When it comes to shopping for bridesmaid dresses, a unique set of etiquette should be followed. Because every bride is different, these rules may vary depending on the wedding. From color schemes, who should pay, and more, we’ve outlined everything you need to know when it comes to bridesmaid dress shopping. Whether you’re a first-time bridesmaid or a seasoned pro, we’re here to make the shopping process as seamless as possible.
Who is supposed to pay for bridesmaid dresses?
A common gray area when it comes to bridesmaid dress shopping is the matter of who should be paying for the bridesmaid dresses. When your friend asks you to be a bridesmaid, the expectation is that there will be some costs associated with the responsibility of joining the bridal party. This typically includes the cost of bridesmaid dresses, even if the bride is the one choosing the dresses.
While some brides may offer to foot the bill for bridesmaid dresses, that isn’t the typical expectation for weddings. Luckily, many brides opt for affordable options like Azazie’s selection of bridesmaid dresses. While dresses can get expensive, Azazie boasts an expansive selection of size-inclusive bridesmaid dresses, with many options coming in at under $100.
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE SOREN
Does the maid of honor wear a different color dress?
Many brides want their maid of honor to wear something different from the rest of the bridesmaids so that she stands out on the big day. This decision is ultimately up to the bride and her personal preferences. While some brides opt for a maid of honor dress in a different color, others will get creative with small details to set the MOH apart. Whether that’s a colored belt, extra sparkle, or a different dress silhouette entirely, the options are endless for how to make your maid of honor stand out.
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE EREN
If you choose to have the maid of honor in the same color dress in a different silhouette, Azazie makes it easy to color match to ensure all of the bridesmaid dresses are the same color. It is best to order all of the bridesmaid dresses at the same time to avoid any color variance that may occur if the dresses come from different dye lots.
Of course, brides may also choose to have all of their bridal party in matching bridesmaid dresses. Brides today get to make their own rules when it comes to their weddings, and that includes bridesmaid dresses.
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE LECIA
Should bridesmaids step down if they decline dress options?
Being asked to be a bridesmaid for your friend is such an honor and can be such a magical experience. However, being a bridesmaid for a friend is also a big commitment. Deciding to accept the wedding party responsibilities may seem like a good idea, but can quickly become overwhelming in terms of cost and time commitment.
If you feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of being a bridesmaid, there is nothing wrong with sitting down with the bride one on one and expressing how you’re feeling. The sooner you can have this conversation, the better. Be honest and explain that the bridesmaid commitment level needed from you is more than you had expected and that you’d feel more comfortable as a guest. A good friend will understand where you’re coming from and the two of you can work out how to proceed.
Choosing bridesmaid dress colors: same or different?
The old rules of bridesmaids needing to wear matching dresses no longer apply. While more traditional brides opt for coordinating wedding attire for their bridesmaids, many brides today are embracing a mix and match look for their bridesmaids. Whether this means an ombre of tonal bridesmaid dresses, two complementary colors, or whimsical floral dresses, the choice is yours!
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE BERYL
Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a great option to ensure each bridesmaid feels comfortable on the big day. Each bridesmaid has her own unique style and will feel comfortable in different silhouettes, so allowing your bridesmaid to choose their own mix and match dresses will allow them to feel their most confident as they walk down the aisle. If you don’t want to go full on mismatched, you can also give your bridal party a handful of options to choose from in terms of silhouette.
The venue and theme of the wedding will largely inform the type of bridesmaid dress you choose. Traditional, classic weddings will likely call for coordinated bridesmaid dresses while rustic, garden, or whimsical wedding venues are the perfect places to rock mismatched bridesmaid dresses.
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE BONDI
Bridal party expenses: expectations and communication
It’s no secret that choosing to be a bridesmaid comes with financial responsibilities. Between bridesmaid dresses, bachelorette parties, and travel, bridal party costs can add up fast. It’s important for bridesmaids to communicate their financial comfort level with the bride and for the bride to be respectful of budgets as well. Open communication between the bride and her bridesmaids is the best way to ensure everyone is on the same page and has clarity on what financial expectations they are committing to.
Many brides will opt for budget-friendly weddings to ensure the bridal party feels comfortable with managing bridal party costs. Whether that means budget-friendly bridesmaid dresses or a more low key bachelorette party, there are tons of options for ensuring no bridesmaids take on a financial burden they may not be ready for.
SHOP THE LOOK: AZAZIE RINNA
