THE DAYS OF bridesmaids fearing being forced to wear a hideous dress they hate but have no say on are thankfully long gone. Even though it’s unlikely your bridesmaids will all be the same size and have the same tastes, with so much variety and so many sophisticated, fashionable styles available, shopping should be a pleasure for everyone involved!

Design

One common misconception is that all your attendants must wear exactly the same outfit. Bridesmaids’ dresses can still fit in with the overall colour scheme of your wedding and have a uniform look without being identical. For example, they can go for the same dress with different necklines – strapless, halterneck or cap-sleeved – or in different tones, which still lends a continuity to the overall effect. If you’re looking for inspiration try Veromia www.veromia.co.uk , a bridesmaid company that provides glam cuts and two-tone materials for the modern bridesmaid. Watters and Watters www.watters.com is an American company blurring the line between bridal and bridesmaid – see their site for some stunning collections. Have a look at Samantha Jane's collection www.bridesmaids.co.uk , which specialises in wholesale bridesmaid dresses and also provides a mail order facility. Bridesmaids dresses are still a big investment by anyone’s standards, so why not choose something elegant that can be worn again for another special occasion? Don’t overlook the high street if your budget is tight; Monsoon, M&S and Next are just a few stores stocking wedding ranges.

Style

Two-piece bodice and skirt outfits are still popular as they are so versatile; the skirt shapes can be billowing or sleek according to the bridal gown, or can be swapped for luxurious trousers. Although traditionally the style of the bridesmaids’ dresses was carefully co-ordinated to match the bride's dress in some way, this idea is increasingly ignored. In terms of colour, you may decide to offer a nod to the season of your wedding, for example lighter pastels shades in the summer and richer tones of red, plum or black for winter. Embellishments such as beading, embroidery and straps can enhance a dress, making it more individual. Additionally, bridesmaids dresses can be accessorised with delicate bags, wraps or boleros. 

Related feature: Essential tips to being the best bridesmaid!