Beauty is what you buy

.disclaimer{width:90%;margin-bottom:1rem}.disclaimer__lines{width:100%;margin:0 auto;border-bottom:1px solid #999;padding:0;max-width:150px}.disclaimer__copy{width:100%;max-width:355px;font-family:Brown Regular,sans-serif;font-size:.9rem;font-weight:300;line-height:1.3em;color:#333;padding:0 0 .4rem;margin:1rem auto;text-align:center}

At first glance, the theme from the upcoming season’s bridal runways may seem like maximalism — with all the big ball gowns, brilliant sparkle, and sumptuous flourishes. But, really, time-honored sartorial hallmarks, from Elizabethan-era gown craftmanship to ‘80s high-energy volume, are at the heart (sorry) of the Spring 2026 Bridal Fashion Week collections.

This season, bridal designers reinterpret the classics through their distinctive, and often unconventional, visions. The experimental fabrications (see: woven mohair), elaborate adornments (star constellations), and out-of-the-box shapes (bubble skirts) speak directly to an exceptionally informed clientele. Today’s brides not only have their fingers on the pulse of — and stay ahead of — fashion trends, but also want to express individuality through their wedding day style.

“Taking tried-and-true designs and silhouettes from the past, and making them modern, is a really smart way to go,” says Stephanie White, designer of the Los Angeles-based cool bride destination Odylyne the Ceremony. “Modernizing them just makes it special, instead of latching onto trends.”

Brooklyn-based Tanner Fletcher launched bridal in 2024 with a whimsical take on bygone eras. For Spring 2026, the genderless label looks back to the past with looks like a slinky leg-and-shoulder-baring, Art Deco-inspired update on a ‘30s bias-cut gown; an inventively quilted and floral-appliquéd ‘40s-esque fit-and-flare dress; and a saucy undone tuxedo, with a retro-ruffled shirt and boxers. “We’re leaning more into the antique [because it’s] sentimental,” says Fletcher Kassell, who co-designs with partner Tanner Ritchie. “A lot of our clients like to save the dress and pass it on.”

As with last season, versatility still reigns, and there really is something for everyone and a full schedule of celebratory events. Ahead, browse the top seven trends for Spring 2026 to help brides reimagine timeless looks to remember forever.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Corsets

The vintage-referential bridal staple evolves into sultrier iterations. Elie Saab juxtaposes a structured, braided bodice with an ethereal mermaid silhouette or a billowing silk-chiffon skirt. Alexandra Grecco, Kyha, and Esé Azénabor toughen up alluring corsetry with an almost-sporty lace-up detail at the back, while Justin Alexander Signature frames the side seams. Downtown label Lein transforms the unboned 18th-century men’s “jump” into a peplum cut-out vest, while Yellow by Sahar counters a free-spirited ‘70s-esque, daisy-embroidered ball gown with a Victorian waist cincher.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Basque Waist

The hot Victorian-era trend — with the corset-framing V-shape seaming at the waist —  pops up in pretty much every.single.collection, including Ouma, Alyssa Kristin, Cinq, Nadja Manjarrez, Claire Pettibone, and Wona Concept. Conveying a Gatsby-inspired overindulgent party vibe, Gala by Galia Lahav embraces the basque waist on lavishly appliquéd and crystal-embellished dresses. “They’re very modern,” says Galia Lahav creative director Sharon Sever. The waistline provides shaping as well: Amsale’s contouring lines on double-bonded crepe “feels like a second skin,” says head designer Michael Cho.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Dramatic Ball Gowns

Voluminous skirting leans heavily into bodice-ripping period piece epics — but with contemporary takes. Andrew Kwon, Ines di Santo, and Markarian bring the 18th-century pannier (extreme side-hoop skirts) into TikTok times, while Sarah Seven, Lihi Hod, and Yellow by Sahar’s styles boast tubular frills. In terms of embellishments, Viktor & Rolf Mariage adds “sculptural puffs” to a gleaming ball gown and a jacquard Tudors-meets-Pretty in Pink mini dress. Meanwhile, Marchesa Couture, now exclusively shoppable online at David’s Bridal, accentuates the voluminous skirt with an oversized rosette.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Ribbons and Bows

Requisite ribbons and bows feel ultra-fresh, and never twee this season. “We’re seeing more simplistic designs. Not every bride wants that dramatic look,” says Sabrina Nicholas, creative branding and PR specialist from Meshki. The accessibly priced Australian label offers a range of dainty bows on after-party-ready mini dresses. Viktor & Rolf Mariage features an explosion of its signature bow appliqués and a new ribbon-patterned jacquard on gowns, cheeky mini dresses, and a jaunty cropped pantsuit. Rebecca Vallance covers tailored bows with pearl embellishments on a range of adorable mini dresses.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Bubble Skirts 

