Bridal Party Style Guide
Dresses, robes, and everything your bridal party needs to look stunning from getting ready to the last dance.
Note: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase, at no extra cost to you.
1. Start With Your Overall Vision
Before you start adding dresses to carts, think about the overall feel you want for your wedding day:
Formality
Black tie, semi-formal, casual, beach, backyard
Vibe
Classic, modern, romantic, boho, rustic, minimalist
Season
Light + airy for summer, rich tones for fall/winter
Color Story
One color, mix-and-match tones, or a full palette
Inspiration tip: Save a few photos that feel like "you" and keep them handy while browsing. The goal is not to copy a look exactly, but to make sure your choices feel cohesive.
2. Bridesmaid Dresses
Bridesmaid dresses are the anchor of your bridal party look. Here's how to choose them without losing your mind.
Silhouette & Fit
Different bodies feel best in different styles. If you have a range of body types, consider letting bridesmaids choose their own neckline from a curated list while keeping the color and fabric consistent.
Neckline
Silhouette
Length
Color Palette Ideas
You don't have to force everyone into the exact same dress for the look to feel cohesive. Here are some popular palette options:
Romantic Blush
Sage Garden
Dusty Blue
Champagne Neutrals
Idea: Choose a "hero" color for the maid of honor and complementary tones for the rest of the bridal party.
Not sure which color is right in real life?
It's hard to pick a bridesmaid dress color from a screen alone. You can order fabric color swatches from AW Bridal to see the shades and materials in person before you commit to a full set of dresses. It's a small step that can save you from costly do-overs later.
Fabric & Season
Spring / Summer
Chiffon, tulle, organza, lighter satin. Light colors and breathable fabrics.
Fall / Winter
Velvet, heavier satin, layered fabrics. Rich, deeper tones.
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Browse Bridesmaid Dresses at AW Bridal
3. Getting-Ready Outfits & Robes
Those "getting ready" photos in the morning are some of the most fun – but also the easiest to forget to plan for.
Why Matching Robes Are Worth It
Look great in photos together
Protect hair and makeup
Double as a thoughtful gift
What to Look For
- •Wrap or button styles – easy to take off without ruining hair/makeup
- •Comfortable fabrics – satin, cotton blends, or soft modal
- •Complementary colors – they don't have to match perfectly
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Browse Robes & Getting-Ready Outfits
4. Flower Girls & Junior Bridesmaids
Flower girls and junior bridesmaids add so much sweetness and energy to the day – just make sure they're comfortable.
Prioritize Comfort
- •Softer fabrics that won't itch
- •Lengths easy to walk (and run) in
- •Secure straps to avoid wardrobe mishaps
Style Ideas
- •Mini version of bridal gown style
- •Simple white/ivory with colored sash
- •Light, twirly "princess" dresses
Shop Now
Browse Flower Girl Dresses
5. Accessories & Finishing Touches
Once dresses are chosen, accessories pull everything together.
Shoes
Consider your venue (grass, sand, ballroom) and prioritize comfort for long days.
Jewelry
Set simple guidelines instead of micro-managing every piece.
- • "Simple gold or silver jewelry"
- • "No statement necklaces with detailed necklines"
- • Or gift matching earrings/bracelets
Hair & Makeup
Give loose guidelines to keep things cohesive but personal.
Hair Styles
"Soft, romantic" vs "Sleek and modern"
Makeup
"Natural glam" vs "Bold lip"
6. Budget & Ordering Timeline
Budget Tips
- Set a realistic price range for bridesmaid dresses early
- Ask your bridal party what they're comfortable spending
- Consider covering alterations or hair/makeup if budget allows
Ordering Timeline
Order Dresses
- Finalize colors & styles
- Collect measurements
- Place bridesmaid dress orders
Alterations
- Dresses arrive
- Schedule fittings
- Begin alterations
Accessories
- Order robes & getting-ready outfits
- Finalize shoes & jewelry
Final Check
- Confirm everyone has full outfit
- Pack for wedding day
7. Track It All in VowSpace
Keep your bridal party style decisions and shopping links all in one place with VowSpace.
Add These to Your Checklist
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of the links to AW Bridal and other retailers in this guide are affiliate links. This means VowSpace may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and retailers that we believe are genuinely helpful for couples planning their weddings.