Modern Bridal Looks
Having steered the ship of Queensmith's creative content since 2017, India finds immense satisfaction in arming clients with the information they're seeking, identifying and analysing trends, and exploring buying habits.
We've collated the best wedding and engagement ring inspiration for your contemporary taste, along with the wedding dresses, venues and decor inspiration we think you'll love.
Save this article for your wedding mood board or use it to inspire discussions with your wedding planner.
Meet The Modern Bride
See a style you love? Hover for details, or tap to follow the link.
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Rings
Discover clean lines and minimalist details, reflecting the essence of modern bridal aesthetics. Find modern wedding rings that effortlessly blend tradition with a fresh, modern sensibility, making them the perfect choice for lovers of contemporary style.
Modern Wedding Rings
It's useful to consider various factors to ensure a seamless match with your engagement ring. Try matching the setting style, such as whether it is scallop or pavé set, and the metal.
Scallop Set wedding rings, currently the most popular and contemporary choice, offer a chic and timeless look with their intricate settings - not to mention, serious sparkle.
You can't go wrong with a plain wedding band - and this can look really special against a diamond engagement ring; plus you can jazz up your ring stack with eternity rings in the future. Style it like Em Rata's wedding ring, and choose a thick, yellow gold plain band for an alternative yet simple look.
For those seeking a slightly alternative aesthetic, Flush Set rings in yellow gold are a trendy option, providing simplicity and a clean look.
Shaped wedding rings, such as the Wishbone Scallop, are ideal for pairing with non-wedfit engagement rings. The unique 'v' shape of the band adds a modern touch - and the style was Hailey Bieber's wedding ring of choice.
Find the perfect balance between your personal taste, complementary design elements with your engagement ring, and look for refined designs.
Most Popular Modern Wedding Rings
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Dresses
Embrace popular modern features like high-low hems, statement sleeves, and unconventional necklines to infuse your bridal look with a fresh and fashionable vibe. Currently in vogue are halter necks, off-shoulder dresses and oversized cuffs for a touch of glamour and sophistication. However, when in doubt, simplicity prevails. A sleek slip dress can exude elegance, especially when adorned with the right wedding day jewels and paired with a chic up-do hairstyle. Finding the ideal modern wedding dress involves balancing trendy elements with timeless simplicity for a look that will stand the test of time. For the afterparty, think sparkles, feathers and out-there extras! image: @grace_loves_lace
Modern Wedding Dresses
- Danielle Frankel – Based in NYC but shoppable in the UK online and via retailers like Net A Porter. This brand is having a moment for it's architectural and curious designs. Prices from around £2,915.
- P.S Bridal Rental – Offers a variety of stylish brands to rent for a cut of the full retail price, making some of the best dress designs available to all. Rental prices from around £250.
- Grace Loves Lace – Style, comfort and reasonable prices for great quality. A favourite for slip dresses! Based in Australia and ships to over 80 countries. Dresses from around £1,200.
- OIZA – Launched in 2022 by designer and Queensmith client Olivia Ozi-Oiza Chance, this brand brings all the modern luxury vibes. Inspired by African and British cultures, the collection includes a range of pieces where delicate details are playfully met with texture and adornments to deliver bold silhouettes. Custom orders available.
- Galvan Bridal – In our opinion, the absolute best for chic, minimalist, stunning tailoring. Find bridal suits and simple dresses that look expensive. Prices from around £850.
- Alex Perry – Available to shop on Net-A-Porter, think tailored suit jackets, structured bandeau dresses and some seriously fun white mini dresses.
- 16 Arlington – The brand adored by Hailey Bieber and the like has a bridal range that's every bit as fab (or more) than their usual collection (also worth checking out for bridal-like pieces). Sequins, feather trims, crystals, yet super chic and modern. Bridal prices from around £1,695.
