Spotlight: Fashion Forward | California Wedding Day
Spotlight: Fashion Forward
The ultimate guide to wedding day fashion trends for brides and grooms
January 29, 2025
As wedding season approaches, couples everywhere are dreaming up their perfect day, complete with showstopping fashion and personal touches. From bold statement pieces to timeless classics with a twist, the 2025 wedding fashion trends are all about individuality, creativity and celebrating love in style. Here’s a look at the latest trends taking center stage this year.
Brides in 2025 are redefining wedding fashion with bold, personalized choices and versatile designs that make a statement. Murtaza Ezzi of MKEshoots Photography is noticing brides embrace their individuality with gowns that feature bold details like floral appliqués, asymmetrical necklines, and sleek silhouettes. "The key trend? Personalization - making every detail reflect your style!" states Ezzi.
According to Anastasia Shevchenko of Sheff Production Photography & Videography, intricate beadwork, pearls, and textured fabrics like jacquard and brocade are making a significant impact on bridal fashion. These luxurious details add depth and elegance, perfect for brides aiming to make a lasting impression.
Timeless elegance with a touch of vintage charm is also defining wedding fashion this year, according to Brooke Heflin of Burlap & Bordeaux. "Brides are gravitating towards gowns with classic silhouettes that echo eras past," reflecting a balance of nostalgia and modernity.
Versatility is key, with many brides opting for convertible designs, detachable sleeves, and overskirts. Danielle Conte of Friar Tux highlights these innovative trends, which allow brides to transform their look effortlessly throughout the day, ensuring style and comfort in equal measure.
This year's grooms are redefining wedding style with rich colors, textured fabrics, and modern silhouettes that exude confidence and individuality. According to Ezzi, "Grooms are stepping away from traditional black and embracing jewel-toned suits and luxurious fabrics like velvet." It's all about making a statement with color and texture.
Versatile and trend-forward, groomswear is seeing an infusion of earthy tones and subtle details. Conte points to hues like olive green, sage, steel blue, caramel, and rich browns as top choices, especially for spring through fall weddings. "Performance fabrics, like those in the Michael Kors Performance Collection, ensure comfort and style, particularly in warmer months," Conte adds.
Classic sophistication with a vintage touch is also making its mark, appealing to grooms seeking a refined yet distinctive look. Heflin of Burlap & Bordeaux notes, "Grooms are embracing tailored tuxedos with subtle vintage-inspired details," striking the perfect balance between tradition and contemporary style.
Shevchenko highlights the rise of gender-neutral and androgynous suits. "Modern grooms are embracing fresh, inclusive takes on wedding attire," she says, reflecting a shift towards fashion that is both stylish and representative of personal identity.
Accessories: The Finishing Touch
Laura Burvill Photography
Accessories are playing a bigger role than ever, allowing brides and grooms to add personality and flair to their wedding-day looks. "Accessories are bolder this year, with statement jewelry, patterned socks, and fun touches like bow ties and lapel pins," says Conte. Ezzi adds, "Accessories are making a statement, with bridal gloves, capes, and modern jewelry, while grooms experiment with unique ties or pocket squares."
Valerie Kingsman of Weddings Royale highlights the resurgence of fingerless gloves. "From delicate lace to intricate beading and satin designs, fingerless gloves add a formal, romantic vibe while maintaining dexterity for the ring exchange, cocktail hour, and reception toasts," she explains.
Jewelry is another major focal point, with oversized earrings, dramatic necklaces, and heirloom-inspired brooches adding vintage charm. "Statement jewelry is perfect for brides, grooms, and wedding party members alike," says Shevchenko. Heflin adds that accessories don't have to be over-the-top to make an impact. "True elegance comes from feeling like the best version of yourself. On your wedding day, choose a style that makes you feel your most confident and comfortable."
For many grooms, accessories also offer an opportunity to showcase personal style while ensuring comfort. "It’s your special day, and you are the guest of honor! Wearing an item that is familiar - like your favorite pair of shoes instead of traditional dress shoes - can boost confidence and show personality," says Bianca Morales of The Cliffs Hotel & Spa.
Bridal Beauty: Effortless Glam
MKEshoots Photography
Hair and makeup trends are embracing a natural, glowing look, with a focus on soft, dewy skin, tousled updos, and sleek, polished styles that exude an effortless vibe. According to Shevchenko, effortless glam is in high demand, with soft waves and bold eyes paired with soft lips, and naturally sculpted features taking center stage.
"Trends favor soft, natural glam - dewy skin, tousled updos, and sleek styles for a polished yet relaxed vibe," says Conte. Ezzi agrees, adding, "It's all about a natural glow - think soft waves, minimal makeup with a focus on fresh skin, and subtle pops of color."
Shevchenko from Sheff states that retro revival is also making a comeback, with brides and grooms opting for vintage-inspired hairstyles and makeup that draw from Old Hollywood glam. "Hairstyles and makeup inspired by Old Hollywood are adding a nostalgic vibe to modern weddings."
The Overall Look: Creating a Cohesive Vision
Sheff Production Photography & Videography
When it comes to wedding fashion, creating a cohesive vision is key. Whether it’s through color palettes, coordinated accessories or a shared aesthetic, couples are ensuring their wedding looks flow seamlessly from one element to the next. From the bridal gown to the bridesmaid dresses and groomswear, everything is being thoughtfully planned to create a unified and beautiful design.
One of the biggest trends for 2025 is the emphasis on creativity and personalization. Couples are moving away from rigid traditions and embracing what feels right for them. This approach allows for more freedom in choosing wedding attire and accessories, giving couples the opportunity to truly express their individual style and personality.
The key to wedding day fashion is staying true to yourself. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or daring trends, your attire should make you feel confident and comfortable. By incorporating these latest styles, you’ll create a look that’s unforgettable - just like your love story.
