Play fair
Compensate for different heights and figure types. Choose universally-flattering cuts like the empire or A-lines.
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES JUNE 2015, YINA & JERRY’S WEDDING
Colour them beautiful
Shades of colour make a pretty picture. Have one tone throughout in different style dresses, or choose one flattering style but in a gradation of hues like pinks or lilacs. Or each of the could be in a different colour to complement each bridesmaid’s build and colouring. Pastels (blush, lilac, rose pink and cream) off-white, champagne and silvery shades flatter most skin tones.
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES SEPT 2015, SERENE & SAM’S WEDDING
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES SEPT 2015, AUDREY & LESLIE’S WEDDING
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES SEPT 2015, PEI FANG & DAVID’S WEDDING
Pick one feature
If you’re wearing a long sheath, for instance, you can dress them in a similar cut – but short in colour or with fewer details.
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES DEC 2014, BELINDA & THOMAS’ WEDDING
Cut from the same cloth
If you’re going for different styles altogether, have a common thread, like the same fabric. So, if you’re walking down the aisle in a satin-and-lace gown, your bridesmaids can wear either full satin or full lace dresses. On the other hand, a full-skirted gown in white duchesse-satin looks bridal, a similar one in chiffon looks bridesmaid-ish.
PHOTO: HER WORLD BRIDES SEPT 2015, LIZA & ALIF’S WEDDING
This story was first published in Her World Brides June – August 1999 issue.
See also: How to dress your pretty bridesmaids and still stand out.