Surprise! The exuberant silhouette that last appeared in the 2010s can actually be chic and refined, as seen on gowns by Katherine Tash, Kyha, and Lihi Hod; and experimentally bold, like a diaphanous, sculptural cocoon drop-waist corset dress from New Orleans-based Ferrah. “What I love about this fashion-forward hemline is its flexibility,” says Kyha founder and creative director Kyha Scott. (The Aussie brand’s runway-only silver disco ball romper went immediately viral.) Innovative bustles and hidden string work — referred to as  “pick-ups” — allow brides to personalize the extent of the bubble on billowing ball gown skirting as seen at Enaura Bridal and Savannah Miller.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Lace On Lace

“Nothing feels more bridal than a beautiful, classic lace,” says Markarian designer Alexandra O’Neill, pointing to the brand’s romantic, vintage-inspired French lace strapless midi dress, coordinating scalloped veil, and mix-and-match toppers. Reem Acra, Galia Lahav, and Ines di Santo also stacked their collections with exquisite gowns and convertible layers. Lace also receives the high-tech and unexpected treatment this season: Lein leveraged Italian-woven mohair yarn for an edgier version of guipure lace trim on gossamer silk chiffon and glimmering lurex capelets, while Odylyne the Ceremony swapped out a hooded cape for a veil over a fluted sleeve gown. And, Amsale experimented with a raffia-corded lace, to create a resplendent leaf motif, on a corseted column gown with a majestic train.

Spring 2026 Bridal Trend: Statement Embellishments

Ornamentation, from brazenly opulent accents to subtle luminescence redefines classic silhouettes. “Brides all want clean [dresses] right now. So how do you make it different? You can either drape or make a beautiful hand embroidery,” says Enaura Bridal designer Sohil Mistry, about a precise hand-knotting technique resulting in what looks like finely beaded florals on a captivating basque waist gown. Francesca Miranda amplifies a spectacular French lace dress with 10,000 hand-sewn pearls. At the opposite extreme, Elizabeth Fillmore illuminates a midi-dress with a dreamy formation. “A constellation of stars,” says the New York City-based designer. “I love the delicateness of it.”

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

.disclaimer{width:90%;margin-bottom:1rem}.disclaimer__lines{width:100%;margin:0 auto;border-bottom:1px solid #999;padding:0;max-width:150px}.disclaimer__copy{width:100%;max-width:355px;font-family:Brown Regular,sans-serif;font-size:.9rem;font-weight:300;line-height:1.3em;color:#333;padding:0 0 .4rem;margin:1rem auto;text-align:center}

If Zara’s sister brand, Massimo Dutti, isn’t on your radar yet… we’re not here to judge — but it should be! The Spanish retailer is a go-to for elevated staples and minimalist building blocks, and its new Limited Edition Spring/Summer 2025 collection is packed with just that.

From structured blazers and fluid separates to chunky jewelry and strappy sandals, the lineup strikes a balance between tailoring and ease. Linen, knits, satin, and suede show up in classic neutrals alongside pops of zippy orange — so dreamy for spring’s warming temps. As the brand puts it: “The spirit of timeless minimalism lingers, yet it’s reimagined through bold, lustrous fabrics — like the final brushstrokes that complete a work of art.”

Whether you’re shopping for elevated workwear, vacation outfits, or even festival-ready accessories, the collection offers a wide range of staples and stand-out styles fit for all occasions from casual to dressy, rounding out every corner of your wardrobe. Shop our favorites ahead.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Outerwear

Hunting for your next office-ready jacket or a transitional layer to throw over spring outfits? Massimo Dutti’s double-breasted linen blazers are worth a scroll. A clear signature style of this collection, they’re versatile enough for work, weekends, or travel.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Dresses

Slip into flowy satin, airy linen, and sheer pleated dresses for your next destination wedding or getaway. Styles like the flecked knit maxis and structured midis pair beautifully with a blazer for a more polished look.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Tops

Every spring wardrobe needs basics, and Massimo Dutti ups the game with luxe takes — think organza short-sleeve tops and silky sheer tanks for an elevated twist. Off-the-shoulder necklines and asymmetric hems also help bring fresh dimension to easy spring dressing.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Pants & Skirts

From breezy pleats to curved hems, the trousers and skirts in this collection offer everything from relaxed movement to tailored structure — all with spring-to-summer versatility in mind. Wear them from the office to dinner to a poolside event.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Shoes & Bags

Tap into spring’s top shoe trends with thong and gladiator sandals while simultaneously toting key seasonal bags like crochet minis (hello, woven leather trend). There’s even a unique mesh metal crossbody intended for carrying your phone in style.

Massimo Dutti Spring/Summer 2025 Jewelry & Accessories

If you’re captivated by Massimo Dutti’s mesh metal jewelry, same. There’s also trending styles like chunky bangles, drop earrings, and sculptural pendants set with stones for spring parties and festivals alike. These details have a bold and artful allure, tying the collection (and your outfit) together.

