Find Bridesmaids Dresses: In-Store Shopping Options

Planning a wedding is a fun but challenging task, and one of the most important aspects is finding the perfect bridesmaids' dresses. With so many different styles, colours, and price points available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Luckily, there are many online and in-store options to choose from, offering a wide range of designs to suit any wedding theme and budget. Whether you're looking for trendy, classic, boho, or glamorous, there's sure to be a retailer that can meet your needs.

Online vs in-store

There are a variety of options available when it comes to buying bridesmaids' dresses, with both online and in-store options providing a range of benefits.

Online

Online retailers offer a convenient way to shop for bridesmaids' dresses, especially for those who live far away or have a busy schedule. Many online stores provide helpful features such as bridal party concierge services, affordable prices, a wide range of styles, colours, and sizes, and the ability to order fabric swatches. This allows bridesmaids to try on samples at home and ensure they love the look before buying. Additionally, online retailers often have user reviews, which can provide valuable insights into the quality and fit of the dresses.

In-Store

Shopping in-store for bridesmaids' dresses offers several advantages. Trying on dresses in person can give you a better sense of the fit, style, and quality. It also allows you to see and feel the fabric in person, ensuring it matches your vision. In-store shopping provides the opportunity for tailoring services, ensuring a perfect fit. Additionally, shopping in-store can be a fun and social experience, allowing the bridal party to bond and make memories together.

Both online and in-store options offer unique benefits. Online shopping provides convenience, a wide range of options, and the ability to try on samples at home. In-store shopping offers a more tactile experience, the opportunity for tailoring, and a fun social outing for the bridal party. Ultimately, the decision to shop online or in-store may depend on personal preferences, location, and the time frame available for dress shopping.

Budget-friendly options

If you're looking for budget-friendly bridesmaid dresses, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some suggestions:

Birdy Grey

Birdy Grey offers a range of chiffon creations, from off-the-shoulder numbers to convertible dresses, with prices starting at $99. They also cater to plus and maternity sizes. You can order a swatch to test the colour before purchasing, and shipping usually takes around seven business days.

Lulus

Lulus offers stylish bridesmaid dresses with daring thigh-high slits, plunging necklines, and alluring open backs, all for under $100. They provide free shipping on orders over $50, but returns must be made within 10 days.

Azazie

Azazie has almost 600 bridal party dresses available in various colours and styles, catering to different wedding aesthetics, formalities, seasons, and budgets. All bridal party dress styles are under $250, and they offer free shipping and returns within 30 days.

David's Bridal

David's Bridal has a wide range of bridesmaid dresses starting at $59.95, with free shipping on orders over $79. They offer various styles, including bohemian, romantic, rustic, breezy beach, and winter wonderland themes. You can browse their options by silhouette, neckline, sleeve type, fabric, length, and more, with over 60 colours to choose from.

Kennedy Blue

Kennedy Blue offers a try-at-home option where you can order dresses to sample for $10 with free shipping and returns. They have various sizes, including maternity, and all dresses are under $200. However, they can take a few months to arrive, and only a 75% refund is offered.

Reformation

Reformation offers stylish and sustainable dresses with most styles available in at least four colourways, making it a great option for mismatched bridal parties. They provide free shipping and returns, as well as an in-store pick-up option. Prices start at $98.

Plus-size options

Birdy Grey offers an extensive range of plus-size bridesmaid dresses, with sizes up to 3X. Their Curve Collection is designed with real curvy bodies in mind, featuring convertible dresses and modern crepe dresses. The brand also provides helpful resources for styling and measuring to ensure the perfect fit. Additionally, their dresses are priced affordably, starting at $99.

Azazie is another excellent option for plus-size bridesmaid dresses, with sizes ranging from 0 to 30, and the option for custom measurements. They offer a wide variety of styles, including A-line dresses, sheath dresses, pantsuits, and jumpsuits, ensuring that everyone can find a dress that suits their personality and silhouette. Azazie's dresses are also budget-friendly, starting at $69.

Lavetir is a brand that understands the importance of inclusive sizing and offers a wide range of plus-size bridesmaid dresses designed to flatter every body type. They have styles such as A-line, empire waist, mermaid, and ball gown dresses, with sizes up to 32W. Lavetir also provides free custom sizing and affordable options, with many dresses under $100.

