the bridesmaid dress
Thanks to the October wedding I was just in, I can proudly say I have 7 bridesmaid roles under my belt. The red, satin, strapless, tea length dress just worn will be joining the other 6 dresses in the back of my closet.
Thankfully, in most of the weddings I’ve been in the bride has consulted with us bridesmaids, so we were able to opt for dresses we all agreed upon. Four of the seven dresses in my closet have promising futures - perhaps to be worn again on an appropriate occasion. The other three….
Surprisingly, most brides are not that demanding. They WANT you to be in their wedding. After all, you are related or a friend…maybe both. You are doing them a favor. They want your input. They want you to look your best. Thankfully most brides will not go to great lengths to make all of her bridesmaids look horrible so that she is by far the most glamorous gal of the ball! She wants you to look and feel like a princess too.
BCBG Taffeta Halter Dress - available at nordstrom.com
Bari Jay Iridescent Taffeta Dress - available at nordstrom.com
A day needs to be dedicated to shopping for dresses. The bridesmaids need to arrange their schedules and get together to make a day out of it. Make it fun!
Since the bride probably has a rough idea (if not firm idea) of what she likes, she probably has provided you with general guidelines - color, fabric, style, etc. Respect these guidelines: remember, you’re here in a supporting role, which means you want to support the bride’s vision!
Remember not to get depressed about sizing. Generally, bridesmaid dresses run smaller and fit a bit differently than normal dresses. Don’t get a smaller size expecting to lose a ton of weight. It is easier to take in than to take out and not quite as disheartening. Alterations can be pretty pricey, so don’t forget to take that into account. Better to have that dress fit you perfectly! You do not want to be self conscious on your friend’s special day.
I have been in a couple weddings with dress mishaps. Note: Beaded straps are not always the best idea. Especially if you enjoy dancing as much as I do, and may get a bit carried away, flailing arms in every which way. The proper undergarments are absolutely necessary. Have an emergency kit on hand, not only to help with any dress mishaps for you or your fellow maids, but also for the bride. Double-stick tape, safety pins, mini sewing kits, stain remover kits - have it nearby!
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I just found out yesterday about a new movie coming out called 27 Dresses (27dressesthemovie.com) and it looks wonderful. Almost exactly what your
Perpetual Bridesmaid stories are about. Not sure if you new or not.
Thanks for the comment! Actually I have heard a lot about the movie. To think I only have 20 more dresses to go to get to that status! You can bet I will be at that movie premiere. I may even come dressed up…
These are all ideal. I’m waiting for BR to come out with a Celebrations type line of dresses like J.Crew and Ann Taylor.
Really good and really interesting post. I expect (and other readers maybe :)) new useful posts from you!
Good luck and successes in blogging!
Dig the blog a LOT!
Nice style and I like the way you discuss the problems . I’m going to book mark it.