Let's Talk About Altering Bridesmaids' Dresses To Fit

It's every bride's worst nightmare: the dress doesn't fit. But what if it's not your dress, but your bridesmaids' dresses that are too small? It's a common problem, and one that can be fixed. Letting out a dress is possible, but it depends on the cut, material, and seam allowance. Some dresses can be let out by a few inches, while others may only be able to be altered by a fraction. The type of material also matters, as some fabrics, like silk, don't hide needle holes from previous seams. If there's not enough fabric to let out a dress, panels can be added, or a corset back can be put in for some extra room.

Bridesmaids choosing their own dresses

Allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dresses can be a great way to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident on the big day. It also takes some of the stress and decision-making off the bride's shoulders. However, it's important to set some guidelines to ensure the bridal party still looks cohesive.

Benefits of letting bridesmaids choose their own dresses

There are several advantages to letting bridesmaids select their own dresses. Firstly, it gives them comfort and confidence, knowing they will be wearing something that flatters their body type and personal style. Secondly, it relieves the bride of the stress of decision-making and potential concerns about her bridal party's happiness. Finally, it can reduce financial strain on the bridal party, as bridesmaids can choose dresses within their own budgets.

Potential challenges and how to address them

The main challenge of letting bridesmaids choose their own dresses is maintaining a cohesive look for the bridal party. To address this, the bride can provide clear guidelines on specific elements she wants to be consistent, such as colour, length, material, and style/formality. She can also suggest a few vendors or create a shortlist of dress options within a certain colour palette for the bridesmaids to choose from.

Another potential issue is the amount of time and effort required by the bridesmaids to find the right dress. To make it easier, the bride can suggest making it a group activity, going to brunch and then dress shopping together. This can also be a fun bonding experience for the bridal party. Alternatively, the bride can provide very specific guidelines or even preselect a few dress options for the bridesmaids to choose from, reducing the decision-making burden on the bridesmaids.

Ideas for mismatched bridesmaid dresses

• Same colour, different dress styles: Bridesmaids can wear the same colour but choose different styles, necklines, and textures to suit their tastes and body types.
• Same colour, different neckline: The bride can specify the colour and style of the dress while allowing bridesmaids to choose their preferred neckline.
• Same colour, different textures: Bridesmaids can play with different textures while staying within the same colour family, creating visual interest.
• Different shades of the same colour palette: Instead of a single colour, the bride can suggest a colour scheme, such as shades of green or pink, creating a tonal or ombre effect.

Cost of bridesmaids' dresses

The cost of bridesmaids' dresses varies depending on factors such as the location, the designer, the style of the dress, and whether the wedding is formal or casual. On average, bridesmaids can expect to pay around $130 per dress, although prices can range from $100 to over $350. In some cases, the bride or couple may pay for the dresses, especially if they have specific requirements in mind. However, it is more common for bridesmaids to cover the costs themselves, particularly in the US and Australia.

To save money, bridesmaids can opt for mismatched dresses, choose pre-owned or second-hand dresses, or rent their outfits. It is important for brides to be mindful of their bridesmaids' budgets and offer alternatives if a dress is outside their price range.

Dress fitting and alterations

It is recommended that bridesmaids order their dresses about six months before the wedding. Dresses can take up to three months to arrive, and you want to allow extra time for any alterations. The average turnaround time for alterations is about a month, so schedule your appointment for four to six weeks before the wedding. Simple alterations like a hem can be ready in a month, whereas more complex tailoring will take closer to six weeks.

It's important to try on your dress as soon as possible and consult your tailor on the timing. You should also bring the shoes you plan to wear on the wedding day to the fitting so the tailor can see the full outfit. If possible, call and schedule your appointment slot three to four months in advance to guarantee your slot. Wedding season gets busy, and you'll want to lock down your appointment early.

If your dress doesn't fit, don't panic. It is possible to let out a dress, but it depends on the material and cut. Some dresses have more extra seam allowance than others. Depending on the style, you may be able to add a corset back, which will give you more room. It's important to look inside your dress and see if there is material to work with. Most seam allowances are 5/8" to 1". It depends on the designer—generally, the more expensive the dress, the more seam allowance there is. If you have a gown with side seams that are 1", you could safely make it a 1/2" seam, giving you two inches of extra room.

If you need to let out your dress, it's a good idea to find a local seamstress or tailor who can help. The cost of alterations will vary depending on the complexity of the work and the materials used. It's always a good idea to get a quote before proceeding with any alterations.

Timing of bridesmaid dress shopping

The timing of bridesmaid dress shopping is crucial to ensure everything runs smoothly in the lead-up to the wedding. Here is a detailed timeline to guide you through the process:

Eight Months Before the Wedding

The first step is to have a conversation with the bride-to-be to understand her preferences and expectations. If she wants to choose the bridesmaid dresses herself, you can get a sense of her chosen colour scheme or style. If she prefers you to pick your own dress, you can start looking at different styles and sending her your favourites for approval.

