Ah, the wedding cake. That sweet centrepiece that demands its own spotlight (and often its own table). It’s not just dessert—it’s a guest of honour, a showstopper, and, sometimes, a bit of a diva. And in the UK, 2025’s cake trends are more dazzling, daring, and delicious than ever.
So, if you’re planning your wedding and wondering, “What kind of cake will actually wow our guests?”—you’re in the right place. I’ve captured more wedding cakes than I can count (and yes, sneaked a few bites along the way). Here’s what’s rising to the top this year, with plenty of inspiration, practical tips, and a sprinkle of fun.
1. The Lambeth Comeback (and It’s Fabulous)
Picture your nan’s wedding cake, but glow’d up. The Lambeth method—ornate piped icing with layers of swooping swirls, ruffles, and scallops—is making a huge comeback. This time it’s less stiff and more playful: think pastel palettes, unexpected shapes, and pearls nestled in buttercream bows. It’s vintage with a wink.
👉 For inspo, check out this modern take on Lambeth cakes by Lapstone Barn.
2. Barely There: Semi-Naked with Sass
Semi-naked cakes are evolving. No longer just rustic favourites for barn weddings, they’re getting a glow-up with edible florals, metallic brushstrokes, and abstract splashes of colour. This trend is like a casual-chic friend who shows up to your wedding in designer shoes but forgot her earrings—and still looks amazing.
3. Flavour Spotlight: Pistachio Is Having a Moment
Vanilla and chocolate will always be classics—but if you’re looking to impress? Pistachio is the flavour of the year. It’s elegant, lightly nutty, and pairs beautifully with rosewater or raspberry. One of my couples last summer had a pistachio sponge with mascarpone frosting—and yes, guests raved about it for weeks.
4. Go Big or Go Bigger
Oversized cakes are trending in a big (BIG) way. Whether it’s extra-tall tiers, wide base layers, or full dessert table takeovers, couples are embracing size as part of their wedding day drama. After all, when else can you serve a three-foot-tall edible sculpture without raising eyebrows?
5. Textures & Tactile Treats
From fondant ruffles to buttercream pleats, textured cakes are everywhere. Think cakes that look like silk gowns, crumpled paper art, or delicate chiffon. These designs don’t just look incredible—they photograph like a dream.
6. Dark, Moody, and Magnetic
Who says wedding cakes have to be white? Midnight navy, deep plum, matte black—these dark and dramatic hues are perfect for couples who want something unforgettable. Pair it with gold leaf or fresh figs for a touch of opulence.
7. Edible Art: Wafer Paper Sails
Looking for something modern and whimsical? Wafer paper sails are your ticket. These sculptural, airy additions float off the cake like wind-blown fabric. Every sail is unique, and the result is nothing short of edible art.
8. Geometric Everything
Geometric shapes—hexagonal tiers, diamond cut-outs, Art Deco lines—are making cakes look more like modern sculptures. Ideal for city weddings and contemporary design lovers. Bonus: they pair beautifully with minimalistic décor and dramatic lighting (photographer-approved!).
9. Floral Explosion: But Make It Fresh
Sugar flowers? Beautiful. But fresh flowers? Unbeatable. Especially when your cake and bouquet are designed to match. We’re talking cascading orchids, fluffy peonies, even fragrant herbs like lavender or rosemary. It’s nature meets patisserie perfection.
For elegant wedding florals, you might peek at floral stylists like Blooming Haus or The Flower Appreciation Society.
10. The Unexpected Twist: Personalisation Wins
Your initials in monogrammed icing. A subtle nod to your dog in the cake topper. Flavours that reflect your heritage. Couples are making their cakes theirs—and it’s beautiful. I’ve seen cakes inspired by favourite books, hometowns, even how they met (yes, it involved chocolate and a pub quiz).
BONUS: How to Choose Your Wedding Cake
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Love floral drama? Go for fresh flowers and tall tiers.
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Hosting a destination or outdoor wedding? Choose buttercream over fondant (less likely to melt!).
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Planning a modern city wedding? Geometric designs with bold colour will stun.
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Want photos that pop? Dark cakes or metallic textures are magic under natural light.
Final Slice: Let’s Make Your Cake Moment Last Forever
As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing cakes from the romantic coasts of Amalfi to countryside barns in the Cotswolds. But here’s the thing: no matter the trend, your wedding cake should feel like you. And when that moment comes—knife in hand, laughter in the air—I’ll be right there to frame it forever.
Curious to see how I capture wedding magic (and cake glory)? 🍰
📸 Dive into my world of storytelling at my blog, explore bespoke photography packages, or just say hello. I’d love to hear about your wedding vision—even if it starts with, “We just know we want pistachio.”
