Bridesmaids Dresses: One Year Before Wedding, Too Early?

It's never too early to start thinking about bridesmaid dresses, but there is such a thing as too late. While it's a good idea to start seeking inspiration for bridesmaid dresses around eight months before the wedding, you should aim to have them ordered around six months before the big day. This gives you plenty of time to allow for alterations and for any unexpected changes. If you're ordering custom dresses, you'll need to give yourself even more time – up to a year in advance. So, if your wedding is a year away, it's definitely not too early to start thinking about bridesmaid dresses. In fact, you should probably start looking now!

How early is too early to ask bridesmaids to be bridesmaids?

There are a few things to consider when deciding how early to ask your bridesmaids to be part of your wedding. While it's an exciting part of the planning process, it's important to be mindful of the time and financial commitments you're asking of your bridal party.

It's recommended that bridesmaids get their dresses around six months before the wedding, so they have time for any alterations. This means that you should have an idea of the dresses you want your bridesmaids to wear at least seven to eight months before the wedding. This gives your bridal party enough time to order their looks and account for any alterations.

However, it's worth noting that some people suggest sending out 'save the dates' before asking your bridal party to be involved. This is because fallings out or drifting apart can occur, and it's much harder to 'demote' someone than to wait a bit before asking. It's also worth noting that your bridal party won't need to buy dresses or plan showers for at least a year, so asking any earlier could be considered too early.

If you're asking friends to be your bridesmaids, it's generally recommended to wait until at least a year before the wedding. This gives you enough time to see if your relationships remain close and gives your bridal party enough time to budget and plan. However, if you're asking sisters or sisters-in-law, some sources suggest that it's fine to ask them whenever you like, especially if you know that you want them to be part of your bridal party regardless of any future changes in your relationship.

Overall, it's important to consider the time and financial commitments of your bridal party when deciding how early to ask them to be part of your wedding. While it's exciting to get everything planned early, waiting until you have a clear vision for your wedding and are closer to the date will likely result in a less stressful experience for everyone involved.

When should bridesmaids get their dresses?

While it's not too early to start looking at styles and seeking inspiration, it's best to purchase your bridesmaids' dresses around six months before the wedding. This is because dresses can take up to three months to arrive, and you'll want to allow extra time for alterations.

It's a good idea to start seeking inspiration and discussing options with the bride eight months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to make a final decision and order the dresses.

If you're ordering custom or made-to-order dresses, you may need to allow for longer lead times, so it's always best to give yourself a cushion of more time than you think you'll need.

Once the dresses arrive, you should schedule your first fitting. This should be done at least four to six weeks before the wedding, with the final fitting about a month before.

If you're buying off-the-rack, you can feel secure in the six-month window for ordering, and you can always try on-demand services like Birdy Grey's ready-to-ship assortment if you're in a time crunch.

What to do if the bride and bridesmaids disagree on the dress?

While it is ultimately the bride's decision on what the bridal party wears, it is important to take the bridesmaids' perspectives into account. If there is a consensus among the bridesmaids that the chosen dress is not to their taste, it may be a good idea to opt for a different dress to avoid any further drama. Websites such as Weddington Way allow the bridal party to vote on styles, enabling each bridesmaid to voice her opinion. Alternatively, the bride could prescribe a single colour while allowing each bridesmaid to wear a distinct style that showcases her personality.

If the bridesmaids are proving difficult to please, the bride can put her foot down and remind them that they only need to wear the dress for one day. However, if a bridesmaid has valid reasons for not liking the chosen dress, such as it being uncomfortable or clashing with her skin tone, it is worth asking the bride if there is any flexibility. The bride may be able to suggest a different dress in the same colour, or the bridesmaid could propose a couple of backup options.

If the bride and bridesmaid cannot agree or compromise, the bridesmaid may need to withdraw herself from the wedding party. This is a last resort, as it could disrupt the couple's plans and damage the bride and bridesmaid's relationship.

To avoid any last-minute issues, it is recommended that bridesmaids purchase their dresses six months before the wedding. This allows time for any alterations and for the dress to be shipped, which can take two to three months.

How much input should bridesmaids have on the dress?

It is generally recommended that brides start shopping for bridesmaid dresses seven to eight months before the wedding. This gives bridesmaids enough time to order their dresses, and account for any alterations. It's also a good idea for bridesmaids to get their measurements taken before purchasing a dress.

While it's ultimately the bride's decision on what her bridesmaids wear, it's good etiquette to let them have some input. It's important to have a conversation about budgets before shopping, as it's customary for bridesmaids to cover the cost of their dress, shoes, and alterations. The bride can offer a few price ranges to her bridesmaids to get a sense of how much they can spend, and go from there.

If the bride has a specific vision, she can choose the colour and fabric of the dresses, and allow her bridesmaids to select their own silhouette, sleeve length, or neckline. If she's more flexible, she can choose the length and fabric, and let her bridesmaids select the style and shape that flatters them best.

For bridesmaids, it's important to remember that it's the bride's big day, so they should be supportive of her wishes. If they don't like the dress, they can provide constructive feedback, but ultimately, the bride's decision is final.

What should bridesmaids consider when shopping for a dress?

It's not too early to start thinking about bridesmaid dresses a year before the wedding. In fact, it's recommended that brides start shopping for bridesmaid dresses around eight months before the wedding. This gives you, as a bridesmaid, plenty of time to find the perfect dress. Here are some things you should consider when shopping for your dress:

Budget

Discuss budget details with the bride early on. It is customary for bridesmaids to cover the cost of their dress, shoes, and alterations. Be honest and open about what you can afford, and don't be afraid to ask the bride for financial assistance if needed.

Timeline

Stay on top of the timeline provided by the bride. Order your dress as soon as the bride decides on the style to allow enough time for shipping and alterations. Schedule your first fitting around three to four months before the wedding and your final fitting about a month before the big day.

Style and Colour

While the bride usually has the final say on the style and colour of the bridesmaid dresses, she may allow you to choose certain elements, such as the sleeve length or neckline. Be flexible and keep an open mind; you may end up loving the bride's choice! If you have the freedom to choose your own style, be sure to follow the bride's lead and stick to the parameters she has set.

Measurements

Get your correct measurements before purchasing your dress. Typically, you can get these measurements done while trying on different styles, or you can visit a local seamstress for a professional measurement.

Accessories

Don't forget to consider the accessories you'll need to complete your look. The bride usually decides on the colour and style of the shoes, so check with her before purchasing. You will also need to wear the right undergarments to your fittings, so be sure to purchase those in advance as well.

Fittings

Be prepared for alterations. Even if you buy an off-the-rack dress, it may still need adjustments to fit your body perfectly. Schedule appointments with a seamstress to ensure your dress is fitted properly to your body type.

Remember to stick to the timeline provided by the bride, remain flexible, and don't be afraid to communicate any concerns or preferences you may have. Happy shopping!

Frequently asked questions