We Already Know What Wedding Dress Trends Will Be Hot With 2023 Brides

Couples around the globe have opted for smaller, more intimate affairs to celebrate their nuptials over the past two years, a move that has historically called for scaled-back wedding looks. However, as the world continues to shift towards a new normal, weddings are moving ahead in full force, and brides are looking forward to 2023 wedding dress trends.  

Brides have always been interested in trendy wedding dresses that speak to their unique style. However, modern brides are also interested in functionality and wearability (via Brides). Luckily, designers at New York Fashion Week made it clear that they understood the assignment. Wedding dress trends for next year embrace a range of diverse, somewhat contradictory styles, showcasing dress designs that emulated classic romance all the way to ultra-chic bridal suits and separates. Colorful ball gowns, contemporary mini dresses, and convertible bridal garments are also in play, creating a truly diverse bridalwear experience. 

This spring and summer, wedding dresses are also going big on the little details, from stunning embroidered florals to veils with 3D appliqués. Embellished accessories like bridal gloves are also popular, allowing modern brides the ability to flaunt their unique style. Whether you're freshly engaged and on the hunt for your dream dress or simply daydreaming about your big day, take a closer look at the biggest 2023 wedding dress trends to come.

Not every bride dreams of walking down the aisle in a cloud of tangled tulle. The bridal suit is a chic alternative that gives modern brides looking for something unique the chance to shine. It is also a versatile garment that can be worn at events leading up to the wedding like bridal showers and engagement parties, which is an attractive option to brides who want to keep costs down.

Bridal suits vary from tailored classics with ample structure and clean lines to flowy, oversized garments that take draping into consideration. While many think of suits as simple or plain, bridal suits can include all manner of embellishments, from all-over lace to intricate pearl detailing. No one does bridal suits better than Safiyaa. Her bespoke, demi-couture suits are a striking combination of timeless elegance, structure, and comfort, designed with the needs of the modern bride in mind. Rosie Assoulin's bridal suits are also skyrocketing in popularity (via The New York Times). Her unique collection features several suits and separates, including Look 11, a daisy bralette with a pleated cargo trouser made of double duchess satin (via Brides).

Mini dresses are a popular wedding dress trend that came back with a vengeance in 2023 designs. What started as a reception-only trend quickly morphed into ceremony-specific attire, with celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian championing the style at their own weddings. Like bridal suits, mini-dresses are a fun and flirty way for brides to embrace their personal style. Not only are they more comfortable and easier to dance in, many simply opt for the surprise of something short and light instead of the drama of a traditional floor-length style. Short dresses are also preferred by brides eloping or holding informal, small-scale weddings, something that has become a more common occurrence in a post-pandemic world.

The Melody by Costarellos is a perfect example of a short wedding dress that is fun, funky, and delightfully glamorous. The simple sheath bodice pairs well with the drama of the long, fringe sleeves. It's easy to imagine dancing the night away in a dress that moves and sparkles like this. Peter Langer's Daphne Mini-Dress is the perfect wedding garment for the bold bride who isn't afraid to show off their legs. The lace-lined, silk crepe dress features a draped balloon hem that falls just below the top of the thigh for a dramatic and romantic aesthetic with a touch of '60s flair.

Of course, not all brides are interested in toning down their bridal moments. Brides are going to ditch the preferred A-line style of the past couple of years for show-stopping ball gowns in 2023. According to Town & Country, brides are eager to super size every element of their wedding gowns, from puffy sleeves reminiscent of the '80s to voluminous skirts (via Infinite Wedding).

Looking at the 2023 spring/summer bridal collections, it's easy to see why brides love the look. Oscar de la Renta's 2023 bridal collection features elaborate ball gowns with textured skirts that Carrie Bradshaw would adore, while designers like Sareh Nouri are crafting masterpieces of frothy tulle that resemble elaborate tiered wedding cakes (via MarthaStewart.com).

Elie Saab dresses are also popular for brides in search of the perfect ball gown. Her dresses embrace the ethereal radiance of Pre-Raphaelite paintings with layers of organza, gathered tulle, Chantilly lace, and asymmetrical bodices encrusted with sequins and beads.

Structure and flow come together in an unbelievably cool neckline trending in 2023 wedding dresses. The off-the-shoulder neckline is elegant and flirty while giving brides swan-like necks and highlighting the collarbones. Better yet, it has serious Cinderella and Belle vibes, encapsulating the princess-like romance many brides dream of. The off-the-shoulder trend shows up in a variety of ways, from sheer florals that accentuate a deep sweetheart neckline (via Elie Saab) to edgy tulle (via Mira Zwillinger). The off-the-shoulder trend is heavily featured in Eva Lendel's new collection as well, from dramatic ball gowns like the Mensia to sexy mermaid styles.

Brides craving more drama in their wedding day look can take advantage of two trends at once with an off-the-shoulder neckline with sleeves. This style can include puffy sleeves from shoulder to wrist, such as in these dresses by Monique Lhullier and Ines Di Santo. Slimmer sleeves with top-heavy volume are also trending, as seen in Lihi Hod's stunning satin "Milly" dress (via Lihi Hod). Vera Wang's 2023 bridal collection is full of off-the-shoulder necklines and gorgeous, puffy sleeves that serve up a truly modern silhouette flattering on a range of body types (via Wedding Style).

