Okay, let’s be honest – shopping for bridesmaid dresses can either be a super fun boudoir party or a messy, messy disaster. With different body types, budgets, and aesthetics, just thinking about it is enough to make your head spin. But don’t panic, I’ve got you covered!

Whether you’re a bride trying to keep your cool and maintain harmony, or a bridesmaid just wanting to make sure you don’t dress like a walking cupcake, this guide will have you covered like a connoisseur. From picking out the perfect color match to diffusing embarrassment in the fitting room, we’re kicking off the ultimate in bridesmaid dress shopping!

Getting Ready for the Shopping Experience

Determine the wedding theme and color palette

Before you pick your bridesmaid dresses, you first need to define the overall theme and color scheme of your wedding. Different wedding styles suit different types of bridesmaid dresses, so you need to consider the level of formality of the wedding.

Is it a black-tie wedding, a semi-formal wedding, a relaxed and casual garden wedding, or a romantic beach wedding? In addition, color matching is equally important. The color of the dresses should be coordinated with the wedding decorations and the bride’s gown in order to maintain the overall visual harmony and beauty. Seasonal factors should also not be ignored. Summer weddings are suitable for light fabrics and pastel tones, while winter weddings are more suitable for darker tones and thicker fabrics to ensure both beauty and comfort.

Olive A-Line Pleated Stretch Satin Dress

Setting a reasonable budget

Reasonable budget planning not only keeps expenses under control, but also ensures that the dresses are affordable for all the bridesmaids. Before deciding on a dress, it needs to be clear who will cover the cost – will the bride be responsible, or will the bridesmaids purchase their own? Additional costs such as dress alterations, accessories and shoes should also be considered. When setting a budget, try to find a balance between price and style to ensure that you pick a stylish and decent dress without putting a financial burden on the bridesmaids.

Consider body type and personal preferences

Every bridesmaid has a different body type and style preference, so a uniform dress style isn’t always the best option. Instead, mixing and matching different styles is more flexible—choose different dress styles in the same color palette to accommodate various body types while maintaining a coordinated look.

For example, bridesmaids with an hourglass figure can opt for fitted dresses that highlight the waist; those with a pear-shaped body might go for A-line or empire waist dresses to balance their proportions; and apple-shaped bridesmaids can choose empire waist or high-low dresses to flatter their midsection and elongate their figure. This way, each bridesmaid feels confident in a flattering style, while the overall look remains cohesive.

Dusty Sage A-Line One Shoulder Mesh Dress

The Shopping Process

Shopping In-Store

If you opt for in-person shopping, these tips can help streamline the experience:

Schedule Fittings in Advance

• Book appointments at bridal boutiques or department stores early to ensure availability.
• Visit stores with a clear idea of styles and colors to avoid decision fatigue.
• Allow time for alterations to perfect the fit before the wedding day.

Choose the Right Fabric and Comfort Level

• Consider the season: Lightweight fabrics like chiffon work well for warm-weather weddings, while satin or velvet are better for cooler months.
• Comfort is key: Bridesmaids will be wearing their dresses for hours, so breathable fabrics and comfortable fits are crucial.

Stay Flexible and Keep Communication Open

• Give bridesmaids some freedom in selecting styles within the chosen color palette.
• Be prepared for differing opinions and work towards a compromise.
• Keep an open dialogue to ensure all bridesmaids are happy with their choices.

Shopping Online

If you don’t want to go offline to try things on, shopping online is a great option, and many brands offer at-home fitting programs. If you choose to buy your bridesmaid dresses online, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Shop at the Most Convenient Time

• Online shopping allows bridesmaids to browse options at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes.
• Ensure that all orders are placed well in advance to allow for shipping delays.

Narrow Down Choices Beforehand

• To avoid overwhelming options, shortlist a few styles that align with the wedding’s theme.
• Share links with bridesmaids so they can provide feedback and select their favorites.

Take Accurate Measurements

• Since online sizing can vary, bridesmaids should take accurate measurements and refer to the size chart provided by the retailer.
• When in doubt, opt for a slightly larger size that can be altered later.

Allow Time for Alterations

• Schedule dress alterations as soon as the dresses arrive.
• Small adjustments, such as hemming or strap modifications, can make a big difference in overall fit and comfort.

Consider Return Policies

• Read the return and exchange policies carefully before making purchases.
• Choose retailers with flexible return options in case of sizing issues.

Read Customer Reviews

• Reviews can provide valuable insights into fabric quality, sizing accuracy, and overall satisfaction.
• Look for customer-uploaded photos to get a better idea of how the dress fits in real life.

Final Preparations Before the Wedding

Plan for Alterations and Customization

• Alterations should be done at least a few weeks before the wedding to ensure a perfect fit.
• Minor customizations, such as adding sleeves or adjusting necklines, can enhance the dress’s comfort and style.

Coordinate Shoes and Accessories

• Decide whether bridesmaids should wear matching shoes or choose their own within a specific color range.
• Select accessories that complement the dress style while aligning with the wedding’s theme.

Ankle Strap Block Heel Sandals

Conduct a Final Dress Fitting

• A final dress fitting should be scheduled before the wedding to make sure everything fits perfectly.
• Bridesmaids should bring their chosen shoes and accessories to ensure a cohesive look.

Conclusion

Shopping for bridesmaid dresses doesn’t have to be a stressful task. With advance planning, good communication, and a balance between comfort and style, the process can be easy and enjoyable. A harmonious and aesthetically pleasing bridesmaid’s group will not only add excitement to your wedding day, but also make precious memories. Happy shopping and have a wonderful picture-perfect wedding!