Wedding Dress Trends for 2026/27

Wedding Dress Trends for 2026/27: What’s Hot for Southern Hemisphere Brides

As the southern hemisphere heads into another beautiful wedding season, Elodie Bridal brings you a glimpse into the bridal fashion future. From the runways of Bridal Fashion Weeks around the globe to real styling sessions in New Zealand and Australia, here are the standout trends for 2026 and 2027 brides.

1. Sculpted Simplicity

Brides everywhere are embracing clean silhouettes in luxe fabrics like crepe, satin, and mikado. The focus is on pure tailoring—think sheath gowns with high necklines, low backs, and minimal embellishment. Structural designs allow the shape of the dress and your natural beauty to shine through, creating a modern look that’s anything but basic.

These clean silhouettes also follow through with A-line dress. A sculpted bodice shows off your bust and waist, then flows through to comfort giving skirts of satin, organza or crepe type fabrics.

2. Exposed Corsetry & Visible Boning

Taking inspiration from fashion’s current love affair with structure, gowns with exposed boning and corset detailing are still a top pick. These features provide support, a flattering shape, and a confident, unexpectedly sexy vibe. Look out for illusion mesh, visible seams, and sheer corset panels for extra drama and comfort. If a sheer bodice is not your thing, the corset detailing can still be impactful.

3. Basque & Drop Waistlines

Basque waistlines—characterized by a soft “V” or “U” shape that elongates the torso—are continuing to make a major comeback. These are often paired with full skirts, offering a “Bridgerton-meets-runway” romance that’s both dramatic and decidedly modern. Drop waists feature in both fitted and full silhouettes, making them a universally flattering option for all body types.

4. Statement Minis

Short wedding dresses aren’t just for after-parties anymore. Expect to see minis with puff sleeves, bows, and bold lace make a splash at small intimate weddings, receptions, and even as a bride’s main event look. Southern hemisphere weddings are known for their relaxed, summery vibe, and statement minis perfectly capture this energy.

5. Bold Lace Placement

There is a lot more bold lace in evidence. Look for oversized motifs, geometric patterns, and lace used in unexpected places, like sleeve panels or dramatic back cut-outs. The new lace is all about impact, not subtlety. But you can still find delicate all-over lace as a soft drapey option, or maybe peeking through a leg split.

6. Playful Textures & Bubble Hems

Skirts are getting playful with bubble hemlines making a return and textured designs. These details bring movement, volume, and a fresh sense of fun to your bridal look. Whether on a full gown or a reception mini, this trend adds a fashion-forward twist to traditional silhouettes.

The use of textured fabrics is all about adding visual and tactile depth that elevates bridal gowns beyond the classic smooth satin or crepe. Textured fabrics create drama, and interest through varied techniques such as:

• Jacquard patterns that offer bold, raised, and intricate designs woven into the fabric.

• 3D floral lace appliqués which add a sculptural, dimensional effect to traditional lace.

• Patterned organza, featuring a sheer look that give gowns a sophisticated texture and elegant flow.

• Brocade and manipulated fabrics with rich surfaces and patterns that add a regal and luxurious vibe.

These textures give gowns depth and a tactile richness that catches the eye and accentuates the bride’s presence. The trend embraces both a sense of drama and subtle sophistication, suitable for everything from structured, minimal gowns to romantic and voluminous styles. It’s a way for brides to have a visually interesting dress without relying solely on embellishments or beading.

Textured fabrics provide a fresh, artistic layer to traditional bridal gowns, making every dress feel unique and unforgettable.

7. High Necklines & Halter Styles

For 2026/27, high necklines and halter styles deliver sophisticated simplicity. Not only are they elegant, but they’re also practical for church or outdoor ceremonies—offering just the right balance between modesty and modern charm.

8. Sculptural & Vintage-Inspired Details

Mid-century nostalgia and sculptural shapes are subtly weaving their way back into bridal fashion. It’s a refined take on mid-century couture, drawing from the elegance of the 1940s and 50s — for those seeking a nod to the past with a fresh twist.

9. Colour Pops & Sustainability

While traditional ivory remains a staple, there’s a shift toward introducing colour accents with soft pastels, blush pinks, dusty blues, and even bolder hues being found on dresses or through the impact of a veil with a difference.  

Eco-conscious brides are seeking dresses made from organic and ethically-sourced materials—perfect for those wanting to align their wedding style with their values. Another way to be sustainable is to seek out a preloved or second-hand wedding dress. These gorgeous dresses deserve to be worn again on another bride’s special day.

Planning your wedding in the southern hemisphere means you can incorporate summer-ready trends, breezy styles, and statement designs that embrace the New Zealand outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to timeless elegance or modern drama, 2026/27 offers something truly special for every bride-to-be.

Ready to find your perfect trend-setting gown? Book your appointment at Elodie Bridal and let us help you discover the dress that feels just right for you.