Florals have always had their place in the wedding dress world, and may not be considered a "groundbreaking" fashion statement by most. However, 2023 florals are turning the feminine tradition on its head. Spring and summer dresses are towards oversized floral motifs, colorful embroideries, and 3D elements for a fashion-forward touch it is impossible not to love.

Hermione de Paula's demi-couture bridal collection is the perfect example of modern florals done right. Her newest collection features intricate botanical embroidery that stuns the senses, with an endless selection of romantic dresses that feature dreamy pink, green, and white embroidered florals. Designer Anne Barge takes the floral trend in a more classic direction, combining all-over sequined florals and 3D floating floral embroidery with timeless silhouettes brides love. Cult-favorite Rosie Assoulin's collection also heavily features 3D florals for an eclectic touch, including a full skirt covered in daisies.

It's hard not to drool over Reem Acra's sleek "My Favorite," which features puffy long sleeves adorned with a ball of 3D florals at the shoulders (via Reem Acra). Fans of the mini-dress trend should also consider the long-sleeved, high-necked gown by Lela Rose, which utilizes the raw edges of large floral lace to create a balanced, romantic look (via Lela Rose).

Fringe and feathers aren't just for the crowds at Electric Forest and 20s-themed Halloween parties. These festive, dance-ready details are huge for 2023 wedding dresses. Not only do they look amazing spinning on the dance floor, but they also offer eclectic, out-of-the-box brides the chance to embrace their flair for the dramatic (via Still White.)

Naeem Khan's line of bridal party dresses heavily historically featured playful fringe and daring ivory-colored feathers. The Amadora from his newest collection is a short feathery masterpiece with plenty of sparkles and a gorgeous open back (via Naeem Khan). This type of funky wedding dress also pairs well with bold accessories like headpieces and gloves.

Many 2023 wedding dresses with feather or fringe details are displayed on traditional cuts. Designer Jesus Peiro's use of beaded fringe on a mermaid dress style is a perfect combination of whimsy and elegance (via Jesus Peiro). This 2023 wedding dress trend is also perfect for the boho bride, as seen in spirited styles from Rue de Seine and Grace Loves Lace.

The familiar rhyme "something borrowed, something blue, something old, something new," is a wedding attire tradition said to bring good fortune to the bride and groom (via Reader's Digest). Many brides incorporate their "something blue" in the form of small detail, like their garter or a meaningful accessory. But what if the whole dress could be blue instead?

One of the most distinctive 2023 wedding dress trends is the blue wedding dress. Designers have played with color in the past, utilizing understated colors like cream, blush, and pale pink. This year, however, blue is the new girl in town, and brides are here for it. What's more, Love the Sales reported that online sales for "color wedding dresses" jumped 50% over the past year, which is a good indicator that this trend is here to stay (via Fashionista).

Notable examples include designer Nadia Manjarrez Studio's stunning blue ball gown with detachable balloon sleeves and delicate floral embroidery. The Romina by Ines Di Santo is another bridal favorite. This stunning sleeveless cocktail dress in a pastel blue features a deep V-neck, an open square back, and a detachable overskirt with hand-painted white flowers down the train. Other designers like Amsale and Francesca Miranda play with softer blue and lavender hues for the color-loving bride that doesn't want to stray too far from traditional white.

Brides in 2023 value practicality in their wedding dresses as highly as they do look and price. While many crave the drama of an elegant train, they also recognize the pain of (literally) dragging it around and the cost of purchasing multiple dresses for one evening. Enter the convertible bridal cape. This 2023 wedding dress trend allows brides the ability to swiftly transition from a dignified ceremony look to a fun reception dress in no time. Capes vary in style, from transparent cloaks with floral appliqués (via Mira Zwillinger) to princess-like sparkles (via Elie Saab).

According to Wedding Forward, this transformative trend extends to a variety of convertible accessories, including trains, sleeves, and overskirts. Overskirts, such as the Harlow by Lazaro, can turn a voluminous ball gown into a figure-hugging mermaid. Removable sleeves are romantic and offer plenty of coverage for conservative ceremonies. Convertible trains are also on trend for 2023. The simple detachable fabric enhances the bride's dress and figure but can be removed before any serious dancing takes place.

Bows of all shapes and sizes were prevalent in the 2023 wedding dress collections. Equal parts whimsical and girly, the classic dress detail is normally found on belts or in traditional back ties. However, according to Bridal Guide, large bows served as structural elements in a variety of designer pieces. Honor NYC utilized the oversized bow trend as a large shoulder piece. Moreover, Pantora Bridal also played with oversized bows, from a stylish faux-shrug over a strapless mermaid gown to a vertical belt bow that offers curves to an ample A-line dress.

