Photos (above): Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week - Brand (left): WONÁ Concept - Brand (centre): The Atelier by Jimmy Choo - Brand (right): Agnieszka Swiatly
1. Visible corsets, transparent fabrics & cut-outs
Once again, visible corsets are one of the biggest trends in 2026. These romantic corsets are often incorporated into sheer fabrics with visible boning or lace-up closures at the back. Combined with soft tulle, lace or strategic cut-outs, this seductive trend creates a sensual and glamorous look that beautifully emphasises the waist.
Apart from visible corsets, we also see a lot of transparent fabrics, both in tops and skirts, sleeves and gloves.
2. Sculptural shapes: bubble skirts, tulip skirts, basque waists & mermaid dresses
The surprising comeback of 2026 is the bubble skirt. This nostalgic nod to the 2000s gets a high-fashion bridal makeover in 2026: from mini to midi, with layered fabric and dramatic volume. We are also seeing tulip skirts with pleated fronts and sculptural shapes, as an artistic alternative to the classic princess dress. Playful, quirky and daring!
Basque waists are also totally hot in 2026, as are dresses with architectural volume and asymmetrical finishes. The striking shapes create movement and drama in your silhouette – perfect for those looking for a dress that really stands out.
In addition, fitted mermaid cuts, which sit elegantly tight around the body and flare out softly at the bottom – from the knee down – into a flowy skirt, are back in fashion, often in shiny silk or tulle. Playful or sensual, sculptural remains the keyword.
3. Necklines in the spotlight: strapless & halter necks
The top of the dress will be the centre of attention in 2026. Lots of strapless designs, halter necks, sweetheart necklines, off-the-shoulder sleeves and beautiful back necklines will alternate. Often finished with glitter or lace, these necklines add refinement and character – from soft and romantic to modern and sensual.
Here too we see asymmetry – in the form of a single shoulder strap, slanted hem lines or unexpected cut-outs.
4. Two-pieces are here to stay
Crop tops with matching skirts or mantel dresses with a twist: the two-piece wedding dress is more popular than ever. We spotted them in sleek and flowy versions, with (a bit of) bare midriff or transparent fabrics – ideal for the modern bride who loves layers and variety.
5. Texture & layers: combinations of fabrics
In 2026, it's all about texture. We saw ruffles in all shapes – pleated, wavy, structured, in the form of large flowers – and layers of tulle, lots of lace and organza floating on top of each other. These creative combinations of fabrics and layered looks create a romantic and dreamy silhouette.
6. Statement sleeves & gloves
Sleeves can be dramatic again: from playful puff sleeves to off-the-shoulder sleeves – often loose and sheer sleeves that start at (or below) the strapless bodice. Long gloves are also making a comeback – usually in a transparent fabric and finished with pearls, glitter or even a train. They give your wedding outfit that little bit of extra flair and allow you to play with the contrast between classic and daring.
7. Minimalist dresses
Amidst all the voluminous shapes and ruffles, we also spot a strikingly serene trend: minimalist dresses in soft silk or satin, often with a simple cut and clean lines. These timeless silhouettes fall elegantly along the body and exude tranquillity and sophistication, without frills.
8. 3D flowers & prints
Flowers are hot! 3D flowers, beautifully sewn onto the fabric so that they appear to emerge from the dress, add extra texture and romance to your wedding dress. We also spotted soft floral prints and other motifs – incorporated into the dress itself or on the veil – in pastel colours, subtle blush tones or lavender accents. This trend gives your dress an artistic and poetic touch – perfect for those who love a natural, feminine look with texture and movement.
9. Bows, ribbons & shawls
Bows will also remain hugely trendy in 2026. From large bows on the back to small bows on your dress or veil and subtle ribbons: these details give you a romantic and playful touch. Another striking feature in 2026 are shawls around the neck that fall down over the shoulders and back, sometimes continuing into a long train.
10. Pastel dresses & colour accents
Although white is still popular, some brides are opting for a dress in soft pastel colours such as light pink, lavender, light blue or silver grey. Colour accents on a white dress are also here to stay, including pastel floral prints. For those who want to stray from the classic ivory palette, these pastels offer a dreamy, feminine and fresh alternative.
11. Mini dresses
For your civil wedding, your dance party or just because you love them: mini dresses are totally hot & trending. They often have a playful finish with a large bow, 3D flowers, ruffles or glittering details.
12. Shimmer & shine: glitter, pearls & feathers
Crystals, pearls, sequins, feathers, stars and even sparkles in the veils: in 2026, you'll shine effortlessly with plenty of glitter & glam. New this year is that glitter is sometimes combined with matte fabrics, creating a refined shine and a subtle play of light and texture.
13. Princess dresses with lots of volume - a fashion statement
The typical princess dress with a full skirt remains a top favourite in the wedding dress trends for 2026. Think metres of tulle, organza or silk, often combined with a tight top or corset – ideal for those who dream of a real fairytale moment. On top of that, the traditional princess dress is undergoing a transformation. Voluminous skirts are staying, and they are being combined with bold accents: large bows, glitter caps, basque waists, detachable skirts, ruffles or even black details. Think: Marie Antoinette meets the runway – a fairy tale with attitude.
14. Veils with hoods, hats & capes
In 2026, the traditional veil will face stiff competition from striking alternatives: lace hoods with trains, head accessories such as (tulle) hats with flowers or ribbons, and even trains that start at the sleeves.
Capes – from short veil capes to capes with hoods – also create a mysterious and dramatic look. In 2026, the wattage train will also be back among the wedding dress trends, a train that is attached to your dress at shoulder height and falls down with a cape effect.
The veils, capes and (watteau) trains are often detachable, allowing you to create a different look for your evening party in no time. As you can see, accessories are real bridal statements with lots of character in 2026, perfect for personalising your look.
15. Sustainable choices
Sustainability is more than ever a theme on the catwalk. Brands are focusing on conscious production, natural fabrics and less waste. Marylise and Rembo, for example, actively strive to minimise their impact on the environment. These Belgian brands are committed to more sustainable packaging and communication, local sourcing and production, and reducing their production waste to a minimum.
Ready to find your dream dress? Make an appointment at one of these bridal shops and get some advice. You choose what suits you – classic, romantic, edgy, colourful or completely out of the box. It's your time to shine!
Make an appointment at one of these bridal shops!
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