The Tamesis
Contrary to what FashionThe wedding section may be indicative of the general decline in ceremonies and celebrations we’ve seen in recent years (blamed on COVID-19). Big productions no longer favor thoughtful formats – shocking! — Make it feel personal and not just expensive. “Of course they’re still ‘wow,'” says veteran wedding planner Liz Linkleter, who helps her clients navigate the overwhelming wave of wedding trends on social media to find something they really like and, most importantly, something they’ll love for years to come. Weddings may be getting more intimate, but there are still countless decisions to be made, from dresses to decorations, flowers to food “moments.” Here, the micro wedding trend is poised to go mainstream in 2026.
The ceremony is over and the party has begun
Considering that the core of the wedding is the vows, not the cocktails, it’s surprising that the ceremony was cut from the schedule. Private ring exchanges followed by sensational bashes are becoming increasingly popular, and even those who insist on the “ceremony plus reception” format are making the formal part shorter and more relaxed. “Impact is now no longer the focus of the day, but is created through many small, unexpected surprise moments that feel intentional and personal,” says Linklater, who says budgets are being siphoned off for pop-up bars or lively musical interludes, rather than long weddings where everyone is looking forward to aperitif time.
Buffets are back on the menu
“Buffets are shedding their cheap, crowd-pleasing reputation and returning to wedding chic,” says journalist and buffet enthusiast Ed Cumming, who’s pleased to hear that tables are being filled with snacks and are now becoming the go-to option for couples who don’t want to cater to every picky eater or serve guests multiple meals throughout the day. What’s the gain? This is not called a buffet. Instead, the buffets were rebranded as “food moments,” “food stations” or “food installations,” and Linklater shared that she put as much thought into these clever displays as she did the flowers. Time to tuck it in.
New and used dresses are flexible
The vintage wedding dress market is booming, but what if a bride can’t find her perfect 1920s dress among other treasures from Jane Bourvis and Rockstar Boudoir? “While we love ‘old stuff,’ those who like the vintage look don’t necessarily have to dig far to find a piece that feels like it’s from an earlier era,” says FashionWedding contributing editor Shelby Wax spotted a collection of old and new designs at the recent New York Bridal Fashion Week. “Many designers are looking back to classic silhouettes for design inspiration that looks like it’s from another era but with a modern twist – and best of all, these designs can be customized to fit you perfectly on your big day.” Her other big fashion takeaway? Halter!
It’s an affirmation of a once-and-for-all ring
The jewelry math just begins: Why not budget for an engagement ring and a wedding ring so that you can buy a large, everyday diamond that’s more suited to your personal style rather than your bridal style? According to British reports, this is a growing trend in the jewelry market FashionLaura Hawkins, fashion features and jewelry editor. “There is really no precedent [for ring design] Eliza Walter, founder of London jeweler Lylie, agreed, saying individualism is king in the current diamond market. Art Deco pieces, angular gemstone clusters and “bigger, bolder, chunkier pieces” are what she wants most.
