Shopping for bridesmaid dresses can be one of the most exciting—and honestly, stressful—parts of wedding planning. With so many styles, colors, and price points to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But finding the right dresses for your bridal party doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to choose bridesmaid dresses your friends will actually want to wear, without sacrificing style or comfort.
Shop from a Trusted Bridesmaid Dress Brand
If you want the process to be as smooth as possible, choose a brand that offers a wide variety of bridesmaid dresses, inclusive sizing, and customizable options.
One of my favorite go-to brands for wedding style is AW Bridal. They offer:
- Affordable bridesmaid dresses in tons of colors and fabrics
- Custom sizing and try-at-home options
- Beautiful modern designs that won’t break the bank
- Option to order swatches to ensure the color matches your color scheme
- Fantastic search functions that help you narrow down to exactly what you’re looking for
AW Bridal makes it easy to find dresses that fit your vision and your budget.
Prioritize Comfort and Fit
One of the most important factors when shopping for bridesmaid dresses is comfort. Your bridal party will be wearing these dresses for hours—through photos, dinner, and dancing—so it’s important they feel good in them.
Look for:
- Adjustable straps or wrap styles
- Soft, breathable fabrics like chiffon or satin
- Sizing options that accommodate all body types
A comfortable dress = confident bridesmaids.
Mix-and-Match Bridesmaid Dresses
If you’re anything like me and have a hard time making a decision, try the mix-and-match approach! Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all bridesmaid style. Mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses are a great way to give your bridal party some creative freedom while maintaining a cohesive look. Choose a color palette or fabric, and let each person choose a silhouette that fits their personal style.
Bonus: It makes for stunning, dynamic photos.
Pick Dresses They’ll Actually Rewear
Choosing a sustainable route was a major priority for me when I got married. I even chose my wedding dress based on the fact that I’d be able to rewear it in the future with a few modifications. Let’s be honest—many bridesmaid dresses end up collecting dust in the back of a closet. Choosing styles that feel modern, elegant, and versatile increases the chances your friends will wear them again.
Look for:
- Timeless silhouettes like A-line or midi-length
- Jumpsuits
- Neutral tones or rich jewel colors
- Floral prints
- Minimal embellishments for a more versatile look
- Dresses that can be hemmed for cocktail attire
Start Early and Stay Organized
It’s best to start shopping for bridesmaid dresses 6–8 months before the wedding. This gives you time to:
- Order swatches
- Try on sample sizes
- Plan for alterations if needed
Create a shared group chat or Pinterest board with your bridesmaids to keep everyone on the same page with colors, ideas, and timelines.
Choosing bridesmaid dresses doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning, open communication, and the right retailer, you can find dresses that make everyone feel confident and included.
