As the first quarter of the year unfolds, the wedding season blossoms into action. The trends that will shape the beginning of the 2024 wedding season are promising a delightful blend of classic elegance and modern flair. From traditional ceremonies steeped in history to avant-garde celebrations that push boundaries, couples are enjoying trendy elements while still cherishing tradition.
In bridal fashion, natural looks are expected with some dramatic elements
Bold hair accessories, such as pearls, crystals, flowers or oversized bows, may become more popular in 2024. Hollywood waves and ponytails are popular at the moment, and likely to stay. Elegant and sleek low buns also have seen a rise due to celebrity weddings like Sofia Ritchies. Although the whole look was simple and classic and that is becoming more popular for the rest of this year and into 2024.
In terms of makeup, a fresh and natural look with glowing skin and a flush of colour on the cheeks is becoming the go-to look for Brides. Eye makeup remains toned down with soft tones and a hint of shimmer becoming more popular.
Neutral lip colours will remain popular as well as lip tints for a subtle hint of colour, but some brides may choose to add a pop of colour with bright lipstick shades. Makeup will be focused on glowing skin and natural looks as we are seeing in celebrity weddings.
When it comes to eyes, individual lashes are proving more popular than strip lashes. With the looks gearing towards more natural makeup, individuals work well for this as they can really define the eyes and keep the look natural, creating a look that is tailored to your eye shape to enhance your eyes and not weigh them down with heavy lashes.
In groom fashion, colours and patterns are big for 2024
The Slim-Fit suit is still stealing hearts in 2024. Picture this: you, a well-made, well-tailored suit, say goodbye to the days of drowning in oversized suits – 2024 is the year to embrace that tailored perfection!
Pattern Play: Move over, plain Jane! It’s the era of patterns making a comeback. Houndstooth, pinstripes, and windowpane are the new cool kids in town. Add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble, because, let’s face it, being the centre of attention is kind of your job on the big day.
Trending Colours In 2024, forget fifty shades of gray! The wedding aisle is getting a vibrant makeover, with bold blues, evergreens, and maroons stealing the show. Say goodbye to safe suits and hello to a pop of personality. These colours aren’t just stylish; they’re the wedding theme’s secret weapon, turning your big day into a masterpiece. So, gentlemen, gear up for a year of saying “I do” in hues that’ll make heads turn and traditions quake!
Colour Coordination Ties and Pocket Squares: Planning on stealing the show with a showstopper suit? Don’t forget to coordinate a colourful tie and pocket square for that extra ‘oomph.’ Complimentary colours are the name of the game, and trust us, a little pop of colour never hurts anyone’s wedding album.
Sock Game Evolution Sorry, crazy socks, your time has passed. Say hello to the era of neutral, single-colour socks. Pair them with sharp leather lace-up shoes for the ultimate formal look or loafers (with or without socks) if you’re feeling a tad more laid-back at the altar.
Ceremony trends extra modern
As for Ceremony Trends, more and more couples will be opting for a smaller and more personal wedding. Making wedding celebrations truly their own and choosing to celebrate in smaller, intimate ways as a way to avoid looking like the same as everyone else. We have seen a rise in intimate civil ceremonies at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, followed by the reception in one of our suites or indeed “Al Fresco” on our private Veranda.
Comfort Cuisine comes as another big trend. We expect to see more couples re-writing the rules when it comes to picking their menus for the big day. More couples are incorporating their childhood favourites into their wedding menu for a sentimental addition. Whether it’s an old family recipe or a go-to comfort meal, it adds a great personal touch – think luxury roast dinner for example.
Outdoor is in. Nature is increasingly becoming the backdrop of choice, with 349 million hashtag views for outdoor wedding venues. Many Irish wedding venues (including us at Woodford Dolmen Hotel) are now offering an outdoor (as well as indoor) setting, particularly for the ceremony itself.
Making a weekend of the special celebration. Whilst smaller weddings dominated 2023’s wedding trends, weekend-long wedding celebrations are still a prevailing trend, with couples wanting to prolong their big day throughout a weekend, from pre-wedding dinners to post-wedding brunches, a trend driven by the desire to create lasting memories and extended moments with loved ones, rather than one packed day.
Unique Live Entertainment Ideas. Couples are thinking beyond the band and adding to their live wedding entertainment lineup, with less conventional acts like magicians, drag performers, mixologists, fire breathers, dancers, Celtic drummers live wedding artists, and more, as well as immersive experiences and interactive areas for guests. If you’re looking to really impress your guests (or looking for that viral wedding moment!) and have them talking about your wedding for years to come, then this is a trend for you.