We love a mismatched bridal party, but there’s no denying the timeless impact of maids in the same style and shade. So what’s a bride to do when she’s got her heart set on the same style, but her girls are rocking a wide range of body types? Step one: don’t panic. Step two: celebrate! There are more options than ever for bridesmaids dresses that look great on every body type. All you need to do is set the dress code for the special event so they know what to consider in their choice. Here are a few styles to get you started on finding and choosing the perfect bridesmaid dress for different body shapes.
Best Dress Styles For All Body Types
A flowing A-line silhouette.
If you’re new to the bridesmaid dress game, all of the shapes can seem overwhelming. Luckily, the easiest to remember is also the most universally flattering! A- line dresses earned their name because they look like the letter “A” from the waist down. They come in slimmer, fitted versions and more flowing styles. Choose a loose A-line to flatter slim and curvy body types alike. You can obtain bridesmaids dresses in Mikado fabric, which perfectly complements the A-line style, keeping it in shape.
A strap-happy neckline.
One of the most thoughtful things a bride can do for her ladies is to think about their, well, ladies. Your bridesmaids are going to be sporting many different types of undergarments on your big day, so choosing a dress that hides bra straps is a smart move. Think a flowy cap sleeve or a wide-strapped V-neck that hits above mid- back. Have your bridesmaids wear their favorite bra to their fitting to make sure everything is perfectly lifted and tucked!
A super customizable silhouette.
If you love lookalike bridesmaid dresses but want to let the girls get a little creative, a multi-way dress gives you the best of both worlds. Our Infinity dresses have convertible front streamers that can be worn in a variety of ways, such as a halter, strapless, one-shoulder and countless other styles in between. The Infinity dress in velvet material has a gorgeous gathered maxi skirt, while our new Lux Stretch features an elegant mermaid with horsehair hem.
An easy-breezy empire waist.
An empire waist hits above the natural waistline, right under the bust. This makes it forgiving, comfortable and easy to wear – the favorite t-shirt of bridesmaids dresses. Pear shapes will love that it highlights their narrow waist, and straighter body types will be psyched for the added curves. If you’ve got a soon-to-be-mama in your party, this shape is especially maternity-friendly!
A hint of stretch.
When you think of a bridesmaid dress, you probably picture chiffon. That light, romantic fabric is still a favorite, but there are so many other options! When dressing a beautifully diverse bridal party, a bit of stretch can go a long way. Bonus points for flattering ruching around the waist! Seek out a style in a stretch crepe, stretch velvet or even something with a hint of sheen like our Lux Stretch. The girls will be thanking you when they’re getting down on the dance floor!
The great thing about these bridesmaid dresses is that they come in a range of colors. Whether you prefer a neutral bridesmaid dress, a grey bridesmaid dress, or a pop of color like green, there is something to suit all wedding themes.
Things to Consider When Looking for a Bridesmaid Dress for Different Body Types
You may wish to begin your dress shopping by choosing one of the styles above, that go well with any body type. Alternatively, you can speak individually with your bridesmaids and learn more about their body shapes. This will enable you to seek out individual dresses for each bridesmaid, based on their unique needs and preferences. You can also look for retailers that have a range of dresses in different styles, that are specially made for different individuals, such as dresses for the mother of the bride or groom, or for those who are pregnant.
Whether you are a bride looking for your bridesmaids, or you are a soon-to-be bridesmaid wondering how you can pick a beautiful bridesmaid dress for your body type, there are a variety of things to consider when starting your shopping with body shapes in mind. These include:
- What will be most comfortable (remember a bridesmaid will have to spend all day and night in the dress, as well as be able to enjoy a meal and dance at the reception)
- What body features make the bridesmaid unique
- How the bridesmaid dress style can fit the rest of the wedding theme
- The color dress that you choose
- What materials will be most suitable to achieve your desired look
Every bridesmaid is gorgeous in their own way and there will be a perfect evening gown for each of them. Everyone has unique features about their body, which may change the way different dresses look. This is why it is important to understand your body type, or the body types of your bridesmaids, so you can create a beautiful bridal party for the big day. In addition to body type, you may wish to consider the skin tone and color that you choose for the dress. This, combined with the style of dress, will help accentuate your bridesmaids unique and gorgeous features. For example, a black bridesmaid dress is not only elegant, but it is also effortlessly flattering.
Here are some of the most common body features that should be considered when finding the right bridesmaid dress for different body types.
Height
Some people are very tall, while others are short and petite. This height difference can change the way a dress looks and fits on a bridesmaid, making it an important feature to consider. Tall bridesmaids may consider a longer cut dress, that will highlight their lovely long legs. Petite bridesmaids may choose a bridesmaid dress with features such as an open back or puffy sleeves to accentuate their smaller structure.
Bust
Bust sizes will play a role in the comfort of your bridesmaids in their dresses, as well as the way the dress falls. If they want to show off the bust, then a v-neck dress will work wonders. If the bridesmaid would prefer to find more balance in their bridesmaid dress, then an off-the-shoulder dress may work best. If they have a smaller bust, then a halter neck is a great way to create balance in the outfit. You could also opt for fitted dresses to highlight the beautiful curves of the bridesmaid.
Athletic
If the bridesmaid has an athletic build, then a off-the-shoulder dress or v-neck is the perfect way to show off their strong physique.
Pregnant
If your bridesmaid is pregnant, there is no reason why they should not be able to wear a bridesmaid dress. There are plenty of floating-style dresses that will enable the soon-to-be-mother to be comfortable and look gorgeous. There are also a variety of specially made maternity bridesmaid dresses, that match the typical, elegant bridesmaid dresses.
Finding the perfect bridesmaid dress that suits all the beautiful features of your bridesmaids can be difficult. If you just chose one style, it will sit differently on your bridal party, especially if some are tall, some are petite, and a range of bust sizes.
Learning more about the personal preferences, body types and comfort requirements of your bridesmaids is a great place to start in dressing and co-ordinating your bridal party. By doing this, you can ensure you create a cohesive look, choose the most gorgeous bridesmaid dresses for your girls, and ensure everyone is comfortable enough to dance the night away with you.
Have you found the perfect dress that flatters all your favorite girls? We’d love to see! Tag us in your photos or send them to [email protected] for your chance to be featured on our blog.
