Yes! You CAN Dress Your Bridesmaids in White | Bella | Bella Bridesmaids

Yes! You CAN Dress Your Bridesmaids in White [When + How]

Bridesmaids in white dressesPhoto: Bella Jackson / Kylie Wooten

Kate Middleton did it. NeNe Leakes did it. Kim Kardashian did it twice.  

No, we’re not talking about marrying a prince or an athlete or a music mogul (though Kim K does tick two of those boxes). 

We’re talking about celebrating the big day surrounded by bridesmaids wearing white!  

It’s obvious that celebrities have embraced the idea — but it’s not just celebs doing it. This trend works for all weddings.

Not sure if you can pull it off?

Here’s what you need to know: 

Why Do Brides Wear White, Anyway?

Bride in white dress with bridesmaids in black dressesPhoto: Bella Philly / Joshua Dwain

The tradition of the bride wearing white on her wedding day dates back to around the mid-1800s when Queen Victoria donned a white gown for her wedding to Prince Albert. And brides of all ages have been doing it ever since. 

The white wedding dress is mainly regarded as a symbol of virginity, purity, innocence, and goodness. 

But centuries ago, a white dress was actually a symbol of status, as only the wealthiest women could afford them. This is mostly because they could afford to run the risk of staining it. 

Shades of white, ecru, and ivory remain the favorite among brides to this day. And over the years, we’ve all been taught that it’s NEVER okay to wear a white dress to another person’s wedding.

That is, unless the bride specifically asks you to.

In recent years, we’ve seen more and more wedding parties with white bridesmaid dresses. In some cases, it’s to match the bride and set the stage for stunning wedding photos. In other cases, it’s because the bride plans to wear a dress of a different color, such as blush pink, light grey, blue, or even black.

If you’re thinking about dressing all of your bridesmaids in white, here’s how to pull it off.

An All-White Wedding Party Looks Amazing!

White wedding partyPhoto: Bella Chicago / Tim & Bethany Tabailloux

White is flattering on all skin tones, from fair to dark. We love it for a boho beach wedding, a rustic celebration in the woods, or a glam fairytale wedding in an old castle.

Brides have long been dressing their flower girls in white dresses, so we’re totally on board with dressing the bridesmaids in white as well.

Some brides think that they won’t stand out if they put their bridesmaids in white dresses. But that’s simply not true. When your girls wear white, it shows that you have an amazing sense of style and know that you’ll stand out no matter what!

If you decide to go this route, you’ll want to pay special attention to the dress details. From the fabric to the silhouette to the length, you’ll need to choose dresses that are different enough from your own that no one on your squad could possibly be mistaken for the bride.

Check out our collection of white bridesmaids dresses

Choose Different Dress Lengths

Bridesmaids wearing whitePhoto: Bella Los Angeles / La Bella Vita Photography

One way to distinguish your gown from your bridesmaid’s dresses is to choose garments in different lengths. 

Having a destination wedding on the beach? Dress your girls in mini dresses or midi dresses.

Going for a vintage vibe? If you’re wearing a full-length gown with a train, choose bridesmaid dresses with a high low hem.

Planning to wear a simple sheath gown without any embellishments? Make your bridal party super chic and modern by dressing your ‘maids in jumpsuits! 

If you want your bridesmaids to wear maxi dresses the same length as your gown, at least be sure to mix up the silhouettes and shapes. For example, if your wedding dress has a ball gown skirt, choose A-line dresses for your bridal party. If you’re planning on wearing a sexy mermaid dress, order dresses with high side slits.

They should be cohesive, but they should be different.

Choose Different Textures

Bridesmaids hugging bridePhoto: Bella Nashville / Whitney Cadavid

When you’re all dressed in the same color, a difference in fabrics is a subtle way to set the bride apart.

If your bridal gown is made from satin or tulle, opt for a more casual fabric for your girls, such as chiffon or jersey.

Planning on wearing a fabulous organza dress?

Choose a crepe or lace bridesmaid dress for your girls.

Trust us, even a slight variation in texture can make a huge difference. 

Select Dresses With Different Details

Bridesmaids wearing dresses with different detailsPhoto: Bella Mobile / Alisha Crossley

Pay attention to necklines, sleeve lengths, and back details. It looks best when the bride’s dress has a different neckline and a different back. That way, you’ll stand out whether you’re walking up or down the aisle. 

If you’re planning on wearing a strapless wedding gown, choose halter necklines, high necks, or V-necks for your bridal party. Planning to channel your inner Kate Middleton with a long-sleeve gown? Choose sleeveless bridesmaid dresses or ones with short ruffle sleeves or spaghetti straps.

Check out our full collection of online bridesmaid dresses, or find a bridesmaid dress shop near you!

Choose White Flowers Too!

Bridal party carrying white flowersPhoto: Bella Birmingham / Hannah Miller

Nothing goes better with a white dress than white flowers. This combo works regardless of your wedding theme or venue.

If you’re having a rustic or bohemian wedding, we recommend throwing in some greenery for a more organic, natural look.

Read more of our color-themed wedding articles: 

Burgundy | Burnt Orange | CoralDusty Blue | Dusty Rose | Ivory and Gold | Lavender | Light Blue | Pink and Silver | Rose Gold | Sage Green | Yellow

Conclusion

You don’t need your maid of honor to look like Pippa or Kourtney or Khloe to pull off an all-white wedding.

No matter your fashion sense or personal style, an all-white wedding is a great way to go, especially if you want to make a bold statement and show that you’re not afraid to do things in your own way.

For more wedding ideas and inspiration, follow us on InstagramPinterest, and Facebook!

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