Photo: Dennis Kwan Weddings
One way brides are personalizing their weddings? By asking their bridesmaids to inject their own sense of style into the day by choosing their own dresses. Allowing each 'maid to pick their look helps take some pressure off the bride, and it ensures each woman will feel confident and comfortable in the dress. Plus, it looks great in pictures when it is executed properly — but that's easier said than done. A color scheme and set of other guidelines must be established so everyone looks cohesive and complements the wedding décor perfectly. To help, designer Nicole Miller shares what every bride and 'maid should remember when it comes to mismatched bridesmaid dresses.
A complementary color story is key.
The bride might think that providing a swatch is the easiest way to keep her bridal party aligned when it comes to the wedding's color scheme, but Miller says that isn't necessary. "I don't think each bridesmaid needs to work from a specific swatch. It is much more chic, in my opinion, when the bridesmaids are in their own dresses in the same color story, such as shades of navy or beige."
Dress for your body and style.
"Personal style should certainly inform the bridesmaid's choice of dress," says Miller. "It's better to dress for your body and style rather than feel uncomfortable all night in a dress you loathe."
Consult the bride before making her purchase.
Always send your possible choices to the blushing bride-to-be before buying your dress — it is her day after all.
Don't go too short.
Though knee-grazing and maxi are the most common lengths for weddings, shorter hemlines are acceptable ... sometimes. "I have nothing against a dress that hits above the knee, as long as it is worn in a tasteful way," adds Miller. (Again, get the okay from the bride first!)
Sparkle is acceptable in small doses.
Each bridesmaid can go bold with her accessories, but should always keep in mind that she should never be overshadowing the bride.
Will you be choosing your own bridesmaid dress? Tweet us @BRIDES!