Women have always been understandably ambivalent about being asked to be a bridesmaid. The origin of the position dates all the way back to Roman times, when female friends and relatives would dress up like bride in order to confuse evil spirits. In time, the bridesmaids served as more than mere pawns. They were there to help and support the bride-to-be on her wedding day.
The famous saying about always being a bridesmaid and never a bride comes from the Victorian era and it perfectly encapsulated the bridesmaid's ambivalence. On one hand, she was happy for her friend, and on the other, she was jealous that she was not the one wearing the white dress. But there is another issue that often exacerbates these conflicted feelings.
Because the bride-to-be traditionally chooses the bridesmaid dress, someone is almost always disappointed. Of course, they would never say anything. After all, it is their friend's big day. More often than not, they simply suffer in silence and tuck the hideous hot pink, baby blue, or fuchsia gown away in a deep, dark closet.
Why are brides-to-be so bad at choosing appealing bridesmaid dresses? It's nothing personal, obviously. They want their friends to be comfortable at the wedding. In truth, it is not their fault. Until only recently, bridesmaid fashions were stuck in another era. With the ruffles, the lace, and furbelows, most of them looked like old prom dresses.
Fortunately, the conservative bridal industry has changed. Due to rising prices, fewer couples are planning formal ceremonies. Beach, backyard, and destination weddings have become increasingly popular with younger couples. As a result, dresses have become more informal and more modern. Designers are finally paying attention to current styles.
What to look for?
Being asked to be a bridesmaid is not nearly as problematic as it used to be. A generation ago, most bridesmaids had to buy ugly dresses that they would never wear again. But the modern bride-to-be is more considerate. Most of them choose the color and let their friends do the rest.
Color
Color has always been the most common unexpressed complaint of the average bridesmaid. Some colors simply scream wedding. Hot pink, baby blue, and fuchsia gowns can really only be worn at proms or at weddings. Thankfully, brides-to-be have come to their senses. They are now requesting colors that are not wedding-specific.
Metallic colors are in, since they can be worn at both formal and informal affairs. Silver, platinum, and gold dresses are popular at summer ceremonies on the grass, in the sand, or indoors. Paler colors like yellow, sand and taupe work for spring nuptials, while darker colors like hunter green and burgundy are a favorite at winter weddings. Black is the only color that can be called perennial.
Style
Women have always had it harder than the guys when it comes to formalwear. Not only do they have to know their measurements, but they also have to know which cut or silhouette will flatter their figure. There are at least eight popular silhouettes that women will have to choose from when they go shopping for a formal gown. The most popular silhouette is the A-line.
The A-line silhouette works best because it can accommodate nearly any body type. Short, curvaceous women and tall, lanky ones can both feel comfortable in this cut of dress. If you are unsure about your body type, ask to be sized at your local bridal salon.
Hemline
Even if the bride-to-be doesn't say so explicitly, is always a good idea to ask about the hemline. Until only recently, floor-length gowns were considered de rigueur for formal, indoor ceremonies. Tea-length gowns are now the most popular choice when it comes to the hemline.
Though many traditions have changed, bridesmaids are still expected to wear the same length of dress or hemline as the bride. Extremely short dresses would be inappropriate if the bride were to wear a full-length gown.
Strapless
A bridesmaid should never be afraid to ask for clarification. Most modern brides-to-be give their girls a lot of leeway when it comes to picking out a dress. This can be both a blessing and a curse. Bridesmaids sometimes misread the signs and select
dresses that are clearly inappropriate. That is why it is always a good idea to set some basic ground rules.After the bride-to-be has selected the color, she should also let her friends know if they can wear strapless numbers. Personal style is one thing, but if a bridesmaid selects a dress that is clearly incongruous, everyone will feel uncomfortable. It is better to be forthright from the start and avoid miscommunication.
Finding the right bridesmaid gown is never easy. An attendant wants to look good and fit in. The only surefire solution is to find out want the bride-to-be expects before shopping. Find the perfect bridesmaid dress for your attendants now.
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