6 Rules to Follow When Dressing Your Bridesmaids

Plan ahead

If you’re putting together a wedding, you already know how important it is to get a good head start (either that or you didn’t, and now you’re a nervous wreck). You may have a lot on your plate already, but bridesmaids’ dresses can’t be overlooked. They’re almost as important as the wedding dress itself. Almost.

The point is, you’re going to have to be coordinating fittings and alterations between several different people with their own jobs and lives, who may not even live in the same area. The sooner you work out a game plan, the smoother things will go.

Be cost conscious

First things first: will you be covering the costs of your bridesmaids’ dresses or will they be paying themselves? Don’t feel bad if you can’t afford the former. Weddings are expensive. But that’s just as true for them as it is for you. Whatever you choose (don’t forget: splitting the costs is an option too), it’s good to be mindful of budget.

You don’t have to break the bank to find eye-popping outfits. Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers. Some stores give deals on group sales. Even something as simple as a search for Nordstrom coupon codes can result in big savings. Leave no stone unturned.

Get measurements

Professional measurements, that is. This is especially important if your bridesmaids’ dresses are being ordered online. Buying off the Internet is cheap and convenient, but it has one major caveat: if the dress doesn’t fit right, there’s not much you can do about it.

Don’t leave anything to chance. Instead of asking for everyone’s measurements and trusting that they’re not simply guessing or that those measurements are out of date, arrange for a professional to come in and ensure that everyone’s dress fits like a glove.

Go simple, not drab

Don’t be fooled, those two things are not the same. Simplicity is key when dressing bridesmaids. After all, they’re there to be your support, not the other way around. This is your day and it’s okay for you to take ownership of that. If you and your wedding dress are to be the main attraction (as it should be), then the bridesmaids’ dresses shouldn’t be too flashy.

At the same time, that doesn’t mean they have to be plain or drab. Finding the right balance is key. A good bridesmaid’s dress should be simple but elegant, beautiful but not overstated.

Provide options

Too often, people assume that all bridesmaids’ dresses have to look exactly the same. But a wedding is a celebration, not a job. Your bridesmaids shouldn’t be stuck wearing a uniform. At the same time, consistency is important. Everyone should at least agree on having the same color, pattern, fabric, and length. Otherwise everything just looks disorganized.

Providing subtle options allows for touches of personality and individuality among your bridesmaids without making it look like a bunch of unrelated people wandered in off the street. Allowing your bridesmaids to have different necklines, for instance, helps complement different body types. That way, everyone can look their best.

You have final say

It’s understandable for a bride to feel uncomfortable putting her foot down with her own bridesmaids. After all, these are your closest friends and family members. That’s why they’re your bridesmaids to begin with. You don’t want to feel like a bully or a tyrant.

Don’t forget, though, this is your day. If you don’t like the way the wardrobe process is going, say something. You don’t have to be mean about it. If they’re your friends, they will understand. This day is going to be one you’re going to remember forever, so make sure it’s a good memory.