How to Select Bridesmaids' Dresses

You'll wear it again, right? More and more, today's brides are choosing a color and fabric, then letting their bridesmaids each choose a dress that flatters her figure. If you take the more traditional route, be thoughtful and choose a dress that's both attractive and affordable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get started. Fittings should begin four to six months before the big day. You may want to take a few maids shopping with you.

2. Decide on a color and length. Depending on the time of day, season and degree of formality, you may choose a floor-length, silk sheath for an evening wedding, or a tea-length pastel sheer for a warm afternoon ceremony. Rule of thumb: If a bride is wearing a floor-length dress, bridesmaid dresses should not be short.

3. Keep the figures of all of your bridesmaids in mind when selecting a style. A full-figured woman may not feel comfortable in a short, strapless cocktail-style dress, for example.

4. Send your bridesmaids shopping for different dresses in one designer's line, or choose any dress of a certain color and length.

5. Less is more. Since bridesmaids usually pay for their own dresses, keep cost in mind. About $200 is a good figure, but if you can do it for less, everyone will be happier.

Tips & Warnings

• Bride's and bridesmaids' dresses should complement each other and be uniform enough to look good in pictures.