Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Etiquette Rule: Every Things You Need to Know

Shopping etiquette for bridesmaid dresses is not a simple task, and you probably have to take into account various budgets, body shapes, fashion preferences, and so much more.

Your bridesmaids have all agreed to be in your wedding, so it’s time to settle on those tough specifics of what everyone will be wearing. You should make sure that your bridal party looks exactly as stunning as you do when you walk down the aisle, and you should take pictures with them all after the wedding.

Finding bridesmaid dresses is a challenging undertaking, and you probably have to take into account guests with different budgets, body types, and fashion preferences. It could be a little overwhelming all at once. However, even if shopping etiquette is challenging, it doesn’t need to be tense.

Continue reading for professional advice on how to work on bridesmaid shopping etiquette without causing a fuss, as well as suggestions for the bride and the girls.

Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Etiquette Tips for the Bride 

How do you even start looking for bridesmaid dresses? These five suggestions are an excellent starting point. 

1 Start With Online Research 

Prior to scheduling salon sessions, decide on the style of appearance you want to achieve. This will make the procedure much simpler. You may view every style of bridesmaid dress online, making research quick, enjoyable, and time-saving.

2 Talk Openly About Budgets From Day One 

Weddings may occasionally seem like an etiquette minefield, and one of those touchy subjects that can derail even the most painstakingly planned procedure is the budget of your bridal party members. Don’t wait to have that discussion. It will make it easier to choose where you should shop right away. Fortunately, there are many beautiful alternatives for bridesmaids nowadays, whether they decide to purchase off-the-rack clothing or go with bespoke designer gowns at high-end salons.

3 Don’t Forget to Factor in Alteration Costs 

The gowns of about 75% of bridesmaids need to be adjusted. The price might range from $25 to more than $100. A tall bridesmaid might require more length to be added to her dress in addition to hemming and sizing modifications. If you’re wearing a long dress and your bridesmaid is 5’8″ or taller, she might require extra length, especially if she’s wearing high heels. Bring accessories to the first fitting, and be aware that excess length sometimes carries a surcharge.

4 Start Shopping Ahead of Time 

Beginning your bridal party’s shopping at least seven to eight months before the big day is advised. Not only is this less stressful for everyone involved, but you’re also more likely to be able to order the dress and still have time for it to be delivered without any last-minute rushes if you can find a sale (if you’re buying off the rack) or find a quarterly trunk show (where you can get a 15% discount).

Starting early not only results in greater bargains but also gives you plenty of time to arrange orders. Budget at least three months between the time you place the purchase and the time you get it, unless you are purchasing items off the shelf. Since many designers have their garments cut abroad, the shop is simply unable to speed up the process any more. To guarantee quality control, orders are also placed simultaneously for the whole bridal party, she continues. Always err on the side of caution.

5 Always Have Measurements Done Professionally Before Ordering

Despite the fact that many bridesmaid gowns are manufactured on demand, the purchaser does not receive a unique outfit. Instead, bridesmaids are size-fitted into an existing garment after being measured (usually two to 24). Each bridesmaid should offer accurate measurements because designers’ sizing varies, in order to avoid complications later. The sales personnel at many shops may measure bridesmaids, but they are not seamstresses. It’s crucial that the consumer additionally visits a qualified seamstress to have her measures taken since she ultimately bears responsibility for supplying accurate measurements.

Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Tips for the Bridesmaids 

Being a bridesmaid makes it challenging to shop for gowns since although it’s not your wedding, it is your dress. Here are some things to remember to make everything run as smoothly as possible.

6 Have an Open Mind 

Keep an open mind and give it a chance before you start worrying about the bridesmaid dress preferences of your engaged friend, even if it’s a style or color you don’t really like. In the best case scenario, you put on the dress and it looks absolutely stunning on you. The worst-case scenario: It just doesn’t work when you walk out of the dressing room, and hopefully the bride sees that it’s not the greatest option.

7 Follow the Bride’s Lead 

Ask for some advice first if the bride wants you to explore the racks and gain some inspiration before picking whatever you like. Does your BFF like chiffon or dresses with sleeves for everyone? Does a preferred length or level of detail exist? Feel free to consider complementing colors or a silhouette that might not have been thought of if the bride wants some fresh ideas.

8 Give Constructive Feedback 

Do you have an outfit you absolutely detest? Any intense emotions should be kept private. Find a constructive approach to express what you don’t like instead, whether it’s a color that doesn’t suit your skin tone or a neckline that’s too exposed. If you can articulate your dislikes, you might be able to persuade the bride to change her mind or find a method to modify the situation.

9 Bring the Right Undergarments and Accessories

Make sure to dress in your undies and sneak a strapless bra into your handbag if you know you’ll be visiting a bridal salon to look for bridesmaid gowns. With no distracting bright red bottoms or a lacy bralette that sticks out in all the wrong places, you’ll be able to put on any color or neckline with relative ease in this manner. Bring a pair of shoes with you, regardless of the type you want to wear to the wedding. Bring a few of your favorite accessories to see how the dress will look with your own unique touches added.

Just like you had anticipated, picture your bridesmaids going out into the avenue. Nothing compares to the satisfaction of seeing your plans come to fruition. The easiest way to guarantee this occurs is to make sure you follow the proper protocol while looking for bridesmaid dresses. Wishing you luck and a joyful marriage!

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