Gulf Brides Blend Tradition and Modernity in 2025 Wedding Trends
By Hermoine Macura-Noble
Special to The Times Kuwait
As the wedding season approaches, brides in the Gulf region are redefining bridal fashion, embracing styles that balance timeless elegance with modern flair. From the streets of Dubai to the palaces of Riyadh, weddings are becoming a canvas where heritage and contemporary design meet.
We spoke to Solida Marcos, a renowned bridal designer in the Gulf with over 20 years of experience, about the trends shaping weddings in 2025 and looking ahead to 2026.
“The biggest bridal fashion trends now include lace with long sleeves, royal shiny finishes, soft color accents like champagne, floral embellishments, and bold statement silhouettes,” Marcos explains. “These elements allow brides to showcase their personality while remaining elegant and sophisticated.”
Renowned bridal designer
This season, GCC brides are increasingly experimenting with unconventional designs, but tradition still plays a key role. Marcos notes, “Brides in the GCC are leaning toward modern trends and unconventional styles, but they still keep their culture and traditions in mind. The result is a beautiful mix of both, creating fresh and unique versions of bridal fashion.”
Fabrics and textures are evolving alongside design trends. While silk and satin remain classic, designers are exploring layered tulle, embroidered lace, and shimmering organza’s, adding depth, movement, and a sense of bespoke luxury to gowns. These tactile materials not only look stunning in photos but also create a memorable experience for the bride and her guests.
Color trends are also shifting. While white and ivory continue to dominate, soft pastels and neutral shades like champagne and blush are becoming increasingly popular. These subtle hues allow brides to make a modern statement while preserving the sense of tradition that is so important in GCC weddings.
Accessories are taking center stage as well. Marcos highlights the rise of statement veils and capes, delicate hairpieces, and intricate belts or sashes, which complement bold silhouettes and add personality without overwhelming the overall look.
For brides navigating these trends, Marcos offers practical advice: start your search early, at least three months before the wedding; research styles and save inspiration; consider your theme, season, and venue; and visit only trusted boutiques.
She recommends coming prepared with light makeup, skin-colored underwear, and a relaxed mindset, and bringing along a trusted family member or friend to offer honest advice. Most importantly, she emphasizes defining the identity of the dress—elegant, royal, simple, or cute—and ensuring it flatters both the body and personality.
Marcos also stresses discretion and patience. Once a dress is chosen, she advises keeping it private and avoiding repeated fittings until about ten days before the wedding, allowing for last-minute body changes. “Most importantly,” she says, “enjoy the journey, not just the destination.”
Looking ahead, bridal fashion in the Gulf is poised to continue its evolution, combining heritage, glamor, and individuality. Whether through statement silhouettes, soft champagne hues, or intricate lacework, brides in 2025 and 2026 are creating looks that are memorable, personal, and timeless.
In the end, Marcos reminds brides that while trends may guide the choice, the true magic of a wedding lies in celebrating one’s identity, savoring the journey, and embracing every special moment along the way.
By Hermoine Macura-Noble
The first Australian English speaking News Anchor in the Middle East. She is also the Author of Faces of the Middle East and Founder of US-based 501c3 charity – The House of Rest which helps to ease the suffering of victims of war. For more from our Contributing Editor, you can follow her on Instagram, here.
