Who Pays For Bridesmaids' Dresses? The Bride's Guide

Being a bridesmaid can be a complicated and expensive role, with expectations and expenses that can be tricky to navigate. One of the most common questions bridesmaids have is who pays for their dresses. While there is no definitive answer, it is typically expected that bridesmaids will pay for their own dresses, as well as their shoes and accessories. However, this can depend on the bride, the type of wedding, and the region. In some cases, the bride or couple may offer to pay for the dresses, especially if they have specific and expensive requirements. In other cases, bridesmaids may choose and pay for their own dresses, but run their choices by the bride and other bridesmaids to ensure a complementary look. Ultimately, it is important to be upfront and gracious about financial expectations to avoid any drama or confusion.

Who pays for the bridesmaid dresses?

There is no definitive answer to the question of who pays for bridesmaid dresses, as it depends on several factors, including the region, the bride's preferences, and the financial situation of the bridal party. However, here is a comprehensive look at the topic to help you understand the expectations and options.

Regional Traditions

Traditions vary across the world. In Ireland, for instance, the bride or the couple typically pays for the dresses, especially if the bride has a specific vision in mind. In the United Kingdom, there is some variation, but in most cases, the bride or couple covers the cost.

In the United States and Australia, however, the tradition is for each bridesmaid to pay for her own dress, regardless of the bride's preferences. That being said, it is considered a thoughtful gesture for the bride to offer to pay (either partially or in full) if she selects a more expensive dress or is aware that her bridesmaids may be facing financial constraints.

Financial Considerations

The financial dynamics of the bridal party can play a significant role in determining who pays for the bridesmaid dresses. If the bride or couple has the financial means and wishes to be generous, they may choose to pay for the dresses, particularly if they have specific dress requirements.

On the other hand, if the bride is flexible and allows bridesmaids to choose their own dresses within a certain color scheme or style, it is more likely that the bridesmaids will be expected to cover the cost themselves. This approach ensures that each bridesmaid can select a dress that fits their budget and preferences.

Etiquette and Communication

Standard bridesmaid etiquette dictates that bridesmaids are expected to pay for their own dresses unless the bride or couple explicitly states otherwise. It is essential to have open and honest communication about financial expectations to avoid any misunderstandings or resentment.

Brides should be upfront about any costs associated with being a bridesmaid, and bridesmaids should feel comfortable discussing their financial limitations. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page and can plan accordingly.

Cost Considerations and Alternatives

The cost of bridesmaid dresses can vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to upwards of $800, depending on the style, brand, and store. It is considerate for the bride to take her bridesmaids' budgets into account when selecting dresses, especially given the other expenses they may incur, such as travel, gifts, and bridal shower costs.

If a bridesmaid is unable to afford the dress, it is recommended that the bride or couple offer assistance privately to avoid causing tension within the bridal party. This may involve helping to cover the cost, allowing for a payment plan, or exploring more affordable options that align with the desired style or color scheme.

Alternatively, the bride may suggest mismatched dresses, allowing each bridesmaid to choose a dress within her budget that still fits the overall aesthetic. This approach adds a unique and flexible element to the bridal party's ensemble.

Other Expenses

It is important to note that the bridesmaid dress is not the only expense for those in the bridal party. Bridesmaids are also typically expected to cover costs such as shoes, accessories, hair, and makeup. Additionally, they may be involved in planning and paying for events like the bridal shower and bachelorette party.

To ease the financial burden, the bride may opt to cover some of these additional costs, such as hair and makeup, transportation, or accommodations. Clear communication about these expectations is essential to ensure a harmonious and stress-free experience for all involved.

What if a bridesmaid can't afford a dress?

If a bridesmaid can't afford a dress, it is important to remember that it is a sensitive topic that should be discussed privately and reasonably. Here are some options to consider:

• The bride and groom can offer to help cover the cost and include it in their wedding budget, if possible. This should be done discreetly so that other bridesmaids don't feel slighted.
• The bridesmaid dress should be chosen as early as possible to give each bridesmaid enough time to save up for the gown. It is also worth checking if the store offers a payment plan.
• The bride can opt for mismatched bridesmaid dresses, allowing each bridesmaid to choose a dress within the same colour scheme and their budget.
• The bridesmaid can look for a similar dress at a lower price point or consider renting a dress.
• If all else fails, the bridesmaid can take on a different role in the wedding, such as doing a reading at the ceremony or helping to greet guests.

It is important to maintain open communication and honesty between the bride and bridesmaids regarding financial responsibilities and budgets to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts.

What else do bridesmaids pay for?

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. Here is a list of common bridesmaid expenses to consider:

Bridal Shower or Wedding Shower

Planning and paying for the bridal shower is usually the maid of honour's responsibility, but bridesmaids are also expected to contribute. The bridal shower can also be a collaborative effort, with the bridal party, mother, and sisters of the bride often getting involved. It's important to touch base with the maid of honour or the bride's mother to confirm hosting duties and determine exact expenses.

Bridal Shower Gift

Traditionally, it is considered good etiquette to bring a gift to the bridal shower, separate from the wedding gift. However, if you've already spent a lot on the bridal shower itself or other pre-wedding events, it's understandable if you can't splurge on another gift. You could consider a smaller, more affordable gift or go in with other bridesmaids on a group gift.

