The wedding world is always evolving, and 2022 is no exception. This year’s trends reflect a shift in values, with couples prioritising personal expression, sustainability, and guest comfort.
Whether you’re planning a lavish affair or a laid-back celebration, these trends offer inspiration for making your day meaningful and memorable. From fashion to food, here's what’s making waves in 2022.
Rented Wedding Dresses
With the cost of weddings on the rise, more brides are turning to dress rental services as a savvy alternative to buying. Renting allows access to designer gowns without the hefty price tag and aligns with eco-conscious values. It's an ideal solution for fashion-forward brides who want to shine on a budget. Best of all, it opens up the opportunity to wear multiple looks throughout the day.
Save money without sacrificing style – Designer dress rentals offer stunning gowns at a fraction of the purchase price, freeing up budget for other wedding essentials.
Access high-end fashion you might not buy outright – Renting makes couture labels more accessible for brides wanting a luxury look.
Embrace sustainability – Choosing rental over retail reduces waste and contributes to more eco-friendly wedding planning.
Try multiple styles – Some brides rent two or more outfits to switch up their look between the ceremony and reception.
Sober Curious Weddings
As wellness continues to trend, some couples are rethinking traditional open bars. Sober curious weddings—where alcohol is reduced or removed—offer a refreshing alternative. With more non-alcoholic drinks on the market, it’s easier than ever to cater to all preferences. This thoughtful approach puts guest wellbeing at the heart of the celebration.
Offer premium alcohol-free options – Stock up on sophisticated mocktails, alcohol-free spirits, and artisan sodas for a grown-up drinks menu.
Set expectations ahead of time – Let guests know your plans so they’re not caught off guard by a dry bar or limited alcohol options.
Create a wellness-focused experience – Complement sober choices with health-conscious food, comfortable seating, and mindful entertainment.
Include a signature mocktail – Make it fun with a themed drink that ties in with your décor or tells a story about your relationship.
Bridgerton-Inspired Weddings
Thanks to the popularity of Bridgerton, Regency-era romance has returned in full force. Think dramatic gowns, stately venues, and a touch of theatrical flair. This trend is perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel like a grand period drama. Expect elegance, opulence, and just the right amount of fantasy.
Choose a regal colour palette – Lavender, powder blue, blush pink, and gold are popular shades that channel a refined vintage aesthetic.
Opt for classic silhouettes – Empire-waist gowns, lace gloves, and full skirts evoke a timeless romantic feel.
Decorate with florals and antiques – Use draping wisteria, ornate candelabras, and vintage crockery for a setting worthy of a ballroom.
Set the tone with your invites – Elegant stationery with calligraphy, wax seals, and velvet ribbon creates anticipation for your historical theme.
Nature-Inspired Schemes
Earthy, organic wedding themes continue to grow in popularity as couples move away from ultra-polished settings. These schemes are grounded in natural textures, outdoor venues, and eco-conscious choices. Nature-inspired weddings embrace the beauty of imperfection, with raw edges and wild arrangements taking centre stage. It's an aesthetic that’s as relaxing as it is romantic.
Choose a muted, earthy colour palette – Terracotta, sage green, sand, and burnt orange create a warm, grounded atmosphere.
Incorporate natural materials – Use wood, linen, dried flowers, and pampas grass for an authentic rustic feel.
Select an outdoor venue – Whether it’s a forest glade, countryside meadow, or coastal clifftop, let nature set the scene.
Go plastic-free – Swap out single-use décor for reusable or biodegradable alternatives that support your eco-friendly vision.
Two-Piece Wedding Dresses
Brides are moving away from traditional gowns in favour of versatile two-piece ensembles. Offering both comfort and style, two-piece wedding dresses allow for creative combinations and easy outfit changes. They're ideal for modern weddings where flexibility and self-expression are key. Plus, they’re often more practical for dancing the night away.
Mix and match for a personalised look – Pair skirts, trousers, and tops to suit your body shape and style preferences.
Transition effortlessly from day to night – Swap a formal top for a party-ready one or ditch the long skirt for something more playful.
Re-wear pieces after the wedding – Unlike a full gown, separates are easier to repurpose for future events or styling.
Embrace contemporary fashion trends – From crop tops and trousers to capes and corsets, two-piece looks are bang on trend.
“Flowers with Meaning” Cakes
Wedding cakes are becoming more personal as couples add floral details that tell a story. Instead of purely decorative blooms, couples are selecting flowers with symbolic or sentimental value. Whether it’s the flower from your first date, a nod to heritage, or a tribute to someone special, meaningful florals add heart to your dessert. This trend transforms cake from decoration to narrative.
Pick blooms with a backstory – Include the flower from your first bouquet or a bloom that represents your cultural roots.
Coordinate with your bouquet – Tie the whole theme together by matching your cake flowers with your floral arrangements.
Work with your baker to embed meaning – Share your story so they can create a design that reflects your love journey.
Go beyond fresh flowers – Edible pressed flowers, sugar flower replicas, or hand-painted designs offer creative ways to personalise.
Wedding Crèches
With many guests attending weddings with children in tow, wedding crèches are on the rise. These on-site childcare services offer peace of mind for parents and a fun, supervised space for kids. It allows everyone—young and old—to enjoy the day without stress. Plus, it reflects a broader trend toward inclusive, family-friendly celebrations.
Hire professional childcare providers – Ensure children are looked after safely with fully vetted, experienced staff.
Design a kid-friendly space – Set up a dedicated zone with age-appropriate toys, crafts, and comfy seating.
Offer a structured schedule – Include mealtimes, quiet time, and entertainment to keep little ones engaged throughout the event.
Communicate with parents in advance – Let them know what’s provided and whether they need to bring anything on the day.
Final Thoughts
These seven wedding trends for 2022 highlight a refreshing shift in priorities. Today’s couples are embracing authenticity, practicality, and meaning over tradition for tradition’s sake. Whether you're inspired by period drama or passionate about sustainability, there's a trend here that can make your day uniquely yours. The best part? Each trend is flexible enough to be personalised to your own vision and budget.
Let these ideas guide your planning, but don’t be afraid to mix and match, reinterpret, or break the rules entirely. After all, the most memorable weddings are the ones that reflect who you are.
