Bridesmaids Dresses: Why The Ugly Trend?

Bridesmaid dresses have a reputation for being ugly, but why is that? One theory is that brides deliberately choose unflattering dresses for their bridal party to ensure they are the best-looking person at the wedding. Another theory is that bridesmaid dresses are designed to be different from the bride's dress so that she stands out. Additionally, it can be challenging to find a dress that flatters every body type, and some brides may prioritize uniformity over individuality when selecting bridesmaid dresses. However, it's important to note that not all bridesmaid dresses are ugly, and some brides put thought and effort into choosing stylish and flattering dresses for their bridal party.

Brides want to be the best-looking person at their wedding

The idea that bridesmaids' dresses are ugly is a trope that has been perpetuated by popular culture. From *Friends* to *My Best Friend's Wedding*, we've seen bridesmaids dressed in unflattering and comical outfits, but is this really the case in real life?

While it's true that bridesmaids' dresses are often maligned, the reality is that most contemporary bridesmaid dresses are, on their own, objectively fine. The problem arises when we consider the context in which these dresses are worn. A bridesmaid dress is part of a "supporting cast" uniform, and it can be challenging to find a single dress style that flatters every body type.

Historically, bridesmaids served as decoys for the bride, wearing identical dresses to confuse evil spirits, ward off kidnappers, and protect the bride from her potentially rapacious groom. However, since the 19th century, brides have become the stars of their weddings, and bridesmaids' dresses have evolved to ensure they don't outshine the bride.

Some brides may intentionally choose unflattering dresses for their bridesmaids to guarantee they don't upstage the bride. However, this is not the only reason for the perceived ugliness of bridesmaids' dresses. The unique challenge of finding a dress that flatters a group of people with different body shapes, styles, and budgets can result in a compromise that may not be the most aesthetically pleasing.

Additionally, the notion of "bridesmaid chic" is influenced by individual taste and the specific context of the wedding. A dress that may be considered elegant and sophisticated at one wedding could be deemed inappropriate and unattractive at another, depending on the theme, formality, and personal preferences of the bride.

So, while the stereotype of the ugly bridesmaid dress persists, it's important to remember that it's not always the case. Bridesmaids' dresses can be stylish, elegant, and flattering, especially when the bride involves her bridal party in the selection process and considers their feedback. Ultimately, the goal should be for everyone, including the bridesmaids, to feel beautiful and confident on the big day.

Bridesmaid dresses are often chosen without input from the bridesmaids

Historically, bridesmaids were dressed identically to the bride, serving as decoys to confuse evil spirits and ward off potential kidnappers. These days, the bride wants to stand out, but that doesn't mean her bridesmaids should be relegated to the background in ugly outfits.

The key to avoiding this is communication. Brides should talk to their bridesmaids about their requests and involve them in the process. This could mean creating a Pinterest board with examples of the style, colour, or fabric the bride is looking for, and asking for feedback. It could also mean allowing bridesmaids to choose their own dresses within certain parameters, such as a specific colour or retailer.

By giving bridesmaids some autonomy, the bride can ensure they feel comfortable and confident, and avoid the pitfall of choosing a dress that only looks good on one body type. After all, a happy bridesmaid makes for a happy bride!

Bridesmaids dresses are often uncomfortable and impractical

The tradition of dressing bridesmaids in matching outfits further contributes to the discomfort and impracticality of these dresses. While matching dresses create a visually appealing bridal party, they often fail to accommodate the diverse shapes and sizes of the bridesmaids. As a result, some bridesmaids may feel self-conscious or restricted in their movements due to ill-fitting dresses. Additionally, matching dresses can be costly, especially if the bride expects her bridesmaids to bear the expense. This financial burden can cause resentment and stress among the bridal party.

The selection of bridesmaids dresses also tends to prioritise the bride's desire to stand out rather than the comfort and practicality for the wearers. This can lead to dresses with excessive embellishments, awkward cuts, or uncomfortable fabrics that may look impressive but are uncomfortable and impractical for the bridesmaids to wear throughout the wedding celebrations. Furthermore, the pressure to choose a unique and memorable dress can result in unusual colours or styles that are unlikely to be worn again, further emphasising the impracticality of these dresses.

