What to wear in 2021

by Jacqui Cochran, Marriage Meander

Bridal gown trends for the coming year

Bridal wear trends for 2021 have definitely been influenced by 2020’s lockdown. Here is our round-up of 10 style statements that will put you in the wedding dress of your dreams.

1 | Minimony ensembles

Many couples are going ahead with a minimony (mini ceremony) now and planning a sequel wedding down the line. Brides will save their showstopper gowns for the big reception and wear something simple and modern for their intimate micro wedding. Look out for simple trousers, jumpsuits, short dresses and kaftans.

Dress by Bella Bride

2 | Statement Sleeves

The statement sleeve has been on the fashion agenda for the past year and if the style blogs are anything to go by, this look is here to stay. But don’t fret – we aren’t talking about the puffy Princess Diana wedding sleeves of yesteryear. This season’s sleeves are ruffled, floaty, off-the-shoulder, and all about tasteful romance. Long sleeves will gain even more ground in the cooler months, and the best news is that they are incredibly flattering for less than perfect arms.

Dress by Lauren Judith-Anne

3 | Bows

It’s not surprising that bows have stolen the bridal spotlight after being dotted all over the red carpet and taking Insta’s fashion threads by storm. High impact dresses will boast oversized bows whilst other dress designers are weaving bow details into their designs in a subtle way for a more romantic look. If you’ve had to postpone your wedding until 2021, the addition of a bow is an easy way to update your look to a new season.

Dress by Oh Huntress

4 | Tiered, ruffled and ethereal skirts

A tiered skirt adds a sophisticated boho element to a bridal look, so get ready to indulge your inner romantic with this frilly, feminine detail. The focus of this season’s skirts is on fluidity and movement, which means we will see lighter, effortless fabrics such as tulle, taffeta and organza.

Dress by Meliza Mary

5 | Modern lace and mesh

Our love affair with lace will never end but this year, you will see less vintage and more modern and geometric lace. Mesh will continue to steal the show with its romantic and alluring touch.

Dress by Meliza Mary

6 | Capes and removable elements

Heaps of brides had to move their 2020 weddings to 2021 and may find themselves wearing a dress that was created for a completely different season. If you are left wishing you had sleeves, consider a cape or cover-up. Detachable trains, sleeves, overskirts, belts, and jackets will feature, giving you the option to wear two dresses in one day.

Dress by Meliza Mary

7 | Party-style sparkle

Look out for big-day bling in the form of over-the-top sequins, beading, and metallic embellishments. Perfect for evening nuptials, this trend is daring but sophisticated. A tip from the pro’s: if you're planning a showstopping shimmer-and-shine gown, pare down your accessories and let your dress do the talking!

Dress by Bella Bride

8 | Whimsical Pastel Shades

Look out for coloured wedding dresses in pinks, blues, nude coffee, and blush. You need to be a confident bride to step away from the tradition of a white dress but this is the year for brides to express their playfulness, sense of adventure, and individuality.

Dress by Lauren Judith-Anne

9 | Interesting backs and notice-me necklines

Backs take the plunge and become more interesting. Unusual features, bows, and completely open backs add that extra element of seduction. Dramatic high, square, scooped, and one-shoulder necklines will also take centre stage in 2021.

Dress by Bella Bride

10 | Sustainability

Sustainability is more of a movement than a trend but it’s encouraging to see that designers are recognising the importance of being kind to the planet in their choice of fabrics and ethical design practices.

Dress by Oh Huntress

Time for the gents to turn up the style dial

Chantel & May Photo

These days, the possibilities for men’s wedding attire are endless – from completely casual to seriously swanky! Here are some notes on what is trending internationally for 2021:

• Suits are leading the charge ahead of tuxedos and tails.

• Suit pants worn without jackets are gaining in popularity – especially for relaxed summer weddings.

• Jackets are being replaced with waistcoats or striking braces which means you’re free to roll up your sleeves.

• Many modern grooms are opting for a Boho look so expect to see vintage touches, eccentric accents, bright colours, non-matching tops and pants, unconventional textures, and more natural fabrics.

• Black, grey and blue suits are timeless and will never go out of style but in 2021 we welcome some bright and juicy colours to the fashion procession – watch out for burgundy, marsala, violet and olive green.

• If a bright suit feels over the top, pair a classic suit with patterned braces, tie, and pocket square.

Coloured suits with patterned ties and coordinating pocket squares will gain in popularity.

Pocket squares and interesting boutonnieres are in.

Leather braces paired with a tie or a bow tie create a more relaxed look.