April 2025 New York Bridal Fashion Week Recap
It’s that time again: New York Bridal Fashion Week is in full swing, and we’ve soaked up every runway livestream, bridal market preview, and behind-the-scenes glimpse from our favourite designers. Taking over the fashion capital from April 8 to 10, the industry’s most iconic names are unveiling their latest collections, and yes, our camera rolls are already brimming with screenshots.
This season’s headliners include Galia Lahav, Cinq, and Justin Alexander and TVC’s own Trish Peng, all debuting their newest creations. Plus, the ever-stylish One Fine Day Bridal Market is back, giving boutique owners, buyers, and bridal obsessives a front-row seat to 35 designers, all in one place. NYBFW has always been the birthplace of bridal trends, and this season is no different. From unexpected accessories to cutting-edge silhouettes, here’s what’s hot, what’s next, and what will start to shape our 2026 brides’ bridal visions.
Runway Trends We’re Obsessed With
Liquid Drapery
Designers are falling hard for fabric that moves like water. Think high-shine satin, sculptural folds, and silhouettes that ripple around the body. The look is very Vivienne Westwood coded: romantic, commanding, and achingly beautiful. It’s all about contrast, with fluid movement paired against sharp tailoring. Our beloved Kiwi designer Trish Peng is capturing this energy perfectly in her latest Nouvelle collection, which she’s showcasing at One Fine Day Bridal Market.
Tulle, Who?
Don’t worry, tulle isn’t disappearing. But this season, it’s stepping back to let textured, dimensional detailing shine. Think intricate leaf motifs like the ones floating across Mira Zwillinger’s Season ‘26 gowns and veils as well as Stephanie Cachapuz’s floral embellishments made from recycle plastic bottles. These botanical-inspired accents are giving major soft garden goddess with a couture twist.
A glimpse into Mira Zwillinger’s SS’26 collection:
Stephanie Cachapuz’s Wanderlust Collection: bold florals, sustainable textures, and sculptural romance.
Beads & Drapes? Yes, Please.
Leave it to Galia Lahav to up the ante. Her latest looks marry slinky draping with her signature sparkle and fabric: lace. Because while other designers might be letting it rest, Galia said, “Lace is my love language.” It’s rich, romantic, and let’s be real non-negotiable. The result? Opulence that oozes tradition with a side of modernity. We’re obsessed with Gatsby. Chef’s kiss.
Galia Lahav on the NYC streets:
The Bubble Skirt, Reimagined
The bubble skirt made its bridal debut in 2024 as a playful mini. But in 2025, it’s going full-length and full-volume. Designers are adding puff at the hemline while keeping the bodice clean and crisp, creating gowns that are light, airy, and ready to twirl in. The best part? It delivers drama without the weight.
2-Piece Ensembles & Scooped Necklines
Two-piece bridal looks are still having their moment and they’ve officially graduated to iconic status. Corseted tops paired with sleek or voluminous skirts bring versatility to the aisle, while scooped necklines add a soft, flirtatious edge. Keep your eye on The Veil Collective’s incoming Vagabond Bridal styles (Ash, Kai, Zen and Sol) all made to mix & match for ultimate personalisation.
Alena Leena, another one of TVC’s favourites, unveiled her latest collection ‘Devotion’ at the One Fine Day Bridal Market, and let’s just say, we’re completely smitten. The standout? A sculptural peplum-inspired bodice, designed to be styled with interchangeable skirts. Versatility, elevated. With the return of dramatic basque waistlines and a fresh array of luxuriously textured fabrics, Alena has truly outdone herself. And the best part? We’re hosting these incredibly fresh designs from Alena Leena at the start of May as part of an exclusive trunk show, keep your eyes peeled for more information soon. 🤍✨
The Accessory That Stole the Show: Colourful Shoes
This year, bold accessories took center stage, and the unexpected star? Colourful shoes, specifically red ones. From cherry-hued pumps and scarlet tights paired with bridal minis, this vibrant trend has captured hearts both on and off the runway. Representing love, passion, and power, red is the ultimate statement piece for next season’s bridal ensembles.
Get the Look at The Veil Collective
Bridal fashion is evolving. It’s becoming bolder, more playful, and personal. If you’re ready to tap into next season’s energy before anyone else, we have you covered. Alongside the highly anticipated Vagabond Bridal arrivals (hello, Ash and Zen), you’ll find a curated edit of gowns that embody this new era.
Channel fabric fluidity in Gina by Esty Style or Mediva by House of St. Patrick. Make a bold entrance in Hallie by Zavana Couture, or serve full Galia energy in Charming by House of St. Patrick.
NYBFW may be wrapping up, but the inspiration is just getting started. For more behind-the-scenes moments, designer recaps, and runway drama, follow along at @nybfw on Instagram.