February 28, 2017
One thing I truly love doing is helping my brides! I created a series last year called “wedding tips“. This series is dedicated to helping you while your planning your wedding.
Today I’m talking about my top 5 favorite places to look for bridesmaids dresses! I’ve heard from several brides about this. I know choosing a dress that is flattering, and that everyone loves is no easy task. So, I’ll be sharing a few helpful tips on that as well for each body type.
My top five favorite places to shop for bridesmaids dresses
J crew! J crew has the best dresses!! Their dresses are made to fit so well, and they really can easily be worn again. I forgot to mention pockets, yes, a lot of their dresses have pockets!! I’m seriously sold if a dress has pockets, hello lipstick and tissue keeper 🙂
Plum Pretty Sugar! I adore this store for so many reasons! They have the prettiest robes ever for when you and your maids are getting ready. The prettiest pastel combinations I have ever seen in a robe selection! They have a bridesmaids line to die for! It’s called PPS Couture. Again, the prettest pastel floral prints that would photograph like a dream, and these dresses your girls will want to wear again!
Modcloth! I’m fairly new to Modcloth, but from what I’ve seen I am in love with the endless options, even for bridal gowns! These dresses are relatively inexpensive and they look so pretty!
Altar’d State! I never really thought of Altard State for bridesmaids dresses until I had a wedding this year that had them. This is one of my favorite stores to shop in! If your a boho bride this place is a must see! You will spend hours in the store, get prepared!
Show me your mumu! I love this store!! Their dresses are so simple and classy, and your girls will definantly wear these again. The color and design choices are endless! I love the fabric too!!
Tips for making each bridesmaid feel special
I know this is your day, and with that said if you have the same style, or different styles in mind that you want each girl to wear. I completely understand! I’ve been there! This is your wedding, and at the end of the day this is your choice, that is what matters.
This section is to give you just a little bit of insite on body types. From a photographer standpoint we want you and each of your maids to feel and look beautiful. I can always tell when a bridesmaid isn’t comfortable in the dress she’s wearing.
Photographers really understand body language. I think this comes natural to us because it’s part of our job to listen to you, and what your body tells us. That sounds weird to say, and I hope I’m making since. We can since when you are nervous. In a way, I think we are kind of like therapists, only we don’t have to talk. We just listen, direct, and make you feel comfortable.
The eight most flattering dress styles on all body types
Dresses with 3/4 sleeves. If your looking for a dress with sleeves 3/4 is the way to go with a higher neckline. This looks good with any age as well.
A-line silhouette. This dress is the perfect option if you want each bridesmaid to wear the same dress. It’s a classic dress style that has been around for years, but it’s a perfect fit for every body type.
A classic sheath dress. This type of dress can flatter a variety of shapes. Believe it or not, sometimes the best solution to finding something that flatters everyone is a dress that is more streamlined. The secret to the sheath dress is that it’s hem is just below the knee. For most women this will be the narrowist part of the leg, and in some cases make their legs appear longer. Some bridesmaids that are taller may have to have some alterations to help due to the nature of the hem.
Structured dresses. A dress made with sturdier fabric and plenty of internal structure look good on both athletic and curvier, hourglass bodies because of how the structured bodice is designed. On slimmer figures this type of dress will remind you of Audry Hepburn. Woman with more bust will have the benefit of an accentuated waist to avoid making them look frumpy.
Monochromatic dresses. Having a monochromatic dress that is all one color is very slimming. This type of gown is lengthening and streamlines your figure no matter what color you choose. When finding a monochromatic gown, look for ones where the fabric is matte, rather than shiny or iridescent. Shiny or iridescent gowns do not photograph well.
Finding seperates. Seperates are a good option if your having a hard time finding a dress that fits everyone perfectly. I know the size I buy in a top is way different than the bottom size, and the same goes for most women. By wearing separates, your bridesmaids will be able to find something that fits them well. What’s more flattering than the correct fit!
High low hem lined dresses. This style of dress is very fun to wear! An added bonus to this styled dress is showing off your bridesmaids shoes. The hemline looks best at the knee, and for more petite bridesmaids wearing nude heels without an ankle strap is a must! Wearing those shoes will prevent her legs from looking shorter.
Maxi Dresses. If you have an array of different body shapes, including a pregnant bridesmaid, a maxi dress is a great option. Maxi dresses look beautiful on all body types, especially if the top is higher and fitted around the bust. If your choosing a maxi, make sure that each bridesmaid has the correct hem. This not only helps the overall look, but it will help prevent an accident too!
On the next wedding tips post I will be talking about wedding planners! I always enjoy working with them. If your on the fence on wether or not you need a planner, this will be a post you don’t want to miss!
If you have any questions during your planning process, or if there’s something you would like to know more about please contact me by clicking here! I would love to share more knowledge on the things you want to know about planning your wedding!
With love,
Michelle
Click here to read more helpful wedding planning tips!
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