September Wedding Trends: Headwear, Hats, and Honeymoons

One Fab Day's monthly edit spotlights five key trends for wedding inspiration this September. The list includes new Irish bridal accessories, a jeweller's private consultation suite, and a stargazing retreat for honeymoons.

Statement-Making Bridal Headwear

A new Irish brand called 9elk has entered the bridal market with simple, statement hair accessories. Co-founder Edel Lyons says the pieces are designed "to make getting dressed for an occasion feel effortless." The brand's signature items include the Crown, Ponytail Cuffs, Birdcage, and Organza Bows. These accessories are noted for working with everything from a simple slip dress to a tailored suit, and could also suit mothers of the bride or groom. With birdcage veils remaining popular, especially for registry weddings where brides swap long veils for snappier looks, these pieces are highlighted. Prices start at €30.

Hats Are a Key Bridal Trend

Celebrity brides are increasingly trading traditional veils for statement headwear, with hats firmly back on the bridal agenda. Designer Caroline Castigliano, who created a wedding gown for Love Island's Francesca Allen, reports a huge rise in requests for elegant bridal hats, pillboxes, fascinators, and couture headpieces. The source notes these items can be rented, designed, or bought. The trend is illustrated by recent real weddings, such as Jennifer and Declan's Portuguese nuptials and Adrienne & Patrick's day at Castle Durrow.

Appleby Jewellers Opens New Suite

Appleby Jewellers, a family-run Dublin institution celebrating 70 years, has opened a new private consultation area called The Emerald Suite. Designed by bespoke furniture maker Ryan Connolly, the suite offers an intimate setting for creating unique pieces. Connolly stated that the design process involved several visits to settle on timeless materials and details, including cues taken from jewellery like faceted cuts and vintage gold tooling marks. Director Joe Appleby commented that The Emerald Suite was created in response to growing demand for private consultation spaces. The store already has eight other private consultation areas.

Honeymoon Under the Stars

Wild Hideaways, an adults-only, dog-friendly retreat in Cork's Mealagh Valley, is highlighted as a romantic getaway. It features a dome built for stargazing and private alfresco hot baths. The source suggests it could serve as a quiet alternative to a typical minimoon or a pre-wedding escape. The retreat is open all year round, with prices starting from €199 per night.

Nashville Airport Renamed for Dolly Parton

For couples considering a Nashville honeymoon, the source notes that Nashville Airport will be renamed after Dolly Parton, who passed away in August 2026. Aer Lingus flies directly into Nashville, with return fares starting from €321. The renaming is set for 2027, meaning future travellers will be greeted by Dolly Parton's name upon arrival.