Virtual showroom
Book an appointment
Stores
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Baton Rouge | Kylie Elise
For many brides and wedding parties, bridesmaid dress shopping is one of the most exciting pre-wedding moments they’ll share.
Yet, there are some things to do and know before, during, and after the shopping experience.
Who Pays for the Bridesmaid Dresses?
It’s customary for bridesmaids to pay for their own dresses and dress alterations. For flower girl dresses and junior bridesmaid dresses, the child’s parents usually pay. While some brides choose to pay the expenses, it’s not the norm.
Brides should have a conversation with each bridesmaid to understand her budget and price range. Remind your ‘maids that alterations may be needed and should be factored into the budget.
Sometimes, brides offer to pay for the bridesmaid dresses or contribute to the cost. For example, if a bridesmaid says she can afford $200 for her dress but the bride chooses a $300 dress, she may decide to cover the $100 difference.
Shop our entire collection of dresses:
Bridesmaid Dresses | Junior Bridesmaid Dresses | Flower Girl Dresses
Who Chooses the Bridesmaid Dresses?
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Charlotte | Knotted Arrow
Most brides decide on the wedding attire for their special day. But some brides provide a color, pattern, fabric, and length, and then let the bridesmaids choose their own dresses.
Many brides find it easier and more beneficial for the bridesmaids to choose a color palette, designer, and fabric. From there, they let each bridesmaid choose her own silhouette within those parameters.
Tips for Bridesmaids Choosing Their Own Dresses
If the bride-to-be asks you to choose your own dress, be sure to follow her wishes in terms of dress length, dress fabric, and color scheme. If her vision is that the bridesmaids wear flowing chiffon gowns, choose a flowing chiffon gown!
When Unsure, Ask the Bride!
Should you find yourself in doubt about your choice of dress style, just ask her if it’s what she envisions for her special day. It’s always better to get the bride’s seal of approval than to purchase a dress that she doesn’t like.
Have the Bride Approve Your Color Choice
It’s a good idea to confirm that she approves of your color choice, too. Even if she’s opting for mismatched bridesmaid dresses, the bridesmaid dress colors should complement one another. So it’s always best to get her thumbs up before ordering.
Keep in mind that most bridesmaid dresses are made to order and cannot be returned.
Related: Made-to-Order Bridesmaid Dresses: What Does It Mean?
Stick to the Timeline
Order your dress far enough in advance that you have at least a few weeks between dress arrival and the wedding. You’ll need that time to do alterations and fittings.
If the bride wants matching bridesmaid dresses in the same color, be sure to order yours at the same time as the rest of the bridal party. That way, you can ensure all dresses are from the same dye lot.
Who Pays for the Bridesmaids’ Shoes and Jewelry?
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids San Francisco | Source
It is customary for the bridesmaids to pay for their entire look, including shoes and jewelry. However, many brides give jewelry to wear on the wedding day as bridesmaid gifts.
Bridesmaid Dress Shopping: Who Attends?
Who should attend the bridesmaid dress shopping experience depends on the size of the wedding party. If there are just a few bridesmaids, all should be invited.
If it's a large wedding party (8+ bridesmaids), inviting everyone to attend can get chaotic.
For larger wedding parties, many brides do an initial dress shopping with her maid of honor, her bestie, and one or two close, style-savvy friends to narrow down options. Then, with a better idea of the dresses she wants, she invites all of the girls for a final day of shopping, trying on silhouettes, and making final selections.
Bridesmaid Dress Etiquette for Brides
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Houston | Dana Fernandez
Bridesmaid dress shopping is one of those pre-wedding moments that you’ll never forget. As the bride-to-be, there are things you can do beforehand to make the experience wonderful for everyone involved!
Gather Inspo Ahead of Time
It’s best to do some research and gather inspiration before taking all your bridesmaids dress shopping. That way, you can narrow down the colors and fabric options that best fit your wedding theme.
Decide whether you want everyone to wear the same dress or the same color, or to have a mix-and-match wedding party.
Make Bridesmaid Dress Shopping a Memorable Experience for Your Besties
Most importantly, plan ahead. Schedule a time with the boutique, showroom, or bridal shop so that they’re ready for your arrival.
You can also make a day of it! Start with brunch, plan a lunch, or toast after shopping to make it a fun, unforgettable girls’ day. Make it even more memorable by giving your ‘maids swag bags or thoughtful gifts for being a part of this special moment.
Bella Bridesmaids offers a personalized, stress-free shopping experience with expert stylists, in-store try-ons, and seamless coordination for bridesmaids — no matter where they live.
With the convenience of both online and in-person shopping, locally owned showrooms, and options for everyone in the wedding party, Bella ensures every detail feels right while helping you avoid returns, sizing issues, and online uncertainty.
When the celebrations begin, many bridal parties share the moments online—so if you’re posting photos from the big day, these wedding Instagram captions can help you find the perfect words to match the moment.
Bridesmaid Dress Etiquette for Bridesmaids
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Charleston | Franzi & Martin
As a bridesmaid, there are some things to know before you buy your dress. The most important things are to show up prepared and to go with the flow if the bride makes a decision you don’t love.
What to Wear When Bridesmaid Dress Shopping?
When you go bridesmaid dress shopping, you might have to try on lots of different dresses. Therefore, wear simple clothing that’s easy to put on and take off.
It’s also best to wear neutral undergarments. Do you have a specific bra or shapewear piece that you think you’ll want to wear on the big day? If so, wear it under your clothes to get a better sense of how the dress will look and fit.
Is it Okay to Tell the Bride You Don’t Like the Dress?
For the bride’s big day, what you wear is her choice. Generally, bridesmaids go with the flow. However, if the dress style makes you feel uncomfortable or doesn’t flatter your body type, it is okay to suggest alternatives.
If she’s chosen you to be a bridesmaid, you’re probably one of her best friends, so don’t be afraid to share your honest concerns. Just do so respectfully, knowing that the choice is ultimately hers.
For example, if the bride-to-be wants you to wear a plunging V-neck, a strapless gown, or a slim column dress that you don’t feel comfortable and confident in, ask her if you can switch up the neckline, choose an A-line dress silhouette, or select a different bodice or sleeve length.
When it comes to shopping, choosing, ordering, and paying for bridesmaid dresses, follow the etiquette as best you can. And remember… While brides and bridesmaids should consider each other’s concerns, the bride makes the final decision.
Keep up with the latest bridesmaid dress trends and wedding ideas! Follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
