use a few or many more times, you are also getting a suit that looks amazing on YOU. We'll be talking more about menswear, fitting, timing, setting expectations and getting what you want in our 2022 blog season.

photo credit: Kristina Lynn Photography

Whatever your season, theme or personal style, as you plan your wedding, Bridal Traditions is here to help. For over 20 years, we've been guiding brides and grooms as they prepare for their big day. 2022 will only be bigger. Come see us!