Bachelorette Party

Bridesmaids typically plan and pay for the bachelorette party, covering their own costs and sometimes even chipping in for the bride's expenses. It's essential to discuss financial expectations and budgets with the entire group to ensure everyone is on the same page and no one feels overwhelmed.

Wedding Day Hotel and Travel

Bridesmaids are usually responsible for their travel costs and accommodations for the wedding. However, some brides may offer to split or contribute to these expenses or set up discounted hotel room blocks. It's best to have these conversations a few months in advance to avoid last-minute surprises.

Wedding Day Hair and Makeup

Whether or not bridesmaids pay for hair and makeup depends on the couple's budget and preferences. If the bride wants the bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it's considerate to cover the cost as a gift. Otherwise, the responsibility falls to the bridesmaids, but the bride shouldn't require professional services without offering to pay.

Wedding Day Essentials

Bridesmaids are responsible for bringing their own wedding day essentials, such as toiletries, medicine, touch-up makeup, and a change of clothes. While the couple may provide emergency kits, it's always good to be prepared.

Wedding Gift

Even with all the other expenses, traditional wedding etiquette suggests that bridesmaids are expected to give a wedding gift. If money is tight, consider a small gift from the registry, or join forces with other bridesmaids to purchase a group gift.

Pre-Wedding Event Attire

Themed bachelorette parties and other pre-wedding events may require additional outfits or accessories, adding to the overall cost of being a bridesmaid.

Who pays for bridesmaid hair and makeup?

There is no definitive answer to this question, and it ultimately depends on the preferences and budget of the bride. However, there are a few options that are commonly considered.

Option 1: Bride Pays for Hair and Makeup

The most traditional arrangement is for the bride to cover all hair and makeup costs for the bridal party. This gives the bride more control over the beauty agenda for the wedding and ensures that everyone is in the same place before the wedding, creating a fun and memorable experience. However, this option can be expensive and difficult to coordinate, especially with a large bridal party.

Option 2: Bridesmaids Pay for Hair and Makeup

Another option is to let bridesmaids decide whether they want to opt in and pay for their own hair and makeup. This approach gives bridesmaids the freedom to choose their preferred stylists and can be more cost-effective for the bride, especially with a large bridal party. However, it requires the bride to be more flexible about the outcome, as not all bridesmaids may choose to have their hair and makeup done professionally.

Option 3: Bride and Bridesmaids Split the Cost

A middle ground option is for the bride to pay for a portion of the hair and makeup services. This can be a great way to treat the bridesmaids without breaking the bank. The bride can choose to pay for one service, such as hair or makeup, and let the bridesmaids cover the cost of the other. Alternatively, the bride can contribute a set amount towards each service, with the bridesmaids paying the remaining cost.

Other Considerations

When deciding who pays for bridesmaid hair and makeup, it's important to consider the financial situation of the bridal party. Being a bridesmaid can be expensive, and costs can add up quickly. If the bride can afford it, covering some or all of the hair and makeup costs can be a thoughtful gesture to thank the bridesmaids for their support. Additionally, if the bride requires the bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup done professionally, it is generally expected that she covers the cost.

Who pays for bridesmaid bouquets?

The bride is expected to pay for the bridesmaids' bouquets. The bouquets are considered part of the bride's design statement and are integral to her wedding decor. They are also one of the biggest expenses of the wedding day and will take up a considerable portion of the flower budget.

Who pays for bridesmaids' dresses?

The answer to this question depends on the region and the bride's preferences.

In Ireland, the tradition is for the bride or the couple to pay for the bridesmaids' dresses, especially if the bride has a specific dress in mind. In the UK, the bride or couple pays in 75% of cases, while in the remaining 25%, the bridesmaids pay for their own dresses. In the US and Australia, the tradition is for the bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses. However, the bride may offer to pay half the cost or the full amount, especially if she has chosen an expensive dress or knows that one of her bridesmaids is strapped for cash.

Bridesmaids typically cover the costs of their shoes, accessories, hair, makeup, and transportation to the wedding venue. They may also be expected to contribute to the bachelorette party, engagement gift, wedding gift, bridal shower, and any travel costs.

The bride typically covers the cost of bouquets, transportation to and from the wedding venue, and a gift for her bridesmaids. She may also cover the cost of hair and makeup, hotel accommodations, and a bridesmaids' luncheon (if hosted by the bride).

If a bridesmaid is unable to afford the dress, the bride should be willing to offer help. This discussion should be handled privately and reasonably to avoid any issues with the other bridesmaids. It is also helpful to choose the dress early in the planning process to give each bridesmaid enough time to save up.

Bridesmaids' dresses can range from $100 to upwards of $800, depending on the wedding's lavishness and the stores chosen. The average cost of a bridesmaid's dress in 2022 was $130 per person, and dresses can cost around $150 and up.

If the bride is flexible, she can suggest that the bridesmaids choose and purchase their own dresses within a specific colour palette. This ensures that the bridesmaids can shop within their budget while still achieving a fashion-forward, on-trend result.

Frequently asked questions