The Bates Bridesmaids' Dresses: Where Were They Sourced?

The bridesmaids' dresses at Gil Bates and Kelly Jo Callaham's wedding were white, matching the bride and the groom. For the wedding of Zach Bates and Whitney Perkins, the bridesmaids wore black, white, red, and silver. Erin Bates Paine's bridesmaids wore sky blue, while Alyssa Bates' attendants wore soft pinks and browns. Tori Bates Smith's bridesmaids wore mauve, lace-sleeved dresses. Carlin Bates' bridesmaids wore blue.

Bridesmaid dress styles

Fabric

The fabric of a bridesmaid dress can vary, but chiffon and satin are two popular choices. Chiffon is a lightweight and flowy fabric that can be used to create a romantic and ethereal look for the bridal party. Satin, on the other hand, is a sleek and luxurious fabric that can add a touch of glamour to the bridesmaid ensemble.

Length

Bridesmaid dresses can range from short to maxi lengths. A short dress might be a good choice for a summer wedding, while a maxi dress can be a more elegant option for a formal affair. The maxi length is also a versatile choice, as it can be styled in many ways, such as with a slit or a flowy skirt.

Neckline

The neckline of a bridesmaid dress is an important consideration, as it can flatter different body types and create different looks. A sweetheart neckline is a popular choice for petite bridesmaids, as it creates a subtle cleavage and soft, feminine curves. V-necklines are another flattering option, especially for busty bridesmaids, as they elongate the neck and enhance the silhouette. They are also a good choice for bridesmaids with broad shoulders, as they help to narrow the width of the shoulders. For a more modest look, a high neckline can be a stylish option, especially for busty bridesmaids who want to avoid drawing attention to their chest.

Silhouette

The silhouette of a bridesmaid dress can vary, but two popular styles are the A-line and empire waist. A-line dresses are fitted at the waist and then flare out, creating a flattering hourglass shape. This style is perfect for bridesmaids who want to highlight their curves. Empire waist dresses, on the other hand, have a raised waistline that falls just below the bust, with a loose-fitting skirt. This style is comfortable and flattering for fuller-figured bridesmaids who want to avoid drawing attention to their belly, hips, and legs.

Colour

The colour of the bridesmaid dresses is an important consideration, as it should complement the wedding theme and the complexions of the bridal party. Popular colour choices include light blue, dusty rose, champagne, navy, and olive.

Personalisation

Bridesmaid dresses can also be personalised to match the unique style of the bride and her tribe. This can be done through different styles of sleeves, such as long sleeves or cold shoulders, or through different skirt styles, such as a flowing skirt or a slit.

Ultimately, the most important element of a bridesmaid dress is how it makes the wearer feel. It should be comfortable and flattering, so that the bridesmaid can feel confident and enjoy the special day to the fullest.

Budgeting for bridesmaid dresses

Average Cost of Bridesmaid Dresses

According to The Knot's 2023 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a bridesmaid dress in 2023 was $130 per person, which is relatively unchanged since 2021. However, prices can vary depending on factors such as dress designer, style, and location. For example, in regions like the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, the average cost is closer to $140 per dress.

Factors Affecting Cost

When budgeting for bridesmaid dresses, it's essential to consider additional expenses beyond the dress itself. Here are some factors that can affect the overall cost:

• Alterations: Alterations can add to the cost, and the more complex the changes, the higher the price tag. Embellishments like sequins, beads, or pearls can also make alterations more expensive.
• Accessories: Completing the bridesmaid look with accessories like jewellery, shoes, and a clutch can increase the budget.
• Undergarments: Specialised undergarments, such as shapewear or a specific type of bra, may be needed and factored into the overall cost.
• Hair and Makeup: While some couples may cover these costs, it's not always the case. Discussing this with the couple beforehand and considering alternatives like doing your own hair and makeup can help manage expenses.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Bridesmaid Dresses

To help your bridal party save money without compromising style, here are some tips:

• Determine Your Budget: Be transparent with the couple about your budget constraints. If the bride chooses the attire, the bridesmaid usually covers the costs, so clear communication is essential.
• Try Before You Buy: Take advantage of at-home try-on services offered by some retailers to avoid buying multiple dresses.
• Mismatched Dresses: Opting for a mismatched bridesmaid look can provide flexibility in terms of budget and allow each bridesmaid to express their personal style while staying within the bride's colour and style preferences.
• Renting: Renting bridesmaid dresses is a cost-effective and sustainable option, with services like Nuuly and Rent the Runway offering a wide range of choices.
• Secondhand Shopping: Buying secondhand from sites like Poshmark, thredUP, or eBay can help you find once-used dresses in excellent condition at more affordable prices.

