… AND NEVER IN A DRESS YOU CAN WEAR AGAIN, RIGHT? WRONG
The days of horrendous bridesmaid gowns are behind us. (We hope!) Today’s brides are genuinely interested in choosing gowns that their attendants enjoy and will wear again.
“Brides really want their friends and guests to have a wonderful time. I love the idea of letting the bridesmaids choose the style of their dress, just keep all the gowns the same color,” said Sharon Miller, owner of the Gown Gallery Bridal Loft.
“The style is often driven by the bridal gown — some brides are doing a sash in an accent color and pulling it together with the color of the bridesmaid dresses.”
When choosing one style of gown to flatter a variety of figures, the A-line skirt is a great choice. Marilyn Morman, manager of Bridal Extraordinaire, had this suggestion:
“Choose something with an adequate bust portion, a bodice that can support an A cup or DD. You shouldn’t go any higher than the natural waistline to accommodate any bust size.”
Tea-length gowns, inspired by the 1950s, are making a huge comeback, even at formal evening weddings. Miller touched on some of the hottest hues of the moment:
“Silver is a really pretty color right now, navy is back and espresso is the new black. All of the new bright colors, fuchsia, kiwi and sugarplum, are big for the spring/summer season.”
Whether you pick the style or you let your friends choose, make sure they are comfortable. Your attendants will look and feel more confident if they love their dress.
If your friends are happy, you will be happy, and isn’t that what a wedding is all about?
Fair Maiden: The A-line silhouette is a flattering shape on most women, so it’s great option for bridesmaids. This vivid salmon dress by x Brides Magazinex is accented with a narrow belt and crystal buckle. Salmon dress $138, Bridal Extraordinaire
Sweet Dreams: Shorter bridesmaid gowns are gaining in popularity and look especially sweet at outdoor weddings. Alfred Sung designed this lavender dress with layers of silk organdy. Lavender dress $230, Bridal Extraordinaire
Tea Time: Kansas City bridal boutiques are in agreement that tea length is back in full swing. This buttery yellow gown by Bari Jay has pockets — perfect for the much needed tissue. Yellow dress $140, Bridal Extraordinaire
Just the Right Tulle: Fine gauge tulle adds softness to every silhouette. Badgley Mischka designed the celadon green dress with a halter neckline. The lilac dress by Vera Wang has lightweight tulle draped asymmetrically across the gown. Green dress $330, lilac dress $380, Nolte’s Bridal
Pretty in Pink: Flower girls love to look like the bride, so the bigger the skirt the better. This Jessica Lynn dress has a full, layered organza skirt and crystal details. Flower girl dress $290, Bridal Extraordinaire
