Oh Lordy. We've all heard the horror stories. Perhaps some of you have lived it. Ugly bridesmaid dresses. Brides, I know you don't want your girls to outshine you. I get it. But you need to pick a dress that won't ruin friendships. Hey, it happens. So how can you make sure your girls are dressed to impress without stealing the limelight?
Decide on Style and Color
- Long or short?
- Formal dress or party dress?
- Strapless or sleeves?
- Which color from your scheme do you want them in?
- Do you want each in a different dress as long as the color is the same?
- Do you want each in the same dress with different colors?
- Should just your matron/maid of honor be in a different color or dress?
Ask these and other questions. Try things out. What looks good, what doesn't? What do you prefer?Personally I prefer all the girls in the same dress and color, but if you don't like that, change it up! Try not to create the rainbow with your girls though. It can get a little tacky. And avoid white or creams if you can. You're the only girl in white that day!
Ask your girls what they prefer. Perhaps some aren't comfortable in strapless gowns. Others may want to show skin. Their opinion matters! You want them to be happy, but keep in mind that your thoughts are what count most. This said, please, please don't be the bride that ignores their opinions! Keep those friendships in tact!
Take a look at these bridal party photos to see what I'm talking about.
Is it Reusable?
Having a long dress that is super frilly with feathers is great, but you can't exactly wear it to a nice dinner date. Consider picking a dress that they will be able to wear after the wedding. They and their wallet will be happier.
Be Budget Friendly!
Choose something in an agreed upon price range by your girls. Don't ask them to go way beyond that. While watching Bridezillas (I know, I'm ashamed), I was shocked to see some of the brides kicked girls out of the wedding party for refusing to purchase a gown outside of their budget. Ladies, keep the bridezilla away! Stay in budget!
You don't have to get the bridesmaid dresses from a bridal shop. They run a tad more expensive and, in my opinion, most of them look like dresses I and my friends wore to the 8th grade dance. Try Dillard's, Belk and JcPenney. At places like these you might be able to find prom and party dresses for pretty cheap, especially after prom season.
You don't have to get the bridesmaid dresses from a bridal shop. They run a tad more expensive and, in my opinion, most of them look like dresses I and my friends wore to the 8th grade dance. Try Dillard's, Belk and JcPenney. At places like these you might be able to find prom and party dresses for pretty cheap, especially after prom season.
Want Something Versatile?
Trend alert! There are now dresses that can be transformed to fit the body and shape of your girls to perfection. Cool right? Same dress, different styles, many colors to choose from. You're welcome.
These images are from Two Birds. Their dresses run a tad more expensive, but with some hunting, you can find the same ones for cheaper. Try Dessy!
These images are from Two Birds. Their dresses run a tad more expensive, but with some hunting, you can find the same ones for cheaper. Try Dessy!