Creating Customized Bridesmaids Dresses: A Step-By-Step Guide

Making your own bridesmaids' dresses can be a fun and ambitious project, especially if you're an advanced sewist or have some experience with dressmaking. However, it's important to note that it can be a challenging task, and you may encounter some horror stories online about bridesmaids and brides attempting to sew their own dresses. If you're feeling adventurous and have some sewing skills, there are a few things you should know about creating your own bridesmaid dress. First, it's essential to find inspiration and choose a pattern that fits your skill level and the desired style. Selecting the right fabric and natural dyeing are also crucial steps in the process. You'll need to consider factors such as weight, quality, and colour when choosing your fabric. Additionally, keep in mind that online shopping has made it more convenient to find ready-made bridesmaid dresses that suit your style and budget. Whether you decide to make your own or buy off-the-rack, allow ample time for creation or shipping to avoid last-minute stress.

Choosing a pattern and fabric

The first step in choosing a pattern and fabric for your bridesmaid dress is to consider the level of sewing experience you have. If you are a beginner, look for patterns that are rated for "novice" sewers, as these will be easier to follow and execute. More complex patterns may require advanced sewing skills and knowledge of specific techniques.

Another important factor is the type of fabric you will be using. Different patterns are designed for different types of fabrics, such as lightweight or heavyweight materials. In the example shared, the writer chose a pattern that required lightweight fabric and purchased silk chiffon. It is important to note that you should always double-check the required yardage for the pattern before purchasing your fabric, as you may need more or less fabric than you initially think.

When choosing a pattern, consider the style and silhouette you want for your bridesmaid dress. In the example, the writer chose a pattern that could be made into either a halter or a strapless dress, offering some flexibility in the design. Additionally, they considered the level of difficulty of the pattern, as some patterns are designed for intermediate sewers and may require more advanced skills.

It is also essential to keep in mind the colour and dyeing technique you plan to use. In the example, the writer wanted to try out a graded dip-dyeing technique using madder root on an undyed silk chiffon fabric. This influenced their choice of fabric and dye, as they needed to ensure the fabric was compatible with the dyeing technique they wanted to use.

Finally, take into account the time constraints you are working with. Give yourself enough time to purchase the necessary materials, experiment with any dyeing techniques, and complete the sewing process. In the example, the writer allowed themselves three months to complete the project, giving them ample time to work through each step without feeling rushed.

Dyeing the fabric

First, you will need to decide on the fabric for the dresses. Natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, silk, and linen are more easily dyed than synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and acetate. Silk, for example, dyes well but tends to shrink, pull, and lose its lustre in the process. Wool can handle dye but may result in excessive shrinking and pilling. Polyester and acetate are the most difficult fibres to dye because they need to be treated at extremely high temperatures.

Once you have chosen your fabric, you will need to wash it and prepare your workspace. Cover your work surface with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting. It is also a good idea to wear old clothes and gloves to protect your skin and clothing from the dye.

Next, you will need to soak the fabric in warm water. This step ensures that the dye will be absorbed evenly. You can fill a bucket or bathtub with warm water and submerge the fabric until it is completely soaked.

After that, you can start preparing the dye bath. Fill a bucket or stainless steel sink with very hot water. The amount of water you need will depend on how much dye you are using, so refer to the package instructions. Add the recommended amount of dye to the water and use a stainless steel spoon to thoroughly mix the solution. If you are dyeing cotton or linen, add 1/4 cup of salt for each gallon of water to help the fabric absorb the dye. For wool or silk, add 1/4 cup of vinegar per gallon of water.

Now you are ready to dye the fabric. Carefully submerge the fabric in the dye bath, making sure it is completely covered. Stir the mixture constantly for 10 to 25 minutes to ensure even colouring. The length of time you leave the fabric in the dye will depend on the shade you are trying to achieve. Remember that some of the dye will rinse out, so let the fabric soak until it is a shade or two darker than your desired colour.

When you are happy with the colour, remove the fabric from the dye bath and rinse it until the water runs clear. Begin with hot water and gradually move to cold water to help set the dye. You can also use the rinse cycle of your washing machine. Finally, hang the fabric up to dry.

Keep in mind that dyeing fabric can be a tricky process, and you may not get the exact colour you want on the first try. It is always a good idea to test the dye on a small piece of fabric first before dyeing your entire dress.

Selecting the style

Consider the Wedding Theme and Seasonality

Think about the theme and colours of your wedding, as well as the season. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, green dresses can bring a touch of nature to the celebration. Pastel colours like blush pink, dusty green, and lavender are perfect for adding a soft, romantic touch to spring and summer weddings. For a winter wedding, consider luxurious fabrics such as velvet and satin.

