Maid Attraction: Choosing An Attractive Gown For Your Bridesmaids and Maid of Honor

by Mia Bolaris-Forget (Staff Writer)

So, you’ve figured out the who, and the when, but how about the wear? No, it’s not a typo, more precisely the “what to wear” for your illustrious bridal party. Besides the diversity in personality and personal preference, you can almost anticipate the medley of body types and what’s considered comfortable and complimentary.

From statuesque “supermodel” silhouettes, to those with more well-rounded features you’ll not only want to secure something flattering to a variety of figures but something that makes them feel good and has the potential yield a return on their investment. Consider the following timeless tips for authentic aisle and style.

1. Build on solid foundation: Choosing all one color is the ideal way to prove that size (and shape) really doesn’t matter. Choose simple colors (color schemes) and fabrics and let each lady select a style that’s most comfortable for her.

2. Sensational separates: Remember each girl’s proportions are different, so why should their dresses be exactly the same. What may leave one lady busting with joy may leave another a little flat. Experts suggest that instead of choosing a gown, selecting a color and general style and letting the girls mix and match tops and bottoms. Halter and knit tops are especially hot and offer the greatest potential for future usability….after all both look great underneath a suit jacket or with jeans.

3. Change Your Tone: Especially if you’re and Island girl (Long Island that is) or having a destination wedding. Go for vibrant island hues that are both hot and haute. Orange, Turquoise, fuchsia, lilac, deep purples, reds, etc. Make sure your colors are warm and inviting, especially for summer weddings.

4. Go Au Naturelle: Garish, cantankerous fabrics (like taffeta, and especially those heavily embellished with sequins and heavy beading) that were once all the rage now simply an enraging thought. Shinny satin-like Scarlet O’Hara styles are thankfully a thing of the past, and it would seem we’ve learned from our mistakes. Soft, subtle, natural beauty is the latest in designer couture. Sleek, sophistication is exemplified in crepe, organza, chiffon and matte jersey.

5. Color Outside The Lines: Instead of picking a color, why not select a color scheme instead. Try to remember that each girl’s complexion is different and so will how she’ll look in a particular hue. Allow each bridal party member to choose her own shade, one that she feels compliments her coloring, allows her to sparkle and shine, and be as subtle or intense as she wants to be.

6. Give Them A Vote Of Confidence: If you have a specific “look” in mind, select several styles that would allow you to accomplish it, then give your girls the courtesy of trying each on and taking a vote on which one they like best. You may even want to offer them the option of each selecting the style that most comfortable for them.