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In the world of weddings, much attention is often placed on the bride and her gown, but bridesmaids play a significant role in the celebration. Gone are the days of uniform bridesmaid dresses, where every member of the bridal party wore an identical outfit. Today, brides and their bridesmaids are embracing a world of colors, textures, and styles that reflect individuality and personality.
A World of Possibilities:
Jennifer Morrison, co-owner of Wedding & Tuxedo Connection in Richmond, along with Sue Spanier, recognizes the evolving landscape of bridesmaid dresses. She notes that there is no longer a standard or norm when it comes to these dresses. Instead, couples have the freedom to choose based on their vision and preferences.
“It’s pretty much everything goes now,” says Morrison. The focus has shifted from matching dresses to selecting a color theme and fabric, allowing each bridesmaid to choose a dress style that complements her body type and personal taste.
A Kaleidoscope of Styles:
Today’s bridesmaid dresses come in an array of styles, from short to long, lace to sequins, and suitable for various wedding settings, whether on a beach, in a barn, or in a bustling city. The choices are abundant, influenced by the overall wedding theme.
Recent trends have witnessed the resurgence of long dresses and bohemian-inspired gowns. Fabrics like chiffon remain popular, but other materials such as satin and even velvet are making a comeback.
Colorful Expressions:
Colors are another realm of expression for couples. They may opt for various shades of a single color, explore a particular color family or theme, or embrace autumnal tones. Recent color trends lean towards more muted and sophisticated palettes, although some couples still opt for vibrant hues, depending on their wedding vision.
“Couples go with every color,” mentions Spanier.
Expanding Bridal Parties:
Bridesmaids are part of a larger bridal party, which has been expanding in recent years. It’s not uncommon for couples to have six to eight bridesmaids and an equal number of groomsmen. Groomsmen typically stick to suits or tuxedos, but there’s room for individuality in details like ties and pocket squares.
“Many blue options” have gained popularity, says Morrison, reflecting a versatile and fitted look.
Guiding the Choices:
While bridesmaids may have more say in their dress styles, it’s still essential for couples to provide some direction to ensure a cohesive look. Communication is key, as Morrison suggests, by discussing how the couple envisions their wedding photos.
Moms and More:
Mothers of the bride and groom also have a range of choices available to them, from bridesmaid-style dresses to designs tailored with them in mind. The selection spans from simple to intricately embellished pieces, catering to various personal styles, budgets, and comfort levels.
Young Stars of the Show:
Let’s not forget the flower girls and ring bearers. Outfits for these young participants have shifted towards comfort and affordability, departing from miniaturized versions of adult attire.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Experience:
Morrison and Spanier offer valuable advice to couples planning their wedding attire. First, keep an open mind to explore the possibilities within your budget. It’s essential to be aware that prices for wedding attire have been on the rise.
Moreover, starting early is crucial, as it can take several months for bridesmaid dresses, groomsmen suits, and other bridal party outfits to arrive. These lead times allow room for potential alterations or dealing with supply delays.
One-Stop Shop:
Wedding & Tuxedo Connection aims to be a comprehensive resource for wedding attire, offering not only clothing but also florist and decorating services. Recently, the store moved to a larger building, enhancing its capacity to serve couples.
The world of bridesmaid dresses has evolved into a realm of diversity, where individuality, style, and personality are celebrated. With an array of choices in styles, colors, and fabrics, couples have the freedom to curate a wedding party that reflects their vision.
Jennifer Morrison and Sue Spanier are dedicated to helping couples navigate this ever-expanding landscape, ensuring that the wedding attire is a perfect fit for their special day. As wedding seasons continue to flourish, the possibilities are limitless, and with the right guidance, couples can create a harmonious and stylish bridal party that complements their unique wedding vision.
