There are so many choices when thinking about what you want your wedding party to wear for your special day. It can feel a bit overwhelming to pick the right attire for each person’s different personalities and body types. So, I have written a guide with some helpful tips and tricks and some online and local shop recommendations, that I like to share with my couples.
A Bridesmaid’s Guide:
Some things to keep in mind when starting your Dress shopping journey
Before choosing the wedding attire, the first order of business is your color scheme. You will need to know your color scheme or palette in order to pick color tones of dresses that will compliment your wedding day aesthetic.
Next, decide whether you want your bridesmaids to all have the same dress or mix and match. This might mean multiple different colors, fabric, styles, patterns or lengths.
Prepare some guidelines for your girls. Once you know what you are looking for, share that with your bridesmaids. If they are all wearing the same dress, send the exact specifics on the dress to each of them. If you are open to them each picking out their own dress, share your preferences with them on things like color, brand/company, style, length, pattern and fabric. For example, you might want them all to wear floor length, simple/patternless, black satin dresses but they can pick their own style and brand. Giving them guidelines will help cut down on confusion and questions.
Get shopping! Whether they are shopping on their own or you are shopping with them, it’s time to start looking at options online or in store and trying things on!
Popular Trends:
Neutral Tones - Neutral toned weddings are on the rise. Neutrals could mean black, nudes/beige tones or even ivory. These neutral tones tend to lend themselves well to the ever-so-popular greenery and white florals look.
Satin Dresses - Satin is a stunning fabric that can really give an elevated and elegant look to your wedding party.
Mix & Match Patterns and Tone - Mixed tones, fabrics and patterns are on the rise. Mixing some pattern dresses with solid color dresses in your color palette can add a fun pop to your wedding party.
Classic Black & White - This one never goes out of style. Classic black bridesmaid dresses next to a Bride’s brilliant white/ivory dress really stand out and create a sophisticated look and feel the wedding party.
My Favorite Dress Shops:
Local to the Philadelphia Area: La Bella Moda in Conshohocken, Elizabeth Johns in Ardmore, &
Something Borrowed Bridal Boutique in Perkasie
Online Shops: Azazie & Birdy Grey
A Groomsmen’s Guide:
quick tips to remember When searching for the right Look
Decide whether you would like to rent or purchase suits. There are great options in both categories but you will want to make sure you have an idea of what color and fabric you are looking for for suits and whether the companies you are interested in working with offer those colors or fabrics in rental options.
Most suit shops offer a discounted rate for wedding groups and will even sometimes comp the Groom’s suit for free. So make sure to order all your suits from the same place to take advantage of those savings.
It’s best to place your suit order about 3-4 months ahead to ensure your order is correct when you receive it. This gives you and your groomsmen some time in case anything needs to be fixed or returned. Most tux and suit companies can get replacements and adjustments made rather quickly.
Who pays? This is something you as a couple should decide on before starting the wedding party attire process. In most cases, the wedding party pays for their own attire.
Popular Trends:
Neutral Tones - Neutrals are always classic and in style. You can never go wrong with a black, tan or navy suit.
Earthy Tones - Browns, Tans and Greens are trending as well. Although browns and tans are a classic, green has been a color we have seen on the rise lately and we are loving it!
Vintage Vibes - Double-breasted suits, velvet, tweed and black and white suits are making a comeback and are adding some nostalgic vintage flare to a traditional wedding day look.
My Favorite Tux Shops:
Local to Philadelphia: Ventrescad Ltd. in Doylestown, Tony Laguda Formal Wear in Ambler, & Suit Shop in Philadelphia
Online Shops: Suit Shop, The Black Tux, & Sartoro
When working with any of these wedding dress or suit shops they have consultants/specialists who can help you with all of your questions and concerns. They can help you pick out colors, fabrics and accessories as well. Some online shops will also offer free or inexpensive color swatches that can be shipped to your home. This can be helpful for you to see the shades and tones of colors in person and can also with matching/coordination across your wedding party.
Trends and styles change every year but don’t be afraid to rock your vision whether it’s trending or not. It’s important that your wedding day be a reflection of the two of you as a couple, your love story and your personalities. It’s your big day so make it what you want and have fun with it!
Happy Planning!
<3 Naticia