One of the most exciting and important decisions a bride faces is choosing the perfect dresses for her bridesmaids. Bridesmaid dresses not only complement the overall theme of the wedding but also showcase the unique personalities of each member of the wedding party. In this guide, we share some tips and insights to make the process of selecting bridesmaid dresses a delightful and stress-free experience.
1. When to start? When to purchase?:
Begin the search for bridesmaid dresses well in advance to allow ample time for browsing, fittings, and any necessary alterations.
We recommend starting to look at dresses about 8 months prior to the wedding date and ordering the dresses about 6 months prior. If purchasing from a store that requires 3 months for delivery, that still allows 3 months for alterations!
If purchasing from a store with a quicker turnaround time, you can push back the timeline slightly, but again, remember to allow your wedding party time for alterations.
2. Wedding Theme:
Consider the overall theme and color scheme of your wedding. Whether it's a romantic garden affair, a beach destination wedding, or a chic urban celebration, the bridesmaid dresses can enhance the aesthetic you envision.
3. Body Types:
Your bridesmaids most likely have diverse body shapes and sizes. We recommend finding a style - or consider mix-and-match attire - that allows your crew to feel comfortable and beautiful in their attire.
Another option is to find a color with multiple dress styles, so still uniform but allows for personalization for each person.
4. Mix and Match Styles:
Nonuniform attire for wedding parties has become more common and popular! If your wedding party is selecting their own dresses/attire, we recommend providing parameters around the length of the dress, the fabric of the dress, color palette, and that you must approve!
5. Season:
Take the season of your wedding into account when selecting bridesmaid dresses. Light and breathable fabrics are ideal for summer weddings, while richer and warmer materials work well for fall and winter celebrations.
6. Budget:
There are many expenses for wedding parties throughout your wedding. Be mindful of your bridesmaids' budgets when choosing dresses.
7. Beyond the Tradition:
Don't be afraid to step outside traditional color palettes. Experiment with subtle patterns, pastels, or even metallics to infuse a touch of uniqueness into your wedding party attire.
8. Accessorize for Uniqueness
Encourage bridesmaids to add their personal flair while maintaining a cohesive look. Accessories like statement earrings, necklaces, or cover-ups can elevate the overall ensemble.
PRO TIP: Jewelry can be a nice gift option for your wedding party! The same piece or unique pieces for each one!
Selecting bridesmaid dresses is an opportunity to celebrate the beauty of individuality within a unified vision. With thoughtful consideration and a touch of creativity, you can ensure that your bridesmaids look and feel fabulous on your special day.
Happy dress hunting!