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Before selecting the bridesmaids' dresses, it is important to consider the overall theme and feeling of the wedding itself. Is the wedding formal? What will be the setting of the location and the reception? Also, are there colors established for the wedding?
Next, think about the bridesmaids themselves. While the day is certainly to highlight the bride, you would not wish to choose a dress that may make a bridesmaid feel uncomfortable due to fit concerns or make her unable to be in the wedding for fear of not being able to afford the dress.
Finally, picture yourself taking photos with your bridesmaids around you: What do you see? If a certain color or style comes to mind, work to make that idea a reality. -
The most commonly used method of selecting a bridesmaid's dress is to go to a bridal shop and view its selection, make a choice and ask your bridesmaids to order the dress. The advantages to this are that you have the expertise of wedding professionals as well as a selection of dresses that match and come in a variety of colors.
A new option many brides are choosing at bridal boutiques is to offer the same color dress in different styles. For example, one bridesmaid can choose a halter top design while another who prefers strapless can purchase this style. The benefit of this is that your bridesmaids are able to choose what best flatters their figures, yet the bridesmaids are still able to look uniform. -
Many brides are opting to ask bridesmaids to select a dress they may already have in their closet for the big day. For example, the bride can ask the wedding party to wear knee-length black dresses--and leave the rest up to the bridesmaid. In this instance, black is typically the best color to choose as other colors can vary in interpretations.
Want to inject a little color into the affair? Ask bridesmaids to choose a dress in a jewel tone such as red, gold, green, blue or purple, or a pastel such as pale pink, sky blue or pistachio. Assign each bridesmaid a color and ask her to choose a dress that best flatters her. - Many brides are choosing to celebrate the past with dresses reminiscent of eras gone by. Why not choose a dress with a full skirt and belt, complete with short white gloves for a 50s feel? You could also date back to the 60s or 70s with colored or patterned maxi dresses for a casual wedding atmosphere. Grecian or drop-waisted dresses can also serve as a theme recalling the 1920s. These outside-the-box bridesmaid dresses can make for a striking and memorable wedding party.