Lulus is a great choice for plus-size bridesmaid dresses, offering sizes up to 3XL. They have a bridal concierge service to assist you in finding the perfect dress, with over 100 different styles to choose from. Lulus also offers affordable options, with prices starting at $49.

For in-store options, Nordstrom is a fantastic choice. They offer a wide range of designer brands and ready-to-wear options, with sizes up to 3XL. Nordstrom also provides convenient services such as in-store styling and alterations, ensuring that you find the perfect fit. Their prices start at $58.

With a size range of 00 to 32, Kennedy Blue offers the convenience of trying on dress samples at home before purchasing. They have a wide range of styles, including junior bridesmaid, maternity, and mother-of-the-bride dresses. Kennedy Blue's dresses are affordable, with prices starting at $99.

These brands provide a diverse selection of plus-size bridesmaid dresses, ensuring that everyone can find a dress that makes them feel beautiful and confident.

Colour options

When it comes to choosing a colour for your bridesmaids' dresses, the options are endless. Here are some tips to help you navigate the vast array of choices and select the perfect hue for your bridal party:

Consider Your Wedding Theme

The colour of the bridesmaids' dresses can play a significant role in enhancing your wedding theme. For instance, soft pinks, flowing skirts, and light fabrics like tulle are ideal for a romantic garden wedding. Earth tones such as soft tans, cheery apple, or deep emerald are perfect for a rustic chic celebration. If you're exchanging vows on a hilltop, in a barn, or a classic catering hall, there are numerous options to complement any setting.

Mix and Match

Creating a cohesive look for your bridal party doesn't mean that everyone has to wear the exact same shade. In fact, mix-and-match bridesmaids' dresses are a popular trend. You can choose a colour family and then select different shades within that palette for each bridesmaid. This approach adds depth and interest to your wedding aesthetic.

Compliment the Wedding Party

When selecting a colour for the bridesmaids' dresses, it's essential to consider the skin tones and preferences of your bridal party. Certain colours may flatter some skin tones more than others. Additionally, you want your bridesmaids to feel confident and comfortable in the chosen hue. Involving them in the decision-making process can ensure that everyone feels their best on your special day.

Seasonal Inspiration

Drawing inspiration from the season of your wedding is another way to narrow down your colour choices. For example, dusty blues and blush pinks are perfect for a spring wedding, while emerald greens and deep wines are ideal for autumn. If you're tying the knot in summer, consider light and airy colours like champagne or dusty blue. Winter weddings call for rich jewel tones like burgundy, navy, or even black.

Fabric and Lighting

Don't forget to consider the fabric of the dresses and how the colour will appear in different lighting conditions. Ordering swatches can be immensely helpful in this regard. Additionally, certain colours may be more suitable for specific fabrics. For example, light and airy colours like blush or sage green are often paired with tulle or chiffon, while deeper tones like emerald or burgundy can be stunning in velvet or satin.

Shipping and returns

When it comes to shipping and returns, there are several options available for those looking to buy bridesmaids dresses in-store. Many companies offer free shipping, with some providing expedited or express options for an additional fee. Some brands also have physical stores where you can try on dresses before purchasing, such as Nordstrom, which has over 300 locations.

If you're unable to visit a store, most online retailers provide detailed size guides and measurement instructions to help you find the right fit. However, it's important to note that sizes can vary between brands, so checking the size guide is crucial. Additionally, many companies offer swatches or samples that you can order to test the colour and fabric before placing your order.

Regarding returns, most companies offer a limited time frame for exchanges or refunds, with some charging restocking or return fees. It's essential to carefully review the return policy of each retailer before making a purchase. Some companies may also offer alterations or tailoring services to ensure a perfect fit.

• Birdy Grey: Offers free shipping and free exchanges within 45 days, with returns accepted for a restocking fee.
• Azazie: Provides free shipping and accepts returns within 30 days.
• Lulus: Offers free shipping on orders over $50 and free returns within 10 days. A $7 fee is charged for returns after 10 days.
• Nordstrom: Provides free shipping and free returns through mail or in-store.
• Reformation: Offers free shipping and returns within 30 days.
• David's Bridal: Free standard shipping on orders over $79 within the United States (excluding Alaska and Hawaii). They also offer expedited and express shipping options.

Frequently asked questions