Attire Tips To Dress Down Your Bridesmaids Elegantly

Bridesmaids' dresses are often only worn once, but they don't have to be. There are many ways to re-style a bridesmaid dress to make it more wearable for other occasions. For example, adding a jacket, a cotton button-up shirt, or a blazer can make a dress more casual, while accessories like scarves, jewellery, and belts can be used to dress an outfit up or down.

If you're a bride, you can also take steps to ensure that your bridesmaids' dresses are more wearable after your wedding. You can opt for a mismatched look, where each bridesmaid chooses a dress in a specific colour or fabric, or you can give them a budget to choose their own dresses.

Re-style bridesmaid dresses with jackets, scarves, jewellery, shoes, and hair accessories

There are many ways to dress down a bridesmaid dress with jackets, scarves, jewellery, shoes, and hair accessories. Here are some ideas to restyle bridesmaid dresses:

Jackets

Adding a jacket to your bridesmaid dress can be a great way to dress it down and add a layer of warmth for colder weather weddings. Opt for a lightweight blazer or a denim jacket for a more casual look. Alternatively, a cardigan or shawl can be a good option to drape over your shoulders while still maintaining an elegant look.

Scarves

Scarves can be styled in numerous ways to complement your bridesmaid dress. A pashmina scarf, for example, can be draped over your shoulders, wrapped around your arms, or tied at the back. If you're feeling creative, try doubling the scarf and tying it around your neck for a stylish touch. For colder days, you can also wrap the ends of the scarf in a knot to keep you warm.

Jewellery

When it comes to jewellery, the key is to complement the dress without overwhelming it. Consider the cut and style of the dress, and whether it calls for subtle or statement pieces. For strapless gowns, a statement necklace can be a great choice, while a scoop or sweetheart neckline pairs well with delicate jewellery like a single pendant or thin necklace strands. If you're wearing a halter neckline, skip the necklace and opt for dangly earrings or a statement cocktail ring instead.

Shoes

Your choice of shoes can make a big difference in dressing down a bridesmaid dress. While classic pumps or stilettos are always an option, you can also explore comfortable alternatives like wedges, kitten heels, or even flats. If you're looking for something more unique, try convertible heels that can be easily switched to flats throughout the wedding celebrations. Nude shades and neutral colours often pair well with a variety of dress options, but don't be afraid to add a pop of colour with your footwear choices.

Hair Accessories

Bridesmaid hair accessories can be a fun way to add some sparkle or a personal touch to your overall look. From pearl headbands to delicate hairpins and clips, there are numerous options to choose from. If you're feeling playful, you can even add some rhinestone or pearl-adorned hair clips with fun words or phrases. These accessories can enhance your hairstyle, whether it's an elegant updo or flowing locks.

Choose a colour or colour palette and let bridesmaids pick their own dresses

Choosing a colour or colour palette and letting your bridesmaids pick their own dresses is a great way to ensure that everyone feels happy and confident. This approach can also take the pressure off you and empower each member of your bridal party to find a hue, cut and fabric that suits them.

To help you choose a colour or colour palette, consider the following:

• The season: Think about the time of year you're getting married and the colours that are associated with that season. For example, reds, golds, emerald greens and royal blues are often associated with winter, while pastel palettes and yellows are perfect for spring.
• The flowers: Consider the flowers that will be in season for your wedding. Choosing a colour that matches or complements your bridal bouquets can help to create a cohesive look.
• Your venue: The location of your wedding can help dictate the colour of your bridesmaid dresses. For example, if you're getting married in a sunny seaside locale, opt for breathable dresses in cool colours. On the other hand, if you're tying the knot in a cooler climate, avoid strapless silhouettes and provide wraps or cover-ups for your bridesmaids.
• Your wedding colours: If you have chosen specific colours for your wedding, such as for the flowers, invites and decorations, consider choosing the same colour for your bridesmaid dresses. This will create a cohesive and stylish look for your big day.
• Your bridal gown: Keep the colour of your bridal gown in mind when choosing the colour for your bridesmaid dresses. You don't want the colours to clash in the photos.
• Your bridesmaids' skin tones: Be mindful of the colour of the dresses and your bridesmaids' skin tones. Avoid colours that will wash out certain skin tones or make them look too flushed.
• Your bridesmaids' budgets: Discuss budgets with your bridesmaids before choosing a colour or colour palette. This will ensure that you pick a colour that everyone can afford. If there are differences in budget, you may want to consider covering the difference in cost or paying for alterations or accessories.

Once you've chosen a colour or colour palette, be sure to provide clear guidelines to your bridesmaids and ask them to send you a picture of their chosen dress to ensure that everyone's designs complement each other.

Pick a specific silhouette and allow for custom alterations

Picking a specific silhouette for your bridesmaids is a great way to ensure your bridal party looks and feels their best. When selecting a silhouette, it's important to consider the different body types of your bridesmaids and choose a style that will flatter everyone. If you're set on a particular silhouette, be flexible and allow for custom alterations to ensure your bridesmaids feel comfortable and confident.

