Nine? Really? Yup – it’s just not as easy as you may think. But keep these things in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to a lovely line-up of attendants!

Before you even get started – be sure you have chosen your own dress. (Take a peek at our blog post: Say Yes to the Dress!) You’ll want to be sure your bridesmaids’ attire compliments your dress. The styles don’t have to match your gown – but certainly shouldn’t overpower it.

Start your search by doing some browsing. There are so many different styles and colors out there it can be a bit overwhelming. A Pinterest board or a file with pictures torn from magazines is a great way to start narrowing your options in creating the vision that you desire.

Okay … about those 9 things:

  1. Season: Opt for fabrics and styles that fit the season. No one wants to see shivering bridesmaids coming down the aisle with strapless filmy dresses in winter – or sweating and swooning in long sleeved velvet attire in summer.
  2. Length: Floor length dresses generally equate with more formal affairs or evening weddings. Shorter dresses (but not too short!) are great for summer – as they are cooler and breezy. However, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, you’ll want to be sure that in spite of a breeze, there won’t be an issue with unintended exposure! And tea length – well it always looks classy and refined – no matter the time of day or season.
  3. Style: This is where things can get dicey. Not all styles complement all body shapes. You’ll want to choose a style that looks just as great on both the largest and the smallest in your party. Or, better yet, pick a few styles or a dress designed so it can be worn in different ways so that each attendant can choose the style that looks best on her body type – and that makes her feel fabulous!
  4. Color: No matter what your color palette, choose dresses in a hue that flatters each skin tone. And then, let your vibe and personality shine through!
  • Do you want everyone in the exact same color?
  • Do you want to go with dresses that are the same color but in different shades from light to dark?
  • Do you want to go with mismatched dresses in hues pulled from your entire palette?
  • Do you want to add florals into the mix? Maybe for the maid of honor to set her apart?   

Just remember – with style and color – try to have some cohesiveness so everyone looks a part of the wedding party – and not just a guest that happened to slide into the procession. I once attended a wedding where everyone wore a different color (including the groomsmen) or floral pattern in a different style and length. The overall look was of confusion – and it detracted from the bride and groom.

But what about that groomsmaid? The options are endless – pick a suit in a complementary color to your bridesmaids or have him wear a traditional neutral shade with a shirt, tie, or pocket square in a color complementary to the others.

  1. Timing: The decision on dresses should be completed about six months prior to your wedding. It can take 2-3 months for dress orders to be filled and then 4-6 weeks to get necessary alterations. Remind your maids that sizing in bridal attire runs different than at Macy’s or H&M. They will each need to either try on the dress or order using professionally obtained measurements. And remember, it’s always easier to take a dress in than to let it out. And if you are going with all the same color, try to order at the same time so that the dresses come from the same dye-lot – otherwise there may be subtle differences in hue.

It’s a good idea to place a note on your calendar so you can send a quick reminder email to your bridal party about dress pick-up and scheduling alterations when the time comes closer. You don’t want someone forgetting the pick-up or sizing!

  1. Price: Try to find lovely attire in a price range that your bridesmaids will appreciate. There is a myriad of costs incurred by those chosen to be in the wedding party – so being mindful of expense demonstrates your appreciation of them. If you can, offering to pay for a portion of the price for attire will surely be appreciated. Or – if you’ve got your heart set on going high-end – considering renting the dresses at a fraction of the cost. (Check out Rent the Runway or Vow to Be Chic!)
  2. Shoes: Often an afterthought, shoes are important to the ensemble. Cohesiveness in color and general style looks best – especially in pictures – even if they are not exactly the same shoe. Again, being considerate of budget, pick something neutral in color that can be worn again – as long as you haven’t already decided that shoes are going to be the statement color pop in your palette. And think comfort – because those shoes are going to be worn – and danced in – for several hours.
  3. Details: Even the little details of earrings, necklaces and bracelets should be considered. It’s especially nice if those items can be gifted – the uniformity of the details helps to pull it all together. But even if you can’t afford to gift, providing a general guideline – i.e. posts vs. dangles, solitaire necklace vs. pearls –  will insure that your gang looks great together.
  4. Unmentionables: The right undergarments are essential – especially in the sleek styles often seen coming down the aisle. The most flattering dress can take on a less than perfect appearance if the foundation garments are not right. A simple reminder about well-fitting bras, panty styles, or body shapers is not out of line in this situation.  

That’s a lot to consider when selecting bridal party attire – but knowing your BFFs will look great standing beside you – and in those photographs – for all to see is worth the focus on all the details.

But what about the guys? Does the groom have an easier job? Check back next week to get the lowdown on attire for the groom and his men.