The Low Down on Bridesmaid Gowns

Don't do this to your loved ones.

We've all seen/worn them, ugly bridesmaid gowns. Dresses so bad that it's surprising they were made, let alone picked to wear in public. Being chosen as a bridesmaid is considered to be an honor but spending the entire day being viewed and, worse, photographed in a hideous gown is an embarrassment. Having to wear a fashion faux pas has become an expectation for bridesmaids. Horrible styles and colors were jokingly modeled in the movie 27 Dresses, which have inspired bridesmaid gown parties for former bridesmaids to parade their f-ugly gowns one more time.

Many modern brides have opted not to sabotage their girls by selecting beautifully flattering bridesmaid gowns. Long gone are dreaded details like heavy, stiff fabrics, ruffles and huge bows. Contemporary bridesmaids are red carpet ready in gowns of flowing materials and trendy cuts. In addition to breezy gowns, tea lengths are definitely a hot trend in weddings. A tea length dress, which usually has an A-line cut and stops at the knee or upper calf, is flattering for most body types. Since it’s less formal than a floor length gown, it can easily be worn again.

Another trend in modern weddings is to personalize the bridal party with different colors and cuts. Who says all the bridesmaids have to wear a ‘uniform’? One option is to have bridesmaids all wear the same color but different styles that individually suit them. Another option is to have one gown style but the maid of honor in a special color while the other bridesmaids wear another.

The common joke is that brides purposely choose awful gowns for their maids so they won’t out shine her. However, many gracious brides have decided that their bridesmaids should also look fabulous on the big day.