Rewearing A Bridesmaid Dress: When And Where To Repeat

Bridesmaids' dresses are a key part of the wedding planning process. While it's the bride's big day, and her dress is the star of the show, it's important to give bridesmaids some say in what they wear. After all, they'll be the ones paying for their dresses, shoes, and alterations. So, when can bridesmaids rewear their dresses? Well, it depends on the dress. If it's a trendy gown with a modern silhouette, it might not be suitable for another wedding. However, if the dress is more classic or timeless, it could be reworn for another formal event. Ultimately, it's up to the bridesmaids to decide if and when they want to rewear their dresses. They may choose to keep them as a memento of the special day.

Discuss budgets with your bridal party

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. It is important to have open and transparent conversations about money to alleviate any financial stressors. Here are some tips for discussing budgets with your bridal party:

Be Transparent About Your Budget

It is important to be transparent about your budget and what you can afford. Be honest and upfront about any monetary constraints, and don't be afraid to set a realistic budget. Good friends will understand, and less financial stress makes for a happier wedding party.

Discuss the Dress Budget

The bridesmaid dress is often the most costly aspect of being a bridesmaid. Discuss dress options and budgets with your bridal party and try to find something that suits everyone's budget. If you are the bride, consider paying for a portion of the cost, especially if you are choosing a more expensive dress.

Plan for Alterations

Remember to factor in the cost of alterations when budgeting for the dress. No matter the body type, almost every dress will require some alterations.

Consider Rewearable Options

Choosing a dress that can be reworn is a great way to save money. If you are the bride, you could suggest that your bridal party chooses their own dresses within a set of style parameters, or opt for mismatched dresses, which is an increasingly popular trend.

Discuss Other Costs

There are other costs associated with being a bridesmaid besides the dress, such as hair and makeup, accessories, shoes, and travel. Discuss these costs with your bridal party and be clear about any financial responsibilities from the outset.

Offer Alternatives

If a member of your bridal party is unable to afford certain costs, offer alternatives such as doing their own hair and makeup or suggesting budget-friendly activities. You could also propose that they take on a different role in the wedding, such as giving a reading or greeting guests.

Remember, open communication is key to ensuring everyone is on the same page and happy with the budget.

Order your wedding dress first

When it comes to wedding planning, one of the first things most brides do is go on the hunt for their wedding dress. With so many wedding gowns to choose from, it's essential to start this process early on. It is recommended that you order your wedding dress at least nine months in advance of the big day, and if you're having a custom gown made, it's best to order a year ahead of time.

Ordering your wedding dress first is crucial because it will influence the style and tone of your entire wedding, including the bridesmaids' dresses. You'll want the bridesmaids' dresses to complement your look and give off a similar vibe and sense of formality. For instance, if your wedding dress is vintage-inspired, it may look out of place for your bridesmaids to wear trendy, modern silhouettes. On the other hand, if your wedding style is bold and trendy, mismatched bridesmaid dresses with different textures or fashionable jumpsuits might be a perfect choice.

Additionally, ordering your wedding dress first allows you to discuss budgets with your bridesmaids. Wedding dresses come in a wide range of prices, from affordable options to more extravagant designs. Knowing how much your bridesmaids are willing to spend before finalising your wedding dress choice can save you from unnecessary stress.

Once you've ordered your wedding dress, you can start shopping for bridesmaid dresses. This process typically begins about eight months before the wedding. It's important to leave enough time for alterations, as it usually takes between two and three months for bridesmaid dresses to arrive. Ordering all the bridesmaid dresses together ensures that the fabric is from the same dye lot, resulting in perfectly matching colours.

In conclusion, ordering your wedding dress first is a crucial step in wedding planning as it sets the tone for the entire celebration and helps you choose complementary bridesmaids' dresses. It also allows for budget discussions and ensures that you have enough time for alterations, making the process less stressful and more enjoyable.

Choose a dress style that complements your wedding dress

Choosing a bridesmaid dress that complements the wedding dress can be a tricky task, but it's not impossible. Here are some tips to help you choose a dress style that complements the wedding dress:

Keep Your Dress Style in Mind

When choosing bridesmaid dresses, it's important to consider the style of the wedding dress. If the wedding dress is vintage-inspired or has a romantic and whimsical style, bridesmaid dresses with flowy, whimsical fabrics and ruffled sleeves can complement it beautifully. If the wedding dress is bold and trendy, consider choosing mismatched bridesmaid dresses with different textures or fashionable jumpsuits.

Share Some Dress Details

Factor in the subtle details of the wedding dress. For example, if the wedding dress has lace, the bridesmaids could wear lace tops to complement it without being too matchy-matchy. If the wedding dress is in a colour other than white, choose bridesmaid dress colours that complement it. For instance, if the wedding dress is light blue, the bridesmaids could wear different shades of blue for an ombre effect.

Avoid Matching Every Detail

While you want the bridesmaid dresses to complement the wedding dress, avoid matching every detail too closely. The bridesmaids' dresses should not take away from what makes the wedding dress stand out. For example, if the wedding dress has a plunging neckline, choose a different neckline for the bridesmaids. Similarly, if the wedding dress has embellishments, the bridesmaids' dresses don't need to have the same level of sparkle.

