Arm Sleeves

Sleeves played a leading role this season, appearing in extended, sculptural and detachable forms. Designers approached the arm as a focal point, offering brides coverage and couture sensibility in equal measure. The trend reflects the rising appeal of modest, multifunctional design.

Idan Cohen, Francesca Miranda, Rime Arodaky, Odylyne the Ceremony and Berta Bridal Showing at NYBFW

Taller Marmo

Ubud Feather-trimmed Gown

Drop Waists

Drop waists emerged as a defining structural statement. The silhouette elongates the torso and creates a grounded, statuesque profile. While some iterations nodded to vintage references, others felt sharp and minimal. This detail brings depth to even the simplest gowns.

Alexandra Grecco, Monique Lhuillier, Idan Cohen, Jenny Yoo, Andrew Kwon and Odylyne the Ceremony at NYBFW

Magda Butrym

Riviera Crochet-Trim Jersey Maxi Dress

Bubble Hems

Bubble hems introduced a sense of ease and playfulness across mini and full-length gowns. Often paired with lightweight fabrications, the finish added dimension without heaviness. As second looks become more critical, this silhouette offers brides a fresh styling option.

KYHA Studios, Rime Arodaky, Dana Harel, Katherine Tash and KYHA Studios

JW Anderson

Rolled-hem Slip Dress

Exaggerated Hips

Designers explored volume through the hip line, creating shape through padding, layering and tailoring. The effect was bold yet balanced, shifting attention to a less commonly emphasised silhouette area. The look speaks to a renewed interest in structure without stiffness.

Jenny Yoo, Lihi Hod, Andrew Kwon, Idan Cohen & Rime Arodaky at NYBFW

Ana Radu

Floral-embellished Asymmetric Gown

Exaggerated Add-Ons

Statement elements such as oversized bows, detachable peplums and floor-length capes delivered impact without permanence. Brides continue to favour pieces that allow them to personalise their look across multiple moments. Add-ons are increasingly being designed with modularity in mind.

Francesca Miranda, Mira Zwillinger, Lihi Hod, Monique Lhuillier and Francesca Miranda

Madga Butrym

Gathered Cotton Mini Dress

Lace Sleeves

Lace made a modern return, with sleeves in particular, becoming a platform for reinvention. Designers layered sheer lace over clean silhouettes to achieve softness without overt romance. This strategic update respects tradition while feeling directional.

Odylyne the Ceremony, Reem Acra, Andrew Kwon, Berta Bridal and Mira Zwillinger at NYBFW

Ana Radu

Lace-patterned Long-sleeve Gown

Skinny Scarf Styling

A subtle but memorable styling cue, skinny scarves appeared wrapped around the neck or draped at the shoulder. While understated, they added editorial polish and pointed to a growing overlap between bridal and ready-to-wear aesthetics.

Katherine Tash, Jenny Yoo, Monique Lhuillier, Alexandra Grecco and Lihi Hod at NYBFW

Michelle Mason

Silk Wrap Floor-length Gown

Barely Off-the-shoulder

A softer take on the off-the-shoulder neckline emerged, where sleeves lightly grazed the upper arms without slipping too far. The detail created a relaxed, romantic silhouette with quiet appeal. It is a minimalist evolution of a long-time bridal favourite.

KYHA Studios, Rime Arodaky, Odylyne the Ceremony, Andrew Kwon at NYBFW

MATICEVSKI

Ashlyn Jersey Gown

Swoop Necklines

Swooping curves across the décolletage created fluidity without sharp cuts or plunges. The neckline shape introduced a feminine line that complemented sculptural bodices and added softness to more structured designs.

Berta Bridal, KYHA Studios, Andrew Kwon, Monique Lhuillier and Alexandra Grecco at NYBFW

Christopher Esber

Arced Palm Shawl Gown

Bridal Separates

Separates offered flexibility and modernity, from corseted tops and sheer overlays to suiting elements and tailored trousers. This shift reflects how brides are rethinking the traditional gown, opting for looks that can evolve across ceremony, reception and recovery events.

Berta Bridal, KYHA Studios, Rime Arodaky, Berta Bridal and KYHA Studios at NYBFW

Vivienne Westwood

Silk Cady Comet Corset

One to Watch: Peek-a-boo Lace Skirt

Lace took on a subtler form in peek-a-boo placements, where transparent panels offered glimpses of skin under clean overlays. This sensual detail balances delicacy with edge and may evolve into a key feature in future seasons.

Monique Lhuillier, Alexandra Grecco, Idan Cohen and Monique Lhuillier at NYBFW

Magda Butrym

Lace Crochet Midi Skirt

Market Outlook

Spring 2026 reinforced that brides are choosing presence over excess. Sculptural lines, fluid shapes and convertible details resonate with consumers who want their wedding wardrobe to reflect individuality and intention. As global uncertainty shapes purchasing behaviour, designers prioritising adaptability, longevity and craftsmanship will continue to lead.