Bridesmaids' Dresses: Coordinating With The Wedding Gown?

Bridesmaids' dresses don't have to match the wedding dress, but they should complement it and fit the wedding's theme and setting. The bride's preferences, the wedding colours, and the comfort of the bridal party are all important factors to consider when choosing bridesmaids' dresses.

Matching dresses: pros and cons

Matching bridesmaids' dresses is a time-honoured tradition, but modern brides are increasingly opting for a more eclectic look. Whether you decide to go for a uniform or a unique look for your bridal party, there are several factors to consider. Here are some pros and cons of matching dresses to help you make the right choice for your special day.

Pros of Matching Dresses:

• Aesthetic Appeal and Tradition: Matching dresses create a visually pleasing, symmetrical look for your bridal party, resulting in stunning wedding photos. This classic tradition, which dates back to Ancient Rome, also adds a sense of elegance and formality to the ceremony.
• Effortless Cohesion: With matching dresses, you can achieve a cohesive look for your bridal party with minimal effort. You won't have to worry about different shades, styles, or textures clashing, and shopping for the same dress for everyone can be more straightforward.
• Simplicity and Unity: Solid colours and matching outfits bring a cohesive and uncomplicated aesthetic to the bridal party. This can be especially effective if you want your wedding party to stand out from the rest of the guests.

Cons of Matching Dresses:

• Uniformity vs Individuality: While matching dresses create unity, they may not allow your bridesmaids to express their unique personalities and styles. Some may feel disappointed or uncomfortable if the chosen dress does not suit their body type, and affordability may also be an issue for some.
• Challenging to Accommodate: Finding a single dress style, colour, and fabric that flatters everyone's figure and meets their preferences can be challenging. It may be difficult to please everyone, and you might have to deal with disappointed bridesmaids.
• Time and Effort: Selecting matching dresses that suit all your bridesmaids may require more time and effort. You may need to consider various factors, such as different body types, budgets, and personal tastes, which can make the decision-making process more complex.

Ultimately, the decision to go for matching or mismatched dresses depends on your personal preference and the overall style you envision for your wedding. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's essential to weigh them carefully before making your choice.

Different shades of the same colour

Bridesmaids' dresses don't have to match the bride's dress, but they should complement it and fit within the wedding's colour scheme and theme.

Choosing different shades of the same colour for your bridesmaids' dresses is a great way to keep your bridal party looking cohesive without being too matchy-matchy. This option is perfect for brides who want to avoid the classic matching dresses look but also don't want to stray too far from tradition.

Once you've decided on your desired colour, explore dress options in slightly darker or lighter shades. Combining these different shades will create a unique effect, especially if your bridal party is large.

For example, a bridal party might opt for an ombré effect, with dresses in different shades of the same colour family. Terracotta, pink, and nude colours pair seamlessly next to one another. Or, for a beach wedding, bridesmaids could wear seafoam-inspired greens and blues in flowy dresses made of lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, tulle, and organza.

If you're having a fall wedding, you could opt for different shades of reds, oranges, and greens. For a spring wedding, pastel pinks, purples, and blues would be a lovely choice.

You can also mix and match different shades of the same colour with different textures and embellishments. For example, a bridal party could wear red dresses of different hues, each adorned with sequins and crystals, for a romantic and unique look.

When choosing different shades of the same colour for your bridesmaids' dresses, it's important to consider the skin tones of your bridal party. Some colours, like warm neutrals (gold and taupe) and green hues with brown undertones, are flattering on a range of skin tones.

Different styles and colours

There are many different ways to style your bridesmaids' dresses to complement your wedding dress. Here are some ideas for different styles and colours:

Different Styles, Same Colour

If you love the look of matching dresses but want to cater to each bridesmaid's personal style, you can opt for dresses in the same colour but different styles. This could include varying lengths, necklines and silhouettes. This way, you can maintain a cohesive look while allowing each bridesmaid to showcase their unique personality and feel comfortable.

Different Shades of the Same Colour

If you have a particular colour in mind but want to avoid an overly uniform look, you can experiment with different shades of that colour. This method works especially well for larger bridal parties, creating a unique ombre effect. For instance, you can choose dresses in shades of terracotta, pink and nude, or varying shades of blue.

