Bridesmaid Color Conundrum: Matching Outfits, Good Or Bad?

There are mixed opinions on whether it is bad to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids to a wedding. Some people think it is odd and that it seems like the guest is trying to be part of the bridal party, while others think it is fine and that it doesn't matter. Ultimately, there are no set-in-stone rules restricting guests from wearing the same colour as the bridesmaids, and it is up to the individual guest to decide what to wear within the dress code provided.

It's not a big deal to wear the same colour as bridesmaids

It's not a big deal to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids. There are no set-in-stone rules that restrict guests from doing so. In fact, it can be a funny coincidence and even lead to some adorable photo opportunities. If you're concerned about it, you can always ask the couple in advance what colours the bridal party will be wearing, or check the wedding website, if there is one. But ultimately, it's not something to stress about.

If you're worried about accidentally matching the bridal party too closely, there are a few things you can do to differentiate your look. You could accessorise with a chunky necklace, a funky pair of shoes, or a leather bomber jacket, for example. As long as it's within the dress code of the wedding, a few well-chosen accessories can help you stand out in a crowd.

It's also worth noting that bridesmaids' dresses often follow a uniform design, jewellery arrangement, and even floral decorations. So, even if you are wearing the same colour, the style of your outfit will likely be different. This will help you look distinct from the bridal party.

At the end of the day, what matters most is that you show up to support the happy couple. Don't stress too much about your outfit, as long as it's appropriate and makes you feel good!

You can ask the couple about the bridal party colours

If you are worried about accidentally wearing the same colour as the bridal party, you can ask the couple about the colours of the bridesmaids' dresses. This is a perfectly acceptable thing to do, and it can save you any potential embarrassment on the day.

Lizzie Post, host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, says that no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they happen to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids, but they can ask in advance what the colours will be if they're concerned about it. Post also says that it's helpful when the couple chooses to post the bridal party colours on the wedding website. This way, guests can be aware of what colours to avoid.

If you are close to the couple, you could ask them directly what colour the bridesmaids will be wearing. If you are not close to the couple, you could ask a friend or family member who is closer to the couple to find out for you. Alternatively, you could check the wedding website, as some couples will post this information there.

If you do find out the colour of the bridesmaids' dresses, you can then decide whether to wear the same colour or not. It is generally considered acceptable to wear the same colour as the bridal party, especially if it is a popular colour such as navy or pink. However, if you are worried about it, you can always choose a different colour to avoid any potential confusion.

Remember, as a guest, you have the freedom to choose your outfit and make it distinctive from the bridal party. You can add accessories or alter the design of your dress to make it stand out. Ultimately, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing.

It's okay to re-wear a bridesmaid dress to another wedding

It is generally considered acceptable to re-wear a bridesmaid dress to another wedding, as long as you follow some basic etiquette. Here are some tips to help you re-wear your bridesmaid dress in style:

Check the wedding colours

It is important to ensure that your bridesmaid dress does not fall within the colour palette of the wedding you are attending. The bridesmaids are supposed to stand out from the guests, so try to avoid matching them. If you are close to the bride, you can simply ask about the colours chosen for the bridal party. Otherwise, you can look for clues on the wedding website or invitations.

Follow the dress code

Bridesmaid dresses are often floor-length, which is suitable for most common wedding dress codes, including formal weddings, black-tie events, semi-formal weddings, and even beach weddings if the dress is flowy enough. However, if the wedding you are attending requires cocktail or casual attire, consider hemming or altering your bridesmaid dress to make it more suitable.

Style and colour suitability

Consider the season and time of year when choosing to re-wear a bridesmaid dress. Dark colours are ideal for fall and winter weddings or formal weddings held at night, while lighter colours are perfect for summer and spring weddings or casual daytime weddings. The style of the dress also matters; a floor-length, detailed dress might be better for a nighttime wedding in cold weather, while a simple, flowy dress is great for an outdoor warm-weather wedding.

Accessorise

Add some unique accessories to set your outfit apart from the bridal party. Choose bolder jewellery than you would typically wear as a bridesmaid, or add a belt to accentuate your waist. You can also layer with a cardigan, blazer, shawl, or scarf to make your look more casual and distinct.

Alter your dress

If you want to give your bridesmaid dress a new look, consider having it professionally altered by a seamstress or tailor. Shortening a long, formal dress or changing the straps or waistline can give it a completely different feel. Another idea is to separate a two-piece dress and wear the pieces individually.

In conclusion, with a few considerations and creative touches, you can absolutely re-wear a bridesmaid dress to another wedding. Just remember to avoid matching the bridal party too closely and to dress appropriately for the style and season of the wedding. Enjoy giving your bridesmaid dress a new lease of life!

You can alter a bridesmaid dress to make it look different

It's generally considered acceptable to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids to a wedding. Lizzie Post, host of the podcast Awesome Etiquette from the Emily Post Institute, says that no guest should ever feel embarrassed if they happen to wear the same colour as the bridesmaids. However, if you're concerned about it, you can always ask in advance what colours the bridal party will be wearing.

If you're worried about your outfit looking too similar to the bridesmaids', there are several ways you can alter a bridesmaid dress to make it look different. Here are some ideas:

Raise the Hem

Hemming is a common alteration for bridesmaid dresses to ensure they are long enough for the wedding but not too long that they become a tripping hazard. However, taking up the hem can also be a great way to alter a dress for future wear. Consider transforming your floor-length gown into a midi or mini dress, which will be more suitable for less formal occasions. This works especially well for multilayered, flowy dresses.

Taper the Sides

Changing the silhouette of a dress can be a more complicated alteration, but it can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of the garment. This technique works well for bridesmaid dresses with fuller skirts, such as ball gown, A-line, or empire cut styles. Taper the skirt to create a column, sheath, or trumpet silhouette, which will make the dress more manageable while maintaining its formality.

Upcycle

If you don't like the colour or style of your bridesmaid dress, consider upcycling it into something completely different. You can turn it into a skirt or a fancy top, or even both, and wear them as a two-piece outfit. You can also get creative and use the fabric to make items such as pillows, scarves, hair accessories, or a child's quilt or dress-up gown.

Accessorise

If you're reusing a bridesmaid dress from a previous wedding, you can style it with accessories to make it look different. Claudia Hanlin, owner of Wedding Library, recommends steering away from neutral accessories, which is typically how a wedding party styles their bridesmaid dresses. Instead, try pairing your dress with a chunky necklace, funky shoes, or a leather bomber jacket to make it feel like your own. Just make sure your accessories are within the dress code of the wedding.

Choose a Different Style

If you're buying a new dress in the same colour as the bridesmaids, try to choose a different style to help you stand out. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing long dresses, opt for a shorter style, or vice versa. You can also play with different necklines, sleeve lengths, or fabric types to create a unique look.

Remember, it's always a good idea to try on your dress before making any alterations, and don't be afraid to consult a professional seamstress for more complex changes.

Guests shouldn't feel embarrassed about matching the bridal party

If you're concerned about matching the bridal party, you can always ask in advance what colours they will be wearing. Some couples choose to post the bridal party colours on their wedding website, which is a great way to keep guests informed. However, it's worth noting that some people find it odd for a guest to go out of their way to match the bridal party, so it's probably best to avoid doing this.

Ultimately, as a guest, you have the freedom to express yourself more than the bridesmaids. So, if you accidentally end up matching the bridal party, don't worry about it! It's not a big deal, and you shouldn't feel embarrassed.

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