The Heart Behind the Gown: Finding the Dress

Choosing the perfect wedding dress is one of the most meaningful moments in a bride’s journey, and no one understands that better than Kim + Holly at Elizabeth Kate Bridal. We had a good chat all about Bridal dresses — from the first fitting to the final flourish—as well as the trends lighting up the 2026 season. Their insights reveal not only what’s new in bridal fashion but also the heart behind what we do every day: helping every bride feel celebrated, confident, and beautifully herself.

When should a bride start shopping for her wedding dress?

Ideally 12–18 months before the wedding.This gives you time to explore different styles, order your dress without pressure, and leave space for fittings. But if you’re on a shorter timeline, don’t panic! We help brides on quick turnarounds all the time and can guide you to designers and styles that work beautifully for faster weddings.

What’s the most common worry brides have when they first come in and how do you reassure them?

Almost every bride thinks one of these things:

“What if nothing suits me?”

“What if I don’t like how I look?”

“What if I can’t find the dress?”

We reassure them by slowing everything down, really listening, and showing them just how many beautiful options there are for every shape, style, and personality. Very quickly, the pressure melts away and they realise it’s not about fitting into a dress, it’s about finding the one that feels naturally, effortlessly them.

How do you help brides find a dress that truly reflects their personality and style?

We start by getting to know who they are, the vibe of their wedding, their venue, the styles they’re drawn to, but also what they actually wear and feel good in. Then we guide them with a mix of instinct and experience. We know the tiny details that make a dress feel right: structure, neckline, fabrics, movement, straps, sleeves… and we can personalise everything.

If a bride loves a dress but wants sleeves, straps, a lowered back, or a touch of lace, we can create bespoke additions in-house so it feels uniquely hers.

What trends or styles are you excited about for the 2026 season?

2026 is all about effortless luxury. We’re loving:

Clean, modern gowns with structure and beautiful movement

Detachable elements - sleeves, overskirts, bows, neck scarves

Minimalist drama: bold silhouettes without heavy embellishment

Romantic sheer lace used subtly for shape and texture

Ball gowns returning with a modern twist, light, airy, and elegant

Brides are embracing looks that feel timeless with personality, and we adore it.

Can you share one memorable “yes to the dress” moment?

One of our favourites was a bride who came in terrified she’d never feel good in anything. By the third dress, she looked in the mirror, burst into happy tears, and said, “I actually feel like a bride.” Her mum cried, her sister cried… we cried. Seeing someone go from anxious to glowing is why we do what we do!

What’s your biggest piece of advice for brides during the dress search?

Do your research and choose the boutique that feels like you.

When you feel safe, supported, and genuinely listened to, you’ll find your dress. Only start trying on when you’re ready to say yes. Styles discontinue and trends change quickly, so trying too soon can sometimes cause unnecessary overwhelm. Trust your gut, keep an open mind, and remember: the right dress should feel like you - but elevated.

As planners, we know how transformative the dress-shopping experience can be, and hearing directly from Elizabeth Kate Bridal only reinforces how much expertise and heart goes into guiding each bride. Their insight is a reminder that choosing a gown is more than a checklist item—it's a moment to be cherished.

To book your appointment with Kim + Holly, get in touch here!

Love,

Leah