Bridesmaid dress styles fall in and out of favor, just like everything else does in the fashion world. Yet most people don’t really care about current bridesmaid trends—until they find themselves planning a wedding, that is.
So, to ensure you’re headed in the right direction on your hunt for the perfect bridesmaid dresses, we’re providing this quick overview of current bridesmaid dress trends.
Letting you know what’s in, and what’s oh, so last year…
Bridesmaid Dress Trends that are IN:
One of the coolest things about current bridesmaid dress trends is, there’s something for everyone. Weddings in general have enjoyed a renaissance of sorts, moving away from the strict ceremonial type affairs they used to be to make room for a more personalized custom approach.
As you’ll see, this is reflected in the current dress-related fashion.
Simple Designs
Simple sleek dresses, such as the slip dress are trending in a big way.
With an emphasis on luxurious fabric such as velvet, silk and chiffon, these elegant dresses enhance the natural beauty and grace of the bridal party, rather than detracting or trying to compete with it in any way.
Bold Saturated Unexpected Tones
Brides are selecting bold rich saturated colors for their wedding, and this is reflected in the bridesmaid dresses.
It’s commonplace now to see dresses in burnt orange and army green, as well as bold jewel tones.
Mix-and-match Bridesmaid Dress Styles
It can be subtle, such as the same style dress in a different shade that—when standing together by the bride at the altar or afterwards for pics—creates a gorgeous ombre effect.
Or maybe it’s different style dresses in the same color, made from the same material.
Regardless, the end result of the mix-and-match bridesmaids look is both interesting and visually appealing.
High-Low Hemlines
This is the dress version of a mullet hairstyle. Okay, not really. But there are some similarities. Typically, the hemline of the high-low style gown is shorter in the front, and longer in the back. Combining “formal” and “party” with elegance, grace and style.
Asymmetrical Necklines
Dresses with only one sleeve or strap which creates an interesting asymmetrical neckline are appearing everywhere. From red carpets to petal strewn wedding aisles, this is an excellent option for those looking for a little edge in a classic dress design.
Two Piece Options
Two piece outfits such as skirts paired with a fitted crop top or corset are starting to pop up more and more.
Brides looking for a gender neutral look may even have their bridesmaids wear a snazzy fitted suit.
Convertible Style Dresses
Convertible style dresses are dresses that can be worn in a myriad of ways, and are an excellent option for a beach wedding on a hot summer day.
Bridesmaid Dress Trends that are OUT:
Once trendy, these looks are now becoming stale. Check out the list of yesterday’s bridesmaid dress trends that are way less popular today.
Everyone Dressed the Same
The days of everyone dressed exactly the same are numbered. Subtle differences between dresses, such as color, style, or pattern are becoming more and more common.
This lack of uniform formality gives bridesmaids a little more freedom to express themselves in ways they’re comfortable with.
Ultra-Formal Looks
There’s a place and time for formal, and if your wedding is a black-tie event, by all means, your bridesmaids should be dressed as formal as can be.
However, as wedding trends begin embracing other aesthetics, you see that reflected in the bridesmaid dresses. They’re gorgeous, but no longer overly stiff or formal.
Pastel Palettes
Rejoice, pastel bridesmaid gowns are becoming overshadowed by bold colors.
Deep saturated heavily pigmented tones, chocolate browns, terracotta, and emerald green, to name just a few.
Fussy Design
Overly embellished gowns are being pushed back to the deep recesses of the racks as more and more people reach for simple silhouettes and classic designs.
Maxi Length Dresses
Yes, you’ll still see full length bridesmaid’s dresses, but that’s not all you’ll see. Midi-length, tea-length, and gowns with a high-low hemline—you’ll even see cocktail length bridesmaid dresses.
Conclusion:
It’s worth noting that trends are just trends—you definitely shouldn’t ditch what you love in order to adhere to something just because it’s popular.
What’s most important here is you choose a bridesmaid’s gown that fits into the overall vibe and theme of your wedding. Something that enhances it beautifully, and works alongside all the other details to help bring your vision to life.
The best thing about current wedding trends overall is there’s freedom to explore unique and unexpected ways of celebrating. So have fun checking out all the different options and give yourself full permission to go all in on the dress you like the best.
David Weber is an experienced writer specializing in business and related fields, delivering insightful and informative content for diverse audiences.