Your bridesmaids don’t have to look like clones from every other wedding. Dresses with open backs, glamorous fit-and-flare skirts, and whimsical gauzy overlays are just a few ways to give your bridal party a fresh take.
Long gone are the days of bridesmaid dresses your friends will only want to wear once. Now designers are opting for more modern, fashion-forward designs that mimic the gorgeous trends you see coming down. Here, we highlight eight stylish bridesmaid dress trends, plus popular bridal-party color schemes—from pretty pastels to jet black. Scroll down to check out the dresses your bridal party will actually want to wear—even after the festivities are over!
Tea Length
Tea-length dresses (or dresses with a hemline that falls just below the knee or brushes the lower calf) are having a serious moment. This semiformal length gives off fun, retro vibes but still feels sophisticated. Opt for airy fabrics like tulle or chiffon for a tutu-inspired effect.
One Shoulder
Strapless dresses are perfect for showing off just the right amount of skin, but when it comes to support, they may not be right for all your bridesmaids. Enter the one-shoulder bridesmaid dress. The shoulder-baring silhouette will give you the best of both worlds while still looking classic and elegant.
Cap Sleeves
Looking for a pretty alternative to the strapless style? Consider cap sleeves. These barely there sleeves still flatter the shoulders but offer just enough coverage. For a vintage-inspired look, try a cap sleeve in delicate lace.
Tiered Skirt
Long, straight bridesmaid dresses in soft fabrics are wedding staples, but if you want a break from tradition, why not try a dress with a tiered skirt? They add just the right amount of drama and are perfect for dancing the night away.
Cotton Lace
Lace is nothing new where wedding attire is concerned, but textured cotton lace feels fresh. Pastel shades like blush and lavender complement this romantic fabric, while a longer silhouette will dress it up.
Two Piece
A two-piece bridesmaid dress may be an unusual choice, but for a more daring bride, it can also be the perfect choice for a fun affair with a younger crowd. Choose a mix-and-match lace and tulle number for a romantic vibe, or go for bold with a two-piece that shows a sliver of skin.
Sheer Fabrics
A skirt draped in layers of sheer fabric gives floor-length bridesmaid dresses an ethereal vibe. To play up the romance factor, choose a dress in a soft color
Flutter Sleeves
Whether the dress is simple or embellished, a fun flutter sleeve adds a vintage twist. Choose gowns in soft floral patterns, muted colors or feminine metallics to complement this romantic silhouette.