How do you choose fabulous, comfortable dresses to suit a variety of personalities and figures, while flattering every skin tone and hair colour? Easy peasy!!
Choosing a colour-
Although every bride is entitled to pick the colour and theme that she desires, there are a few colours that can suit all types of colourings. Black may seem harsh on some skintones, a chocolate brown or midnight blue may bemore flattering to pale skin or redheads, while still exuding sophistication. But if you have your heart set on jet black, a good makeup artist will help to bring out the best features to enhance your bridesmaid's natural beauty. A nice spray tan a couple of days before can work wonders on lighter skin tones.
Both purple and green will work well across most skin tones and colourings. Choose a shade suitable for the time of year.
If you have your heart set on another colour which may not suit everyone, you can offer the option of wearing tones within the same colour range to create an ombré look throughout the bridal party. This is not only a great way of keeping everyone happy, but it can look fantastic in larger bridal parties!
Ivory is becoming quite a popular choice. IPippa Middleton famously wore an ivory silk crepe gown in her role as bridesmaid at the Royal wedding, resulting in a surge in demand for ivory maids. However, the practice of wearing the same colour as the bride is said to have originated as a way of protecting the bride from evil spirits, with the maids effectively acting as decoys!
These days, with more pastel and even vibrant colour choices for brides, there is the option to contrast ivory bridesmaids against a non-traditional colour choice. Add a contrast or complimentary colour sash or flower to an ivory dress or introduce more colour into the bouquet.
Choosing a style-
This may be a little trickier! It's more than the choice between long and short dresses. Strapless or straps? Have you a bridesmaid who is conscious of her arms, or legs? It can seem impossible to keep everyone happy.
Fear not, as there are many options out there! Most bridesmaids labels offer the choice to purchase extra fabric by the metre, to add a little strap or sleeve for extra comfort or modesty. Many collections have styles that work very well together for a mix and match look. A combination of long and short dresses can look great if you stick to an overall theme.
What if you have an expectant bridesmaid? First of all, the main thing is that the mum-to-be is comfortable- her health and well being must come before looks. However, there is no need to compromise on style- adapt! Lower heels or flats, a more comfortable fit should not compromise the overall look of the bridal party. Empire line styles will be most suitable. It is better to leave more room and purchase a bigger size than stress at the last minute. You can always nip the dress in at the bodice, but it is more difficult to add fabric to the skirt at the last minute.
If you have a bridesmaid who is losing weight, it is best to have her communicate with the store. It is not reasonable to expect the store, or bride to replace or considerably alter a dress at extra cost because the bridesmaid's figure is changing.
This goes for weight gain also, and perhaps early pregnancy or illness.
Be honest and upfront so that the seamstress or salesperson can let you know your options. Extra work will mean extra costs but this can be avoided.
Multiwrap dresses can be a great solution and don't usually require alteration!
The final choice for bridesmaid styles must lay with the bride. It is important for each bridesmaid to understand there may be limitations to consider, not only financially but also colour availability and delivery times.
Choosing your bridesmaid dresses!
However,