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Flowers
Current trends favour a mix of bold and subtle hues, with pastel palettes like blush, lavender, and sage remaining popular. Modern bouquets often feature a combination of traditional blooms and unconventional elements, like anthurium, trailing greenery or branches, creating a dynamic and visually appealing contrast. Asymmetrical and architectural arrangements as well as loose, organic shapes have gained popularity, replacing more traditional, tightly packed bouquets. Greenery continues to play a crucial role, enhancing the overall aesthetic with its natural elegance. If you're thinking about having a autumn or winter wedding, we'd advise taking a look at the most popular wedding flowers for these chillier seasons.
Image: @sageflowers
Modern Wedding Flowers
- SAGE - Based in Peckham, London, SAGE 'bridges the gap between floristry, design and subculture', and has been a trailblazer when it comes to modern floral installations. As well as offering wedding packages, they call the likes of Acne Studios, Fenty, Gucci and Claridges amongst their client base - so are sure to delivery on style.
- My Lady Garden - Available internationally, based in East London, think whimsical yet chic, OTT yet modern and sleek. Expect tropical flowers, bright colours to match your palette, and centrepieces that will be major focal points of your day, and set the tone of your modern wedding style.
- Grace & Thorn - A fantastic option for a small-scale or city-based wedding, this florist offers 'ready to wear' wedding bouquets, available in a number of styles and colour palettes to suit you. Covering everything from the bridal bouquet, to the buttonholes and even floral crowns!
- Stems Wilder - 'Modern floristry influenced by natural wilderness', this is a great choice for contemporary couples who seek a little romance in their wedding day floral designs. Less foliage used means full-attention on unusual and colourful flowers.
- The Blume Studio - If something traditional and a little more lowkey is your vibe, the Blume Studio offer romantic designs, cohesive colour palettes and subtle-yet-impactful wedding day flowers that are both modern and timeless. We love!
- Urban Flower Co - This versatile floral studio can adapt to your style, whether that's bright and bold or whimsical and romantic. From large-scale installations for sweet little bud vases, see how these wedding flower experts can perfectly encapsulate your wedding day aesthetic.
- Aesme Studio - Nature and wilderness clearly mean a lot to Ally and Jess, the brains behind Aesme Studio. See their passion getting to grips with nature's most beautiful produce some to life, with their array of romantic bouquets and impactful flower bundles. Think earthy and wild, we love how this floral design studio approaches installations that almost look as though they could've grown within and around their venues.
- Frog - The most stylish wedding flower destination for Northern couples, based in Manchester. Whether that's tumbling flowers installed alongside disco balls, or colour-blocked bouquets.
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Shoes & Accessories
When it comes to modern bridal fashion, the right shoes and accessories can transform your wedding day look. Whether you’re after timeless elegance or contemporary flair, the perfect finishing touches will reflect your personal style and elevate your ensemble. Here’s our curated list of favourite modern wedding shoes and accessories to help you complete your bridal look.
Image: @thefallbride
Modern Shoes & Accessories
- Lace & Favour – Renowned for intricate lace details and beautiful embellishments, Lace & Favour offers a stunning collection of bridal shoes and accessories that seamlessly blend timeless elegance with modern sophistication. With prices starting at around £40 for accessories and up to £200 for shoes, this UK-based brand caters to brides looking for both classic and contemporary styles.
- René Caovilla – The bridal collection from Rene Caovilla is synonymous with luxury and glamour. Each pair of shoes is handcrafted in Italy, featuring exquisite details such as Swarovski crystals and intricate beadwork. Prices range from £800 to £1,500, making them ideal for brides wanting to make a statement with their footwear. Available online and at select boutiques worldwide.
- Nodaleto – Bringing a fresh, avant-garde approach to bridal footwear, Nodaleto's iconic chunky heels and bold designs offer a unique twist on traditional bridal shoes. Perfect for the modern bride who isn't afraid to stand out, Nodaleto's shoes are priced between £500 and £1,000 and are available online and at high-end retailers in the UK and globally.
- Badgley Mischka – Combining vintage inspiration with contemporary flair, Badgley Mischka offers a range of wedding shoes that are renowned for their opulent designs. Expect luxurious fabrics, sparkling embellishments, and timeless silhouettes that add a touch of glamour to any bridal ensemble. Prices range from £200 to £500 and are available online and at select department stores in the UK and USA.
