The Bridal Party's Dressing Room: Where Do Bridesmaids Get Ready?

Choosing what to wear on your wedding day is one of the most important decisions a bride can make. But what about the bridal party? Bridesmaids' dresses are a highly important aspect of the wedding, too, and there's a lot to consider when it comes to finding the perfect outfit. From style and colour to budget and body type, there are many factors that can influence the dress-picking process. In this article, we'll explore the world of bridesmaids' dresses and offer tips for brides and bridesmaids alike on how to navigate this sometimes tricky terrain.

Who pays for bridesmaids' dresses?

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. One of the biggest questions is: who pays for the bridesmaids' dresses?

According to wedding etiquette experts, there are no hard and fast rules about who pays for the bridesmaids' dresses. While it is common for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses and accessories, it is increasingly common for brides to pay for their bridal party's dresses, especially if they are expensive. If the bride is unable to cover the full cost, she may choose to pay for a portion of the dresses.

The cost of a bridesmaid dress can vary widely, ranging from $100 to upwards of $800. It is important for brides to keep their bridal party's budget in mind when choosing a dress, and to communicate any financial expectations to their bridal party upfront. If a bridesmaid is unable to afford the dress, it is recommended that the bride work with her to find a more affordable option or cover the cost of the dress herself.

In addition to the dress itself, bridesmaids are also typically expected to cover other expenses such as hair and makeup appointments, transportation to the wedding, and gifts for the couple. It is important for anyone considering becoming a bridesmaid to carefully consider the financial commitment involved and be honest about what they can realistically afford.

What to consider when choosing a dress colour

When choosing a colour for your bridesmaids' dresses, there are several things to consider. Here are some tips to help you narrow down your options and pinpoint the perfect palette for your big day:

• Find your inspiration: Create a wedding Pinterest board and start pinning photos that inspire you. You may notice a trend in colours that you are drawn to.
• Location: Choose colours that complement your venue. For example, if you're planning a beach wedding, you might opt for a shade that will stand out against the white sand, like fuchsia or orange. On the other hand, if your wedding is taking place in a forest, neutral-coloured gowns may be a better option.
• Personal style: Opt for colours that reflect your personal style and that of your fiancé. If you're a minimalist who loves neutral, earthy colours, then a pink and orange wedding might not be for you.
• Bridal gown colour: Keep the colour of your bridal gown in mind so that your bridesmaids' dresses won't clash with yours.
• Skin tone: Be mindful of the dress colour and skin tones. Avoid colours that will wash out certain skin tones or make them look too flushed.
• Season: Consider the season in which your wedding is taking place. For example, bright tropical hues work well in summer, pastels lend themselves to spring, warmer tones channel the colours of autumn, and rich jewel tones are best in winter.
• Multiple colours: Ombre and mix-and-match trends are popular, so it's not uncommon to see a variety of colours in the bridal party. You could have your bridesmaids wear different shades of the same colour or different styles in the same colour palette.
• Practicality: Remember that your bridesmaids will be busy helping you throughout the day, so it's important that they are comfortable and able to move around easily in their dresses.
• Order in advance: Designer bridesmaid gowns can take between 2 to 6 months to arrive, so it's a good idea to order well in advance.

How to shop for a bridesmaid dress

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and with so many decisions to make, choosing bridesmaid dresses can be a daunting task. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and ensure your bridesmaids look and feel fabulous on your big day.

Research Styles and Brands:

Start by exploring different styles, silhouettes, colours, and brands available both in-person and online. This will help you narrow down your preferences and give you a clear vision for your bridesmaids' attire. Consider the theme and setting of your wedding. For example, a rustic wedding might call for earth tones, while a beach wedding pairs well with flowing fabrics and soft colours.

Discuss Budgets:

Money conversations can be tricky, but it's essential to talk openly about budgets with your bridesmaids from the beginning. Be transparent about what you and your bridesmaids are comfortable spending, and remember that it's your responsibility to ensure everyone feels financially included.

Start Early:

Begin the search for bridesmaid dresses at least seven to eight months before the wedding. This will give your bridesmaids enough time to order their dresses and make any necessary alterations. Keep in mind that many formal bridal retailers offer made-to-order options, so last-minute purchases might not be feasible.

