Princess Diana might have pulled it off in regal style, but the modern bride most definitely does not want to look like a meringue.

Even before the pandemic, there was a shift towards less blatant opulence, perhaps more awareness of the need to stop destroying the planet with rampant materialism, a recognition that more is rarely, if ever, more.

Carrie Symonds showed her support for the uber-fashionable new trend of fashion rental for her surprise wedding to Boris Johnston, choosing a boho-style appliquéd tulle gown by Greek designer Christos Costarellos, costing almost £300, but rented for less than £45.

The global online clothing rental market is expected to grow by £990 million, or 10 per cent during 2021-2025. Not that wedding dress and special occasion designers need concern themselves too much, as there is a wedding boom forecast right here, right now, as couples plan 2021, 2022, and 2023 nuptials, so the demand for new wedding gowns, accessories and flowers is skyrocketing.

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And many modern brides want a dress or an outfit that reflects the current mood of liberation and free spiritedness. These are some of our favourites …