Summer Styling Tips: What Brides Are Loving Right Now
The Heat is On
Brides are bringing the heat this summer—and I’m not just talking about the weather. Think vintage silhouettes, soft statements, and details that turn heads. Trends from your mom’s wedding album? Yep, they’re back—and somehow cooler. Meanwhile, brand-new styles are making their debut with main character energy.
As someone in the bridal industry, you know what goes around definitely comes around when it comes to bridal fashion—even though there are some trends that should’ve remained one hit wonders. Personal opinions aside, it’s time to embrace the current styles that brides are pinning and make them work in your store.
6 Trends Your Brides Will Be Trying On This Summer
Trend #1: The Return of the Basque Waist
It’s no secret that this trend is booming and consuming—designers at National Bridal Market showcased basque waist silhouettes on rerun. This design has landed with brides and is here to stay for the foreseeable future so, if you haven’t already, update your inventory to make sure you have gowns that hit this trend.
Style-wise, basque waists work beautifully with corset bodices and structured satin. Brides are picking up what designers are putting down—it’s flattering and makes a statement in a subtle way. Plus it draws from the Victorian era which automatically ups the romance factor.
Pro tip: Train your stylists on this trend to sell it with confidence—the primary selling point is the elongating effect of a basque waist.
Trend #2: Statement Sleeves
From billowing tulle to fitted chantilly lace, the sleeve trend is still going strong. This year, off the shoulder sleeves have prevailed as a popular gown must-have—bonus points if they’re detachable. Perfect for a quick transition between ceremony and reception, brides love that detachable sleeves give them an effortless two-in-one look.
Some designers have gone a step further to create convertible sleeves, sometimes extending to a three-in-one look—talk about innovative! Whether brides are saying “I do” in July or January, their dream look is totally achievable.
Pro tip: Emphasize the duality of sleeves—don’t be afraid to mix and match sleeves with gowns, designing your own combination is all the more unique!
Trend #3: Cat-Eye Necklines
For years, sweetheart necklines and square necklines have held the top spot, but this year, the cat-eye neckline has claimed the crown. It’s modestly modern and complements any silhouette—captivating attention from brides of all body types. Like the basque waist, cat-eye necklines blend vintage and modern vibes, making brides feel confident and unique in their own way.
Pro tip: Point out the benefits that this neckline has on flattering the décolletage—it’s a fun, fancy, and French way of saying the neckline and collarbone area.
Trend #4: Bridal Scarves
If you’re like me, this trend is an acquired taste, and let’s be honest, isn’t for every bride. But it’s perfect for the fashion-forward bride that wants to add a bit of texture and movement to her bridal look. Bridal scarves have a unique way of complementing gowns rather than overshadowing gowns—they make a statement but in a subtle out-of-the-box way.
Pro tip: Pair bridal scarves not only gowns but with brides too—this accessory matches a specific bridal vision and personality. Plus, it serves as a perfect veil alternative.
Trend #5: Minimalism With a Twist
The “less it more” mindset has finally made its way into the bridal industry—and brides are in agreement. Think: clean lines with unexpected features, simple yet unique, and most of all, timeless.
Brides are asking for low backs, leg slits, train length buttons, and square necklines. This minimalist look suits any venue, season, theme, or color scheme. Nowadays, it seems like brides have separated into two categories—give me all the details or let’s keep it simple.
Pro tip: Capitalize on the minimalist details and use them to set dresses apart from other gowns at your store and at other bridal shops—just because a dress leans more on the simple side, doesn’t mean it can be found anywhere and everywhere.
Trend #6: Bridal Bows and Back Drama
Whether a bride is going for classic and chic or garden party vibes, bows are back and bigger (figuratively and literally) than ever. Designers are attaching them to their gowns left and right—in the back, on the shoulders, as a belt, and on the train. Bows are even making their way into bridal hairstyles for the big day.
Bow or no bow, there’s been an uprising in the “business in the front, party in the back” mentality. I’m talking criss-cross detailing, low plunges, keyhole backs, and elegant illusions. Brides love adding flair in an understated way—and both bows and back drama get the job done.
Pro tip: Highlight dress drama online and in your store—include detail shots and back images on your website and socials. And don’t forget to turn your mannequins to flaunt those eye-catching back views.
Brides are showing up Pinterest prepped—and your boutique should be ready. Stay ahead of the trends (and your competitors) by keeping your inventory fresh, your mannequins styled smart, and your stylists ready to wow every bride who walks through the door.
Let Poppy simplify your processes and boost your success this summer. Book a demo or start here with our Get Started form.
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