FASHION
GOT A WEDDING THIS YEAR? THESE ARE THE BRIDESMAID TRENDS TO KNOW
By Flo Bellinger, 12 January 2026
Even with a fresh 12 months ahead of us, weddings have probably already filled your calendar. So whether you’re on the guest list or the one saying ‘I do’, it’s time to start planning. Bridesmaids have always been a bit of a puzzle when it comes to wedding fashion. In recent years, the tradition of matching dresses has fallen out of favour. Brides are veering into more casual and creative aesthetics (thanks to low-key weddings like those of Charli XCX and George Daniel), and the bridal party is enjoying a more flexible dress code.
Personal style and preference will always sway the final look, but this inclusive approach to bridesmaid dresses opens the floor to exciting new trends. From prints to satin and unexpected colour schemes, keep scrolling for a guide to the 2026 bridesmaid trends.
#1: SATIN & CHAMPAGNE
Picture: ASOS
Wearing white to a wedding has historically been a sartorial sin. But lately, bridesmaids have been stepping out in champagnes and creams. To avoid overshadowing the lady of honour, these neutral shades are balanced by an uber-simple silhouette – usually cut in satin or silk. Think camisole dresses, short-sleeve maxi gowns and understated skirts that'll leave the wedding dress room to wow. This approach is particularly effective when the shade differs from person to person. When captured next to a statement bridal gown, the flurry of neutrals creates a soft and romantic vignette fit for the chicest nuptials.
GET THE LOOK:
Gina Tricot high neck midi satin dress in light gold, £40
Vila satin cowl neck cami maxi dress in cream, £40
SNDYS satin cowl neck strappy open back side split maxi dress in blue, £75
ASOS DESIGN scoop neck drop waist midi dress with satin skirt in champagne, £45
#2: FULL-BLOWN FLORALS
Picture: ASOS
Excuse the sharp U-turn as we veer into maximal territory. In contrast to the understated bridesmaid, floral dresses are set to dominate 2026 as dopamine dressing builds momentum – think all-over prints and embellished dresses. The resurgence of vintage and a bridal penchant for the unexpected mean more eclectic brands like Shrimps and Cecilie Bahnsen are all over new-age wedding vision boards. Gone are the days when Vera Wang and Vivienne Westwood were the only aspirations. If you enjoy having fun with your wardrobe, 2026 asks you to bring the same energy to wedding prep.
GET THE LOOK:
ARRANGE 3D floral bandeau column maxi dress in black, £180
Mango embroidered satin scarf dress with fringe hem in blue, £370
ARRANGE cotton floral embroidered plunge midi dress in buttermilk, £150
Omnes Dresses myla maxi fitted viscose floral dress, £120
#3: TOTALLY TONAL
Picture: ASOS
While matching looks have become démodé, colour coordination is one way to keep the bridal party streamlined. This is a great approach if each bridesmaid has drastically different style – allowing everyone to embrace their individualism while keeping things cohesive. Start by choosing your colour (this year’s palette promises lots of blues and reds) and branch out from there. So long as the shades are consistent, a variety of textures and silhouettes will work – so don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
GET THE LOOK:
Forever New Petite sheer maxi dress In blue, £110
House of CB Marcella pleated maxi dress in ocean blue, £199
ASOS DESIGN satin bandeau bridesmaid maxi dress in light blue, £120
ARRANGE organza pleat waist midi dress with tie back detail in light blue, £140
#4: THE BOLDER, THE BETTER
Picture: ASOS
If coordination isn’t your bag, mix-and-match bridesmaid gowns are worth a look. Think bold jewel tones or a swathe of pastels. These clashing shades tread a fine line between elevated and ostentatious, so ensure the silhouettes are simple, and the fabrics are tailored to perfection. We’re loving a figure-hugging strapless gown in eye-catching shades like tomato red and cerulean – both set to dominate 2026 palettes and left-field enough to impress your guests.
GET THE LOOK:
ARRANGE fringe texture halter neck scoop back maxi dress in blue, £180
Mango premium strappy cup detail maxi dress in green, £275
ARRANGE structured off the shoulder satin maxi dress in lime, £180
The Dolls House Circa Lorena satin volume sleeve plunge neck dress in red, £155
#5: PLENTY OF PRINT
Picture: ASOS
Prints enjoyed the limelight last year, and their winning streak will continue into 2026. This is no different in the wedding industry, where bridesmaids' dresses are already veering into wilder territory. Polka dots, stripes and even animal print are now viable options for more expressive parties. Opt for short dresses if you're concerned about drowning out the wearer or the bride, and if you’ve landed on clashing prints, try and nail a loose colour scheme to tie it all together.
GET THE LOOK:
Anaya Polka dot halter neck maxi dress in multi, £85
ASOS DESIGN satin seam detail maxi dress in polka dot, £32
ARRANGE contrast fabric cami midi dress with hanky hem in block stripe, £120
ASOS DESIGN satin batwing sleeve maxi dress in pinstripe, £55
