Planning a wedding involves a lot of details, and choosing the perfect bridesmaid dresses is one of the most important tasks ahead of the big day. Not only do these dresses need to compliment your theme, but they also need to be flattering, comfortable, and in line with the bridesmaid’s personal taste and budgets. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you navigate the process:
Start with Your Vision
- Theme & Colour Scheme: Take the time to consider your wedding theme and colour palette. Do you want a traditional look with matching dresses, or something more modern and contrasting?
- Season & Venue: Think about the season and location that your wedding is taking place in. Lighter fabrics and colours are ideal for summer or beach weddings, while richer tones and heavier materials are better for autumn or winter ceremonies.
Set a Budget
- Price Range: Determine a budget for the dresses and communicate it with your bridesmaids. Consider additional costs such as alterations, shoes, and accessories.
- Affordable Options: Look into dress rental services or lower cost options for more affordable choices.
Involving Your Bridesmaids
- Consultation: Ask your bridesmaids for their opinions on styles and colours. This will make them feel included and ensure they’re comfortable with the final choice.
- Body Types & Comfort: Keep in mind the different body types and preferences of your bridesmaids. Consider dresses that are universally flattering or offer different styles in the same colour or fabric.
Choose the Right Style
- Dress Length: Decide whether you want to go for short, midi-length, or floor-length dresses. This will depend on the formality of your wedding and the overall aesthetic.
- Fabric Choice: Choose a fabric that suits your wedding season and theme. Popular options include chiffon, satin, lace, and tulle.
- Neckline & Sleeves: Consider different necklines (strapless, halter, V-neck) and sleeve lengths (sleeveless, cap sleeves, long sleeves) that would suit your bridesmaids.
- Measurements: Ensuring the dresses are a perfect fit is crucial, you can do so by following the measurements guide here:
- Bust - measure around your back and under your armpits before meeting at the fullest part of your bust.
- Waist – your waist is the narrowest part of your torso, a couple of inches above the belly button. Wrap the tape measure around it – make sure you don’t do it on top of any clothing.
- Hips – stand with your feet together. Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your hips and make sure the tape measure is level.
- Hollow-to-hem – make sure to be wearing the shoes (or shoes of similar height) you will be wearing on the day. Stand up straight and measure from the hollow area between your collarbones to the floor.
Colour Coordination
- Colour Matching: Ensure the bridesmaid dresses compliment the bridal gown and the overall wedding colour scheme. Consider using swatches to compare colours. If you opt for our elegant Maya dress collection, we have a small range of flower girl dresses in a similar style.
- Mix and Match: If you want to mix and match, decide on a palette or blend of colours that work well together.
Accessories & Footwear
- Shoes: Decide if you want all bridesmaids to wear the same shoes or if they can choose their own within a certain style or colour.
- Jewellery: Coordinate accessories like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Decide whether these will be uniform or personalized.
- Wraps & Cover-ups: Consider the weather and provide shawls, wraps, or jackets if needed.
Add Personal Touches
- Custom Details: Consider personalising the dresses with custom embroidery, monograms, or matching robes for the bridal party.
- Gift Options: Consider gifting your bridesmaids their dresses or accessories as a token of appreciation.
By following this checklist, you’ll ensure that your bridesmaid dress selection process is smooth, enjoyable, and results in a beautiful, cohesive look that enhances your special day. Remember to keep communication open with your bridesmaids and consider their comfort and preferences throughout the process. Happy planning!