The New Wave of Wedding Dressing

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall


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The pandemic put life as we know it on hold, and in the pause that followed, many couples had the chance to contemplate what they really wanted in a wedding. Now, with the resounding return of celebrations, the answer has emerged. What people desire most right now is simple: joy, commitment, celebration, ceremony, connection—and an incredible party. And it's all about festivities done safely; prioritizing health, loved ones, and family.

That personal approach to celebration parlays naturally into fashion. Now more than ever, couples are shedding the old expectations around proper wedding attire and wearing what feels best to them, whether it's a pair of matching suits or a red tulle gown. The only rule is to express your own style. Ahead, our favorite looks of the season to help you get inspired.

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall

Simone Rocha dress; Kay bangle (worn as hand cuff), Kay diamond two-stone stud earring, and Kay solitaire earrings; Neil Lane diamond ring; Thom Browne tuxedo, shirt, bow tie, and shoes; Lang Antiques brooch; Neil Lane wedding band.

Why not have both parties wear head-to-toe ivory? It's cohesive, refined, and challenges convention.

Giambattista Valli Love Collection gown; Pantora Bridal veil; Neil Lane engagement ring and wedding band; Kay diamond stud earrings; Yuni Buffa ballerina flats; Tom Ford white suit, shirt, and scarf; Gucci loafers; Lang Antiques brooch.

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall

Balance a ruffled silhouette with something more rugged, like these ivory combat boots. Leave the dress shoes to him.

Simone Rocha dress and socks; Dr. Martens boots; Kay bangle, Kay diamond two-stone stud earring, and Kay solitaire earrings; Neil Lane diamond ring; Thom Browne tuxedo, shirt, bow tie, and shoes; Lang Antiques brooch; Neil Lane wedding band.

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall

Michael Kors dress; Gigi Burris hair bow; Daphne Newman veil; Jacques Marie Mage sunglasses; Bliss by Monique Lhuillier for Kay Jewelers engagement ring and wedding band.

After a year-plus of not dressing up, an edgy take on a ball skirt might feel right paired with sneakers.

On right: Alexander McQueen top, skirt, and sneakers; Daphne Newman veil; Kay pearl necklaces; Adam Selman x Le Specs sunglasses.

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall

Throw a cape around your shoulders, or accent your veil with an oversized floral brooch.

Above: Vera Wang Haute gown; Kay diamond solitaire studs; Chanel one-shoulder dress, brooch and boots; Daphne Newman veil; Kay pearl stud earrings, pearl bracelets, and diamond bracelets; Kay by Neil Lane engagement ring and wedding band.

Valentino lace gown; Mateo earrings; Neil Lane engagement ring and wedding band; On right: Greta Constantine jumpsuit and overskirt; Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello pumps; Neil Lane Anniversary ring; Kay princess cut solitaire earrings.

Let him wear color; opt for a suit of your own. Choose a jumpsuit, or go the classic route.

On Giannina: Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello tuxedo jacket, shirt, bermuda shorts, lavallière, and pumps; Bliss by Monique Lhuillier for Kay Jewelers engagement ring and wedding band; Kay diamond paperclip hoop earring, pear hoop earrings, and solitaire earrings. On Youssef: Gucci suit, Celine shirt, Ben Amun earring (worn as brooch), and Santoni loafers.

Wedding in a cooler climate? Opt for sheer sleeves, a jacket, or a coat over your shoulders.

Danielle Frankel gown, tulle top, and earring; Kay pearl bracelets; Bliss by Monique Lhuillier for Kay Jewelers engagement ring and wedding band.

Don't be afraid of color, especially hues that are traditionally bridal across the world, like red, gold, and pastels.

On left: Reem Acra gown; Neil Lane engagement ring; On right: Oscar de la Renta mini dress; Kay link bracelet (worn as necklace); Kay pearl drop earring.

Or try a slouchy suit with an extra-long veil and a petite clutch of blooms. The only real rule is that there are no rules.

Above and below: The Row jacket, shirt, top, and pant; Hillier Bartley loafers; Daphne Newman veil; Kay pearl stud earrings.

Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall
Photo credit: Xavier Scott Marshall

Photographer: Xavier Scott Marshall; Fashion Editor: Miguel Enamorado; Weddings Director Carrie Goldberg; Hairstylist: Tomoaki Sato; Makeup Artist: Mitch Yoshida; Models:May Hong, Giannina Oteto, Nina Simone, Philyne, Youssouf Bamba, Clare Crawford; Set Design: Juliet Jernigan; Production: Jordanis Sapuis at Oregas

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