Bridesmaid Dresses - Do's And Don'ts
Finding a bridesmaids dress that everyone will love is about as likely as winning Lotto, but you'll at least be able to keep some of them as friends after the wedding if you...
Do
Give Lots of Leeway
If you're having the bridesmaid dresses in the same style, allow them to choose the colour of it. By doing so, they'll be able to select a shade that complements their skin tones and hair colouring. Alternatively, if you would like them to be in the same hue to match the wedding decor let them choose the style that flatters them the most.
Be a Fabric Fairy
Gone are the days when a bride could force her bridesmaids to dress in a puffy taffeta creation. The designers of bridesmaid dresses are now using better quality fabrics like dupioni silk, chiffon, satin, velvet and crepe. So select one that will make your party feel sleek and sexy rather than frumpy and resentful. If you're having the dresses made, try Bloom Fabrics in Melbourne, who use an exquisite range of designer fabrics including hand beaded silks, laces, georgettes and chiffons selected from the finest textile houses in Europe and Asia for their made-to-measure garments.
Consider the Costs
Traditionally the attendants pay for their own outfits so don't expect them to shell out a fortune for the honour of standing by your side. A good compromise is to consider hire as an option. After Five Formals in Brisbane have an extensive range of bridesmaid gowns for hire with prices starting as low as $85.
Don't
Shop En Masse
Never take all your attendants with you on a shopping expedition, as they'll never agree on anything and it will just cause conflict between them. Take just your maid/matron of honour - there's a reason why people say 'too many chefs spoil the broth'.
Be a Fuddy Duddy
Dress your bridesmaids in this season's hottest colours. Platinum is very in at the moment as is sand, taupe, orange and fuchsia. Experiment with design too. Designer Lisa Merton of Culture Shock in Melbourne draws inspiration from both Australia's multicultural lifestyle and her travels around the world to create eclectic but stunning designs for the bold bride. Creative embroidery, delicate beading, Swarovski crystals and ethnic jewellery are combined with exquisite Indian saris, dramatic Japanese kimonos and fine European laces to make her fresh and original pieces.
Leave Things Until the Last Minute
With all the discussions and disagreements that go with selecting bridesmaid dresses, it's tempting to leave the decision until the last minute and then order your attendants into any old dress. However they really should be chosen at least five months before the wedding to allow time for alterations.
Visit the Bride Online directory via the links above for bridesmaid gowns from designer couture to ready to wear. Don't forget to browse our directory of wedding dresses to find the perfect style to offset your bridal party.