These Are Going To Be The Biggest Bridal Trends This Year – And Some Might Surprise You

For brides who've had to postpone, wedding planning has probably felt like something akin to a second job over the past few years. But there's a small silver lining to having to cancel and rebook - the opportunity to make little changes here and there to your wedding dress, wedding venue and beyond.

Etsy has just released its top wedding trends for 2022 - and the evidence points to the fact that, after months of rescheduled, reduced or cancelled celebrations, couples are looking for personalised touches that feel true to them. In the past three months, Etsy has seen a 47% increase in searches for personalised place cards, as well as a 107% increase in searches for custom wedding favours.

But as well as wanting the personal(ised) touch, couples are clearly ready to make a statement. Because according to the global marketplace's other findings, trends for bridal bows, bold colours and all things Regency (thanks to the unstoppable force that isBridgerton), are also doing big business on Etsy.

Bows had a bit of a moment on the spring catwalks. Alexandre Vauthier showed a halter neck blouse covered in silk bows; Carolina Herrera's gowns were tied with black ribbons; Moschino's candy-coloured skirt suits were accessorised with cartoonishly big bows at the neck and waist. So it makes sense that brides - looking for a sense of theatre - would want to get in on the action. Etsy has seen a 51% increase in searches for bow gowns or dresses, as well as a 114% increase in searches for bridal or bridesmaid bow accessories.

'Regencycore', of course, needs no introduction; the trend for empire-line gowns, elbow-length gloves, macaroon shades and pearlescent make-up seen on Bridgerton. And with the second season arriving on screens next month, searches for bridal gloves (+121%), puff-sleeve wedding dresses (93%) and pearl veils (78%) have all seen increases. What are you waiting for? Start searching!