Bridesmaid Dresses for Every Occasion
Photo 1 of 5
-
Black TieBy: Colleen Guiltinan
When choosing gowns for your bridesmaids, you want to pick a dress that compliments the type of affair you're having. Whether it's a fancy black tie event, a beach-side bash or a holiday soiree - it's very important to make sure your maids are dressed right for the occasion.
Black Tie:
This is the one type of wedding where you can go all-out with your gowns. The key here is to keep your maids looking elegant and Oscar-worthy without having them out-do the bride. Although this is not a strict rule, iMag recommends a slim-cut floor-length gown for the affair. Go for neutral colors such as black and beige, but get creative with the neckline and accessories. Sweetheart tops, halters, belts and sparkly jewelry work well. Here are our picks:
Left: Amsale, $310.00
Middle: Jenny Yoo, $318.75 - $375.00
Right: Priscilla of Boston, $200.00 - $250.00
-
Holiday SoireeThe challenge in choosing a dress for a holiday wedding is length. While something short is perfectly appropriate, bare legs are not so your maids will have to wear stockings and closed-toe shoes. Or you can opt for a longer dress in which case bare legs and sandals are okay.
When choosing a color, look for holiday hues such a berry, deep green and plum. Metallics are another great option like silver and gold. Try shiny fabrics such as satin and silk and don't be afraid to try something fun like a dress with an accent such as a bow or a one-shouldered-silhouette. Here are our favorite holiday gowns, which are available in a variety of colors:
Left: Thread Design, $345.00
Middle: Amsale, $310.00
Right: Priscilla of Boston, $200.00 - $250.00
-
Tropical WeddingThere are two important factors to keep in mind when choosing a bridesmaid dress for a tropical wedding: fabric and color. Because most warm-weather destinations tend to be humid, you'll want to pick a dress that is light in weight – such as cotton, satin or chiffon. For color, opt for bright hues or floral prints that reflect your ceremony's setting. Coral, deep pink and peach are some of the hottest colors of the season and are perfect for an island extravaganza. Here are our top picks:
Left: Amsale, $260.00
Middle: Thread Design, $480.00
Right: JCrew, $225.00
-
Spring/Summer Outdoor AffairIf you're getting married in an outdoor setting during the warm-weather months, you'll want your maids to look fresh and summery without appearing too casual. iMag suggests a knee-length or mini dress that is light in fabric and color. Pastel greens, light pinks and yellows work beautifully for this type of wedding, as do subtle prints such as seersucker (pictured in the middle). Stay away from long dresses (unless the event is black tie) and choose gowns that are sleeveless so your bridesmaids don't get too hot. Here are our top picks:
Left: JCrew, $285.00
Middle: Thread Design, $290.00
Right: Simple Silhouettes, $275.00
-
Semi-FormalFor semi-formal weddings there are a lot of options when it comes to bridesmaid gowns. Whether your wedding is in the early fall, spring or summer you cannot go wrong with a solid cocktail-style strapless dress. They can be easily worn again and flatter every figure. Try styles that cinch at the waist, have an origami-type bodice or ruffles. As for fabric go for taffeta, satin, shantung or charmeuse. Here are our favorites:
Left: Thread Design, $290.00
Middle: David's Bridal, $99.00
Right: Jenny Yoo, $255.00 - $300.00
For more great bridesmaid dresses check out our slideshow on the hottest trends and visit iMag's Love Page.
Black Tie
By: Colleen Guiltinan
When choosing gowns for your bridesmaids, you want to pick a dress that compliments the type of affair you're having. Whether it's a fancy black tie event, a beach-side bash or a holiday soiree - it's very important to make sure your maids are dressed right for the occasion.
Black Tie:
This is the one type of wedding where you can go all-out with your gowns. The key here is to keep your maids looking elegant and Oscar-worthy without having them out-do the bride. Although this is not a strict rule, iMag recommends a slim-cut floor-length gown for the affair. Go for neutral colors such as black and beige, but get creative with the neckline and accessories. Sweetheart tops, halters, belts and sparkly jewelry work well. Here are our picks:
Left: Amsale, $310.00
Middle: Jenny Yoo, $318.75 - $375.00
Right: Priscilla of Boston, $200.00 - $250.00