To address these issues, some brides are opting for mix-and-match bridesmaids dresses, allowing each bridesmaid to choose a dress that flatters their figure and aligns with their personal style while still adhering to the overall colour scheme or theme of the wedding. This approach empowers the bridesmaids to feel like themselves and ensures they are comfortable and confident on the big day. However, even with mix-and-match options, the dresses may still be impractical for reuse, especially if they are in unusual colours or have excessive embellishments.

Ultimately, the tradition of uncomfortable and impractical bridesmaids dresses persists due to a combination of factors, including the bride's desire to stand out, the pressure to adhere to wedding traditions, and the challenge of accommodating diverse body types and personal preferences within a bridal party. While mix-and-match options can provide some relief, a true shift towards comfortable and practical bridesmaids dresses requires a change in perspective, prioritising the comfort and individuality of the bridesmaids themselves.

Bridesmaids are expected to pay for their own dresses

While bridesmaids are often expected to pay for their own dresses, the cost can add up quickly, especially when you factor in other expenses such as travel and professional hair and makeup services. It is important to keep in mind that being a bridesmaid can be a significant financial burden for some, and it is crucial to be considerate of your bridal party's financial limitations.

If you are the bride, it is a thoughtful gesture to choose a dress that is reasonably priced and flattering for a range of body types. You can also provide a colour or fabric guideline and allow your bridesmaids to select their own dresses, giving them more control over their budget and ensuring they feel comfortable and confident.

If you have your heart set on a specific dress that is on the pricier side, consider contributing financially or offering to cover part of the cost to make it more affordable for your bridal party. It is also worth noting that very cheap dresses may not be the best option, as they may end up looking and feeling, well, cheap.

To make things easier on your bridesmaids, be transparent about your expectations and all associated costs from the start. This will help avoid any resentment or drama down the line and ensure that your bridal party can participate without financial strain. Remember, your bridesmaids are your friends and family first, so treat them with respect and consideration throughout the entire wedding planning process.

Bridesmaids dresses are often not re-worn

Bridesmaids' dresses are often not re-worn because they are typically chosen with the wedding theme in mind rather than the individual's style or preferences. While some brides may allow their bridesmaids to choose their own dresses within certain parameters, such as colour or length, others may opt for matching dresses to create a uniform look for their bridal party. This practice of matching dresses can make it challenging for bridesmaids to re-wear their dresses as they may not reflect their personal style or be suitable for other occasions.

Additionally, bridesmaids' dresses are often designed to complement the bride's gown and may not stand out on their own. They are meant to support the bride and enhance her appearance without outshining her, which can result in dresses that are less fashionable or less distinctive. Furthermore, the pressure to look perfect on the wedding day may lead to bridesmaids choosing dresses that are more elaborate or formal than they would typically wear, making them less likely to be re-worn.

The cost of bridesmaids' dresses can also be a factor in their lack of re-wear. Bridesmaids often incur significant expenses for the wedding, including travel, accommodation, and other related events. As a result, they may opt for more affordable dresses that are not as high quality or versatile, reducing the likelihood of re-wear.

In some cases, bridesmaids' dresses may be chosen with the intention of being worn once, especially if they are specifically designed for the wedding theme or colour palette. This can be seen as an investment in the overall aesthetic of the wedding rather than a long-term wardrobe piece. Additionally, the nature of formal events may call for more unique or specialised attire that may not be appropriate for everyday wear.

Lastly, the fit and style of bridesmaids' dresses may not always be flattering for all body types. Each bridesmaid has a unique figure, and finding a dress that flatters everyone can be challenging. A dress that looks good on one person may not translate well to another, resulting in some bridesmaids feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious. This can further decrease the likelihood of the dress being re-worn, as it may not be perceived as a confident or preferred choice for future events.

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