Keep the Formality the Same

The formality of the bridesmaid dresses should match that of the wedding gown. If the wedding dress is a full-length ball gown, the bridesmaids should also wear full-length dresses with luxe details suitable for the elegant venue.

Length Considerations

The length of the bridesmaid dresses should complement the length of the wedding dress. If the wedding dress is more relaxed, such as a satin slip dress, the bridesmaid dresses can be softer and more casual. However, an above-the-knee length might look awkward next to the gravitas of a wedding dress in photographs.

Accessorise

Accessories are a great way to tie the bridal look together. The bridal bouquet is an easy way to create a cohesive look. For example, if the wedding colour scheme is blush and classic blue, the bridesmaids can wear blue dresses and carry blush bouquets to complement the bride's bouquet and create a cohesive bridal party look.

Allow bridesmaids to choose their own dress silhouette

Allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dress silhouette can be a great way to ensure that everyone in your bridal party feels comfortable and beautiful. Here are some tips to help you navigate this decision:

Understand Body Types and Dress Styles

Every body type has unique proportions, and certain dress styles flatter specific shapes better than others. It can be helpful to identify the common body types among your bridesmaids and match them with complementary dress styles. Women's body shapes typically fall into categories such as pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Understanding these different body types will help you guide your bridesmaids towards dress silhouettes that flatter their figures.

Versatile Selection of Cuts

Offer a versatile selection of cuts to allow your bridesmaids to find options that work for their body types while offering comfort and beauty. A-line dresses, for example, are among the most universally flattering styles and are ideal for various body shapes. The A-line cut features a fitted bodice with a skirt that flares out gradually, creating an “A” shape. This shape skims over hips and thighs, making it suitable for multiple body types.

Empire Waistline

The empire waistline sits just below the bust, flowing into a relaxed, loose skirt. This style is perfect for bridesmaids who prefer a less fitted silhouette, as it doesn't cling to the midsection or hips. It is a flattering option for various body shapes, including apple and pear shapes, and can also be a forgiving choice for curvier figures.

Wrap Dresses

Wrap dresses are another versatile option, as they have a natural waist tie that can be adjusted for a customized fit. They flatter hourglass and pear shapes by defining the waistline, and they can add shape and definition to the waist area for rectangular or apple shapes. Wrap dresses are an excellent choice if you have a mix of body types in your bridal party.

Fit-and-Flare Dress

A fit-and-flare dress provides a structured bodice with a flared skirt, emphasizing the waist and flowing around the hips. This silhouette enhances hourglass figures and also works well for pear shapes. The structure helps define the waist and creates a balanced shape, making it a classic and feminine choice.

Open Communication

Open communication is essential when allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dress silhouettes. Encourage them to share their preferences and set a budget that everyone is comfortable with. Scheduling a fitting or a try-on session will also allow your bridesmaids to feel out different styles and help you see how the dresses look on each body type. This collaborative approach will result in a happier, more comfortable bridal party.

Be mindful of the timeline for fittings and alterations

When it comes to rewearing a bridesmaid dress, it's crucial to be mindful of the timeline for fittings and alterations. Here are some detailed guidelines to ensure a stress-free process:

Start Early

Begin the conversation about bridesmaid dresses with the bride-to-be around eight months before the wedding. This initial discussion will help you understand the bride's vision for the dresses, whether she wants you to pick your own, or she will be choosing them. Having this conversation early on will give you ample time to explore different styles and options.

Order the Dresses

Around six months before the wedding, the bride should decide on the bridesmaid dresses. As soon as you receive this information, place your order immediately. Designer bridesmaid dresses can take anywhere from two to three months to arrive, and you'll want to leave enough time for alterations. Ordering all the bridesmaid dresses together ensures that the fabric dye lots match, resulting in the same colour across all dresses.

Schedule Your First Fitting

Approximately three months before the wedding, schedule your first fitting. This timing allows for any necessary alterations to be made. During this fitting, a seamstress will ensure that the gown is properly fitted to your body type, making adjustments to the length, waist, hips, or straps as needed.

Final Fitting and Touches

Schedule your final fitting about a month before the wedding. This timing ensures you have enough time for any minor alterations that may be required. After the final fitting, you can take the dress home. Be sure to store it safely in a breathable garment bag, away from potential damage.

Last-Minute Checks

A few days before the wedding, try on your dress again to ensure it still fits perfectly. This precaution gives you some leeway for any unexpected last-minute alterations.

Peak Wedding Season

Keep in mind that during peak wedding season, which is typically from late spring to October, seamstresses and boutiques tend to be extremely busy. Therefore, it's advisable to schedule your fittings as early as possible, allowing for at least two months' advance notice.

Being mindful of the timeline for fittings and alterations will help ensure that your bridesmaid dress is ready well in advance of the wedding day, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on enjoying the celebration.

Frequently asked questions