fashion advice Archives

In Advice

Should you buy your wedding dress online? The pros, cons & what every bride needs to know

June 12, 2026 No Comments

Finding the one is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning – but for many brides, the search for the perfect wedding dress can also feel overwhelming. Between boutique appointments, fittings, budgets and timelines, it’s no surprise that more brides are looking beyond traditional bridal stores.

Buying a wedding dress online has become increasingly popular, offering brides access to thousands of styles, international designers and more affordable options. But while the convenience is tempting, ordering your dream gown from a screen comes with its own set of considerations.

So, should you buy your wedding dress online? Here’s everything you need to know before clicking “add to cart”.

The pros of buying your wedding dress online

1. It can be more budget-friendly

One of the biggest reasons brides consider buying online is cost. Online retailers often have lower overheads than traditional bridal boutiques, which can mean more affordable gowns.

For brides working with a specific budget, online shopping can open the door to styles that may have been out of reach in-store – from minimalist satin gowns to detailed lace designs.

However, remember that the listed price is not always the final price. Factor in possible import duties, shipping fees, alterations and professional steaming before comparing costs.

2. More variety & access to global styles

Shopping online means you are no longer limited to the designers or styles available locally. Brides can browse thousands of gowns from international retailers, independent designers and made-to-order brands.

Whether you’re searching for a modern wedding dress, a vintage-inspired gown, a destination wedding look or something completely unique, online platforms offer endless inspiration.

3. You can shop from the comfort of your home

Wedding planning is already a busy process. Between venue decisions, guest lists and vendor meetings, finding time for multiple bridal appointments can be challenging.

Online shopping allows brides to explore options at their own pace, save favourites and compare styles without the pressure of making a decision during a boutique appointment.

4. It’s easier to find non-traditional options

Not every bride dreams of a traditional ball gown. Online shopping has made it easier to find fashion-forward options, including sleek slip dresses, short wedding dresses, bridal separates and modern designs.

For brides wanting something different (or even a second outfit for the reception) – online retailers can be a great place to explore.

The cons of buying your wedding dress online

1. You can’t try it on before buying

The biggest challenge with buying online is the unknown.

A dress may look perfect in photos but feel completely different when it arrives. Fabric quality, colour, structure, fit and finishing details can be difficult to judge through a screen.

A wedding dress is also a garment that relies heavily on fit – and even small differences in measurements can affect how the gown sits.

2. Sizing can be complicated

Wedding dress sizing often differs from everyday clothing sizes, and international sizing charts can vary significantly.

Always check the brand’s measurement guide carefully and compare your measurements against their chart rather than relying on your usual dress size.

It’s also worth remembering that most brides will need alterations, whether they purchase online or from a boutique.

3. Alterations may be necessary (and they can add up)

A gown arriving in your size does not always mean it will fit perfectly.

Common alterations include:

Adjusting the length
Taking in or letting out the bodice
Adding support
Adjusting straps or sleeves
Reshaping certain areas for a better fit

For more complex gowns, alterations can become a significant additional cost – so include this in your wedding budget from the beginning.

4. Returns may be difficult

Before ordering, always read the return policy carefully.

Some online bridal retailers do not accept returns on made-to-order gowns, personalised dresses or items that have been altered.

If the dress arrives and it is not what you expected, you need to know what options you have before committing.

If you decide to buy your wedding dress online

1. Order early

Unlike buying a dress off the rack, online gowns can involve production and shipping times.

Give yourself enough time for:

Delivery delays
Customs/import processes
Alterations
Unexpected changes

Ideally, avoid leaving your wedding dress purchase until the last minute.

2. Research the seller thoroughly

Before buying, look beyond the beautiful photos.

Check:

Verified customer reviews
Real bride photos
Fabric details
Return policies
Shipping information
Company reputation

A dress with thousands of likes is not necessarily a dress with thousands of happy brides.

3. Request fabric samples if possible

If the retailer offers fabric samples, take advantage of this.

Seeing and feeling the material can help you understand the quality before committing to the full gown.

4. Don’t ignore alterations

Even if the dress looks perfect online, budget for professional alterations.

A skilled bridal seamstress can often transform a good dress into one that feels custom-made for you.

5. Be careful with unrealistic expectations

One of the biggest mistakes brides make is expecting a budget online gown to look identical to a designer runway piece.

