Wedding season is already underway as designers showcased their 2026 spring collections at New York Bridal Fashion Week. The event, filled with runway shows, presentations, and even a real wedding, highlighted the latest trends and designs from both established and emerging bridal brands.
As weddings evolve, so do the trends. Brides are moving away from wearing just one dress for the entire day. Many are opting for different looks to complement various parts of the celebration—whether it’s the ceremony, reception, or rehearsal dinner. Designers have taken note, offering a mix of dramatic ceremony gowns, dance-floor ready styles, and chic sets for pre-wedding events.
While each designer brought their own creative flair to the table, several trends emerged as key highlights of the week. Here are the top wedding dress trends from the New York Bridal Fashion Week spring 2026 collections:
1. Bubble Skirts
A surprise hit this season was the return of the bubble skirt. This voluminous hem, which is created by draping fabric back underneath the gown, forms a buoyant, playful shape. The bubble skirt can add a youthful sweetness, as seen in Markarian’s mini designs, or create glamorous drama, as showcased in the gowns by Dana Harel and Marmar Halim. Expect this silhouette to stand out in both whimsical and elegant bridal looks.
2. Draped Basque Waists
The basque waist, characterized by a dropped waistline that flares into a gentle curve, has become a staple in bridal fashion. Designers this season embraced variations of this silhouette, pairing it with draped fabric to create soft, flattering lines. Minimalist brides might favor sleek versions from Elizabeth Fillmore and Katherine Tash, while more romantic brides may appreciate the fabric detailing at Enaura. For a modern take, Andrew Kwon offered chic, streamlined options that elevated this trend.
3. Not-So-White Gowns
The traditional white wedding gown isn’t the only option anymore. Many designers embraced a broader color palette this season, incorporating soft, pastel hues that remain distinctly bridal. Shades like blush and pastel blue provide a beautiful complement to a bride’s complexion while offering an editorial edge. Collections from Cinq, Honor, and Jaclyn Whyte introduced these unique colors in a striking yet sophisticated way.
4. Unique Lace
While lace remains a bridal classic, this season’s interpretations felt fresh and exciting. Designers experimented with defined, uniquely layered lacework, placing it in unexpected ways to create dynamic and modern designs. Brides looking for lace gowns in 2026 will find a wide range of innovative takes on this traditional fabric, offering a departure from the usual delicate lace styles.
5. Bows
Bows have proven to be a timeless detail in bridal fashion, continuing to hold their place in 2026 collections. From subtle ribbon accents at Mark Ingram Bride to bold pussy bows at Tanner Fletcher, bows added a touch of whimsy and elegance to wedding attire. While they dominated 2024 weddings, they remain a staple in bridal looks for years to come, offering versatility for any bride’s style.
6. Separates
As more brides look to express their personal style, separates have become increasingly popular. These flexible designs allow brides to mix and match pieces to create a unique, dynamic wedding look. From tailored suits to corsets and stylish toppers, separates provide a perfect solution for brides seeking a more creative ensemble that reflects their individuality.
With these top trends emerging from the runway, it’s clear that the wedding dress landscape in 2026 will be diverse, allowing brides to choose from a variety of silhouettes, fabrics, and styles to make their day truly memorable. Whether embracing dramatic gowns or more casual separates, the options are limitless for today’s bride.
