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Choosing a bridesmaid dress can be such a tough decision! Not only do you have to think about the color, but you also have to think about the length, the style, the quality, how they will look in photos, the sizes available, and even the price. With these 7 tips for choosing the best bridesmaid dresses, you will have dresses that will complement your wedding dress while also making your bridesmaids feel beautiful.
I was recently talking to a friend who is in a wedding where the bride requested that her bridesmaids wear a fairly expensive dress. The bridesmaids have all been complaining about the cost, but the bride loves the style and won’t budge. This got me thinking about how tricky it can be to choose the best bridesmaid dresses. It can be so hard to please everyone, especially when it comes to a wedding. I’m going to give you my 7 best tips for picking a bridesmaid dress that will hopefully keep the bride and the bridal party happy (or at least content).
Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #1: Let bridesmaids choose their dresses – or at least the style!
This popular trend has been a life saver in the wedding planning world! When choosing a bridesmaid dress, choose the color or color scheme and then let each bridesmaid choose their own style of dress within that color wheel. You may also want to indicate if you’d rather have them wear long dresses or short dresses. As the bride, you will still want to approve, of course, but going to try on different styles of dresses can be a fun way to spend some time hanging out with your bridesmaids before the big day! This will also make everyone feel comfortable in what they are wearing – what works for one girl may not work for another.
I love the picture below because it shows that each bridesmaid can have an individual style, but still looks coordinated. Still scared about letting your bridesmaids loose to choose their own wedding looks? Point them in the direction of Nordstrom, which has a great collection of formal dresses that is sure to suit almost everyone’s taste and budget.
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Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #2: Convertible bridesmaid dresses can be a game changer!
Have you ever seen a convertible bridesmaid dress? These are pretty much the best things to come along in the bridesmaid dress world. These are the best bridesmaid dresses and make choosing a bridesmaid dress a breeze! Convertible bridesmaid dresses are essentially all the same dress, but the top can be configured differently on each one. These dresses still give you the uniformity that you may want and will look beautiful in photos. Check out the convertible dresses available at The Dessy Group for tons of inspiration.
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Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #3: When choosing bridesmaid dresses, consider everyone’s body type.
If you are set on a uniform look for your bridesmaid and really do not want to go with the convertible dress, make sure that when you are picking a bridesmaid dress that you keep everyone’s body type in mind. Everyone is different and the same dress won’t necessarily look the best on everyone. Bridesmaids, just like everyone else, come in all shapes and sizes. Consider this when you are choosing the style and cut of the bridesmaid dress. You want to go with something that will at least be flattering on everyone. If you want to be on the safe side when you are trying to choose the best bridesmaid dress, choose a dress that is an a-line cut. This style is typically flattering on everyone.
Related Content: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Styles
Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #4: Keep the price of the dress in mind.
If your wedding party is paying for their own bridesmaid dresses, you definitely want to keep the price in mind, especially if you are requiring a specific dress. Not everyone’s financial situation is the same and even if it seems like a minor purchase to you, it could be a major purchase for one of your bridesmaids. Talk to your bridesmaids beforehand and be open about different price ranges. Setting a budget before you start shopping is a great way to make sure that when you are choosing bridesmaid dresses, you are within everyone’s affordable price range. If you don’t know where to start searching for affordable bridesmaid dresses, David’s Bridal has a great collection of stylish bridesmaid dresses in a variety of colors under $100.
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Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #5: Consider paying for the bridesmaid dresses
Okay, I know that weddings are already very expensive, but paying for the bridesmaid dresses can save a lot of stress for your wedding party. This is a great way to thank them for being there for you throughout the wedding planning process. You could even do this in lieu of gifting them with something else on your wedding day. I know that this can be controversial and it is not a requirement but it is a nice touch, especially if you are requiring them to wear a specific bridesmaid dress. Keep in mind the other things that they will have to spend their money on – wedding showers, bachelorette parties, shoes, hair, makeup, etc. It can all really add up! So if you have the means, make all your bridesmaids happy and offer to pay for the dress. Again, check out David’s Bridal’s collection of bridesmaid dresses under $100 if you’re looking for affordable stylish options–you can thank me later!
Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #6: Avoid saying this ONE phrase.
I’ll keep this one short and sweet. The one thing that bridesmaids do not want to hear is, “you can definitely wear that dress again!” Have you ever seen 27 Dresses? If so, you know what I’m talking about. Just don’t do it.
Bridesmaid Dresses Tip #7: Black and white bridesmaid dresses are not out of the question!
In the past, brides have always avoided black and/or white wedding dresses, but nowadays they are very on trend and make beautiful, neutral color palettes in your wedding photos. They will also match any color palette that you go with for flowers, decor, etc. If the cut and style of bridesmaid dress happens to be in black or white, go for it!
