Picking Perfect Bridesmaid Dresses for Your Party
By Abby Saylor Armbruster
Bridal Spotlight Series: Special thanks to Abby Saylor!
I've heard choosing bridesmaid dresses can be tricky, and that has definitely proven to be true during my selection process. There are so many elements to consider when choosing the perfect bridesmaid dresses that it can quickly become overwhelming. Today I'm sharing with you some tips that I've picked up along the way that lessen the stress of the hunt.
Consider your color scheme and overall look.
First and foremost, it's important to generally think about how you want your bridesmaids to look on our wedding day. What color do you want them to wear? Do you imagine them in long dresses or short dresses? Are you going for a formal look, or something more flowy and relaxed? It's important to pin down these details before moving forward.
I decided to go with long, flowy blush dresses in several different styles for my bridesmaids to choose from. Since I selected these online, I had one of my bridesmaids, Stacy, purchase her dress first so I can see it on and approve it before letting the others order. This will save them from having to go through the trouble of returning each of their dresses if need be. Wish me luck!
Determine your price point.
When I began researching, I quickly realized bridesmaid dresses were more expensive than I thought they would be. Most of the gorgeous dresses I came across were in the $200+ range without shipping, so it was my goal to find dresses that were under $200. If you're having your bridesmaid purchase their own dresses, it may be courteous to ask them what they're comfortable paying, but as your friends and family, it's likely that they'll agree to purchase whatever you choose. Since they aren't likely to share a budget with you, be mindful of that when selecting your dresses.
Consider size ranges and body types.
Although your girls will likely wear whatever you tell them to, you do want to ensure that they feel comfortable in what they're wearing as they walk down the aisle. Make sure the dresses you select come in sizes that will fit everyone because not all dresses have a large enough size range. It may also be a good idea to select dresses that come in a few different styles so your girls can choose ones that best fit their body type and will make them look more uniform and put together in the end.
Keep location and season in mind.
If it's likely to be 80 degrees at your outdoor wedding, putting your bridesmaid in thick, long sleeve sequin dresses is not the best choice. Regardless if your dresses are long or short, choose a style that fits not only your season but also your theme and location. This will help to pull your whole wedding theme together and make everything appear perfectly selected.
Select dresses that are a complementary extension of your wedding gown.
This seems like common sense, but this can become lost in the selection process. Whether your wedding gown is white, ivory, blush or nude, choose dresses that will serve as complimentary pieces. I think it's always great to choose dresses with medium to high contrast, or dresses in a completely different hue. Dresses in various hues within the same color family will also make your wedding dress pop at your ceremony and in photos.
Keep up with my wedding planning journey on my blog too, where I've recently shared the ultimate wedding planning checklist that lists tons of items that you may have forgotten about!
I hope you find these tips to be helpful when selecting your bridesmaid dresses — Happy planning and have a very merry Christmas!
— Abby