The Bates Family Bridesmaid Dresses

The Bates family, known for their TV show "Bringing Up Bates," has had several weddings over the years, each with its unique style. While specific budgets for bridesmaid dresses are not publicly available, we can take a look at some of their choices:

• Erin Bates and Chad Paine (2013): The bridesmaid dresses were a gorgeous sky blue, perfectly matching the joyful flowers.
• Zach and Whitney Bates (2013): Their December wedding featured a classic black, white, red, and silver motif, allowing each family member to rock their favourite style while remaining coordinated.
• Alyssa Bates and John Webster (2014): Alyssa's bridesmaids wore soft pinks and browns, creating a soft and ethereal look with pretty, tiered dresses and scalloped hems.
• Tori Bates and Bobby Smith (2017): Tori chose mauve, lace-sleeved dresses for her special girls, adding a unique touch to her wintertime wedding.

In conclusion, budgeting for bridesmaid dresses involves considering various factors and making choices that fit within your financial constraints. By communicating openly, being creative, and exploring cost-saving options, you can achieve a beautiful bridal party look without breaking the bank.

Body-type issues

When it comes to choosing bridesmaids' dresses, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident. Here are some tips to address body-type issues when selecting bridesmaids' dresses:

• Communication is key: Open communication between the bride, bridesmaids, and family members is essential. Before going shopping, the bride should discuss her vision for the bridesmaids' visual role in the wedding, as well as any budget constraints. This will help manage expectations and avoid conflicts later on.
• Consider different body types: Keep in mind that each bridesmaid may have a different body type, and not every dress style will flatter everyone. Aim for a style that complements a range of body types or consider choosing a colour and allowing each bridesmaid to select a dress style that suits them.
• Offer alterations: If you've chosen a specific dress style, be open to alterations to ensure that each bridesmaid feels comfortable. This may include adjusting necklines, sleeve lengths, or hemlines to suit individual preferences and body types.
• Choose versatile styles: Opt for bridesmaids' dresses with versatile styles that can be customized or tailored to each individual. This could include dresses with convertible necklines, adjustable straps, or removable sleeves, allowing each bridesmaid to style the dress according to their comfort level and body type.
• Involve your bridesmaids: Include your bridesmaids in the dress selection process. Ask for their input and feedback on styles, colours, and alterations. This will help ensure that they feel comfortable and valued, and it can also prevent last-minute surprises or disagreements.
• Be mindful of budget constraints: Discuss budget constraints openly with your bridesmaids. Be considerate of their financial situations, as they may have different abilities to afford certain dresses. Offer alternatives or suggestions if needed, such as renting dresses or choosing less expensive options.

Remember, the goal is to make each bridesmaid feel valued and comfortable while also achieving a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look for the wedding. By addressing body-type issues sensitively and collaboratively, you can create a positive and inclusive experience for everyone involved.

The bride's vision

For some brides, the vision for their bridesmaids' dresses is a specific colour palette, such as soft pinks and browns, or sky blue. For others, it is a particular style, such as mix-and-match dresses in neutral colours, or dresses with lace sleeves. The bride's vision may also include specific alterations to the dresses, such as adding sleeves or raising the neckline to make the dresses more modest.

In addition to the aesthetic considerations, the bride's vision for the bridesmaids' dresses should also take into account the budget and the body types of the bridesmaids. By communicating her vision clearly to the bridesmaids, the bride can ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the dresses will be something that the bridesmaids feel comfortable in and that fit within the budget.

Ultimately, the bride's vision for the bridesmaids' dresses is an important part of the wedding planning process and can help to ensure that the wedding day is a stylish and memorable occasion.

Dress alterations

When it comes to wedding dresses, the Bates sisters have their own unique styles. Bridesmaid dresses are often chosen to match the bride's dress, so it's likely that alterations are made to ensure the bridal party's attire is cohesive.

Erin Bates Paine's bridesmaids wore sky blue dresses, while Michaella Bates' attendants wore soft pinks and browns, and Alyssa Bates' bridesmaids wore curve-hugging drop-waist gowns. For Tori Bates Smith's wedding, the bridesmaids wore mauve, lace-sleeved dresses.

Carlin Bates, who chose an Italian designer for her wedding gown, gathered her female relatives to choose their gowns at a bridal shop in Nashville. It's possible that alterations were made to ensure the dresses adhered to the family's modesty standards.

While the Bates family has not disclosed the specific alterations made to their bridesmaid dresses, it's common for bridesmaids to make alterations to ensure their dresses fit well and align with the bride's vision for the wedding.

Frequently asked questions