Related Sponsors

Questions to Ask?

Home » Weddings » Bridesmaids' Dresses » Questions to Ask?

Do bridesmaids’ dresses have to match?
Definitely not. There was certainly a day when it would have been considered taboo for bridesmaids’ dresses to be different, but that is not the case anymore. Many brides now choose a fabric at a bridal shop and allow their friends to choose the style they prefer, sometimes within limited boundaries (must be below the knee, must not be strapless, etc.). Or, a bride can choose the style and let her bridesmaids choose the color they like, again, within a range of choices. Truly free-spirited brides may even allow their bridesmaids to choose their own dresses. For instance, telling them to buy a black, knee-length, strapless dress. Bridesmaids can choose their own dresses based on the bride’s guidelines.

I do want matching bridesmaids’ dresses. How do I choose a style?
Choosing one style to flatter several body types can be a challenge. It is easier when your bridesmaids have similar figures, but that is rarely the case. Still, a few styles can generally work on everyone. A-line dresses are easy to wear by most women. Empire waists are also almost universally flattering.

Should the bridesmaids’ dresses match my wedding gown?
They don’t have to, but some consistency is usually nice. If your gown has cap sleeves, for instance, you might choose a bridesmaid’s dress that has cap sleeves. You might also tie the dresses together by using similar fabric.

What kind of fabric should the bridesmaids’ dresses be made of?
Just about anything is appropriate these days. One major consideration is the season of your wedding. If you are getting married in the summer, a velvet bridesmaids’ dress will look awkward, as will a linen dress in the winter. The same rules apply when choosing a color. Choose something fitting and appropriate to the season. That said, always remember it is your wedding. If you want to choose pale green linen dresses for an October wedding, it’s your prerogative to do so.

One of my bridesmaids is pregnant. What should we do?
If you are ordering from a bridal shop, many bridesmaids’ dresses come in a maternity version. Just like other specialty clothing like maternity scrubs for nurses, depending on how far along your bridesmaid is, she might be able to alter her dress as well. If neither of those options work, consider helping her find a dress that will coordinate with your chosen bridesmaid’s dress.

One of my bridesmaids is plus-sized. Are there any special considerations?
When you are making your choice, you should definitely consider this. Make sure you select a dress that can accommodate all your bridesmaids’ figures.

What about shoes?
In the past, dyed-to-match shoes were the primary option. Now the source of fashion comedy, dyed-to-match shoes have thankfully faded from the bridesmaid radar. Now most brides will simply choose a shoe to coordinate with the dress; the bridesmaids then order them online or from the store. You might also give your friends the option to choose their own shoe, for instance telling them to wear a silver strappy sandal or a black closed-toe pump. They might appreciate the opportunity to make their own decision. Plus, every woman loves a reason to go shoe shopping, right?

And accessories?
There are a couple of ways to go. If it is important to you for your bridesmaids to have the exact same jewelry, the best way to go is to order it or purchase it all at the same time. Jewelry stock can turn over quickly, and your chosen necklace or earrings may be gone by the time your friends make it to the store. If it isn’t important to you, you can simply tell your bridesmaids to wear pearl or diamond studs (real or fake) and keep it very uncomplicated. You might want to also think about any other accessories you might like your bridesmaids to have, such as shawls, gloves, or hair accessories.

Who pays for the bridesmaids’ dresses?
Bridesmaids generally pay for their own dresses, which is something to keep in mind when you are making your choice. If you are able to, it is always nice to offer to pay for all or a portion of the dress, but it is usually not expected.



Next Page: Taking Care of your Friends

Related Articles