Different Colours Tied Together

You can also choose to incorporate multiple colours into your bridesmaids' attire. This is a fun way to unite the various elements of your wedding, such as the floral arrangements, table settings and bouquets. For example, consider pairing mustard yellow dresses with red dresses for a warm, rustic look, or navy, maroon and gold dresses for a contrast against a city skyline.

A Mix of Solids and Patterns

Patterns can add an interesting twist to your bridesmaids' attire, especially when paired with solid-coloured gowns. Start by finding a pattern you love, and then use the colours within that pattern to determine the shades of the solid dresses. This way, you can achieve a coordinated look without being too matchy-matchy.

Various Textures and Embellishments

In addition to playing with colours and patterns, you can also mix and match textures and embellishments. Consider incorporating sequins, beading or embroidery to bump up the style factor. You can also use texture to help your maid of honour stand out while the others wear solid gowns. For instance, vintage-loving brides might opt for beaded or sequined gowns with a 1920s flair.

Similar Prints in Different Colours

If you're feeling bold, you can have each bridesmaid wear a different printed gown. This method makes a statement and allows each bridesmaid to showcase their personality. To maintain a cohesive look, provide your crew with a mood board or guidelines for choosing a specific pattern, such as sparse florals, gingham or Swiss dot.

Dresses with prints

While bridesmaids' dresses don't have to match the wedding dress, they should complement the overall aesthetic of the wedding. Prints are a unique option for bridesmaids' dresses, adding a bold and playful touch to the wedding. Here are some tips for choosing printed bridesmaids' dresses:

Types of Prints

Floral prints are a popular and versatile option for bridesmaids' dresses. They can range from elegant tonal floral prints to bold and colourful patterns, depending on the desired look. Tonal floral prints in colours like sage, pink, gold champagne, and blue create a dreamy and elegant aesthetic. On the other hand, mixing and matching different floral prints or pairing floral prints with solid-coloured dresses can create a unique and playful look.

If you want to make a statement, animal prints are another option for bridesmaids' dresses. A bold animal print can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the bridal party.

Choosing Colours

When selecting printed bridesmaids' dresses, it's important to consider the colour palette of the wedding. The prints can be in different colours, but they should complement each other and the overall theme of the wedding. For example, a fall wedding could feature bridesmaids in different shades of orange, deep red, and green, while a spring wedding could incorporate pastel pinks, purples, and blues.

Fabric and Texture

The fabric and texture of the bridesmaids' dresses should also complement the wedding dress and the overall style of the wedding. For example, satin floral print dresses can add a trendy and elegant touch, while chiffon floral prints are perfect for a garden party wedding. Mixing and matching textures, such as velvet, lace, and ruffles, can also create a unique and stylish look for the bridal party.

Maid of Honour

To make the maid of honour stand out, consider dressing them in a different texture or print from the other bridesmaids. This will create a cohesive look while still allowing them to be distinguished from the rest of the bridal party.

Mixing and matching textures

• Choose a single texture: Pick one texture, such as lace, sequins, or beaded dresses, and let your bridesmaids choose different silhouettes, necklines, and sleeve lengths. This will create a cool, cohesive look.
• Mix and match textures: If you want to add more variety, you can mix and match different textures. Combine velvet, lace, satin, sequins, and ruffles. You can also make your maid of honour stand out by having them wear a different texture from the other bridesmaids.
• Consider the overall aesthetic: Think about the style and theme of your wedding when choosing textures. For example, if you're having a rustic barn wedding, you might want to choose more casual and flowing textures. If you're having a glamorous ballroom wedding, luxe textures like satin and sequins might be more appropriate.
• Order fabric swatches: To get a better idea of how different textures will look together, order fabric swatches from your chosen designer or retailer. This will help you visualise the different textures and colours together and make sure they complement each other.
• Keep dress length consistent: While you can mix and match textures, it's a good idea to keep the dress length the same for all your bridesmaids. This will create a sense of balance and cohesiveness and ensure your bridal party looks well-coordinated.
• Accessorise: To bring the whole look together, coordinate accessories like shoes, jewellery, and bouquets. Even with variations in dress textures, colours, or styles, matching accessories will create a unified and polished look for your bridal party.

Frequently asked questions