Wedding Trends For 2023
What’s In and What’s Out
As the calendar flips to a new year, it’s time to take a peek into the world of weddings and discover the latest trends that are shaping the nuptial landscape for 2023.
Whether you’re planning your own wedding or just love staying in the loop with wedding trends, we’ve got the inside scoop on what’s in and what’s out this year.
Bridal Appointment Tips
Timeline: From Yes to getting dressed
Most bridal boutiques won’t have your dress ready to take home with you on the day of your appointment. You are most likely going to get a new dress made to order. This will usually take anything between four and eight months. Also don’t forget you will have at least 2 – 3 fittings before you have your final dress.
If your timeline is shorter than the above mention period, take a deep breathe and DO NOT STRESS. Lots of boutiques will have something on “the rack” that will most likely need a few alternations.
To ease your nerves, ensure that you dress will be in time, phone the boutiques ahead of time to see if your dress will fit in your wedding timeline before you make an appointment.
The Budget
This isn’t set a budget and then blow it. This is really set the budget and stick to it. Wedding dresses vary so drastically in prices you could spend a couple of thousands to a couple of hundred thousands. Be firm!
If you have someone who is buying the dress for you, have this conversation with them beforehand so you both on the same page and of course to avoid disappointment. There is no bigger disappointment than finding your dream dress and then seeing that its out of the budget. It is soul crushing.
Setting the budget means that the sales consultant at the bridal boutiques will only show you those dresses within your budget.
On a PS note about budget, not forget to think about accessories like veils, jewellery, shoes and hair accessories. Be mindful that some alterations could be added. Make sure when you purchase your dress that you are aware of ANY additional cost surprises.
Research: Designers and Bridal Boutiques
My goodness this could be one of those dark rabbit holes. There are thousands of designers and bridal boutiques. Doing some easy research will help narrow down the search for the dream dress.
I would suggest searching on social media, find some photographers pages, look at the dresses, the photographer usually tag all the vendors in their posts.
Most bridal boutiques won’t have all their dresses online but they will stock the designers. Find your preferred designers and then narrow the search to those boutiques.
Create your Mood Board
The best part! Creating your wedding dress mood board! Pinterest is easiest the easies for this, upload all the dresses you are drawn too. As you go along, the more you add the more you will see a pattern emerge of the fabrics and silhouettes that keep recurring.
The Entourage
Just like your wedding guest list, deciding who comes with you during your bridal appointments can really make or break this should be fun and exciting experience.
I can’t stress this enough…..bring people who’s opinions you value the MOST!
The saying too many cooks in the kitchen could not be any truer for choosing your dress. The opinions of too many people could become stressful and confusing!
Think quality over quantity. Two to four people is more than enough.
Avoid fake tans and heavy makeup
It’s only natural that you would want to feel absolutely SMASHING and GLAMOROUS when trying on wedding dresses, please bear in mind that fake tans and heavy makeup could be easily transferred onto the dress. Lets be kind to the dress and the future brides who want to try on the samples.
If you feel better tanned, make sure you tanning day is a few days before your appointment so that it has time to settle. And with the make up, remember, a little goes a long way.
If you know more a less how you would like your hair to be done on the day, try and get your hair to resemble that style. It doesn’t need to be done by a professional but you could for example, if you know your hair is an “undo” throw your hair in ponytail. This with give you a realistic idea of how you will look on your wedding day in that dress. Also you can tick off buying hair accessories too.
Smash a burger before you bridal appointment!
If you anything like me, HANGRY is not a good look on me. Wedding dress shopping can be draining and most likely will be the entire day! And lets face it, there is nothing worse than shopping on an empty stomach!
So make sure you schedule a lovely lunch with your entourage and pack those snacks. You have an epic day to get through!
Lastly, be opened minded.
So you have done all the research, stalked wedding photographers pages, found designers, set your budget and created your mood board. You got this!
But there is that annoying but again, be opened minded! Try something that you might not think you would like. Sometimes, just sometimes you land up with something you didn’t expect. But the only way you will know is if you try.