In contrast, mini bows are also on trend. Although the tiny knotted details are significantly more understated than their voluminous counterparts, they are a delightful addition to strappy back details and belts. Legends by Romona Keveza took the bow trend to a whole new level with color. From show-stopping black organza bows to trails of miniature bows, options for the bow-loving bride are truly endless.

Sheer fabrics are a major trend in 2023 wedding dress designs, from see-through sleeves to daring, peek-a-boo skirts and bodices with illusion panels. According to Carats and Cake, the transparent fabric lends an ethereal effect to the bridal gowns, as seen in the stunning 2023 collections by Monique Lhuiller and Dana Harel. Lhuiller's collection utilizes sheer fabrics to express romance and whimsy in a variety of classic and modern silhouettes (via Monique Lhuiller). Dana Harel's recent use of transparency in bridal designs also varies in style but lends a royal, Mediterranean feel to the sexy, self-assured bride (via Fashion Week Online).

Layers of sheer fabric are also prevalent across most spring/summer bridal collections. Skirts made up of frothy layers of tulle and organza create full, playful structures. Regardless of how it's worn, the sheer fabric trend is a compelling mixture of sweet and sensual, daring and tasteful. It is perfect for confident brides who aren't afraid to show a little skin on their big day.

Wedding dress designers are also incorporating a charming amount of fashionable cutouts into their bridal gowns for 2023. The cutout trend focuses on geometric shapes and side panels as well as exposed midriffs in a nod to the '90s and early 2000s (via Fashionista). It also consists of glorious open backs with mid or upper-back support, as seen in the boundary-pushing Theia Spring 2023 Collection (via Tom + Lorenzo).

A stunning example of the cutout trend can be seen in Francesca Miranda's 2023 spring/summer collection. Dresses like the Opalo feature tulle cutouts that subtly show off the midriff and torso without distracting from the gorgeous embroidered skirt or leaf-like strap details. Katharine Polk's designs for Houghton showcase the cutout trend in a variety of styles, but with a focus on 80s-style ruching, transparent layers, or organza, crepe, and tulle. According to Brides, each look is an unexpected delight, featuring unconventional details like heart-shaped crystal buckles that pair perfectly with the cutouts.

Corsets and architectural bodices have been a staple of wedding dress designs for decades to give the elaborate dresses shape and support. In 2023, however, designers have reimagined traditional corsetry with a focus on flirty and romantic styles that show off as much as they help support.

Many 2023 wedding dress corsets simply expose the boning of the bodice with the help of sheer fabric overlays, nude illusion panels, or swaths of intricate lace. Ines Di Santo's 2023 collection "Postcards from Ines" features several gorgeous gowns with architectural corsets as the main focus. According to Fashion Week Online, when it came to these dresses Di Santo took inspiration from French and Indian architecture to create clean silhouettes with intricate construction. Visible corsets are also available in less revealing styles for more conservative brides. Designers like Amsale work from the outside in, creating sharp, structured corset bodices with fabric-covered boning and opulent details such as long, off-the-shoulder sleeves.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that wedding dresses and sparkles go together like cake and champagne. In response to the 2022 daytime disco trend seen in recent years and the continual celebration of all things glam, 2023 wedding dresses have proven that sometimes more is better. According to Fashionista, the glamorous glitter trend is apparent in crystal embellishments, intricate beadwork, pearls, sequins, and layers of sparkly tulle. Designers like Galia Lahav are embracing the idea of the luxury bride, sewing in thoughtful details that glimmer and gleam wherever possible. Her couture collection of bridal gowns features stunning garments like the Elsa, a blush-colored masterpiece encrusted with hand-sewn pearls and sparkling crystals.

Brides who favor a subtle shimmer over 3D embellishments aren't in danger of being left out of this trend, though. Designers like Scorcesa and Sheila Frank create pieces for the non-traditional, ultra-modern bride. Shiny fabrics with elements of shimmer and delicate sparkle are heavily featured in their 2023 wedding dress collections.

As Katherine Heigl's Jane cheekily taught us in "21 Dresses," "Every bride loves her accessories." Although Jane's wedding accouterment as a beleaguered bridesmaid was questionable, the sentiment holds true for modern wedding dress trends. Embellished accessories are in full force for 2023 wedding dresses, from bridal gloves and mini veils to the beloved belt (via Brides).

The traditional bridal veil has received a 2023 upgrade. Veils can now be a statement piece, featuring stunning floral appliques, embroidery, and intricate beading. Mini-veils are also on trend. In addition to being a stylish alternative to a full-length veil, they look incredibly chic when paired with a mini-dress. They also lend a touch of whimsy to a structured bridal suit ensemble.

Embellished bridal gloves are a 2023 bridal accessory that can elevate a traditional wedding look (via Green Wedding Shoes). Short bridal gloves with elegant bows or floral appliques add a lovely vintage twist to any gown, while extra-long evening gloves can be bedazzled with pearls or crystals for a truly romantic touch. Of course, many bridal looks are incomplete without a fantastic belt. This embellished accessory continues to be on-trend for 2023 wedding dress looks, varying from minimalistic styles with bows to thick belts heavy with sparkle.