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Fabulous Fashion for Brides, Grooms and Guests
Choosing attire is one of the biggest decisions you will make when planning your wedding.
But it should also be one of the most enjoyable!
Many brides often picture their dream dress years before getting engaged ‒ and why not? It is the one day in your life when you can dress like a princess ‒ or the hottest celeb at the Met Gala! But finding ‘the one’ can also be overwhelming. There is so much choice; from the different silhouettes such as ballgown, A-line, fit-and-flair, mermaid, trumpet, column (to mention just a few) to necklines, fabrics and colours too!
So where do you start? September’s Moray Wedding Show in Elgin, is ideal for all of your wedding planning, whatever stage you’re at.
And for attire, you will be spoiled for choice but with the experts on hand to help you with any questions about gowns, bridesmaids, occasion wear for mothers, and fashion for the groom, best man and ushers.
As well as exhibitors, there is also a bridal fashion show where you will see a beautiful collection of classic and contemporary gowns and more.
Here are a few ideas ahead of the Moray Wedding Show…
A dress to impress
You should begin researching your gown around a year or more ahead of the wedding date, and start shopping nine to 12 months out. Try a couple of different silhouettes and necklines to help you narrow down what style you love the most and feel most comfortable in. Remember, you’ll be wearing your dress for most of the day and dancing at your reception, so you want to be able to move easily in it. Made-to-order dresses can take four to six months, as well as any further alterations and final fittings, so you should aim to order your dress around eight months before your wedding day.
Trending Now
You’ll find lots of inspiration from what’s trending now. One trend influencing wedding style in 2026 and into next year is Wuthering Heights vibes, following this year’s movie adaption of Emily Brontë’s novel. Think romantic full skirts, long sleeves, high and halter necklines, corsetry, lace and nature-inspired appliqué.
Other top trends include asymmetrical gowns which can include one-shoulder, high-low hemlines (where the hemline is shorter at the front and long at the back) or features an asymmetric cut or shape draped across the body or skirt. But there are lots of other styles too. Consider a short or midi length gown instead of full length, or ditch the dress entirely and opt for a contemporary trouser suit with a tuxedo jacket or blazer in a luxe fabric or a two-tone co-ord in butter yellow, soft blue or blush.
Grooms go traditional or tailored
Kilt or suit? Both have their style merits! Full Scottish dress always brings the wow factor to a wedding whatever the season. There are some key points to consider if planning to go full kilt-er.
Buying a made-to-measure kilt needs to be organised well in advance as it can take six to eight weeks to make. There is also the tartan to think about. Consider your clan tartan, a more contemporary design or one that reflects your football or other sporting allegiance!
A more cost-effective option is to hire a kilt outfit package which will usually include a kilt and kilt pin, choice of jacket style, waistcoat, shirt, sporran, socks and flashes, brogues and sgian dubh, often with the option of upgrading or adding extras.
There is a huge choice of suits for grooms and their entourage. A classic tailored three-piece always looks stylish, or consider a more contemporary style with a slim or skinny fit. Colour and fabric is also key. Heavier wool and tweed suits are perfect for autumn and winter weddings while cool linens and cotton in softer shades are ideal for late spring and summer ceremonies. But always discuss colours with your partner so you complement each other rather than clash!
A Cohesive Aesthetic
With so many couples now using socials to post about their wedding, cohesive looks and styles have become even more important for mothers of the bride and groom, and guests to follow.
Some couples are even adding a dress code or style to their invitations to ensure their overall wedding aesthetic is seamless. It is always a good idea to discuss with the couple what their wedding style, theme, signature colour and overall look is so you can choose attire that works with it.
It doesn’t mean you have to be matchy matchy! But consider incorporating elements of the wedding style into your outfit choice or accessories such as metallics, florals, ruffles, or a colourway that reflects the bouquets or decor.
For more inspiration, watch out for our monthly features in the run-up to September’s free Moray Wedding Show at the Alexander Graham Bell Centre for Digital Health, UHI Moray, Elgin, noon to 3pm, on Sunday, September 20.
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