Choosing the perfect wedding dress can be a process, but something that can be just as stressful is finding the right bridesmaid dresses! Not only do you want your bridal party to look cohesive, but you also want each member to feel comfortable and confident in their attire.
From considering the weather and venue to embracing diverse styles and colors, here’s everything you need to know to pick dresses that will make your wedding day truly memorable and make sure all your bridesmaids love their looks!
Factors To Consider When Selecting Your Bridesmaid Dresses
When it comes to choosing bridesmaid dresses, it's essential to keep a few key factors in mind. Here’s how to pick the best bridesmaid dresses based on:
The Weather
As you plan your wedding, take into account the climate and time of year. If you’re tying the knot during the warmer months or in a tropical locale, lightweight and breathable fabrics like chiffon or lace are ideal. These fabrics allow your bridesmaids to stay cool and comfortable, even in the heat.
For warmer weddings, go for our Abbie Dress in Blush!
Conversely, for fall or winter weddings (or if your venue has air conditioning) consider fabrics like satin or velvet to keep your bridal party cozy and warm.
Keep your party warm with this Andie Dress in Emerald Velvet.
The Venue
The setting of your wedding plays a significant role in determining the bridesmaid dress styles that will complement the overall ambiance.
For beach or outdoor weddings, flowy dresses in soft pastel shades create a romantic look that harmonizes with the natural surroundings.
Dress Shown: Andie Dress in Powder Pink
If you’re tying the knot in a more formal ballroom or indoor ceremony, the occasion may call for more structured gowns with elegant details like lace or embellishments.
The Wedding Theme
Your bridesmaid dress styles should reflect the theme and aesthetic of your wedding. Whether you’re envisioning a rustic barn wedding, a modern city soirée, or a nature-inspired garden party, the dresses should enhance the overall decor and atmosphere.
Consider elements like color palette, fabric textures, and embellishments to ensure that the dresses align seamlessly with your chosen theme.
The Dress Code
You should also make sure your bridesmaid dress styles match the dress code if you’re enforcing one. If your invitation specifies a black-tie dress code, opt for something like this Claire Dress in Black Sequin
For semi-formal or casual weddings, knee-length or tea-length dresses in lighter fabrics such as tulle or chiffon are appropriate.
If you’re going to let your bridesmaids pick their dresses, it’s essential to communicate the dress code clearly to your bridesmaids so they can select bridesmaid dress styles that fit the occasion perfectly.
How to Pick Bridesmaid Dresses Based on Color
Selecting the ideal colors for your bridesmaid dresses sets the mood, creates harmony, and brings your wedding vision to life. Let's explore the spectrum of colors to find the perfect palette that will make your bridal party shine on your special day.
Seasonal Considerations
The time of year can influence the color palette for bridesmaid dresses. For spring and summer weddings, embrace soft hues like blush pink, lavender, apricot, or mint green, which evoke the freshness and vibrancy of the season.
Dress Shown: Solana Dress in Apricot
These light and airy colors complement outdoor settings and sunny days beautifully.
Fall and winter weddings call for richer, deeper tones such as red velvet, navy, or shades of green, which add warmth and sophistication to the bridal party’s ensemble.
Dress Shown: Callie Dress in Navy Blue
Formal vs. Casual Colors
The formality of your wedding also dictates the color choices for bridesmaid dresses. For formal events like black-tie weddings or evening soirées, classic colors like navy, charcoal gray, or deep plum exude elegance and refinement.
These timeless shades are versatile and flattering on a variety of skin tones, making them a popular choice for formal occasions. If you’re shooting for a casual or outdoor wedding, you have more flexibility to experiment with colors and patterns.
Consider playful options like floral prints, pastel shades, or even bold jewel tones to add personality and flair to your bridal party’s look.
Playing With Mismatched Bridesmaid Dress Styles
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all bridesmaid dresses.
Instead of insisting on identical dresses, why not celebrate the diversity within your group of friends?
Here are a few tips for playing with mismatched bridesmaid dresses:
- Mix and Match Styles: Give your bridesmaids the freedom to choose dresses that suit their tastes and preferences. Whether it's different necklines, sleeve lengths, or skirt styles, mixing and matching various dress silhouettes adds visual interest and creates a dynamic look for your bridal party.
- Stick to a Color Palette: While the dresses may vary in style, sticking to a cohesive color palette ensures that the overall look remains harmonious. Choose two or three complementary colors or shades within the same color family to tie everything together beautifully.
- Consider a Unifying Element: To maintain cohesion among the mismatched dresses, consider incorporating a unifying element such as fabric texture, embellishments, or accessories. For example, you could opt for dresses with common lace detail or accessorize with matching belts or statement jewelry pieces.
The Best Neckline and Length For Bridesmaid Dresses
Just like the icing on the cake, the neckline and length of a dress can add that extra dash of style and flair to your bridesmaids’ ensemble.
Here are some of the best options for your bridesmaid dress styles:
V-necklines: V-neck dresses elongate the neckline and flatter a variety of body types, making them a popular choice for bridesmaid dresses. This neckline style is universally flattering and works well for both small and large busts.
Length options:
- Midi dresses, which fall below the knee and above the ankle, strike a perfect balance between elegance and practicality. They allow for ease of movement while still offering a sophisticated silhouette.
- Maxi dresses, which extend to the floor, create a dramatic and romantic look that’s ideal for formal weddings or evening affairs.
- Knee-length dresses are versatile and appropriate for a wide range of wedding styles, from casual outdoor ceremonies to semi-formal indoor receptions.
We Have The Dress Styles You’re Looking For!
We hope this guide has helped take some of the stress off your plate so you can focus on enjoying your big day! If you’re ready to start putting what you’ve learned into practice, explore our selection of bridesmaid dresses today!
