Abstract
The entry of High Street brands into bridalwear has stimulated demand at lower price points but counter to this is a growing interest in designer-end fashion inspired by celebrity weddings and wider fashion trends. As a result, the market has seen some polarisation in expenditure.
Consumer research shows that the dream of the fairytale wedding is alive and well, although there is also evidence that women do find it hard to justify excessive expenditure on a single day.
Fluctuations in the number of marriages have continued but they have not stymied value growth that rose above the rate of inflation. Similarly, the long-term decline in religious marriage ceremonies has had little impact on sales of traditional bridalwear as this trend has been offset by the growing use of country homes or castles as romantic wedding venues.
Mintel defines bridalwear as garments purchased for or by the bride to wear at her wedding. These garments can be traditional gowns or two-piece bodies and skirt. Other occasionwear suits/dresses designed specifically for marriage are also included.
Second-hand bridalwear is included for the purpose of the definition, although this accounts for a very small proportion of the total market, particularly in value terms. It is also very difficult to quantify. Consequently, the principal focus of the report is on garments bought from new.
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