Different styles, tastes, budgets and body types mean bridesmaid dress shopping can be stressful. Follow our handy hints to ease the stress and heighten the joy!

Research online first

Go online and pick out your favourite dress options. As much as possible, consider everyone’s skin tone, hair colour and body shape. After all, you’ll want to choose dresses that make them look and feel their best. Share your favourite options with them online and see what responses you get.

Discuss budget upfront

Wedding magazines are full of designer frocks that have a high price label, but you can often find something similar for a fraction of the cost if you need to. Talk to your bridesmaids about what their budget is. This will inform where you shop.

Keep the style versatile

Especially if your bridesmaids are paying for their outfits, it’s important to select dresses that can work again for a different occasion. Your bridesmaids will thank you for it. Remember, the dresses don’t all have to be the same. That may be the tradition, but it’s all about what works for you.

Listen to the experts

A good dress consultant or wedding planner will have heaps of experience and will be able to guide you on styles and colours. They should also help you keep within your budget. They’ll remind you to get accurate measurements and to start the process early so that no one is disappointed.

Make it fun

Remember your wedding day is their day, too. So, make choosing the bridesmaid dresses a fun part of your pre-wedding planning. It’s an opportunity for your bride squad to bond, especially if they don’t all know each other. And don’t sweat the small stuff; it’s just not worth it.

And our tips for the bridesmaids: have an open mind, follow the bride’s lead and be gentle with your feedback!