New York Bridal Fashion Week: A Season of Statement-Making Romance
New York Bridal Fashion Week Spring 2025 unveiled an exquisite narrative of craftsmanship, innovation, and emotion—where designers pushed the boundaries of bridal tradition to offer modern brides something deeply personal and unforgettable. From sculptural elegance to ethereal romance, the runway was a celebration of bridal artistry at its most refined. Here's our front-row look at the standout presentations that defined the season.
Justin Alexander Signature: Sculpted Grace in "Gilded Form"
Held during Bridal Fashion Week’s most anticipated moments, the unveiling of Justin Alexander Signature’s Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Gilded Form, mesmerized with a striking study in contrast. This season, creative director Justin Warshaw balanced sleek minimalism with ornate embellishment—delivering gowns that felt both architectural and unapologetically feminine.
Think: basque waists reimagined with dramatic lace-up backs, voluminous couture skirts paired with modern seaming, and metallic accents that caught the light like gilded sculpture. Dimensional florals and opulent beading elevated the collection, while bold silhouettes spoke to a fashion-forward bride unafraid to make a statement. A true fusion of edge and elegance, Gilded Form proved once again that bridalwear can be both directional and deeply romantic.
Badgley Mischka: The Legacy of Glamour, Reimagined
At the iconic Essex House, Badgley Mischka presented its Spring/Summer 2025 collection in an atmosphere that echoed the refined charm of old Hollywood. For over three decades, Mark Badgley and James Mischka have defined American glamour—and this season was no exception.
Combining their signature aesthetic with Italian-inspired craftsmanship, the duo delivered timeless silhouettes updated for the modern bride. From delicately beaded column gowns to sweeping ball gowns with sculpted bodices, each look reflected a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. This collection felt like a love letter to their loyal brides—offering elegance that transcends trends and embraces individuality.
Pnina Tornai: A Love Letter to the Bold Bride
At the height of Bridal Market, Pnina Tornai introduced the newest evolution of her beloved diffusion line, Love by Pnina Tornai. This 2025 collection stayed true to Pnina’s signature sparkle and sensuality but added fresh textures and shapes for the daring romantic.
With corseted bodices, illusion lace, and bold trains, the collection balanced drama and delicacy with ease. Tornai continues to celebrate every bride’s confidence—empowering her to own the aisle in designs that are as fearless as they are feminine.
Sareh Nouri Spring 2026: A Tribute to Ancient Beauty
Rooted in history and steeped in elegance, Sareh Nouri’s Spring 2026 Bridal Collection channels the grace of classical eras through sculptural silhouettes, intricate lace, and textured fabrics. Standouts include grand ball gowns, refined high-neck boleros, and Lily—a breathtaking editorial gown featuring hand-painted Lily of the Valley flowers on satin. This collection blends timeless artistry with modern sophistication, designed for the bride who wants to make a regal, lasting statement.
Lara Knight: Introducing Dark Romance
One of the most talked-about debuts of the season came from Lara Knight, an emerging designer capturing attention for her edgy-yet-timeless bridal vision. Her collection, Dark Romance, explored sculptural shapes, modern corsetry, and a high-fashion sensibility that challenges traditional bridal norms.
Rich fabrics, dramatic silhouettes, and a confident point of view marked Knight as one to watch. Designed for the modern muse, these gowns speak directly to brides who want to make their wedding day fashion-forward and unforgettable.
Nicole + Felicia: Couture Dreamscapes
Closing the week with ethereal fantasy, Nicole + Felicia delivered a jaw-dropping display of couture craftsmanship. The Taiwan-based design house, beloved by celebrities like Taylor Swift, showcased a collection that felt like stepping into a bridal fairytale.
Billowing trains adorned with hand-curated rosettes, shimmering fabrics that danced with every movement, and floating silhouettes with cloud-like volume defined their presentation. This collection was all about dreamlike romance—each gown a once-in-a-lifetime moment designed for the bride who wants to truly float down the aisle.
Final Thoughts
This season at New York Bridal Fashion Week, the message was clear: individuality reigns. From structured minimalism to maximalist romance, designers embraced a diverse spectrum of bridal expression—proving that today’s bride is anything but one note. With fashion rooted in craftsmanship, vision, and emotional storytelling, 2025–2026 is shaping up to be a golden age for bridal fashion.
BELLA brides, the future of bridal is here—and it’s more radiant than ever.
Photography: Michelle Behre