Your body confidence is going to need a boost during this time, wedding dress shopping could be stressful. So give yourself extra extra love during this time.
2023 Wedding Trends
What's In & What's Out
In: Sustainable Weddings
Sustainability is not just a trend; it’s a lifestyle, and weddings are no exception. Couples are embracing eco-friendly choices like reusable decor, digital invitations, and locally sourced, organic cuisine. Expect to see more greenery, potted plants, and earthy color palettes at eco-conscious weddings.
Out: Excessive Single-Use Decor
The days of disposable decorations and excessive waste are on the way out. Couples are opting for more sustainable decor options that leave a smaller carbon footprint.
In: Micro Weddings
Intimate weddings continue to rise in popularity. Couples are choosing smaller guest lists to create more meaningful and personal celebrations. Micro weddings allow for quality time with each guest, resulting in more cherished moments.
Out: Over-the-Top Extravaganzas
Large, lavish weddings with hundreds of guests are becoming less common. Couples are opting for smaller gatherings that focus on quality over quantity.
In: Inclusive and Diverse Celebrations
Weddings are becoming more inclusive, reflecting diverse backgrounds and traditions. Couples are embracing multicultural ceremonies, LGBTQ+ celebrations, and open-minded approaches to ensure that all guests feel welcome and valued.
Out: One-Size-Fits-All Weddings
The “cookie-cutter” wedding is out. Couples are personalizing their weddings to reflect their unique stories, backgrounds, and values.
In: Sustainable Fashion
Brides are leaning towards sustainable and eco-friendly wedding attire. Vintage gowns, recycled materials, and ethical fashion choices are gaining popularity. Grooms are also opting for eco-conscious tuxedos and suits.
Out: Fast Fashion Wedding Attire
Fast fashion, with its environmental impact and ethical concerns, is taking a back seat. Couples are seeking alternatives that align with their values.
In: Digital RSVPs and Wedding Websites
Managing wedding details digitally is on the rise. Couples are using wedding websites and digital RSVPs to streamline guest communication and keep everyone informed about important details.
Out: Paper Invitations Only
While traditional paper invitations still hold a special place, they’re being supplemented or replaced by digital solutions for efficiency and convenience.
In: Sustainable and DIY Decor
Couples are getting creative with DIY decor projects, from handmade centerpieces to upcycled furniture. Sustainability is at the forefront, and eco-friendly decor choices are on the rise.
Out: Disposable Decor and Single-Use Items
Disposable decor items and single-use decorations are losing favor as couples opt for more environmentally friendly options.
In: Food and Beverage Pairings
Food and drink pairings are a hit at weddings. Couples are incorporating creative combinations, from wine and cheese pairings to craft beer and appetizers.
Out: Traditional Buffets and Sit-Down Dinners
While traditional buffet-style and sit-down dinners are still popular, more couples are exploring unique food and drink experiences.
In: Live Streaming and Virtual Elements
Incorporating live streaming and virtual elements allows couples to include guests who can’t attend in person. This trend is likely to continue as technology makes it easier to connect with loved ones from afar.
Out: Limited Virtual Presence
With the rise of virtual experiences, limiting virtual presence at weddings is becoming less common.
In: Non-Traditional Venues
Couples are choosing non-traditional venues like art galleries, botanical gardens, and even private homes to add a unique touch to their celebrations.
Out: Conventional Ballroom Receptions
While ballroom receptions are still lovely, many couples are exploring more unconventional venue options.
In: Inclusivity and Accessibility
Couples are making efforts to ensure their weddings are accessible to all guests, regardless of physical abilities. This includes accessible venues and accommodations.
Out: Inaccessible Venues
Venues with limited accessibility are becoming less popular as couples prioritize inclusivity.
Remember, while trends can offer inspiration, the most important thing is to plan a wedding that reflects your unique love story and values. Whether you embrace the latest trends or go your own way, your wedding day is a chance to celebrate your love in a way that feels meaningful and authentic to you.
