Aboutweddings.com wedding attendants article: bridesmaids / flattering dress options

When selecting your bridesmaids' attire, choose colors and styles that will flatter each of your attendants. Traditionally, bridesmaids wear identical dresses, but don't be afraid to try a little variety. If you really want to make your girls happy, give them the opportunity to choose their own style of dress. Select a manufacturer who's overall line appeals to you and choose a color from their design palette. Then let your girls chose the style of dress they feel most flatters their figure, each the same color, from the same manufacturer. This is a smart idea if one of your bridesmaids is pregnant, or if you have a variety of body sizes and shapes to contend with. Another option is to select a two-piece ensemble, which naturally adjusts itself to different body types, to a certain degree. Alterations are often easier when dealing with just a top or just a skirt.

In addition to bridal salons, visit several department stores for ready-wear gowns. You'll find the largest selection around the holidays. Department stores carry different sizes of the same style, which will afford your bridesmaids the opportunity to try on a few different sizes, finding the most flattering fit, requiring the least amount of alteration, if any. This is an extremely convenient option for out-of-town bridesmaids. Simply purchase the most appropriate size and ship it. If the dress doesn't fit, you can take it back and exchange it for the proper size, which is something you can't do with a salon purchased gown.

Keep your bridesmaids' finances in mind when selecting their dresses, and remember to be very clear about what you will pay for and what items will be their responsibility. The bridal party typically pays for their own wedding attire. However, the bride can certainly offer to pay for their dresses and/or accessories as a thank-you for their help and support. The average price for a bridesmaid gown ranges from $150 to $225. Shoes and hosiery are additional. If the shoes are to be dyed, have them all done together by the same specialist to ensure uniformity of color.

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