Pay attention to the details:

Fabric type
Construction
Boning and structure
Beading quality
Lining
Finishing

The more realistic your expectations, the happier you’ll be with your choice.

So, is buying a wedding dress online worth it?

For the right bride, absolutely.

Buying online can be a fantastic option if you are budget-conscious, comfortable with some uncertainty and willing to allow time for alterations.

However, if trying on dresses, experiencing the boutique moment and having expert guidance are important parts of your bridal journey, a traditional appointment may still be the better choice.

At the end of the day, your wedding dress should not only look beautiful – it should make you feel confident, comfortable and completely yourself when you walk down the aisle.

Whether you find it hanging in a bridal boutique or arrive at your door in a carefully packaged box, the perfect dress is the one that feels like you.

ALSO SEE: How wedding dress trends have changed through the decades

How wedding dress trends have changed through the decades

Featured image: Kindel Media / Pexels

In Advice

Beyond the ball gown: Your guide to every wedding dress silhouette

June 10, 2026 No Comments

Finding your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning – but before you fall in love with lace details, necklines or embellishments, there’s one thing you need to understand first: silhouette.

A dress silhouette is the overall shape of a gown, and it can dramatically influence how a dress looks, feels and photographs. While some styles have remained bridal favourites for decades, modern designers are reinventing classic silhouettes to suit today’s brides, offering everything from minimalist elegance to full-on fairytale glamour.

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between an A-line and a ball gown, or whether a fit-and-flare is the same as a mermaid dress, here’s your complete guide to the most popular wedding dress styles.

A-Line

Often considered the most universally flattering silhouette, the A-line gently skims the body before flaring out from the waist to create the shape of the letter “A”.

Why brides love it:

Comfortable and easy to move in
Flatters most body shapes
Works across formal, garden and beach weddings
Timeless and elegant

Trending now: Clean satin A-line gowns with architectural draping and pockets are having a major moment.

Ball Gown

The ultimate princess silhouette, a ball gown features a fitted bodice and a dramatically full skirt.

Why brides love it:

Creates a striking bridal statement
Emphasises the waist
Ideal for formal venues and cathedral ceremonies

Trending now: Modern ball gowns are ditching heavy embellishments in favour of sleek fabrics, detachable overskirts and minimalist styling.

Mermaid

The mermaid silhouette hugs the body closely through the bust, waist and hips before flaring dramatically at or below the knee.

Why brides love it:

Highlights curves
Creates a glamorous, red-carpet feel
Delivers maximum impact in photographs

Best for brides who want a bold, fashion-forward look.

Fit-and-Flare

Often confused with mermaid dresses, fit-and-flare gowns begin widening slightly higher on the leg, creating a softer, more wearable shape.

Why brides love it:

Offers structure without feeling restrictive
Creates a balanced silhouette
Easier to move in than a traditional mermaid gown

Trending now: Crepe fit-and-flare dresses with statement backs and long sleeves.

Trumpet

Sitting somewhere between a fit-and-flare and a mermaid gown, the trumpet silhouette follows the body’s curves before flaring around mid-thigh.

Why brides love it:

Elegant and dramatic
Comfortable enough for dancing
Enhances natural curves without feeling overly fitted

Sheath

Also known as a column dress, the sheath silhouette falls straight from the shoulders to the hem with minimal flare.

Why brides love it:

Lightweight and effortless
Perfect for destination weddings
Creates a chic, contemporary look

Trending now: Minimalist sheath gowns inspired by quiet luxury and old-money aesthetics.

Column

While often grouped with sheath dresses, column gowns tend to have more structure and cleaner lines.

Why brides love it:

Modern and sophisticated
Ideal for city weddings
Pairs beautifully with statement accessories

Designers continue to embrace this silhouette as bridal fashion moves toward understated elegance.

Empire Waist

An empire-waist gown features a raised waistline that sits just below the bust, with fabric flowing freely underneath.

Why brides love it:

Soft and romantic
Comfortable to wear
Creates an ethereal look

Perfect for boho, garden and destination weddings.

Basque Waist Gown

One of bridal fashion’s biggest revivals, the basque waist features a V-shaped waistline that dips below the natural waist.

