Maybe it’s the dancing till 3am? Or the eye-misting speeches? Perhaps it’s the scenes of scattered families gathered under one roof? Most likely, it’s the dream of everlasting love. Whatever the reason, hope runs through wedding season like buttercream through a tiered cake – but this year, that hope feels extra poignant.
After months of postponements and uncertainty, frazzled brides and grooms across the country are tentatively reopening their summer 2021 wedding planners. Bridesmaids are rebooting their dress searches, bouquets are being ordered, and amended invites are fluttering into inboxes like petals of confetti.
As preparations kick up a gear, I’m struck by just how good it feels to embrace them. How happy I am to be hunting down Bride Tribe dresses (never again will I wince at a friend’s chosen colour palette) and how wild it feels to pick out a pair of dancefloor-ready heels. Hell, after the year we’ve had, I might even buy a fascinator.
Whether you want a Maid of Honour-worthy silk maxi, a jewelled bridal gown, or a demure midi to take you from ceremony to reception, read on for a hand-picked selection of till-death-do-us-part styles. Whatever happens, wedding bells will resound extra loudly this year.
Blush toned florals. Figure-flattering pleats. Delicate sun-ready straps. The white floral midi is so darn perfect, we’d put a ring on it. Plus, the floaty overlay is oh-so-forgiving if you suffer from bloating (hello, 3-course wedding meal!) Pair her with strappy tan sandals or a nude heel and prepare to catch the bouquet.
Cut from silky emerald satin with an iridescent sheen, this stunning cami nails wedding guest glam. The cowl neckline is elegant and flattering, while the deep green fabric pairs beautifully with metallic tones. A pair of gold heels and a sparkly clutch are this dress’ best friends.
As iconic as its namesake, the Bardot has a gorgeous off-shoulder style and a pretty frill detail running from hip to hemline. It may look structured (yes, this dress hugs at the waistline for an hourglass figure!) but the fabric is actually forgiving and stretchy. Add your favourite nude heels and a glass of prosecco.
Loosely draped up top, with a wrap over high-low skirt below, the Judith is all kinds of flattering. This chic but comfy style in a powder-soft colourway suits all kinds of body types with its cinched tie-waist detail. Add a white oversized clutch and your best loved jewellery before heading to the ceremony.
Please be upstanding for this divine grey and white halter-style midi dress with striking lace detail. This flattering cut mixes the understated with the embellished (translation: the best of both worlds) and looks beautiful teamed with nude accessories. A stand-out style worth tying the knot with.