Choose a Style that Suits Everyone

It's important to select a style that flatters the different body types of your bridesmaids. A-line dresses are a popular choice as they cinch at the waist and gently flare out, creating a balanced and feminine silhouette for most body shapes. If you want your bridesmaids to wear the same colour but different styles, you can choose a convertible dress, which can be worn in various ways.

Decide on the Length and Cut

The length of the dress will depend on the formality of your wedding and the personal preference of the bridal party. You can choose from short, knee-length, or floor-length gowns. Asymmetrical styles are also a trendy option, such as the mullet dress, which is cut short in the front and long at the back.

Select the Right Fabric

The fabric of the dresses should complement the wedding theme and be comfortable for the bridesmaids. Chiffon is a popular choice for bridesmaid dresses as it is lightweight, airy, and elegant. Other options include tulle, lace, velvet, and satin.

Neckline Options

When choosing the neckline, consider the comfort and preference of your bridesmaids. A V-neckline flatters almost everyone and draws attention to the face, while a crew neckline is more conservative and covers the shoulders and arms. Strapless and halter styles are also options, especially for warmer days. If any of your bridesmaids have a larger bust, ensure the neckline provides adequate support.

Customisation and Personalisation

You can make your bridesmaids feel extra special by personalising their dresses. Add unique details such as sleeves, pockets, or specific lining colours. You can also customise the length and cut of the dress to suit each bridesmaid's preferences and body type.

Remember, the key is to choose a style that makes your bridesmaids feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Happy dress hunting!

Ordering swatches

• Identify your colour palette: Before ordering swatches, it's helpful to have an idea of the colours you want to include in your bridesmaids' dresses. Consider the wedding theme, the season, and the personalities of the bridesmaids. You can also create a mood board with colour swatches to find the perfect palette for your special day.
• Understand fabric options: Familiarise yourself with the different types of fabric available, such as chiffon, satin, tulle, crepe, velvet, and lace. Each fabric has unique qualities and will contribute to the overall look and feel of the dresses.
• Choose a swatch service: Several companies offer swatch services, allowing you to order fabric samples in your desired colours and fabrics. Some popular options include Tulle & Chantilly, Birdy Grey, Dessy Group, and Azazie.
• Order swatches: When ordering swatches, pay attention to the number of swatches included in the service. Some companies offer a certain number of free swatches, while others may charge a small fee per swatch. Order the swatches that align with your colour palette and fabric choices.
• Compare and decide: Once you receive your swatches, take time to compare the colours and fabrics. Observe how the colours may vary depending on the fabric. For example, a colour like "cabernet" may look different in tulle compared to chiffon. Feel the fabric to ensure it aligns with your desired texture and quality.
• Inspire your vision: Swatches can also inspire your creative process. Play around with different combinations of colours and fabrics to see what works best together. You can even create mood boards or Pinterest boards to visualise your ideas and share them with your bridal party.

Remember, ordering swatches is an important step in ensuring that your handmade bridesmaids' dresses turn out just as you envision them. Take advantage of the available swatch services to make informed decisions about colours and fabrics, creating a cohesive and stunning look for your bridal party.

Finalising the design

Firstly, decide on the style of the dress. Do you want a maxi, midi, or mini length? Are you going for a halter neck, strapless, or something with sleeves? The style of the dress will depend on the wedding theme and the bridesmaids' preferences. If you're making the dress yourself, like the talented woman who crocheted her own dress, it's also important to consider your skill level and the time you have available. Opt for a style that suits your sewing abilities, and give yourself plenty of time to complete the project.

Next, choose the fabric. Silk chiffon, lightweight materials, cotton, and natural fabrics are all popular choices for bridesmaid dresses. Consider the weight and quality of the fabric, as well as the colour. If you're dying the fabric yourself, like the ambitious sister in our story, opt for an undyed fabric that will take on the colour you desire. You can also experiment with natural dyes to create a subtle ombre effect or a graded dip-dyeing technique.

Once you've chosen the fabric, it's time to select a pattern. You can find patterns online or in stores, and some are specifically designed for novice sewers. Choose a pattern that aligns with your skill level and the style of dress you want to create. Keep in mind that more complex patterns may require additional fabric or alterations.

Finally, don't forget to take accurate measurements! This is crucial to ensure the dresses fit your bridesmaids perfectly. Consider the body shapes and sizes of your bridesmaids and make any necessary adjustments to the pattern. You can also use online tools or consult a tailor to ensure an accurate fit.

Remember to give yourself enough time to finalise the design and create the dresses. Don't be afraid to ask for help if needed—sewing your own bridesmaid dresses can be a challenging but rewarding experience!

Frequently asked questions