Shine Bright: Why Glitter and Metallics are Stealing the Spotlight

As much as the word itself might be a little cringe, there’s no denying that bling is back.  From glitter-infused ballgowns to sequined bodices and shimmering tulle skirts, sparkle is firmly taking centre stage in modern bridal fashion.  Right now, brides are embracing sparkling fabrics and dazzling embellishments to stand out, spark all kinds of joy and bring a real festivity to their look – not to mention making a real statement on the dance floor.  

If you’re wondering if the shimmer is for you, read on.  We’ll look at how to style the trend, who’s loving it and where it’s making the biggest impact at the mo.  

All-out sparkle vs subtle shine 

One of the most exciting things we’re seeing is how wide the sparkle spectrum now is – whether you’re after a show stopping sparkle moment or a whisper of shine, the options are endless.  

On one end of the scale you’ll find gowns that are full-on glamour: elaborate beading on bodices, glitter-layered skirts, fabrics designed to catch the light from every angle.  At the other, dresses that look minimal and clean at first glance but with subtle metallic threads or soft shimmer in the skirt.   

We’re seeing everything right now from pared-back and minimal to all the way over the top with beading and sparkle and we’re loving all of it.  It’s a real chance for our brides to choose the level of shine that works for them.   

The trick is matching the shimmer to your venue, lighting and personal style.  If you’ve planned a glamourous evening reception under warm lighting, go big!  Gor a daytime ceremony outdoors, consider a softer layer of glitter or metallic accents that catch the light without overwhelming.   

Customisation options: make the shine yours 

At Lily’s we love the creativity that comes with sparkle.  It’s not just off-the-rack: it’s personal.  We often add custom sparkle layers for our brides, some of our favourites recently have been layers of ivory glitter and even pale blue glitter underneath the body of the dress.  

Adding the glitter layer under the top tulle helps the gown keep its silhouette and movement after you’ve added that wow-factor shimmer.  It means you get shine but it’s done your way.  

We’re loving:  

• A fine layer or ivory glitter under neutral tulle for a soft glow.  

• Pale blue glitter hidden beneath the skirt to tie in with a wedding theme.  

• Metallic thread embroidery on a bodice for a hunt of luxe without full sequins.  

• A sequined overlay for brides who truly want to sparkle from head to toe.  

Because it’s customised, you can get exactly the effect you’re after – from fireworks to a delicate twinkle, both look amazing.  

Sparkle as identity: let your dress reflect you 

Sparkle isn’t just a fashion trend, it’s a way to express your personality, mood and the tone of your wedding.  When you choose metallic or glittery detailing, you’re choosing to shine in a way that fits you.  

• Are you naturally fun, bold and love a party? A full glitter gown says exactly that.  

• If your day is elegant, sophisticated with an evening reception, metallic accents or sequins bring glamour without feeling over-the-top.  

• Maybe you’ve planned a whimsical, fairy-tale inspired wedding – softer glitter in tulle will give you a magical moment.  

We’re helping real brides at Lily’s make these very choices at the moment.  The key is to use the sparkle intentionally.  Think about how your dress will move, how it will photograph, how it’ll look through the evening.  The shimmer becomes part of your story.  

Bridal trend reports for 2025 are really emphasising metallics, sequins and glitter infused fabrics as major picks for the year ahead. We’ve really seen customisation requests climb:  silver and blue accents for winter weddings, full sequined skirts for a red-carpet feel, hints of embroidery through the bodice to pick up the evening light.   

Styling tips 

Follow a few practical tips to make the sparkle trend work for you:  

1. Venue and lighting first – Evening ballroom? Go big.  Outdoor daylight? It’s all about softer shine.  

2. Accessories match the tone – Gold metallic gown? Gold jewellery/shoes. Silver tone? Keep the accessories cool.  

3. Movement matters – Choose fabrics like tulle, organza and lightweight metallics that move freely and catch the light.  

4. Photography check – Try your gown in different lighting environments (daylight, evening, artificial) to make sure the sparkle looks just how you want it to.  

5. Balance is everything – If your gown is heavily embellished, keep the veil, bouquet and shoes simpler.  If your silhouette is minimalist, let the sparkle be the statement.  

6. Make it personal – Take advantage of custom layers of glitter, metallic sprays and bespoke colour tweak to make the sparkle fit your story.  

The most important thing is that you feel like the very best version of YOU in the gown you choose.  That might end up being all the sparkle you need.  

Ready to inject a little disco ball sparkle into your big day? Come and see how we can help.