Planning a non-traditional wedding? From unconventional venues to creative menus, there are so many ways to personalize your special day and truly make it your own — even your bridesmaid dresses.
Traditionally, the bride chooses a dress and tells her maids exactly what to wear. The dresses are often variations of the same trendy colors and styles that you’d see in any bridal magazine or store. Today’s brides are mixing up both tradition and expectation with unique outfits that allow bridesmaids to shine. Here are six of our favorite modern bridesmaid dress options.
Separates
Just because bridesmaids usually wear dresses doesn’t mean they have to! Mix it up with matching sets or coordinating separates. Bridesmaids can choose a top and bottom according to their own style and preference. Tulle skirt? Check. Long pants? Check. The variety of options creates visual interest and harmony.
Tip: to avoid duplicate outfits and ensure cohesion, select the options ahead of time and have bridesmaids pick from your approved looks.
Photo from Reddit
Bridesmaid’s Choice
Give your bridesmaids the gift of freedom and allow them to choose their own outfit (within reason, of course!). Choose a color palette and let your gal pals select which color they’d prefer to wear. Then, ask them to find a dress in that color that makes them feel comfortable and confident. This allows your bridal crew to choose both the color and style of dress that is most flattering on them.
Tip: if you’re struggling to give over complete creative control, ask your bridesmaids to share their dress selection before purchasing. This way you can see everything ahead of time and make sure it aligns with your wedding day vision.
Photo by Fotógrafo Samuel Cruz
Patterns
Sequins, stripes, speckles, oh my! Instead of sticking to the status quo of solid colored bridesmaid dresses, have some fun with a little pattern play. Choose a pattern or variety of complementary patterns within your wedding color palette and divvy them up among your bridesmaids.
Patterns that work well for bridesmaid dresses:
- Florals
- Gingham
- Polka dots
- Sequins
- Stripes
Your pattern(s) can be as bold or subtle as you like. Or, a mixture of both!
Tip: if too many patterns make you nervous, choose one or two bridesmaids — like your maid of honor — to wear the patterned outfit. This will balance out the lineup and make the pattern pop even more.
Jumpsuits
If dresses aren’t your vibe, invite your bridesmaids to kick back and relax in a jumpsuit. This style is effortless yet still elevated. It’s also a great option for gender neutral wedding party outfits or for plus-size figures. Not to mention, jumpsuits are great for breaking it down on the dance floor!
Tip: compared to long dresses that often hide your feet, jumpsuits don’t. Choose a stylish shoe to top off your ensemble.
Photo from CeylanBarcelona
White on White
For an unexpected twist on a classic, dress your bridesmaids in all white. This look is elegant and timeless. It’s also a great choice for black tie weddings because it creates visual contrast between the wedding party and wedding guests.
Fun fact: since Queen Victoria’s wedding in 1840, it’s tradition for bridesmaids to wear white at royal weddings.
Photo by Didi Lecatompessy
Accessories
Last but not least, don’t forget to accessorize! Your bridal party outfits extend beyond the dresses (or jumpsuits) themselves. Add some flair with capes, shawls, or scarves. For a more casual look, throw on a leather or jean jacket and a pair of sneakers or cowboy boots.
Tip: if possible, encourage your bridesmaids to wear their accessories in different ways for an added layer of visual interest.
Goodbye to Boring Bridesmaid Dresses
Bridesmaid dresses don’t have to be boring. Instead of copying and pasting the same floor length dress as every other wedding ensemble, choose outfits that allow your bridal crew to express their unique styles and personalities. The more comfortable and confident they feel, the better they can show up for you on your big day. Win-win!
