Choosing bridesmaid dresses involves balancing several important factors. They should not only be chic and flattering for all the bridesmaids but also align with the bridal gown and the wedding theme. Depending on your personal style and the event’s setting, the process can be either simple or more involved.
Keep Your Bridesmaids’ Expenses in Mind
Consider costs and discuss them openly with your bridesmaids upfront. Once a budget is set, there are a few options to explore. Choosing a bridal salon will likely be the most expensive route. You could look into department stores for ready-to-wear gowns.
For a more budget-friendly option, and if the bride agrees, bridesmaids could shop affordable online retailers or repurpose a dress they already own. Keep in mind that no matter where the dress comes from, accessories will still need to be purchased. Another emerging option is renting bridesmaid dresses, which is worth considering as part of your planning.
Bridesmaid’s Opinions
The size of your bridal party can make this task more challenging than it initially seems. Consider everyone’s input while ensuring the bridesmaids’ dresses align with your vision.
Once you’ve decided on the color palette and theme, ask each bridesmaid to share a list of their preferred dress styles. Their suggestions might include details like long or short lengths, strapless designs, or ones with straps. Encourage them to include a few example photos to help illustrate their preferences. Dainty Jewells has a variety of modest bridesmaid dresses that are perfect for any style preference.
Custom Make Your Dresses
Off-the-rack formal wear often struggles to accommodate a range of body shapes, making it less than ideal for some. Custom-made dresses offer a solution, giving you the freedom to choose any style or fabric and ensuring each dress is perfectly tailored to suit your bridesmaids’ unique figures.
To achieve the best fit with a custom-made dress, accurate measurements are crucial. You can either take these measurements yourself or have a professional tailor do it. Key measurements include:
• The fullest part of the bust
• The narrowest part of the waist
• The widest part of the hips
• Your full height from head to toe
• The height of your chosen shoes
For modest designs, measure shoulder width and arm circumference. Taking the time to gather precise measurements ensures every dress fits flawlessly.
Explore Dresses Yourself First
Choose a dress you love first before seeking your bridesmaids’ opinions. While their input is valuable before finalizing your choice, involving them from the very beginning can complicate things. Pick a dress you’re drawn to, send them a picture, and ask for their thoughts. Consider their feedback on your initial selection and proceed from there.
Choose a Style that Flatters
We’ve all heard stories about brides choosing less-than-flattering dresses for their bridesmaids to ensure they stand out, but if stunning wedding photos are your priority, it’s better to pick dresses that flatter your bridal party. Focus on selecting silhouettes that complement your bridesmaids’ unique body shapes.
Even though your bridesmaids may all be beautiful and fit, not every style suits every figure. Have an open conversation with them beforehand and ask if there are certain necklines or shapes they prefer to avoid. For instance, jersey fabric with straps tends to suit petite frames, while a flowy empire waist can provide extra tummy coverage.
When deciding on the color, consider their skin tones and hair colors, and keep their body types in mind as you explore different designs.
With some thoughtful preparation, you can choose the ideal modest bridesmaid dresses for your wedding party. Keep the style, fabric, and fit in mind, and don’t overlook adding the right accessories.
