With the conclusion of Barcelona’s Bridal Fashion Week upon us, we were rewarded with the amazing unveiling of world-renowned bridal designer Vivienne Westwood’s 2026 bridal collection. The collection was nothing short of inspiring, with refreshing silhouettes, colors, and textures.
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In line with modern bridal trends in favor of individuality and expression, each piece tells a story and can be customized to suit the personality and needs of each bride. Vivienne Westwood has historically always been about freedom of expression, and this holds true in their gorgeous couture bridal creations.
This collection consisted of looks pieced together using separates or whole gowns, and styled to perfection, utilizing the brand’s luxury accessories. The collection was inspired by the 18th-century botanist Pierre Joseph Redouté’s use of watercolors, with a foundation in corsetry for shape, and tailoring to add masculine flair. The collection uses classic bridal white tones as a backdrop and adds personality and flair through the use of color, texture and shape.
Utilizing a range of luxurious fabrics, from cotton, chiffon and lace, to silks, satins and washed georgette. Vivienne Westwood’s designs are always executed to the highest quality and are made to be cherished for a lifetime.
Ballgowns are Back!
The first gown on display was the Madame de Pompadour gown – a Georgian era silhouette featuring a corseted bodice, long flared and ruffled sleeves, and a layered ballgown-esque skirt. The gown features a cotton base, with multitudes of layering and ruffling details achieved using a combination of chiffon, lace, and georgette. Styled simply with an up-do and minimal jewelery, this gown spoke for itself. Influenced by the 1756 Francois Boucher painting featuring dresses of a similar silhouette, the drama of the silhouette and textures used set the tone for the event and spoke to Vivienne’s grandeur and illustrious reputation.
Satin in the Spotlight
The second main style showcased satin figure-hugging gowns in both mini and full-length styles. This style was seen across two to four of Vivienne’s 2026 designs. All of these satin gowns were off-the-shoulder or strapless gowns with interest added through strategic ruching or asymmetric aspects. These pieces were styled to the nines with prominent jewellery, bags, stockings, garters, interesting hair styling choices and even sunglasses, proving how versatile and individual these looks can be.
Sheer is Chic
Another major theme across Vivienne’s new luxury bridal collection is sheer elements and fabric layering. From full-length long-sleeved sheer 70s’ chic mastery to lace-draped goddess-esque magic – no silhouettes were excluded from this sheer take-over! The lace-draped masterpiece featured a structured bodice with corset-like boning as a base, draped with another layer of delicate lace in an asymmetric one-shoulder toga-like way. Cinched at the waist with a coquette-style silk bow, this silhouette flatters immensely, hugging the hips and flaring out in a sheer lace A-line skirt. Styled with lace garters and shimmering fingerless gloves ruched at the wrist, this awe-inspiring design was one to watch.
Individuality through Color
Vivienne’s designs also featured consistent pops of color, whether that was through styling choices, the pairing of separates, or the gown itself. Inspired by the watercolors of 18th-century botanist Pierre Joseph Redouté, Vivienne Westwood’s designs featured a new floral print which uses blush pinks and natural green tones to create the image of rose-like florals. This print featured across a few designs showcased. Additionally, Vivienne made use of off-white tones such as champagne and cream. She also showcased metallic looks glittering in silver and gold. She accessorized with pink and black elements to add drama and interest.
Accessorise your look!
Capes, headpieces, veils, gloves, socks, hats, you name it! Vivienne Westwood has something for you! The collection introduced various bridal accessories that add drama, interest, personality and an aspect of customisation to a bride’s look.
Headpieces were a must in this collection, from cathedral-length veils, mini or blusher veils, to hats and floral headpieces, Vivienne showcased them all. Using lace, chiffon and drama, Vivienne crafted something for every bride – capes made of large yellow, black, and off-white colored floral pieces, blazer-like coats with trains, and billowing ivory regal extravagance.
Drama, individuality, storytelling and personality were at the forefront of this collection. Brides should be free to express themselves and tell their love story authentically on their big day.
Want More Bridal Wear Content?
Interested in exploring Viviennes’ collection more? Or perhaps you’re interested in other designers?
Check out our recent article on New York Bridal Fashion Week, or find out more about iconic UK luxury bridal designers.
