Everything You Need to Know: Tips for Trying On Bridesmaid Dresses Before the Big Day

Bridesmaid dress shopping sounds fun, right? Until you’re standing in front of a mirror, drowning in fabric, wondering if mauve really is your color. Don’t worry. You’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the experience enjoyable, not stressful. Whether you’re hitting the boutiques or shopping online with Azazie, these tips will keep you sane, stylish, and ready for that walk down the aisle.

Plan Ahead: Schedule and Prepare

Book Your Appointment Early

Bridal shops aren’t like coffee shops. You can’t just stroll in and expect to be seen right away. Especially during peak wedding season, you’ll need an appointment. Book early. And if your bridal party is spread across three time zones? Start planning now. Consider group fittings or even a virtual try-on session to keep everyone in sync.

Know the Wedding Theme and Color Palette

Don’t show up blind. Before you even think about trying on dresses, get the details. Is the wedding a black-tie evening affair or a barefoot beach party? Rustic barn or modern rooftop? These details matter because a velvet gown will feel pretty weird under the summer sun.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Money talk isn’t fun, but neither is sticker shock. Bridesmaid dresses can range from affordable to “wait, is this made of unicorn hair?” Agree on a price range with the bride before you fall in love with something way out of budget.

Pack Smart

Bring nude undergarments, a strapless bra, and shoes close to what you’ll wear on the big day. Why? Because nothing kills the mood faster than realizing the dress fits great… except for the visible bra straps.

Manage Your Mindset

This is supposed to be fun! Go in with an open mind. Sometimes the style you swore you’d never wear ends up being “the one.” Keep calm, and maybe skip the big latte right before your appointment.

Choosing the Perfect Style: The Fun Part

Matchy-Matchy? Not Anymore

Gone are the days of identical satin dresses in questionable colors. The trend now? Same color family, different cuts. It keeps the group looking coordinated but lets everyone feel confident. Think of it as a team uniform, only way prettier.

Body Shape Tips That Actually Work

Pear-shaped: A-line dresses with structured bodices are your best friend. They balance everything out.

Apple-shaped: Go for empire waists and flowing fabrics. They’ll elongate and flatter without feeling clingy.

Hourglass: You lucky one. Mermaid and fit-and-flare styles were made for you.

Find your next look

Athletic: Add curves with draped details, ruffles, or layered skirts.

Petite: High-waist designs and vertical seams will give you legs for days (well, almost).

Fabric: More Important Than You Think

Fabric isn’t just about looks; it’s about comfort. Imagine dancing for three hours in heavy satin at a July wedding. Yeah, no thanks.

Chiffon: Light, breezy, and perfect for summer.

Satin: Smooth and glossy, great for formal evening events.

Experience the unexpected

Velvet: Rich, warm, and perfect for winter weddings.

Crepe: Sleek, minimal, and chic.

Black A-Line Ruffled Chiffon Dress

Necklines and Sleeves: Little Changes, Big Impact

A neckline can make or break a look. V-necks elongate the torso. Sweetheart necklines scream romance. Off-the-shoulder adds drama (and a great excuse for extra highlighter on your collarbone). Want sleeves? From cap sleeves to long bishop sleeves, there’s something for every vibe.

Length and Design Details

Floor-length dresses are classic, but high-low hems add a playful edge. Midi lengths give off vintage charm. Love details? Look for ruching, lace overlays, or side slits that show just enough leg without making Grandma blush.

Color: More Than Just “Pink or Blue?”

Think about season and setting.

Spring: Pastels like blush, mint, and lilac.

Summer: Bold shades like coral, teal, and sunflower yellow.

Embrace seasonal allure now

Autumn: Jewel tones, such as emerald, burgundy, navy.

Winter: Deep hues like plum or metallic accents for sparkle.Bonus tip: Get fabric swatches before committing. What looks blush in photos might look like salmon in real life.

Burgundy A-Line V-Neck Pleated Chiffon Dress

Trendy vs. Timeless

Slip dresses are all the rage. Velvet too. But remember, wedding photos last forever. Will you still love that cut-out satin number in ten years? If you’re unsure, stick to clean lines and flattering silhouettes.

Smart Tips During the Fitting

Try on More Than One

Your first pick might not be “the one.” Try a few styles, even the ones you’re unsure about. Sometimes the dress you least expect becomes your favorite.

Take Photos and Videos

Mirrors lie. Photos don’t. Take shots from every angle, and if you can, record a short video of you walking. Bonus points if you throw in a little spin to check the flow.

Move Like It’s Wedding Day

Sit, stand, walk, raise your arms. You’re not going to spend the wedding standing still, so make sure the dress works for real life, not just Instagram.

Don’t Fall for These Traps

Buying a size too small because you plan to lose weight. Don’t do it. Order your current size.

Forgetting about alterations. Book a seamstress early. They get busy too.

Ignoring undergarments. Strapless bra? Nude shapewear? They matter.

Communication Is Key

Respect the Bride’s Vision

It’s her big day, not yours. If the bride wants dusty blue, don’t push for neon green. Share your thoughts politely if something feels impractical, but remember the final say isn’t yours.

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Coordinate with the Crew

Got a big bridal party? Create a shared Pinterest board. Share photos from fittings. Avoid the dreaded “Oops, we picked three different shades of burgundy” moment.

What If Opinions Clash?

Drama happens. Some bridesmaids want straps; others want strapless. Compromise with mix-and-match styles in the same fabric. Everyone wins.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Size Doesn’t Fit: Don’t panic. That’s what alterations are for. Just make sure you order early.

Expecting Bridesmaids: Empire waist or stretchy fabrics to the rescue. Comfort is key.

Travel Problems: If someone lives far away, plan ahead. Order earlier and consider home try-on kits.

Unexpected flair awaits

Late Fittings: Life happens. In-stock or ready-to-ship dresses can save the day.

Color Surprise: Always check swatches. That “soft rose” might show up looking like bubblegum pink in person.

Your Takeaway for a Stress-Free Dress Hunt

Trying on bridesmaid dresses doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With the right prep, an open mind, and a few smart moves, you can make it a fun part of the wedding journey. And if you want convenience and endless style options, Azazie is a solid choice to explore. So relax, have fun, and remember: it’s not just about the dress; it’s about celebrating your best friend’s big day in style.