7 Tips for Choosing Bridal Party Dresses

It’s often tough to find just the right dress when your bridesmaids vary in shape, size and even haircuts! You need to decide how important it is to you that they all match exactly. After all, the attention will be squarely on you, won’t it? Sometimes it’s best to give up on the matchy-match notion to ensure that your bridesmaids feel confident, attractive and comfortable. Don’t fret – you have options:

1. Choose a design collection and color but allow your bridesmaids to choose their own style. You might require that the dress is tea length, but allow them to choose varying necklines, straps and sleeves. Or have everyone purchase the same A-line skirt but choose a different top within the collection.

2. If certain colors would really clash with your sister’s red hair, choose one style of dress but allow your bridesmaids to choose their own color (or narrow it down to two selections. You can still tie in your wedding colors in their flowers. Maybe it’s just your maid of honor who needs a different color to match her skin tone. It’s perfectly fine to have her set somewhat apart from the others anyway.

3. Have the dresses made. Even if you’re set on having the dresses match, having the dresses made (assuming the budget allows) at least allows each bridesmaid to address some of her specific body challenges that she may not be so easily able to do when buying off the rack. Just allow extra time if you go this route.

4. Halter tops tend to flatter several body types and chest sizes. Strapless gowns, however do not – they accentuate arm and back flab.

5. Only your model-like bridesmaids will probably be in favor of a slinky dress, bubble hems or ruffles. Empire waists are more forgiving. After all, you want them smiling in their photos, right?

6. A-line dresses with empire waist halter tops and a shawl could make a lot of your bridesmaid happy while providing a touch of flair.

7. Take just the bridesmaid you’re most concerned about shopping. She can openly discuss her concerns and not feel intimidated by the other girls. If you find something suitable for her, hopefully it will look just fine (even great) on everyone else.