Selecting Bridesmaids Dresses: A Guide To Making The Right Choice

Choosing bridesmaid dresses is one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding planning, but it can also be overwhelming. There are several factors to consider, from colour and fabric to body type and budget. The first step is to decide whether you want your bridal party to wear the same dress or to mix and match. If you opt for a uniform look, the A-line silhouette is said to be the most flattering for everyone. If you decide to mix and match, you can choose one colour and fabric from one designer and let each bridesmaid select a style that suits her body type and makes her feel comfortable and confident.

Same colour, different dress styles

Choosing between two bridesmaid dresses can be tricky, but opting for the same colour with different dress styles is a great way to let your bridal party express their individuality. Here are some tips to help you achieve a cohesive look:

Pick a colour that suits your wedding vision

The first step is to select a colour that aligns with the theme and aesthetic of your wedding. This could be a specific shade, such as dusty blue or blush, or a general colour family, like neutrals or pastels. This will provide a unified look for your bridal party while allowing your bridesmaids to showcase their unique styles.

Choose gowns from the same designer

To ensure the dresses are an exact colour match, it is recommended that your bridesmaids select gowns from the same designer. This way, you can achieve a cohesive look while still allowing for variation in dress styles.

Consider different dress features

To create a distinct yet harmonious look, play around with different dress features. You can mix and match elements such as length (floor-length or knee-length), necklines (V-necks or sweetheart necklines), sleeve length (long sleeve, short sleeve, or sleeveless), or backs with intricate details.

Keep the fabric and texture in mind

The fabric and texture of the dresses can also contribute to a cohesive appearance. Consider using similar fabrics, such as chiffon, velvet, lace, or tulle, to unify the bridal party's look. Additionally, incorporating different textures, like satin or velvet, can add visual interest, especially if you're having a fall or winter wedding.

Provide guidelines for your bridesmaids

While you want your bridesmaids to have freedom in choosing their dress styles, providing some guidelines will help maintain a sense of coordination. Be specific about your preferences, such as the desired colour palette, length, material, and level of formality. This will ensure that the dresses complement each other and your wedding theme.

By following these tips, you can achieve a beautiful and cohesive look for your bridal party, allowing your bridesmaids to feel comfortable, confident, and true to their personal styles.

Same colour, different necklines

Choosing bridesmaid dresses is one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding planning. If you want your bridesmaids to wear the same colour but with different necklines, here are some tips to help you pull off this look.

First, decide on the colour. It's best to be specific. What looks mauve to one person may be more pale violet to another. Picking a single colour can make it difficult for bridesmaids to find dresses in the exact same shade from different vendors. Consider putting together a colour palette of 3-4 complementary colours for your bridesmaids to choose from, or offer up a few vendors you'd like them to order from.

If you're worried about your bridesmaids finding the exact same colour, it may be helpful to stick within a certain brand if you're looking for an exact colour match, as 'blush pink', 'dove grey' or 'forest green' will mean different things to different people.

Next, consider the fabric. If your bridesmaids are wearing the same colour, dresses in different materials can add some dimension to the look. However, too many materials can also be a bit distracting. If you don't want anyone in a jersey knit, make that clear.

Then, think about the length. Some brides don't mind a variety of hemlines, but if you want all of your bridesmaids in the same length dress, let them know. Alternatively, if you're happy with different lengths, let them know that too.

Finally, communicate with your bridesmaids. The beauty of having various bridesmaid dresses is that everyone can feel beautiful and confident in their own look. Before you assign the dress model, make and colour, talk to your crew. They will be grateful to have their voices and concerns heard. Some bridesmaids may want a more modest neckline, while others may want fitted silhouettes.

Same colour, different textures

Choosing bridesmaid dresses is one of the most fun parts of wedding planning. If you're going for a "same colour, different textures" look, here are some tips to help you pull it off:

Choose a Colour

First, decide on a colour that you love. This will be the unifying element in your bridal party's look. If you're having a fall wedding, for instance, you might opt for a shade of burnt orange.

Mix and Match Textures

Once you've settled on a colour, it's time to start thinking about textures. This is where things get fun! For a fall wedding, you could mix and match textures like satin and velvet. For a winter wedding, you might opt for sequins and beading. Play around with different textures to see what works well together.

Keep Other Elements Consistent

While you're mixing and matching textures, it's important to keep other elements of the dresses consistent. For example, you might opt for the same silhouette, sleeve length, or neckline for all the dresses. This will help create a cohesive look for your bridal party.

Consider the Wedding's Aesthetic

When choosing textures, it's also important to consider the overall aesthetic of your wedding. For example, if you're having a glam ballroom wedding, you might want to go for luxe fabrics like satin or sequins. On the other hand, an outdoor spring wedding might call for more laid-back textures like chiffon or lace.

Don't Forget the Accessories

To tie the whole look together, consider giving your bridesmaids matching accessories. This could be a statement necklace, earrings, or a hairpiece. You can even give these as bridesmaid gifts!

Order Fabric Swatches

Before making any final decisions, be sure to order fabric swatches to see how the colours and textures look next to each other. Things can look very different online, so it's always best to have physical swatches to help you make your choice.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to creating a gorgeous "same colour, different textures" look for your bridal party!