- Forever Soles – Specialising in modern bohemian and beach-inspired bridal shoes and accessories, Forever Soles designs are comfortable, stylish and perfect for brides looking for something laid-back yet elegant. Think delicate barefoot sandals and chic wedges, with prices ranging from £50 to £150. This Australian brand ships worldwide, including the UK.
- TEMPÊTE – A go-to for brides seeking unique and artful accessories, Tempête's collection features handcrafted pieces that blend modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Stunning headpieces and veils are sure to make a statement, with prices starting at around £100. Based in Belgium, Tempête ships internationally.
- Jade Oi Studio – Offering bespoke bridal accessories that are both contemporary and timeless, Jade Oi Studio creates handcrafted pieces including delicate hair vines, pins and combs, all made with meticulous attention to detail and a modern aesthetic. Prices range from £50 to £300. Based in the UK, Jade Oi Studio ships internationally.
- The Fall Bride – Curating a selection of modern, minimalist bridal accessories perfect for the fashion-forward bride, The Fall Bride provides chic hairpieces and elegant jewellery designed to complement and enhance your bridal look with subtle sophistication. Prices range from £30 to £200. This UK-based brand offers online shopping and international shipping.
- A.B. Ellie – Known for luxurious and modern bridal accessories, A.B. Ellie offers sashes, belts and hairpieces. Each handcrafted piece is designed to add a touch of glamour and individuality to your wedding attire, with prices ranging from £50 to £400. Based in the USA, A.B. Ellie ships worldwide, including the UK.
- Twigs & Honey – Offering an enchanting and contemporary collection of bridal accessories, Twigs & Honey features ethereal headpieces, veils and jewellery. Their designs often include floral motifs and delicate embellishments, perfect for modern brides looking to add a whimsical touch to their ensemble. Prices range from £50 to £300. Based in the USA, Twigs & Honey ships internationally.
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Cakes
Your wedding cake is more than just a dessert – it’s a centrepiece that reflects your style and tastes, making it a memorable part of your celebration. From elegant and simple designs to intricate and artistic creations, the right cake can truly elevate your wedding. We’ve curated a list of our favourite modern wedding cake designers to help you find the perfect cake for your special day.
Image: @lily_vanilli_cake
Modern Wedding Cakes
- Lemon Tree Cakes – Known for their exquisite attention to detail and unique flavour combinations, Lemon Tree Cakes offers bespoke cakes starting at around £300. Based in London, they provide a range of designs from classic to contemporary, ensuring a memorable and delicious centrepiece for your wedding day.
- Violet Cakes London – Made famous by their royal wedding creations, Violet Cakes is known for its rustic yet sophisticated designs. Based in London, their cakes feature fresh flowers, seasonal ingredients and natural decorations, providing a charming and delicious centrepiece for your wedding day. Prices start at around £350.
- Malarkey Cakes – Artistic and modern cake designs from Malarkey Cakes are true works of art. With prices starting at £400, this London-based bakery specialises in bold colours, intricate patterns, and imaginative concepts, perfect for couples looking to make a statement with their wedding cake.
- Sue Hurst Cake Design – Elegant and sophisticated wedding cakes with a modern twist are the hallmark of Sue Hurst Cake Design. Based in Surrey, their custom cakes start at £350 and feature delicate sugar flowers, intricate lace details and a variety of flavours, ensuring a beautiful and delicious addition to your wedding.
- Sugar Plum Bakes – Offering minimalist and chic designs, Sugar Plum Bakes creates wedding cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Based in London, prices start at £400. These cakes are perfect for brides seeking modern, understated elegance with unique flavour profiles.
- Perfect Cakes Co – Specialising in contemporary and bespoke wedding cakes, Perfect Cakes Co caters to a variety of tastes and styles. Starting at £300, this Birmingham-based bakery offers designs ranging from sleek and modern to romantic and whimsical, making them a versatile choice for any wedding.
