Bridal icon and “Say Yes to the Dress” star Hayley Paige creates breathtaking dresses. Here, she discusses her latest collection titled “Twice Upon a Time,” available at Jennifer’s Bridal in Hockessin, Delaware.

Words by Gina Lizzo
Portrait by Elizabeth Mae

WT: Describe your style as a bridal designer.

HP: Artful and playful—and nowadays, maybe even a little defiant. My aesthetic embraces dualities, like romance with a rebel yell. Tulle and texture, whimsy and strength. I love contrasts, like soft silhouettes with bold details [and] timeless craftsmanship with a wink of surprise.

What inspires you?

I think the love language of design lives in the storytelling. Each gown is its own fairytale, but these days, it’s less “happily ever after” and more “choosing your own adventure.” I’m inspired by mythology, music, and the idea of rebirth—whether that is through mosaic florals or contrasting layers of texture. There is always a bit of symbolism. It’s about giving fantasy a backbone and letting femininity feel powerful, not passive.

When saying “yes” to the perfect dress, designer Hayley Paige has one simple rule: “If you can’t sit, eat, or sneak a tequila shot comfortably, what’s the point?”

Are you experimenting with any new materials or techniques?

We’re hand-draping fabrics that feel sculptural yet ethereal—almost like they’re breathing or blossoming. There’s a lot of patchwork embroidery, micro-pleated tulle, and illusion lace that looks like painted air or contoured clouds. I’m also embracing the Basque waistlines but trying to keep mindful of proportion and modernity. [There are a] few secret “Easter eggs” stitched into the gowns, like a hidden phoenix for anyone who knows the journey.

What are the big bridal trends in 2026?

Individuality. Brides are rewriting the rules. I’m seeing more color, more personalization, and more modular gowns with detachable elements. Some brides are embracing architectural minimalism, others full-on fairytale fantasy—and I love that contrast. The biggest trend is being honest about what kind of dress represents you and your love story best.

How do you balance artistry and wearability, especially when brides today want both comfort and couture?

I studied fiber science, so I tend to geek out on the performance of materials. While we want to remain aesthetically magnetic at the core, we engineer everything for movement. Structure and stretch live side by side with soft linings, hidden corsetry, and breathable fabrics. My rule is simple: If you can’t sit, eat, or sneak a tequila shot comfortably, what’s the point?

What influenced your latest collection?

“Twice Upon a Time” is a comeback that’s unapologetic in its shimmer. It’s full of storybook details and sculptural craft. Every gown is designed for a bride’s inner glow—that moment when she feels seen, free, and completely herself. It’s about [the kind of] resilience that still sparkles even after a big storm. Every gown is a love letter to second chances and a wink to creative credibility.

For more information, visit Hayley Paige’s website.