While large-scale weddings are not currently possible due to COVID restrictions, many couples have opted for smaller, more intimate affairs instead. And with in-person fittings mostly off the cards, many brides have been rethinking their wedding dresses, including opting for more low-key—and sustainable—choices for their big day. 

Despite not having a specific bridal line, eco-conscious brand Maggie Marilyn has certainly seen more interest from brides in her ready-to-wear pieces since the pandemic began. “With everything going on in the world right now, there is an element of brides toning it down a little bit, which feels fresh and modern,” the brand’s founder Maggie Hewitt tells Vogue. “Brides are choosing to wear pieces that align with their values when they get married, too, which is exciting.” 

For those looking for a more traditional wedding gown, vintage has also become an increasingly popular choice for eco-minded brides. Lyst reported that searches for vintage wedding dresses were up by a staggering 297 per cent in the 48 hours after Princess Beatrice opted to borrow a 1960s Norman Hartnell dress from her grandmother, the Queen, for her wedding in July 2020.

Rental and upcycling are also on the rise, as brides become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of a dress that you only wear once. Here is Vogue’s ultimate guide to sustainable wedding dresses in 2021. 

Sustainable wedding dress brands to know 

Designers such as Stella McCartney and Gabriela Hearst—both known for their sustainable practices—are obvious places to start your wedding dress hunt, but it’s also worth trying Maggie Marilyn, Mother of Pearl, and Reformation if you’re looking for a more relaxed option.