Mini-gowns, OTT headwear and bold brights – bridal expert reveals the must-have trends for 2024
IT’S time to hitch up the skirts if you’re getting hitched this year, according to the experts.
Couples getting spliced in 2024 are starting to plan in earnest, with the Scottish Wedding Show taking place in Glasgow this weekend.
And event boss Tsitsi Lynn Makuni says mini gowns, wearing bows for tying the knot and donning bold accessories are among this season’s must-haves for marriage.
She said: “Non-traditional weddings allow couples to get creative with their outfits.”
Today the Group Show Manager breaks down the trends for brides.
RING THE CHANGES
BRIDES are bucking tradition in 2024 by opting for not one, but two dresses.
They’re getting the best of both worlds by having an outfit change mid-wedding.
Typically after dinner, and before evening guests arrive, a newly-wed will switch into something a bit more comfortable to party.
From short options to pared-back cocktail dresses, the two dresses trend is growing in popularity.
She said: “Not only is this a fun way to surprise guests, but it’ll allow couples to diversify their wedding photos. In 2024 grooms might even follow suit and switch out their accessories for something a bit less formal.”
HITCH UP THE SKIRTS
SHORT dresses were a huge hit at The Scottish Wedding Show’s October Catwalk and Tsitsi says more bridal boutiques are offering shorter styles to meet demand.
With traditional celebrations out and more unique nuptials in, the short wedding dress is rising in popularity.
Esteemed designers, like Berta, are putting shorter styles on display as brides look to make a statement with their outfit.
Tsitsi said: “We’re also seeing a rise in the short dress with detachable overskirt, giving brides the option to add dramatic flair for photos, then go short for the party.”
BRIGHT NOT WHITE
AS unique weddings become more popular, Tsitsi has seen a shift in the traditions typically associated with Scottish weddings – especially when it comes to colour.
White and ivory dresses are no longer a given as more designers offer pastel options.
And even bold colours are expected to be popular, in-line with current maximalist trends in 2024 ceremonies.
Tsitsi said: “Scottish boutiques, like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo Bridal Boutique and Joyce Young Design Studios offer alternative dresses in a variety of colours and patterns so that brides can express themselves through their weddingwear.”
BE BOLD
TSITSI predicts accessories are going to have a moment this year with brides placing more importance on these to add a unique touch to their big day.
Dramatic headbands, pearl-embellished veils, elegant gloves and retro sunglasses are expected to be huge in 2024.
And Tsitsi notes that brides will be using these to add personality to their wedding.
She added: “They’re also a brilliant way for brides to get use out of their weddingwear, as accessories like sunglasses, headbands and funky bags can be used again and will serve as a reminder of their special day.
STAR POWER
MORE couples are taking inspiration from celebrity weddings as TikTok has made these extravagant celebrations go viral.
From Sofia Richie’s star-studded party to Jamie Laing to Sophie Habboo’s London ceremony, brides’ feeds have been flooded with wedding inspiration, with a lot choosing to recreate the celeb look.
Tsitsi said: “The stunning Vivienne Westwood dress worn by Sophie Habboo has proven extremely popular with Scottish brides and those looking to get the look are in luck as the exact dress is stocked by Scottish Wedding Show exhibitor, Rachel Scott Couture.”
TAKE A BOW
STATEMENT bows are making a comeback in 2024 and this hyper-feminine look is expected to be reflected in a lot of this year’s wedding styles.
From small bows on headpieces and shoes to oversized bows on dresses, this is a trend that’s showing no signs of slowing down.
Tsitsi said: “Pinterest Predicts stated that Millennials and Gen Z are the ones most likely to embrace the ‘bow stacking’ trend, so it’s clear that this will trickle into weddings as these age groups tie the knot (or bow!) in 2024.”
- The Scottish Wedding Show runs February 17 and 18 at the SEC, Glasgow