THE FASHION OF FRIENDSHIP: BRIDESMAIDS

 

You know by now that bridesmaids stepping down the aisle in matchy-matchy dresses is passe. What do I mean by matchy? Everyone wearing the exact same fabric and design, carrying identical bouquets and possibly wearing interchangeable headpieces. Once upon a time, I worked on these weddings when it was all the rage.

We've come a long way, but for the few brides still caught in the "exact match" time warp, how about this? Same fabric, different designs for each attendant? A design each looks their best in. Or giving your ladies a monochromatic scheme to work with has proven to be a great way to keep everyone cohesive while still individual. And happy. They can't always come out and say it, but here's the thing: Not everyone's body looks good in a dropped waist. Or a mini skirt. Or three-quarter length sleeves. Or whatever one-and-only design the bride has determined is a go for everybody in the party. Think about this simple premise: if she looks like herself, she's more likely to relax and feel good. Giving your party more leeway also lets each express herself with her own personal touch. Face it, no stylist or fashion artist can really put your friend's branding together like she can. And every woman has something personal about her that makes her unique, like wearing barrettes in her hair, showing off her long legs, or going a little Goth.

Header Photo: A trio of bridesmaids in column gowns crafted from custom-designed crepe with varied necklines. Above: Same fabric, different neckline and back views. Below: A navy blue crepe bridesmaid dress is easily rewearable for formal occasions.

Dressed in summer cotton, this bridesmaid can easily rewear her dress post-ceremony.

Fortunately, most fibers these days have a bit of spandex to help designs along. Whether you decide to have your bridesmaids' dresses custom-made or order them online, certain companies let you customize a design that works for all your bridesmaids. Some companies are introducing a three-step process: 1. Choose any silhouette. 2. Select a fabric. 3. Pick a treatment (i.e., bows, ties, and belts). In other words, you can shift varied silhouettes from bridesmaid to bridesmaid as long as they’re all in the same or a like fabric. I’m a fan of this idea because some designers are offering styles a woman can actually wear again.

The best bridesmaid dresses strike a balance between beauty, comfort, and rewearability. Thoughtful design allows attendants to move with ease, celebrate confidently, and perhaps enjoy their dress long after the wedding day. Whether understated and minimalist or romantic and richly detailed, bridesmaid attire contributes to the visual harmony of the celebration while reminding us that the bride is surrounded by the people who have helped shape her journey.

Dresses and by Amy-Jo Tatum Bridal Couture

                Some imagery in this post has been artistically adapted to explore variations in silhouette, fabric, and color.