The sight of a tacky bridesmaid dress is enough to send shivers down the spines of even the toughest people! Lime green or hideously-burnt orange dresses, those with weird themes and lengths…the list can easily go on and on. If in the process of planning your wedding and want to ensure your bridesmaids are dressed to the proverbial nines, check out a few dress do’s and don’ts before you begin shopping. Your bridesmaids will definitely thank you!

Photo by Rene Zadori Photography

 

DO'S

Think about Necklines

There is a variety of bridesmaid necklines to consider, including boat, halter, scoop, ruffle, sweetheart, strapless, v-neck, and jewel. This is an important factor to think about when selecting the dress design. We recommend you choose a few different necklines so they can be flattering for each of your bridesmaids. Your bridesmaids will definitely adore you for this! After all, who doesn’t want to look their best?

Consider Your Theme

Picking out bridesmaid dresses is a waste of time if you don’t know what wedding theme you’re going for! Is it a casual summer affair, or a formal winter event? Are you interested in a very specific theme or color motif, or do you prefer something less involved? Is your wedding indoors or outdoors? What kind of venue are you using? These are all questions to ask yourself before you select bridesmaid dresses.

Pick a Universal Color

Color makes a huge difference. Bridesmaid dresses in lime green or similar unflattering hues aren’t going to do your bridesmaids any favors, so think about their skin and hair color before you browse. It’s highly unlikely they all feature the same coloring, making it important to choose dresses in hues that flatter most skin tones. Dusty pinks and blues often work, as do classic maroon and light gray dresses. If still in doubt, talk it over with your bridal party and ask them what colors they prefer for you to choose.

Go For An Unusual Feature

Adding a dramatic, unique element to your bridesmaid dresses, such as shear capes or oversized sashes, is definitely a way to make your wedding stand out. While there’s a fine line between dramatic and garish, simply talk to your wedding coordinator or with your bridesmaids about an embellishment that will add rather than take away from wedding photos. It’s also important that the element you select doesn’t envelop the bridesmaids, cause them to trip and fall, or otherwise create problems.

Photo by Golden Picture

DON'TS

Don't Go for the Exact Same Style of Dress

An increasingly popular trend, many brides are opting for dresses in the same color but not the same design. This is a blessing to bridesmaids, as what flatters one body could look horrendous on another. If you really and truly want to stick to the same dress design, opt for one that complements most body types. However, different dresses adds variety to your party in terms of photos, and allows each bridesmaid to feel completely comfortable and attractive in her gown.

Don't Disregard the Accessories

In all the hubbub that goes along with weddings, it’s not that challenging to totally forget about accessories. And since accessories complete most formal event looks, it’s important to remember to purchase them! Give them as wedding-day gifts to your bridesmaids, such as elegant pearl necklaces or tear-shaped earrings. Or if you know your bridesmaids love to accessorize, let them know in advance so they can choose their own favorite earrings, bracelets, and other accessories to complete their look.

Don't Forget About Plus-Sized Bridesmaids

Remember, not "every body" in your bridal party is the same! This is not only important in terms of the dress design, but is also essential in regards to actual dress sizes. Ordering the same size dress because you’re so focused in every other aspect of your wedding could easily result in disaster if some of your bridesmaids are fuller-figured than others. Remember to ask each bridesmaid to give you her measurements, and provide those measurements when ordering the dresses so they can match the size to each body.

Don't Disregard the Groomsmen

It’s important to speak with your hubby-to-be about his and his groomsmen’s look, as you don’t want to clash on your wedding day. The groomsmen should complement the look of your bridesmaids, just as you and your future husband should complement each other. Discuss what you both want and come to a compromise that works for both of you...and the rest of your wedding "band."

Most Importantly- Have fun!

You hand-selected your favorite ladies to stand by you as you say your vows. So use bridesmaid dress shopping as an excuse to get your girlfriends together and have the best time mixing fashion and fun!

This article was original published in the Harsanik Magazine - 2015 Bridal Show Edition.

Photo by Golden Picture