Six Months Before the Wedding

By this point, the bride should have selected the bridesmaid dresses. As soon as you know the designer or style, go ahead and place the order. It can take two to three months for a designer dress to arrive, so it's important to allow ample time for shipping and any necessary alterations.

Three to Four Months Before the Wedding

Schedule your first fitting with a seamstress to ensure the dress is properly fitted to your body type. This is also the time to pick out the shoes you will wear on the wedding day, as the bride may have specific requirements, especially if the dress is short.

One to Two Months Before the Wedding

Schedule your final fitting to allow enough time for any further minor alterations. After the final fitting, you can take your dress home and find a safe place to keep it until the wedding day.

One Day Before the Wedding

Check that you have your dress and any accessories all in one place, ready for the big day. It's also a good idea to check in with the bride to see if she wants anyone to bring or invest in a portable steamer to ensure wrinkle-free dresses for everyone.

Wedding Day

Get glammed up, put on your dress, and celebrate! Help the bride with any finishing touches, and enjoy the day.

It's important to stay organised and follow a timeline when it comes to bridesmaid dress shopping. This will ensure a stress-free experience for both the bride and the bridesmaids, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the wedding celebrations.

Mismatched bridesmaids' dresses

Create a Vision Board

It is important to have a clear vision for the mismatched dresses. Creating a digital vision board that can be shared with the bridesmaids is a great way to communicate your desired aesthetic. Include dress examples, as well as inspiration photos that capture the overall vibe and feel you are aiming for. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Order Fabric Swatches

To make sure the different colours, patterns, and textures work well together, order fabric swatches from bridesmaid dress brands. This will allow you to see how the various elements look next to each other and make more informed decisions. Remember that colours can appear different online, so having physical swatches is essential.

Determine a Unifying Design Detail

Even with mismatched dresses, it is important to have at least one consistent element to create cohesiveness. This could be the same colour, fabric, or a specific design detail such as a rhinestone belt or hairpiece. For example, you could give your bridal party freedom to choose their preferred style and cut while requesting that the dress colour matches a specific swatch.

Shop From the Same Retailer

Working with a retailer that specialises in bridesmaid ensembles can make the process easier. Many brands offer various styles in the same fabric or different shades of popular wedding colour palettes, making it simpler to coordinate a mismatched look. These retailers often have stylists available to provide one-on-one assistance to your bridal party.

Consider Convertible Dresses

Convertible gowns are a simple way to achieve a mismatched look. These dresses can be worn in multiple ways, allowing each bridesmaid to choose the silhouette that makes them feel the most confident. Convertible gowns also offer the option to switch up their look between the ceremony and reception or for future events.

Talk to Your Bridal Party

While the final decision rests with you, consider getting input from your bridesmaids. Ask them about their comfort levels and what would make them feel confident and comfortable. This feedback can help you make an informed decision that takes their preferences into account.

Similar Prints in Different Colours

If you're feeling adventurous, you can have each bridesmaid wear a different printed gown. Provide guidelines for choosing a dress in a particular pattern, such as sparse florals, gingham, or Swiss dot. This method adds interest and personality to the bridal party's attire.

Various Textures and Embellishments

Incorporating various textures and embellishments is another way to mix and match bridesmaid dresses like a pro. Consider sequins, beading, and embroidery to add unique design elements to the gowns. You can also use textures to help your maid of honour stand out, such as by choosing a solid gown for her while the other bridesmaids wear textured dresses.

Different Styles in the Same Colour

If you love the look of matching colours but want to cater to individual styles and preferences, opt for dresses in the same colour but different styles. This could include varying lengths, necklines, and silhouettes. Many retailers make it easy to coordinate this look by offering a variety of shapes that can be ordered in the colour of your choice.

Different Shades of the Same Colour

Experimenting with shades is a great way to incorporate different colours without straying too far from your wedding colour palette. Once you've decided on a desired colour, explore dress options in slightly darker or lighter shades. Combining these similar shades together creates a unique and subtle ombré effect.

Different Colours Tied Together

Why choose just one colour when you can have your bridal party rock multiple colours from your wedding palette? Opt for dress colours that complement the floral arrangements, table settings, or other design elements of your wedding. This unifies the various aspects of your special day.

A Mix of Solids and Patterns

Patterns are a wonderful way to add interest and variety to your bridal party's attire. Start by finding a pattern you love, and then use the colours within that pattern to determine the shades of the solid dresses. This ensures that the different elements work well together while still offering a unique look for each bridesmaid.

Frequently asked questions