How to Choose a Bridesmaid Dress: A Guide to Colour, Style and Fit

Choosing a bridesmaid dress, or helping your bridesmaids choose one, is easier when you know what to look for. This guide covers colours, styles, fit and timing, with designer dresses from Lexi, Winona, Nicholas, Nicola Finetti and more, all below RRP and shipped free by express post Australia-wide.

Start with the wedding style

The venue, season and time of day shape the dress. A garden or beach wedding suits soft, flowing fabrics. A formal evening wedding suits floor length dresses in satin or crepe. Browse our bridesmaid dresses.

Colour

Soft neutrals and pastels: blush, sage and dusty blue look gentle in daylight.
Rich tones: navy, emerald and burgundy suit autumn and winter weddings.
Different shades of one colour: a modern way to let each bridesmaid feel comfortable and still look coordinated.

Style and fit

Bridesmaids come in different shapes and sizes, and most look best when they are comfortable. Choose flattering necklines and silhouettes that suit a range of bodies, such as wrap styles, A-lines and adjustable straps. Many couples now let each bridesmaid choose her own style in the same colour.

Length

Floor length suits most formal weddings. Midi lengths feel relaxed and work for daytime or garden ceremonies. Keep the bride’s dress in mind so the bridal party looks balanced.

Timing

Choose dresses early, and allow time for sizing, delivery and any alterations. Each of our dresses is often one of a kind, so check the size and condition on each listing before you order.

Buying versus hiring

A designer bridesmaid dress can be worn again to weddings, races and parties. New with tags and pre-loved dresses are both well below RRP, every dress is authentic and there are no return dates or late fees. If you used to hire, see why buying can work out better. If you are a guest, read our wedding guest dress guide.