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Choosing the Bridesmaid Dresses
One of the best bits about being a bridesmaid is getting to wear a new party frock.
Most brides will usually ask their bridesmaids to help choose the bridesmaids dresses. If asked, find out what sort of dresses she is thinking about in terms of shape and colour. Shops like Coast, Monsoon and Debenhams have a great range of dresses perfect for the modern bridesmaid – they often tend to be cheaper than specially made bridesmaid dresses. Start looking for ideas and inspirations now – if you find a dress you like that matches the brief, let the bride know!
Remember that ‘Help’ means looking around for dresses, getting ideas and making suggestions. The last thing the bride needs is an awkward bridesmaid. If the bride chooses a colour you really don’t like, you might just have to grin and bear it. If on the other hand, you feel really uncomfortable about the style of dress and your figure, there is nothing wrong with raising your concerns. The bride is more likely to understand if you have a quiet word.
Traditionally, the bridesmaid used to pay for her dress and shoes. Whilst this tends to be relatively uncommon these days, it’s worth asking the bride what sort of dresses she is looking at and whether she would like to pay for your own dress. Find out early on, that way if you really can’t afford it – you can decline the role of bridesmaid before it’s too late.
nofreetime tips
- Designer bridesmaid dresses tend to be preferable if the bridesmaids are different shapes and sizes – different styles of dress can be created using the same material. A cheaper and practical option would be to look for ‘separates’ - i.e. a skirt and bodice top.
- If you’re buying your own bridesmaid, you can always sell it on at a dress agency or online after the wedding.
- If you’re looking for shoes to match your dress, BHS have a great range of shoes that can be dyed to match your outfit.