From a vintage twist on the traditional white dress to evening twilight weddings, these top trends will help you plan the wedding of your dreams in 2023.

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The modern-day wedding couple is all about showcasing their individuality and style; fewer couples are focused on a “traditional” approach to planning their big day. We’re seeing couples thinking outside of the box and planning wedding celebrations that are tailored to their personalities—from the décor to their attire. Follow along for some of the top wedding trends you’ll see in 2023.

1) Fashion Forward Wedding Dresses

The traditional white dress is likely to be replaced by shades of blue and jewel tones—cornflower blue will make an appearance this year. It’s also likely you’ll see fashion-forward suits that ditch tradition for statement pieces, incorporating fitted cuts that are simple and more comfortable (as in our story’s header photo). Eye-catching accessories are also becoming more prominent. If you’re seeking a softer palette, don’t worry—pastels such as peach and blush with sheer overlays are still in style this season. 

 

2) Bold Hues

We can expect to see pastels taking a bit of a back seat this year, as bolder color palettes are starting to make a splash.

Flowers on wedding table

Photo by Jesse David Green Photography

3) Intimate Gatherings 

Smaller celebrations allow couples to reallocate their budget and focus on creating more elevated experiences—from eye-catching décor to next-level menus.

Wedding venue

Photo by Samantha James Photography

4) Destination Weddings for Adventure Seekers

Couples are more interested than ever in creating impactful experiences for their special day. We’re seeing couples look beyond the traditional rehearsal dinner and wedding day events, with destination wedding getaways gaining popularity. This type of wedding celebration gives couples the opportunity to really take in being surrounded by their nearest and dearest for more than one or two days. Even better: this can double as an extended vacation for the guests and a honeymoon for the couple after the wedding celebration has concluded.

 

5) Design To New Heights

Elevated florals make a full-scale impact and allow for a visually striking statement. More couples are opting for suspended floral arrangements and keeping their tabletop floral designs simple and modern by incorporating different shapes and textures. 

Wedding venue

Photo by Ryan Ray Photography

6) A Retro Touch 

The puffy sleeve is back! The quintessential staple of ’80s fashion is being paired with a modern twist: form-fitting cuts to full-skirted gowns. 

Bride on wedding day

Photo by Olivia Anderson Photography

7) All That Glimmers 

Twilight weddings that take place closer to dusk will be on trend in 2023. The season does play a role in whether or not this type of wedding is possible. Couples seeking a twilight ceremony filled with stunning candlelit walkways should opt for an autumn or winter wedding.

Couple on wedding day

Photo by Beth Price Photography

Melissa Conradie lives in Traverse City with her husband and business partner, Dawie, and English bulldog, Lola. With a passion for design, creative endeavors and bringing people joy on their happiest days, Melissa’s boutique event planning and design company has been creating unique memories in exceptional locations since 2011. Conradie Event Design Website.

Photo(s) by Hallie Kohler Photography