Shop full Massimo Dutti Limited Edition collection

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Zara Arrivals That’ll Upgrade Your Spring Wardrobe

The 5 Best Brands for Petite Trousers

Yes, You Can Wear Butter Yellow — Here's How

.disclaimer{width:90%;margin-bottom:1rem}.disclaimer__lines{width:100%;margin:0 auto;border-bottom:1px solid #999;padding:0;max-width:150px}.disclaimer__copy{width:100%;max-width:355px;font-family:Brown Regular,sans-serif;font-size:.9rem;font-weight:300;line-height:1.3em;color:#333;padding:0 0 .4rem;margin:1rem auto;text-align:center}

Ask any beauty insider and they’re bound to have at least one Paula’s Choice product in their skincare arsenal. Since the brand’s inception 30 years ago, it has earned a solid reputation as a source for science-backed, no-nonsense skincare. Not one for flashy packaging, the brand’s appeal lies within its high-performing formulations that do exactly what they say on the packaging. In fact, Paula’s Choice was one of the very first brands to pioneer leave-on exfoliants — namely the BHA Liquid Exfoliant, now a staple in many editors’ skincare routines — way back in 2000.

Paula’s Choice also operates the Beautypedia Skincare Ingredient Checker, a comprehensive dictionary explaining the benefits of different compounds found in skincare (names like bakuchiol and omega fatty acids come to mind). As you might expect, it has become an invaluable resource for beauty obsessives and novices alike. It’s this commitment to ingredient transparency that keeps the brand in heavy rotation on our bathroom shelves.

With the Sephora Spring Savings Event in mind, our editors share their favorite Paula’s Choice products that they’ve finished down to the very last drop — and will be topping up before the sale ends.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $35

“When I was dealing with hormonal breakouts a few years ago, a top dermatologist recommended Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant — and I’ve used it ever since. With 2% salicylic acid, it’s the perfect concentration for sinking into pores and breaking up the mix of oil and dead skin cells that causes congestion. Since incorporating it into my nighttime routine, my skin has become clearer, with no blackheads or pesky whiteheads, and my hyperpigmentation fades much more quickly. It’s so gentle that I feel confident using it every night. My routine is as follows: Cleanse, apply the BHA Liquid Exfoliant and finish with a simple moisturizer. Easy!” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director

Shop Sephora

Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturizer, $49

“My skin is always craving more hydration in the spring, and this Paula’s Choice Peptide Moisturizer is what I use to keep it bouncy and plump. The formula contains a trio of peptides that send signals to skin cells to produce more collagen and lock in moisture. I’ve noticed my skin looking more awake with continued use, and it has helped reduce the appearance of the fine lines on my forehead. The fast-absorbing texture sits beautifully under makeup and sunscreen, too. I’m nearly done with my bottle since I keep applying pumps of this to other dry patches of my body, such as my elbows and inner thighs.” — Venus Wong, senior writer

Shop Sephora

Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment, $65

“When I discovered this retinol treatment last year, I used it down to the last drop. The 1% retinol packs a punch, resurfacing the skin, smoothing out fine lines, fading hyperpigmentation and keeping breakouts at bay. I was initially wary of the added vitamin C, which usually irritates my skin, and I feared the combination with retinol would be a disaster. But by following the instructions to a T (only using it three evenings a week and pairing it with a simple moisturizer) I was impressed by the results. It completely banished the little bumps under my skin, especially on my forehead. If you’re using this, be sure to wear sunscreen during the day, as retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director

Shop Sephora

Paula’s Choice Resist Hydrating Fluid SPF 50, $39

“It takes a lot for a sunscreen product to impress me. I’m really fussy about texture: anything deemed too greasy, pills easily, or breaks me out goes straight into the trash. This Paula’s Choice sunscreen passed my wear test with flying colors. I sampled it at a department store and liked the milky-fluid texture so much that I immediately added it to my collection. Beyond offering SPF 50 broad spectrum protection, it boasts hydrating glycerin and green tea extract, which helps to calm redness and irritation. It has a lightweight, satiny finish that makes my skin look and feel dewier; I like to pop this over my bare face when I’m running out of time for my usual daytime skincare routine. The texture is so lovely, it makes reapplication feel like much less of a chore.” — Venus Wong, senior writer

Shop Sephora

Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Gloss Balm, $24

“This lip balm has made a big difference to my dry, constantly chapped lips. The non-sticky formula glides on effortlessly, and I love how the slightly curved applicator delivers just the right amount of product. It contains a blend of peptides that hydrate and plump the skin and boost collagen production. The product comes with a subtle sweet scent and feels less heavy and sticky compared to other peptide lip treatments I’ve tried. I often slather on this balm the night before I’m due to wear lipstick, so my lips emerge conditioned and prepped with as little creasing as possible.” — Venus Wong, senior writer

Shop Sephora

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster, $49

“I have oily, acne-prone skin, and this serum is a go-to of mine whenever I’m feeling congested. You can use it alone as your serum step, but I love cocktailing it into my AM and PM moisturizer to boost it. Niacinamide is one of my favorite ingredients because of its brightening and texture-refining properties, and the feel of this one is so lightweight and luxurious that I genuinely look forward to using it daily.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer

Shop Sephora

Shop our favorite Paula’s Choice bestsellers

This story was originally published on Refinery29 UK.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

R29 Staff Share Their All-Time Favorite Skincare

I Tried 8 Peptide Lip Balms & The Cheapest Won

This Moisturizer Is So Good, We're Using It Up