Be Flexible:

If you're giving your bridesmaids some freedom to choose their own dresses, try to keep an open mind. What may seem like an unusual choice on the hanger might end up looking fantastic on your bridesmaids. Remember, it's your special day, so your preferences take priority, but be considerate of their comfort and style preferences as well.

Provide Clear Guidelines:

If you're letting your bridesmaids pick their own dresses, set some parameters to ensure a cohesive look. Be specific about colours, lengths, materials, and the level of formality you want. For example, if you're having a black-tie wedding, ensure the bridesmaid dresses align with the event's formality.

Make it a Group Activity:

Turn bridesmaid dress shopping into a fun group activity! Go to brunch and then visit some boutiques. Making appointments in advance is a good idea. This way, your bridesmaids can try on different options, and you can provide your immediate feedback. If some of your bridesmaids don't live nearby, you can always schedule a video call to include them in the process.

Final Check-In:

Set a deadline for your bridesmaids to run their final dress choices by you before they purchase. This step ensures that their choices align with your vision and gives them enough time to make any necessary changes or alterations.

Don't Forget the Accessories:

Remember that bridesmaid attire includes more than just the dress. Discuss shoes, accessories, and bouquets with your bridesmaids. Choosing a specific shoe style or colour can help unify the look, even if the dresses are mismatched. Traditionally, the bride gifts the jewellery she wants her bridesmaids to wear, but you can also give them the freedom to choose their own.

Happy planning! With these steps in mind, you're well on your way to finding the perfect bridesmaid dresses for your special day.

Dress styles: the pros and cons of maxi, midi and mini

Bridesmaids can get dressed wherever they choose, but it's often a fun part of the day to get ready together. Many choose to get ready at the venue, in a hotel room, or at the home of the bride or bridesmaid.

Now, onto the dress styles!

Maxi Dresses:

The longest of the three styles, maxi dresses, end slightly below the ankles. They are a great choice for a formal wedding, especially in a bohemian style. They are also perfect for winter weddings, keeping your bridesmaids warm and stylish. A maxi dress can be a good option for petite bridesmaids as long as the dress hugs their natural curves.

Midi Dresses:

Midi dresses are very versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them a good choice for almost any social occasion. The length of a midi dress falls anywhere from mid-calf to just above the ankle. This style is a contemporary choice for bridesmaids, adding an element of playfulness and style to the bridal party. Midi dresses are also universally flattering, suiting all body types, including petite women, as long as the dress is proportional.

Mini Dresses:

The most versatile of the three styles, mini dresses can be dressed up or down with accessories and are perfect for a beach wedding. A mini dress ends above the knee and can give the illusion of longer legs.

Each style has its pros and cons, and it's important to consider the season, venue, and comfort of your bridesmaids when making a decision. Mixing and matching styles and lengths can also be a great way to cater to individual preferences and body types while adding a unique and dynamic look to the bridal party.

Accessories: shoes, jewellery and bouquets

Accessories are an important part of completing the bridesmaids' look and there are several options to consider.

One option is to let your bridesmaids accessorise themselves, especially if they will all be wearing the same dress. This will allow their individuality to shine through and create a unique look that works together aesthetically. You can provide some parameters, such as suggesting they stick to the pearl family or wear metallic accessories.

Another option is to opt for minimal accessories, such as a simple pair of stud earrings. This can be especially effective if the dress is already embellished and iridescent, as too many accessories may be overkill. A single statement bracelet can beautifully complement a sleeveless or strapless dress.

You could also provide your bridesmaids with a theme to work with, such as wearing similar accessories to the bride or each other. For example, if the bride wears a pearl choker, the bridesmaids could wear simple strands of pearls.

Accessories can also be given as gifts to the bridesmaids, which they can wear on the wedding day and think of the happy occasion in the future.

When it comes to shoes, it is considerate to choose a lower-priced option or provide a suggestion that allows them to choose their own price point, especially if your bridesmaids are already spending a lot on the dress, travel, and other wedding-related expenses. Neutral colours such as nude, mocha, ivory, or black are a good choice as they complement a variety of dress colours and can be worn again.

Finally, don't forget the bouquets! Flowers can add a beautiful pop of colour and elegance to the bridesmaids' look as they walk down the aisle.

Frequently asked questions