Different shades of the same colour palette

Choosing bridesmaid dresses is one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding planning. However, it can be challenging to please everyone. Here are some tips for choosing between two bridesmaid dresses, focusing on different shades of the same colour palette.

If you don't have a specific colour in mind, keeping it broad and asking your bridesmaids to stick to a specific colour scheme is a great option. You might let your wedding party know to look for shades of green bridesmaid dresses (like sage and forest) or pink bridesmaid dresses (like dusty pink and fuchsia). This will create a tonal, ombre-inspired look that's perfect for boho weddings.

If you want to make a bold statement, get creative by pairing different colours. Choose a colour family, like warm or cool tones, or select a colour scheme that reflects the season—for example, jewel tones for a winter wedding or pastel shades for a spring celebration.

Tips for choosing different shades

• Consider the season—The season and time of year should guide your colour choices. Dark colours in heavier fabrics, such as velvet, are best for autumn and winter weddings, while pastel chiffon dresses are ideal for spring and summer celebrations.
• Examine colour on a sample—Different-coloured dresses are popular, but it can be tricky to select ones that complement each other. Small swatches often look very different when made into gowns. The best way to visualise how they will look together is to check full-size samples in daylight and switch out different options until you're happy.
• Create a mood board—Create a visual mood board to communicate your vision with the whole bridal party. Include swatch colours, dress silhouettes, and inspiration photos of what you picture the group to look like on the big day.
• Consider one designer—Sticking to one designer's collection ensures a cohesive look. Each bridesmaid can choose different colours and styles from the same designer, showcasing their personality while wearing a similar dress.
• Flowers can pull it all together—Don't forget the flowers! When it comes to different cuts and colours, neutral and simple matching bouquets can tie the whole look together.
• Keep it simple—Mixing and matching bridesmaid dresses is already a complex task. Choosing one colour in one fabric from one designer and letting each bridesmaid wear that colour but in a different silhouette can simplify the process.
• Add harmony with similar design elements—Choose dresses with the same design elements, such as ruffles, hem length, or draped details, to add a bit of harmony to the mix-and-match look.
• Be clear with your bridesmaids—Make the dress hunt easy for your bridesmaids and yourself by being clear about your preferences. Provide guidelines on colour, length, material, and style (formality).
• Make it a group activity—Turn bridesmaid dress shopping into a fun group activity. Go to brunch and then hit the stores together. This simplifies the process and ensures everyone is on the same page.
• Do a final check-in—Schedule a final check-in with your bridesmaids before they purchase their dresses. This allows you to provide feedback and ensure their choices fit your vision or theme, eliminating surprises and last-minute stress.
• Don't forget shoes and accessories—Accessories are essential, especially for a mismatched bridesmaid dress look. Choosing a pair of shoes or a specific shoe style and colour can bring a cohesive look to your bridal party.

Remember, it's important to place bridesmaid dress orders at least six months in advance of the wedding. This allows enough time for fittings and alterations.

Different dress styles and colours

There are several ways to mix and match bridesmaids' dresses. Here are some tips for choosing between different dress styles and colours.

Different Dress Styles, Same Colour

This is the most common type of mismatched bridesmaid dresses. It is a great way to achieve a trendy look while keeping things simple. This option allows bridesmaids to choose a style that suits their body type and preferences.

Same Dress Style, Different Colours

If you can't settle on a single colour, go for a variety! This option is simpler than mixing styles and colours, as it avoids mismatched designs. Pick a dress style that suits everyone, like the ever-flattering A-line silhouette, and then decide on the colours, ensuring a balanced mix among your bridesmaids.

Mix of Dress Styles and Colours

If you want a truly unique look, consider dresses in varying styles and colours. This option requires more planning but will result in a fun and memorable look. Start by picking 2-4 colours that go well together, such as different shades of blue, pink, or neutrals. When choosing dress styles, ensure each fits the overall theme and try to focus on similarities in silhouette, fabric, waistlines, necklines, or straps to maintain a cohesive look.

Different Dresses, Same Texture

If you're set on a particular texture, such as lace, sequins, or beaded dresses, this is an easy way to mix and match. You can put your bridal party in different silhouettes, necklines, and sleeve lengths but keep the same texture, creating a cool, cohesive look.

Same Dresses, Variety of Colours, Textures, and Patterns

Many designers offer a wide variety of colours, patterns, and textures in the same silhouette. Pick one silhouette for everyone and then mix it up by using different fabrics and colours. You can even let the maid of honour stand out by putting her in a chic chiffon/sequin combo!

Different Dresses, Different Colours, Different Patterns, Different Textures

The key here is to mix silhouettes, colours, patterns, textures, and prints. Choose two or three consistent colours so your bridesmaids can coordinate. Some chic colour combinations include various shades of dusty blue and grey, different shades of pink and peach, multiple metallic shades, or neutral shades of grey and taupe. Then, start mixing in fun details like sequins, ruffles, and prints. If you want to include prints or sequins, make sure at least two dresses have these elements for balance.

Frequently asked questions