{"id":51576,"date":"2018-04-09T23:44:26","date_gmt":"2018-04-09T23:44:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dev.withjoy.com\/blog2\/?p=51576"},"modified":"2024-04-08T09:39:14","modified_gmt":"2024-04-08T16:39:14","slug":"no-stress-guide-bridesmaid-dresses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/withjoy.com\/blog\/no-stress-guide-bridesmaid-dresses\/","title":{"rendered":"Your No-Stress Guide to Bridesmaid Dresses"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Once you\u2019ve selected the members of your <\/span>wedding party<\/span><\/a> (and<\/span> let them know about it<\/span><\/a>), they\u2019ll want to know what they can do to prepare for the big day. The members of your bridal party will be especially curious about one question in particular: <\/span>What will we wear?<\/span><\/i> Bridesmaid dresses are another one of those things that are wrapped up in tradition and expectations.  As with other traditions, there are some good reasons for going with the tried-and-true single-color matching dresses. But you really don\u2019t have to go with traditional matching dresses if that doesn\u2019t seem like the best option for your and your bridesmaids. Whether you are going with the traditional route, mismatched dresses, or something in between you have plenty of options. Here\u2019s our guide to sorting it all out!<\/span><\/p>\n

Traditional bridesmaid dresses<\/span><\/h2>\n

The first thing you should know about bridesmaid dresses is that they can be relatively expensive. You will find a ton of variety when shopping for them, but the actual dresses your bridesmaids wear will most likely be made to order. They will also almost certainly need lots of alterations, as well. These factors lead to a cost that is higher than what you (or your bridesmaids) might expect. You may worry that your bridesmaid my fell put out by having to buy an expensive dress that they probably won\u2019t wear again. But ordering bridesmaid dresses the traditional way is still convenient, and the members of your bridal party probably won\u2019t mind buying their dresses if that\u2019s the option you\u2019re set on. Just be sure to discuss it with them. As with so many other things with wedding planning, communication is key!<\/span><\/p>\n

Options for buying<\/span><\/h2>\n

You may have your heart set on a certain dress you\u2019ve found or on ordering from a certain place. In this case, the important thing is getting your bridesmaids the info they need. On the other hand, you may decide to discuss it with your bridesmaids and go with whatever option works best for them. In that case, it\u2019s also important that you know what your options are! Decide what style works best for your bridesmaids<\/a>,  then check out some of these common places to find bridesmaid dresses.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bridal salon<\/span><\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re getting your wedding dress from a bridal salon, it makes a lot of sense to check out their bridesmaid dress options as well. They will likely have a large selection to choose from. Just remember that these dresses will be made to order and can take a while to make. And be sure to factor in time and money for alterations as well! Even if you and your bridesmaids are spread out in different locations, a salon will probably be happy to work with them remotely to make everything work.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chain wedding store<\/span><\/h3>\n

A chain wedding store (like <\/span>David\u2019s Bridal<\/span><\/a>) can cost less than a bridal salon and you\u2019ll usually get your dresses quicker. This option can also be convenient if your bridesmaids are in different places. If you find a dress at a wedding store with lots of locations nationwide, your bridesmaids may be able to find it and try it on at their nearest location.<\/span><\/p>\n

Online<\/span><\/h3>\n

Options for buying dresses online are improving, and you can find lots of great dresses to try. Just be sure to check reviews of any site you\u2019re thinking of buying from to see if customers have been satisfied with the quality of the dresses. If your bridesmaids live far away, you can get your bridesmaids\u2019 measurements and order for them, and they can have alterations done locally when they get the dress. Check out our guide to buying bridesmaid dresses online<\/a> for more tips!<\/span><\/p>\n

Less traditional (but equally awesome) options<\/span><\/h2>\n

Mismatched<\/span><\/h3>\n

Making mismatched outfits work can work out fabulously, but can also require a lot of communication and collaboration with your bridal party. Your bridesmaids will likely appreciate some guidance to start off. You should decide if you want dresses that are<\/span><\/p>\n