How to Select Apparel for Your Wedding Party

One of the worst things a bride has to do in preparing for the big day is decide on apparel for her bridesmaids. It can be a daunting task, because although you want the styles to reflect you and your taste, you also want it to flatter and compliment your girls. Without going all Bridezilla on everyone, there are some simple steps one can take to make the selection process headache-free.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Some sense of style
• Understanding friends
• Flexibility

1. Consider the shapes and sizes of your bridesmaids. Formal-wear doesn't generally come in "One size fits all." Just as you would like to have a style that flatters you, your girls will want the same thing. Remember to take that into consideration.

2. Consider the color scheme and how it compares with skin tones. Generally, the rule of thumb is that neon colors do not flatter anyone. So although you might love the look of the fluorescent green dress, remember that more likely than not it's going to look awful on everyone. Keep that in mind and try to keep colors complimentary to every hair and skin tone.

3. Ask for input and opinions. Show your girls which dresses you've been eying and get their opinion. You'll get a better idea of what they like and dislike, and it will save you a lot of drama in the end.

4. Go shopping together. Have the girls try on some dresses to see which styles fit and flatter.

5. Be flexible. If you have your heart set on one dress, but it flatters no one, be flexible enough to pass on it. You might just have to compromise so that your girls feel comfortable. And in the end, it's better to have girls in colors and styles that flatter rather than ones that don't just because you had to have your way.