Shopping for bridesmaid dresses is no easy task, especially when you’re dealing with a variety of budgets, body sizes, and style preferences. It can be a bit too much to process at times. While it is a difficult process, it does not have to be stressful. Read on to know how to look for bridesmaid dresses without causing a dispute, as well as advice for the bride and her bridesmaids.
Begin by conducting an online search.
Knowing what kind of look you want before arranging salon appointments will make the process a lot easier. Every bridesmaid dress may be found online, making research simple (and enjoyable!) and saving time afterwards.
Budgets should be discussed openly from the start.
Weddings can feel like a social minefield at times, and discussing the finances of your bridal party is one of those touchy subjects that can derail even the most perfectly planned event. Don’t delay having that discussion; it will assist you in determining where you might shop from the start. Fortunately, bridesmaids nowadays have a wide range of attractive options at all price points, whether they buy off the shelf or have custom designer gowns made at high-end salons.
Don’t forget to add in the costs of changes.
Almost seventy-five per cent of bridesmaids’ dresses need to be changed. A tall bridesmaid’s dress may require additional length in addition to altering and sizing modifications. Bring any accessories you want to the first fitting, and keep in mind that extra length usually comes at a higher price.
Get a jump start on your shopping.
At least eight months before the wedding day, you should start purchasing for your bridal party. Not only will this be less frustrating for everyone, but you’ll also be more likely to find a discount (if you’re buying off the rack) or a quarterly trunk show (when you can receive a 15% discount) where you can order the dress and have it shipped without any last-minute rushing.
Always have professional measurements taken before placing an order.
Because each designer has a different size range, each bridesmaid must give accurate measurements to avoid complications later. Although many stores have salespeople who size bridesmaids, they aren’t seamstresses. Because the customer is ultimately responsible for supplying proper measures, it’s critical that she also has them taken by a skilled seamstress.
Follow in the footsteps of the bride.
If the bride asks you to pick anything you want or to explore the racks to assist her in finding some ideas, ask for some help first. Is your BFF insisting on everyone wearing chiffon or a sleeved dress? Is there a certain length or level of detail that they prefer? If the bride-to-be wants some fresh ideas, consider complementing colours or a silhouette that hasn’t been discussed before.
Maintain an open mind.
Keep your mind flexible and give it a chance before you get worried about what your betrothed friend wants in her bridesmaid dresses if it’s a design or colour you don’t like. In the best-case scenario, you put the gown on, and it looks amazing on you. You emerge from the dressing room wearing something that isn’t quite right—hopefully, the bride recognizes it isn’t the greatest option.
Choosing bridesmaid dresses is a pleasant, connecting event for you and your best buddies. Make sure they don’t become fashion victims by dressing them in unflattering designs and colours. Discuss your thoughts and aspirations with these ladies openly and honestly, and solicit their feedback. Everyone will be happier if you keep a clear communications channel throughout the process.