Why brides love it:

Creates a corseted appearance
Elongates the torso
Offers vintage-inspired romance

Trending now: Basque-waist gowns have become a favourite among fashion-conscious brides thanks to their regal, editorial feel.

Tea-Length

Tea-length dresses fall between the knee and ankle, offering a playful alternative to traditional floor-length gowns.

Why brides love it:

Ideal for civil ceremonies and second looks
Comfortable and practical
Showcases statement shoes

Vintage-inspired tea-length gowns are becoming increasingly popular among brides embracing retro aesthetics.

High-Low

The high-low silhouette features a shorter front hem and longer back hem.

Why brides love it:

Fun and modern
Easy movement
Perfect for outdoor celebrations

This style is often chosen as a reception or after-party look.

Slip Dress

Inspired by 1990s fashion, slip dresses feature a simple, body-skimming silhouette with minimal detailing.

Why brides love it:

Effortlessly chic
Lightweight and comfortable
Timeless yet contemporary

The rise of minimalist bridal fashion has cemented the slip dress as a modern classic.

Mini Wedding Dresses

Not every bride dreams of a floor-sweeping gown. Bridal minis have become one of the fastest-growing trends in wedding fashion.

Why brides love it:

Fashion-forward appeal
Ideal for courthouse weddings and receptions
Allows greater freedom of movement

Many brides are now pairing a mini dress with a detachable overskirt for the best of both worlds.

Which Silhouette Is Right for You?

While body shape can help guide your search, the best wedding dress silhouette is ultimately the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable and unmistakably yourself.

Don’t be afraid to try styles outside your comfort zone. Many brides walk into a boutique convinced they want a mermaid gown, only to fall in love with an A-line dress – or vice versa.

The perfect dress isn’t about following rules. It’s about finding the silhouette that makes you stand a little taller, smile a little wider and feel completely ready to walk down the aisle.

ALSO SEE: Non-white wedding dresses are no longer a bridal taboo

Non-white wedding dresses are no longer a bridal taboo

Featured image: cottonbro studio / Pexels

In Advice

Veil trends dominating 2026

May 26, 2026 No Comments

For years, the wedding veil played supporting actress to the dress. In 2026? It’s officially the main character.

Brides are no longer treating veils as a last-minute accessory tossed on during fittings “just to complete the look.” Instead, veils are becoming deeply personal style statements – dramatic, editorial, romantic and, in many cases, entirely custom. Across recent bridal fashion weeks, designers leaned heavily into expressive accessories, proving that bridal styling is moving towards individuality rather than tradition for tradition’s sake.

From pearl embellishments to mantilla lace and ultra-minimalist tulles, here are the veil trends dominating 2026 weddings.

Pearl veils are still having a major moment

If there’s one trend refusing to leave the bridal chat, it’s pearls.

But in 2026, pearl veils feel softer and more refined than the heavily embellished versions we saw a few years ago. Designers are favouring delicate scattered pearls across sheer tulle for a barely-there shimmer that catches beautifully in photographs and candlelight.

The appeal? Versatility.

Pearl veils pair effortlessly with minimalist satin gowns, but they also add texture to clean silhouettes without competing against intricate dresses. Brides are increasingly using the veil itself as the statement piece instead of relying on heavily embellished gowns.

Cathedral veils are getting even more dramatic

Cathedral veils remain one of the biggest bridal trends of the year, with extra-long lengths, pooling tulle and oversized silhouettes dominating bridal editorials and runway collections. What’s changed is how brides are styling them.

Instead of pairing dramatic veils with equally dramatic gowns, many brides are choosing sleek crepe or mikado dresses and letting the veil create the impact. The contrast between clean tailoring and romantic movement feels modern, expensive and editorial.

Honestly? This is one of the smartest styling shifts happening in bridal fashion right now. A simple gown with a breathtaking veil, photographs far more timelessly than an overly embellished dress-and-accessories combination fighting for attention.

Lace-edged veils are making a comeback

Lace never really disappears from bridal fashion, but 2026 is bringing back softer, more intentional lace detailing – especially on veils.

We’re seeing:

Scalloped lace trims
Botanical embroidery
Delicate floral appliqué
Mantilla-inspired lace framing

The overall aesthetic feels romantic and heirloom-inspired rather than overly traditional. Spanish-style mantilla veils in particular are quietly becoming one of the most fashion-forward bridal choices for 2026, especially for brides wanting a softer, old-world elegance.

