Bridesmaids infuse colour and glamour into your wedding, accentuating your theme and a polished look for your presentation.
However, the bridesmaids’ dresses are one of the biggest dilemmas which confront the bride and bridal party because basically there are issues to consider, in addition to the fact that the garments have to overcome a reputation of being often not too pleasing and also, they have developed into an image which is a source of material for comedy.
The reason for this infamous notoriety lies in the fact that each woman is unique and different. No two body shapes are the same, complexions may differ and everyone’s taste is unique to them and their personality and yes, sometimes they are just plainly a poor choice.
This does not have to happen to you! With streamlined planning, compromise and collective input you can come to a result which will please everybody and still create the aura you desire for your wedding.
RESPONSIBILITIES & INPUT
Who pays for what and who chooses?
These questions are always at the forefront and the fact is that there are no set rules.
The norm now dictates that the bridal party pay for their outfits but if the bride wants a particular look, especially if it is something that could not be worn again, she should pay for all or at least pay part of the bridesmaids ensemble.
If it is a case of colour where the bridesmaids can choose their own style, then they can pay for their outfits without discrepancy. When you are offered the honour of being a bridesmaid, keep in mind that there will be some financial output, before you accept.
Traditionally the bride chooses the colour/s and fabrics to compliment her image. However, consideration must also be taken into account so that the bridesmaids wear something that they feel good in as well as what they can afford.
Consider shopping together; the bride, one of the bridesmaids or maid of honour.
Have get-togethers where you can all look at magazines and/or online resources to get a sense of styles which would be suitable.
Remember to have fun.
INDIVIDUALITY SOLUTIONS
It Is now easier than ever to address the issue of the different body types and personalities of your bridesmaids, as fashion now dictates that they do not necessarily have to match. While you still want some uniformity, subtle details can be changed to accommodate everyone in a flattering way which will please you and your bridesmaids. Of course regardless of how much you may try to please everyone, some compromise will have to be made and the understanding that this is the brides day and she needs the help of her bridesmaids to pull it all together successfully.
TRADITIONAL – The bride chooses the colour, style, fabric of the dress and everyone wears it. When choosing this option, unless all your bridesmaids are fairly the same size, be sure to accommodate for fuller figures in your design selection. Look for styles that are universally flattering like A-line.
COLOUR – The bridesmaids can be given a particular shade and length and left on their own to choose a style which pleases them.
STYLE – A fashion is decided on by everyone but each bridesmaid can choose it in her her own choice of colour which flatters her complexion. You can also work with tonal groups like one colour but different shades of it from light to dark.
MATERNITY – There is no reason that an expectant bridesmaid should not look as gorgeous as the others. Select dresses which will be flattering and at the same time create a beautiful silhouette. Empire line gowns work well with under the bust-line details.
COLOUR TRENDS & THEMES
Tradition used to dictate that bridesmaids wore very pale and pastel outfits, while you can still embrace this look if you desire, the colour palette is open to you to infuse almost any shade you desire, including very deep tones.
This is particularly useful for weddings which are following a season, culture or other theme. Infusing a themed style into your bridesmaid’s dresses adds to the overall uniqueness of the wedding presentation.
Be creative and effective by use of colour and specialty ideas. Rich earth tones and burgundy for an African or Autumn themed wedding, red for Chinese, Indian, Moroccan themes etc and azure blues and rich sandy yellows for a Destination beach style. Dare to be different with a black and white ball direction which always looks chic and sophisticated.
FIGURE MATCHING
It is is always best to base your choice of bridesmaids dress on their figures, for best results. A few simple guidelines will give you an idea of your options.
Princess / A-Line
Flatters almost any figure by its strategically paneled style which accentuates a waistline in a smooth seamless way. This can also be used by pregnant bridesmaids in their early trimester.
Sheath
This is a very figure hugging style, which is usually suitable for ladies who are streamlined even if they are fuller in body and very confident in their figures. This can look very elegant and beautiful if all the bridesmaids are fairly within the same size scale. It is best to avoid if one or more of the bridesmaids is very plus-sized or has bulges, where another style would be more flattering.
Empire Line
Very flattering for all figures and sizes including the later stages of maternity, this gown flows softly from just under the bust.
Ballgown
This style works as a bridesmaids dress for a more formal type of wedding and where the bridesmaids are all fairly the same size. It tends to accentuate the differences in sizes due to the voluminous skirt being directly cut off from the bodice at the waistline. However, if your attendants are uniform in size the look will be very streamlined and classy. If you have differences in the sizes of the bridesmaids, an A-line would give you a similar finish but be more flatteringly uniform. Click for more information.
TROUBLESHOOTING
If dress guidelines are given make sure that they are specific and understood by all.
Don’t leave the dresses until the last minute to purchase; decisions are very seldom good when they are rushed.
Travel with the dress in a garment bag
Make sure that you use a non-staining antiperspirant when wearing.
All the bridesmaids should be professionally measured to ensure a correct fit. Be aware that sizes vary from different manufacturers, countries and category of clothing. For example American sizes are very different to European sizing and casual clothes rate differently to formals.
If going with a single colour, order all the dresses at one time. Even if you are using the same colour, number batches may vary and it would be comforting to know that all the dresses are secured and arrive at the same time.
Look first before you sit or lean anywhere so as not to stain the dress
Secure a good seamstress for possible alterations.
Enquire beforehand with the florist, if the flowers are capable of staining the dress
Ensuring a beautiful bridal party is a joint effort. The bride has to be conscious of the feelings and looks of her attendants and they in turn must also be flexible and willing to be considerate. The important thing to remember is that you all obviously care about each other, otherwise you would not be involved and that you all have the same goal, which is to make the wedding a success.
