Wedding Fashion: Then, Now & What’s Next
By Sarah Oliver
One of my favourite parts of being a wedding planner isn't just seeing two people get married, it's watching every couple bring their own personality and style to the day. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to celebrate hundreds of weddings here at The Grove Gippsland.
Looking back through all our photos from previous couples, it's amazing to see how wedding fashion has changed. Some trends have come and gone, while others have stood the test of time.
The best part? No two weddings have ever looked the same. Every couple adds their own touch, and that's exactly how it should be.
As we head towards 2027, I thought it'd be fun to look back at some of the biggest trends I’ve seen over the years, along with a few of my own predictions about what's next.
The classics that never date
I have seen plenty of brides choose elegant satin gowns, classic A-line dresses and long flowing veils that never seem to date. Grooms have traditionally stuck with black tuxedos or navy suits, while bridesmaids often wore matching dresses in soft, neutral colours like blush, champagne and dusty blue.
These weddings still look just as beautiful today because they weren't trying to follow a trend, they simply chose what felt right.
Weddings are becoming more personal
One thing I’ve noticed over the last few years is couples moving away from "traditional" weddings and creating a day that feels like them.
I’ve loved seeing brides wear statement sleeves, detachable skirts, modern lace, pearls and second dresses for the reception. Grooms are getting more adventurous too, with green, tan, chocolate brown and textured suits becoming a regular sight.
Bridesmaids are mixing and matching styles rather than wearing identical dresses, and honestly, it always looks incredible.
Colours inspired by Gippsland
Living in Gippsland, it's no surprise that nature has influenced wedding styling. Some of the colours I’ve seen the most include:
Sage and olive green
Terracotta and rust
Champagne
Dusty blue
Warm neutrals
These colours work beautifully with our landscape and suit every season, whether it's a crisp winter wedding or a warm summer afternoon.
Guests are getting in on it too
It's not just the bridal party anymore. Guests are embracing wedding fashion too, which brings so much joy to my heart to watch walk through the door! I’ve seen colourful dresses, bold prints, stylish hats, tailored suits and plenty of personality. Weddings have become an opportunity for everyone to get dressed up and celebrate, and I absolutely love seeing it.
It’s all in the details
Some of the most memorable fashion moments aren't the dress itself. They're the little touches.
I’ve seen beautiful cathedral veils flowing across the grove, pearl gloves, parasols perfect for any season, personalised jackets, embroidered veils, colourful heels, heirloom jewellery and custom kicks!
They're the details that make a wedding feel completely unique.
What I think we will see in 2027
Looking at what's starting to appear in bridal fashion, along with what I have already seen at The Grove, here are a few trends I think will be big in 2027.
Structured silhouettes and modern lace
I am expecting to see more gowns with structured bodices, beautiful, draping and more vouge. I believe lace isn't disappearing, it's just changing. Instead of heavy traditional lace we will see softer, more modern designs with delicate detailing and sheer fabrics.
The second dress is here to stay
Outfit changes are here to stay. Reception dresses aren't going anywhere. Bride’s love being able to change into something lighter and more comfortable before hitting the dance floor.
More personality, less tradition
My favourite trend is individual style, where I meet a couple and then on the day their outfits scream out their personalities to a tee!! Couples are becoming less worried about what's fashionable and more focused on creating a wedding that genuinely reflects who they are.
Whether that's colourful suits, vintage dresses, cowboy boots or flat shoes, we're here for it.
More colour for 2027
While white will always be timeless, I am expecting to see more than one tone or shade plus prints of floral is already on trend popping up over the world!
For bridal party I believe richer colours are becoming even more popular. Think moss green, deep burgundy, warm caramel, chocolate brown, soft blue and yellow across bridal parties!
The trend that never changes
If there's one thing I've learnt after coordinating so many weddings, it's that…
Fashion changes.
Colours change.
Styles come and go.
But seeing two people completely wrapped up in the excitement of marrying their best friend never changes.
The couples who love their wedding the most are the ones who stay true to themselves instead of chasing every trend. That's what creates a day people remember.
Whether your style is modern, classic, relaxed or something completely different, your wedding should feel like you.
Here at The Grove Gippsland, I can't wait to see what 2027 brings and if the last few years are anything to go by, it's going to be full of beautiful ideas, plenty of personality and lots of unforgettable moments.
Sarah XOXO