- Lily Vanilli – Offers whimsical and artistic wedding cakes that push the boundaries of traditional cake design. Based in London, her cakes are known for their imaginative decorations, such as edible flowers and intricate sugar work, making each creation a unique piece of edible art. Prices start around the £400 mark.
- Cove Cake Design – Known for their elegant and contemporary wedding cakes, often inspired by nature and art. Based in Dublin, their custom cakes start at around £350. Their creations are not only visually stunning but also offer unique and delicious flavour combinations.
- Em Cakes London – Specialises in elegant and modern wedding cakes with a touch of romance. Known for their clean lines, soft pastel colours and delicate floral decorations, these cakes provide a beautiful and sophisticated focal point for your wedding celebration. Custom cakes start at around £300.
Our Favourite Modern Wedding Venues
Choosing the perfect wedding venue sets the stage for your big day, creating an atmosphere that reflects your style and vision. Modern wedding venues offer sleek designs, innovative features and stunning aesthetics that make your celebration unforgettable. Low-key registry office weddings are also becoming a popular choice for simple, modern weddings. Check out this list of the UK's most popular wedding registry offices.
Image: @thenomadhotel
Modern Wedding Venues
- Masseria Moroseta, Italy – Set in the picturesque countryside of Puglia, Masseria Moroseta offers a stunning blend of rustic charm and contemporary style. This venue features whitewashed walls, olive groves, and modern amenities, creating a unique and tranquil setting for your wedding. The panoramic views and beautifully designed spaces provide a romantic backdrop for your special day.
- Brickhouse Vineyard, Devon – Nestled in the Devon countryside, Brickhouse Vineyard combines the beauty of a vineyard with modern, rustic charm. The Round House, a beautifully restored 18th-century building, offers a unique space for ceremonies. With stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding countryside, this venue provides a picturesque and intimate setting.
- Luca, London – Located in Clerkenwell, Luca offers a stylish and contemporary setting for urban weddings. Known for its beautiful interiors and exceptional cuisine, Luca combines modern elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The venue features several private dining rooms and a garden terrace, perfect for intimate and sophisticated celebrations.
- The Grange, Hampshire – An elegant country house surrounded by stunning parkland. This venue blends historic charm with modern facilities, offering a range of indoor and outdoor spaces for your wedding. The striking architecture and beautiful gardens provide a timeless and romantic setting for your special day. Read How to Plan for an Outdoor Wedding for the best tips on preparing an outdoor wedding ceremony.
- Hotham Hall Estate, East Yorkshire – Offers a luxurious and exclusive setting for modern weddings. The estate features beautifully landscaped gardens, contemporary interiors and stunning views. Its combination of historic charm and modern amenities makes it a versatile and elegant choice for your wedding.
- Battersea Arts Centre, London –A unique and creative venue perfect for modern weddings. The historic building features beautifully restored spaces with contemporary touches, offering a blend of grandeur and artistic flair. The venue's flexibility allows for personalised and imaginative wedding setups.
- Fitzrovia Chapel, London – A beautifully restored historic chapel in the heart of London, offering a stunning and intimate setting for weddings. The chapel's intricate mosaics, elegant architecture and serene atmosphere create a unique and romantic backdrop for your ceremony.
- The NoMad Hotel, London – Combines classic elegance with modern luxury. The venue offers a range of beautifully designed spaces, including a glass-ceilinged atrium and stylish private dining rooms. Its sophisticated and contemporary design makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a chic and urban wedding venue.
- 100 Barrington, London – Situated in the vibrant area of Brixton is a modern and versatile event space. The venue features exposed brick walls, high ceilings and industrial-chic décor, providing a stylish and contemporary setting for weddings. Its flexible layout allows for creative and personalised wedding setups.
- Neuendorf House, Spain – Located in Mallorca, Neuendorf House is an architectural masterpiece blending minimalist design with natural surroundings. Its clean lines, open spaces, and serene environment make it a perfect choice for couples seeking a modern and elegant wedding venue. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces allows for versatile wedding setups
