Checkerboard dancefloors and maximalist bridesmaids, polished gowns and pearl embellishment. After 18 months of cancellations, restrictions and postponements, 2022 is set to mark the end of subdued celebrations. Here we share our forecast for some of the top weddings trends you can expect to see over the course of the coming year.
1. Nighttime affairs
There’s something intoxicatingly romantic about spangled parties under a blanket of stars. As the weekend wedding trend stays, this year we also see celebrations move into the night. Excite your guestlist with a sparkle-inducing dress code. Sequins, chainmail and heavy embellishment all abounded on the catwalks this season; a sweet release from lockdown and its associated loungewear. With venues well booked this summer, consider the beauty of a winter wedding; a late-afternoon ceremony lit by candlelight followed by supper under a full moon (October’s Hunter's Moon and November's Frost Moon are worth bookmarking).
James Frost Photography www.jamesfrostphotoblog.com/blog
2. Simple bride, all out bridesmaids
Sleek, silky and simple: this year closes the door on the lacy boho aesthetic and throws away the key. The 2022 bride will be the picture of modern elegance. When it comes to guests though, don’t be afraid to encourage a splash of colour, pattern and maximalism. Think blousy florals on your bridesmaids, billowing sleeves and a touch of regency-era Bridgerton.
3. The checkerboard aesthetic
A clean, monochrome palette is the very essence of elegance. Seeing a rise in checkerboard floors within the interior design realm, the trend is now sweeping across other arenas and the dancefloor is just the start. Black and white dress codes, giant chess boards in the gardens or check suits for the groomsmen: take it as far as you wish. If you need convincing, take a look at this recent shoot by The Unbridled featuring one of Julita London's dazzling gowns.
Bridalwear www.julitalondon.com, Photography www.theunbridled.co.uk, HMUA www.nicolabeddoes.co.uk
4. Sit down dinners and social distanced snaps
When it comes to lifestyle, there are few things we’d like to keep from the last few years, however a little hygiene can stay in our opinion (remember blowing out birthday candles? No, we'd rather forget that too!). Restrictions on those huddled-together group shots led photographers to get creative, resulting in a new era for wedding photography where poses took on a more natural and editorial style. The same principles apply for the wedding breakfast. Farewell grazing tables, welcome back the fully serviced sit down dinner.
5. Pearlcore
With the grand return of gatherings, your wedding really is your oyster this year. As pearls take center stage for accessories, expect to see them embellished onto bridal shoes, veils, engagement rings, bridesmaid gifts, table décor and even cakes. A metaphor for the modern bride, these gleaming ocean treasures are classic, organic and timeless all at once.
Bridalwear www.julitalondon.com, Photography oliviandan.com, HMUA www.larabrewster.com
6. Colours of the catwalk
You only have to take one look at the catwalk this year to see that 2022 is not a year for neutrals. Combinations of tangerine and fuchsia or cerulean blue and emerald green will set the scene for a bold summer wedding, while soft blues will be the perfect pairing for elegant country homes or coastal elopements. For autumn/winter weddings, go for old Hollywood glamour with ruby red accents to compliment a scene of soft waved hair, swing music and Champagne coupes.
7. Anni-ception parties
Many couples opted for micro weddings and elopements during the pandemic; this new hybrid of an anniversary and reception is seeing heightened demand as first and second wedding anniversaries of the aforementioned couples approach. At last, big day celebrations can proceed. These events involve pulling out all the stops – there’s been enough time to plan after all! For inspiration, see Unique Homestays' full collection of wedding and reception venues. With each venue comes our little black book of recommended suppliers for your bespoke event.
