Apple Dresses For Bridesmaids: Coordinating Colors And Style

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and choosing the right colours for your bridesmaids' dresses is an important part of setting the tone and personality of your wedding. One of the most common ways to coordinate your bridesmaids' dresses is to use your primary wedding colour as the dress colour and then have the groomsmen wear matching accessories such as ties, pocket squares, and even socks. You can also order fabric swatches to see how different colours and fabrics look together. If you want to mix and match, consider choosing different shades of the same colour or incorporating different textures and embellishments. Ultimately, the most important thing is that each bridesmaid feels comfortable and confident, so allowing them to choose a dress in a style that suits them best might be a good option.

Different shades of the same colour

Using different shades of the same colour for your bridesmaids' dresses is a great way to add some interesting variety to your wedding photos while still keeping things cohesive. This option is perfect for brides who want to avoid the classic matching dresses look but also don't want to do something too out of the ordinary.

One way to achieve this look is to choose one colour family and select dresses in different shades within that family. For example, you could choose a range of terracotta, pink and nude dresses, as seen in a photo from May Iosotaluno Photography, or varying shades of blue, as seen in photos from Norina Kaye Photography and Leighanne Herr Photography.

Another option is to experiment with shades of your desired colour. Once you've decided on a colour, explore similar dress options in slightly darker or lighter shades. Combining these shades together will create a unique effect, especially for larger bridal parties.

You can also try mixing and matching different fabrics, patterns and colours within the same colour family. For example, you could have your bridesmaids wear different shades of velvet, lace, satin, sequins or ruffles. This adds texture and interest to the overall look while still keeping things coordinated.

Remember, when choosing different shades of the same colour, it's important to consider the overall style and theme of your wedding, as well as your own personal preference. Ordering fabric swatches can be helpful in deciding which shades will work best together and complement your wedding colour palette.

Mismatched dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a great way to incorporate each person's style and preference into your wedding. This trend allows your bridal party to look cohesive without being overly uniform, and ensures that each bridesmaid feels comfortable and confident. There are three ways to achieve this look:

• Different dress styles, same colour: This is the most common type of mismatched bridesmaid dresses. It is a simple way to achieve the trendy mismatched look while keeping things simple and allowing your bridesmaids to choose 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 a mix of colours. It is best if the bride specifies the colour for each bridesmaid to ensure a harmonious look.
• Mix of dress styles and colours: This option requires more planning but results 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, focus on similarities in silhouette, fabric, waistlines, necklines, or straps to ensure a cohesive yet varied look.

• Choose one element that is the same across all dresses, such as the fabric or neckline.
• Opt for the same dress length. Mixing short and long dresses can look mismatched.
• Carefully choose your wedding colour palette. Pick colours that look good together and get small samples of fabric to see how they look next to each other.
• Give your bridesmaids ample direction. Create an inspiration board or sample photos to show them the types of dresses you like.
• Tie the look together with identical accessories, such as a rhinestone belt or statement jewellery.
• Consider hemlines carefully. Have a mix of lengths and silhouettes to ensure that bridal party photos look balanced.
• Don't vary too many features. Only switch up one or two things about each dress, such as the neckline and colour, and keep the rest the same.
• Examine colours on samples, not just swatches. Small swatches often look very different when made up in a gown.

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses offer a win-win situation, allowing for personal expression, comfort, and budget flexibility. Each bridesmaid can choose a dress that complements her body shape and expresses her individual style.

Matching accessories

Ties and Pocket Squares

An easy way to coordinate the groomsmen's accessories with the bridesmaids' dresses is to match the colour of the ties and pocket squares to the dresses. This creates a uniform look and works well if you want the bridal party to match while giving the groom a unique look. If you want to add a unique twist, you can also try matching the groom's tie to the bridesmaids' dresses, giving him a different look that stands out.

Colour Family and Shades

You can incorporate similar colour families and shades by choosing ties that are a shade or two different from the dresses. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing apple dresses, the groomsmen could wear ties in a darker or lighter shade of green. Alternatively, you can also play with patterns and textures by choosing ties with stripes or dots in the same colour family as the dresses.

Secondary Colours

If you want to add a pop of colour, consider using secondary colours from your wedding palette. Choose a colour that is not the same as the bridesmaids' dresses but complements them. For example, if your palette includes teal and coral, the groomsmen could wear coral-coloured ties or another secondary colour.

Monochromatic Look

Create a monochromatic look by choosing suits and accessories in shades of the same colour. For instance, if the bridesmaids are wearing apple green, the groomsmen could wear suits and accessories in different shades of green, creating a cohesive and stylish ensemble.

Accessories for the Bridesmaids

Don't forget about accessories for the bridesmaids! Apple green earrings, bracelets, or hairpieces can add a stylish touch and further unify the bridal party's look. You can also play with different textures and fabrics to create visual interest.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose accessories that complement the dresses and suits without being too matchy-matchy. By choosing one or two common elements, such as colour or pattern, you can create a stylish and cohesive bridal party that reflects your unique style and personality.

Monochromatic looks

Apple is a vibrant and playful colour, and there are several shades that would complement it well. A monochromatic look using apple-coloured dresses can be achieved by incorporating colours like kelly green, lime green, or forest green. These shades will create a cohesive and eye-catching palette for your bridesmaids.

When creating a monochromatic look, it's important to consider the different styles and textures of the dresses. You can opt for the same shade of apple but vary the dress styles, such as different necklines, silhouettes, or fabrics. This approach will add visual interest to the overall look while keeping the colour palette consistent.

Another way to create a monochromatic look is to play with different shades of green. You can choose a range of dresses, from light apple to darker forest green, creating an ombre effect. This option adds depth and dimension to the bridal party's attire while still maintaining a cohesive colour story.

Additionally, consider incorporating apple-coloured accessories, such as shoes, bags, or jewellery, to tie the look together. You can also mix and match apple-coloured dresses with complementary colours like ivory, beige, or even bolder shades like royal blue or purple.

Remember, when creating a monochromatic look, it's essential to consider the overall theme and style of your wedding, as well as the comfort and preferences of your bridesmaids.

Complementary colours

When it comes to choosing colours to complement apple dresses for bridesmaids, there are a few approaches you can take. One option is to opt for a monochromatic look, choosing different shades of green to create a cohesive and interesting variety in your wedding photos. You could also pair apple green with neutral colours, such as grey or tan, to create a more subtle and understated look.

If you want to add a pop of colour, consider complementary colours that sit opposite green on the colour wheel, such as shades of red, pink, and purple. These colours will create a bold and vibrant statement. For a more subtle take on complementary colours, you could choose a softer pink or lavender shade to pair with apple green.

Another approach is to draw inspiration from nature. Apple green is often associated with spring, so you could pair it with other colours reminiscent of the season, such as pastel pinks, purples, and blues. If you're having an autumn wedding, you could incorporate deeper shades of red, orange, and green to evoke the changing leaves.

Don't be afraid to mix and match colours and fabrics to create a unique and personalised look for your bridesmaids. Ultimately, the most important thing is that each bridesmaid feels comfortable and confident, so make sure to involve them in the decision-making process and choose colours that flatter their individual styles.

Frequently asked questions