Bridesmaids Best Friend
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The Bridesmaid's Dress
We’ve all heard the horror stories of a bridal party fashion disaster and while no-one sets out to fall victim to the dangers of bridesmaid fashion it can happen all too easily if a little care isn’t taken.
Before the bride-to-be makes too many decisions about the theme of her wedding day, suggest a dinner with her and the other bridesmaids to discuss ways you can help and of course the bridesmaid outfits.
Remember the ultimate decision lies with your best bud so don’t complain or be pushy about what you would like - if she wants you looking like a lemon merangue, unfortunately you’ll have to grin and bear it. Although if you are one of the lucky ones who have been asked for their opinion make sure you jump at the chance. Don’t be afraid to let her know what you think but remember she’s after suggestions not demands.
Because we all come in unique shapes and sizes it can be a good idea to choose bridesmaid dresses in different styles whilst maintaining a colour theme. This way everyone will feel comfortable wearing a dress that suits their shape and personality. This can look quite stylish if the different styles are further coordinated by stunning jewellery.
However, if your friend has her heart set on all the bridesmaids wearing identical dresses, there are various styles that will suit many body shapes, so do your research and make sure that the dress fits your curves like a glove. Try to get all the bridesmaids together for a shopping expedition so you all get a chance to try on different styles.
If you get stuck with a dress that hugs all the wrong places don’t fret – there are still a few ways you can make the best of a bad situation without insulting your friends taste.
Any dress can look pretty ordinary if it doesn’t fit properly so think about hiring a Tailor. Tailors can make a dress look like it was made especially for you, even if it does have a striking resemblance to a lemon meringue. Get your alterations done early to avoid any last minute disasters!
What you wear under your frock is just as important as the dress itself. No promises of a miracle, but with today’s innovative underware you can flatten, push, and pad your curves to fit almost any dress shape.
A properly fitted bra can make all the difference; it is definitely worth going for a professionally fitted bra from a lingerie boutique. If you’re thinking you don’t need a bra, think carefully before making that decision. Churches and air-conditioned reception venues can get a little chilli… need I say more? A tailor can sew in bra cups if you’re really opposed to wearing a bra.
A seamless body suit is another way to hold everything together and give you the confidence to tango your little heart out on the dance floor all night.
The bridesmaid dress is often a cause for conflict, but it doesn’t have to be. Yes, you may be asked to wear something that makes you feel like you’re Little Bo-Peep in a horror film, but the most important thing to remember is that on the day you are there to support the bride and share one of the most important days of her life with her. So the best thing you can do is tell the bride you absolutely love what she has chosen – and make it work!
By: Kate Harrison, author of The Bridesmaids Best Friend.
