We spoke to leading wedding experts to break down the top forecasted colors that will set the entire mood for your 2026 wedding. Discover the hues that will define tomorrow’s weddings.
Undoubtedly, the hue that you choose will set the tone for your wedding celebrations. The color you pick will be in your décor, florals, and tablescapes, so you need to ensure you choose the right one.
To help you decide which color to select for your upcoming wedding celebrations, we consulted the experts. From passionate, cinematic reds to sophisticated, editorial blues, and even the surprise resurgence of moody neutrals, here are the top wedding colors forecasted for 2026.
Saturated, Vibrant Hues
According to wedding specialists, 2026 is going to be the year when couples don’t shy away from combining bold colors.
“Wildflowers and bold, bright colors will show up in 2026 wedding color trends, with couples moving away from traditional matching wedding party looks. Instead, they’re embracing vibrant, complementary shades like fuchsia, marigold, cobalt blue, and emerald green that create a lively, nature-inspired aesthetic that translates beautifully in photographs,” mentions Erica Camille, photographer and founder of Erica Camille Productions.
Experts suggest that couples are moving towards picking saturated colors that are eye-catching and tell their story. “I think we’ll see a lot more saturated color in 2026, like mustard yellow, deep burgundy, and rich jewel tones, rather than soft hues and pastels. Couples are searching for ways to bring their love story to life in a way that stands out from the crowd,” adds Kylie Cash, catering sales manager at Hotel Bennett. “More than ever, they’re looking to make a statement and are focusing on details that feel personal and authentic to them.”
Fresh Chartreuse
Bright and full of joy, chartreuse is a strong yet versatile hue that experts expect to see more of next year. This mix of green and yellow works beautifully for abundant floral centerpieces and sculptural ceiling installations.
“Wedding colors are changing for 2026. Sage green color palettes are evolving into chartreuse, a richer, more earthy-toned green,” mentions Katie Webb Brundige and Meghan Clem, co-founders of Intertwined Events. “We’re expecting to see this hue take over throughout the year with hydrangeas and amaranthus setting the stage as statement florals for ceremony and reception design.”
Chartreuse florals, décor, and tablescapes help craft an ambiance, which is perfect for joyful celebrations and new beginnings. “While chartreuse made a few appearances in 2025, I expect (and can confirm) we'll be seeing even more of it in 2026,” adds Heidi Moore, stationer and creative at idieh design. “It brings that perfect balance of neutral and earthy vibes without going too crazy with color. At the same time, it brings a vibrant pop of green that can instantly elevate a timeless black-and-white combo or add richness and depth to the classic white-and-tan palette.”
Cobalt Blue
Both royal and contemporary, cobalt blue is ideal for a wedding celebration that is dramatic yet understated. This hue instantly adds an editorial-style vibe to any setting.
“We predict that the top wedding color of 2026 will be cobalt blue as it is bold, modern, and endlessly creative. It’s a color that makes a statement while still feeling timeless. We love how it can be used through color-blocking entire spaces or simply as a striking pop of color throughout the design,” says Jove Meyer, owner and creative director of Jove Meyer Events. “Historically, blue symbolizes fidelity, loyalty, and tranquility, beautiful sentiments to weave into a wedding celebration. We love it so much that I even incorporated it into my own wedding!”
Bordeaux or Dark Wine
This hue speaks passion and drama from a distance. “I think we’re going to see a lot of deep, rich Bordeaux or red wine next year. It's everywhere in fashion already, and as these design industries further collide, we are going to see the events industry, especially weddings, reflect trends of fashion,” adds Billy Folchetti, event curator and founder of Luxe X (by) Billy Folchetti.
Great for romantic receptions, this color is a good choice for couples who want a celebration evocative of cinematic settings. “Rich, bold, and full-bodied, dark red wine evokes elegance and passion,” adds Muriel Saldalamacchia, luxury wedding planner at The International Wedding Planner. “It carries a sense of depth and drama, perfect for creating a romantic, intimate atmosphere. This shade feels timeless and sophisticated, ideal for couples who want their wedding to exude warmth and emotional intensity.”
2026 WEDDING TRENDS
Elegant Plum
If you’re looking for a timeless, elegant color palette for your wedding, look no further than plum. Plum is where romance meets depth. It’s romantic and luxurious yet oh-so-elegant.
“For 2026, I see plum as the trending wedding color. Plum purple offers such a gorgeous spectrum of color, from dusty to aubergine. It plays well with other colors, and adds a vibrant decadence or dreaminess of a sunset, especially at a desert wedding and for weddings any time of year,” declares Pam Olson, wedding planner at The Skylark.
Emerald
Emerald green is an arresting hue that signifies growth, harmony, and prosperity. Specialists see it becoming even more popular for weddings next year, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
“Major paint brands have already named these luxe green shades among their top colors of 2026, plus Dunn-Edwards’ first-ever ‘Color of the Century’ is a beautiful deep blue-green tone, proving to be a timeless color that’s here to stay and incorporated into weddings,” states Sam Gauthier, general manager of Wedgewood Weddings at The Headquarters. “These green variations emanate a quiet luxury and sophistication, much like what we see our couples gravitating toward and loving about our venue spaces that already embrace this green hue.”
Moody Neutrals
Lastly, a variety of sophisticated and moody neutrals, like black, chocolate brown, and creamy peach, are expected to provide elegant foundations or perfect complements to bolder palettes.
“While many love neutral tones, 2026 couples are moving towards balancing these softer tones with pops of color, like creamy peach,” says Nicole Back, photographer and videographer at nicole&photo. “It's elegant, classy, and flirty. Think bridesmaid dresses that complement skin tones of all shades, to intentional signage and flatlays that blend neutral colors seamlessly.”
Moreover, black embodies style and sophistication, echoing the timeless elegance of bygone eras. “Believe it or not, black is quickly becoming one of the most popular wedding colors for 2026. I’m seeing more couples lean toward moody, neutral palettes with black candles, chairs, and linens, often paired with white for a timeless, elegant look,” remarks Emily Reno, owner of The Vegas Planners. “Even bridesmaids are wearing black now, which fits perfectly with the sophisticated, black-tie style so many couples are embracing.”
Finally, experts suggest that we’re going to see a lot more of the off-the-beaten-path hue of chocolate brown. “The one color I think will have a big moment in 2026 is chocolate brown, and shades thereof. Chocolate brown is a neutral and a design staple, being bold enough to stand on its own in design, but flexible enough to be paired with other bright and bold hues or patterns,” concludes Loni Peterson, owner of LP Creative Events.
Cover photo by Taylor Heery on Unsplash
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