Consider Body Types

It's essential to acknowledge that one style of dress won't necessarily work for everyone. For example, if you have bridesmaids with pear-shaped bodies, they may need alterations to ensure the dress fits properly over the bust. Be mindful of your bridesmaids' preferences and comfort levels when selecting a silhouette.

Allow for Custom Alterations

If your heart is set on a specific silhouette, be open to making small tweaks to accommodate your bridesmaids' needs. Custom alterations can make a world of difference in ensuring your bridal party feels their best. These alterations can include:

• Adding cap sleeves to a sleeveless dress
• Adjusting a plunging neckline
• Shortening a dress's length or hem
• Taking in the waist and hips for a more fitted silhouette
• Shortening straps to ensure they don't slip off shoulders

Choose a Flexible Silhouette

Opt for a silhouette that can easily be altered to accommodate different body types. A-line dresses, for instance, are known for flattering most body shapes and typically require fewer alterations. This can save time and money for both you and your bridesmaids.

Communicate with Your Bridesmaids

Discuss alterations with your bridesmaids and ask for their input. They may have specific alteration requests or suggestions that can help guide your decision-making process. It's also essential to consider their budgets, as alterations can add to the overall cost of their attire.

Plan Ahead for Alterations

Schedule alteration appointments well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Aim for the off-season (Nov-Mar) to have more flexibility with timing. During the busy season (Apr-Oct), allow at least two months before the wedding for alterations.

Remember, your bridesmaids will be heavily photographed and want to look and feel their best. By choosing a flexible silhouette and allowing for custom alterations, you can ensure your bridal party is comfortable, confident, and ready to celebrate your special day in style!

Embrace the trend of mismatched bridesmaid dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a wedding trend that's here to stay! The chic mix-and-match look lets each bridesmaid showcase her unique style while also giving the bridal party a little extra flair. There are a few simple ways to ensure that the bridesmaid dresses maintain a similar vibe:

• Choose one element that is the same across all dresses. This could be the fabric, such as satin or chiffon, or perhaps they all have a similar neckline, like a V-neck. Another idea is to pick colours that go well together, such as different shades of blue, pink, or neutral.
• Opt for the same dress length. Mixing short and long dresses can look mismatched. Instead, choose one length for all the dresses so that your bridesmaids look coordinated and ready for the big day.
• Choose your wedding colour palette carefully. Pick colours that look good together. Some colours may not coordinate well, so it's a good idea to look at pictures for inspiration and get small samples of fabric to see how they look next to each other.
• Give your bridesmaids ample direction. When letting your bridesmaids pick different colours or dress styles, it's a good idea to give them some ideas. Create a vision board that can be shared with each of your bridesmaids, including dress examples and inspiration photos that give them a better idea of the overall vibe and feel you are going for.

There are three ways to pull off mismatched bridesmaid dresses:

• Different dress styles, same colour. This is a great way to get that trendy mismatched look while keeping things simple. This option is the easiest to coordinate while still allowing your bridesmaids to have a choice in picking a style they like.
• Same dress style, different colours. 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. For a truly unique bridal party look, consider dresses in varying styles and colours. Start by picking 2-4 colours that go well together and then choose dress styles that fit the overall theme. To avoid a chaotic appearance, focus on similarities in silhouette, fabric, or other details like waistlines, necklines, or straps.

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses offer a win-win situation, allowing for personal expression, comfort, and budget flexibility. Each bridesmaid can choose a dress that fits her body perfectly and express her individual style, ensuring she feels both comfortable and stylish.

Rent bridesmaid dresses

Renting bridesmaid dresses is a great way to reduce fashion waste and provide a more earth-friendly option for a zero-waste wedding. It can also be a more cost-effective option for the bridal party, who traditionally pay for their own dresses.

There are several websites that offer bridesmaid dress rental services, with a range of styles, sizes, and designers available. Here are some options to consider:

Rent the Runway

Rent the Runway is a popular clothing rental website that offers a designated page of bridesmaid favorites. They feature designers such as Badgley Mischka and Twobirds, making it easy to coordinate mismatched gowns. Rental prices start at around $30 for a four-day rental, with a wide range of sizes available. You can also order two sizes for no additional fee to ensure the perfect fit.

Poshare

Poshare is a clothing rental website that allows you to borrow or buy designer dresses directly from the wardrobes of others. They offer a section dedicated to bridesmaids, with designers including Adrianna Papell and Mori Lee. Prices start at around $50, up to 85% less than the original price. You can choose the length of your rental, and even meet up with the lender in person to try on the dress before the wedding.

StyleLend

StyleLend offers a $5 insurance fee, so you don't have to worry about any accidental damage to the dress. They feature a range of designers and styles, and you can rent directly from other people. Rentals last for seven days, and you can return the dress within 24 hours for a refund if it doesn't fit.

NUULY

NUULY is a subscription rental service that may be ideal if you are part of multiple wedding parties. With a monthly fee, you can rent a certain number of pieces and keep them for as long as you want. They offer formal and cocktail options from designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Anna Sui, and Ralph Lauren, and you can even purchase your rentals at a discount if you fall in love with them.

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