Minimalist veils are becoming more refined

At the same time, minimalist brides are doubling down on simplicity. Raw-cut edges, ultra-fine illusion tulle and lightweight single-layer veils are everywhere right now.

The goal is movement rather than volume. These veils float instead of drape, creating an effortless softness that works beautifully for modern city weddings, destination ceremonies and fashion-forward brides who want elegance without excess.

Interestingly, bridal communities online are also steering brides with highly detailed gowns towards cleaner veils to avoid overwhelming the overall look.

Vintage-inspired veils are rising again

Bridal fashion’s current obsession with nostalgia is spilling into accessories too. Birdcage veils, Juliet caps and bandeau-inspired styles are all resurfacing for brides wanting something unconventional yet timeless.

These styles are especially popular for:

Civil ceremonies
Reception outfit changes
Fashion-focused weddings
Intimate city celebrations

The overall vibe feels less “traditional bride” and more editorial fashion moment – which fits perfectly with 2026’s broader bridal trend cycle focused on personality and individuality.

Personalised veils are becoming non-negotiable

Customisation might be the defining bridal trend of 2026 overall.

More brides are adding:

Embroidered initials
Wedding dates
Meaningful phrases
Custom lace placements
Bespoke colours
Family-inspired details

Celebrity weddings have also fuelled the rise of highly personalised veils, with dramatic embroidered storytelling becoming increasingly aspirational for brides wanting emotional significance woven into their look.

Bows, soft structure and sculptural styling are trending

2026 bridal fashion is leaning heavily into femininity again, and veils are following suit. Soft sculptural tulle, oversized bows and layered volume are increasingly appearing across bridal collections and runway styling.

The result feels playful yet couture-inspired – especially when paired with sleek dresses or minimalist silhouettes.

For brides wanting a fashion-forward bridal look without committing to a trend-heavy gown, this is an easy way to add personality while keeping the overall look timeless.

The biggest bridal veil trend of 2026? Intention

If bridal fashion in 2026 has made one thing clear, it’s this: veils are no longer an afterthought. Whether it’s a dramatic cathedral veil trailing behind a minimalist gown, delicate pearl embellishments catching the light, or a vintage-inspired birdcage moment for the fashion bride, veils have become one of the defining style elements of the modern bridal look.

And perhaps that’s why they feel so exciting again.

Brides are moving away from the pressure to look “traditionally bridal” and leaning into styling choices that feel personal, fashion-led and emotionally resonant instead. The veil is no longer just there to complete the outfit – it’s there to transform it.

In 2026, the veil isn’t playing supporting actress anymore. It’s stealing the entire scene.

ALSO SEE: Looking for the perfect wedding dress? Here are a few tips to find the one

Looking for the perfect wedding dress? Here are a few tips to find ‘the one’

Featured image: Alexander Mass / Pexels

In Fashion

Trending in wedding fashion: personalised bridal jackets

October 15, 2019 No Comments

Accessories are the final cherry on top of the cake. From jewellery to hair accessories, there are a host of additions that can be made to complete your final bridal look.

Personalised bridal jackets have been trending for a few years now, most famously worn by Kim Kardashian West and Kanye West.

Bridal jackets are typically leather or denim jackets adorned with personalised wedding script. Newlyweds wear these jackets on their wedding evening and as a bonus can keep it for decades to come. Another bonus is that it is easily DIY-able.

Here are a few bridal jackets to inspire you on your big day:

Crew love:

Dress your bridal party in matching jackets to show off your squad.

Just married:

Shout out you newlywed status with these jackets.

Wifey:

You’ve got a new title now, and everyone can read it off your back.

Till death:

Have a physical reminder of your vows by emblazoning ’til death” on your bridal jacket.

Babe:

Not one for official titles? Go with a cute nickname like ‘babe’.

Wife of the party:

Remind everyone that it’s your day with a jacket screaming ‘wife of the party’, or ‘bride’.

Get sappy:

Once you’ve found your person, everything falls into place. Let them know how you feel with a jacket with ‘it was always you’ written across it, or let them know you’ve found your happily ever after.

Surnames:

Have your surnames emblazoned on your jackets for a personalised touch.

Picture: Instagram / Kim Kardashian