When it comes to your wedding day, the look of your bridal party is just as important as the wedding dress itself. Styling your bridesmaids and groomsmen in a way that complements the overall theme and color scheme of your wedding is crucial to ensuring everything flows seamlessly. The bridal party is an essential part of your big day, and getting their style just right will add to the visual impact of the entire celebration.
In this guide, we’ll provide inspiration and practical advice on how to style your bridesmaids and groomsmen, from clothing and accessories to shoes and hair. We’ll also highlight real-world products that can help you achieve the perfect bridal party look and give you all the details about where to buy, how much they cost, and what benefits they offer.
How to Style Your Bridesmaids
Bridesmaids are your closest friends and family, and they deserve to feel as beautiful and confident as you do on your wedding day. Here’s a breakdown of how to style your bridesmaids to perfection.
1. Choose the Right Dress Style
The first step to styling your bridesmaids is choosing the right dress style. It’s important to consider your wedding theme and the body types of your bridesmaids. There are a variety of styles to choose from, such as A-line, mermaid, and empire waist, each offering a different silhouette.
Popular Bridesmaid Dress Styles:
- A-Line Dresses: Universally flattering, A-line dresses are a great choice for bridesmaids of all shapes and sizes.
- Off-the-Shoulder: This style is perfect for an elegant or vintage-inspired wedding and works well with both short and long dresses.
- Maxi Dresses: Perfect for a bohemian or formal wedding, maxi dresses give off a graceful and sophisticated vibe.
Product Recommendation: Azazie Bridesmaid Dresses
For a wide range of bridesmaid dresses in every style, visit Azazie Bridesmaid Dresses. They offer customizable options in numerous colors, fabrics, and sizes.
- Pros: Customizable, wide range of styles and colors, affordable.
- Cons: Shipping times can vary depending on location.
- Price: $69-$249 per dress.
- Features: Custom sizes, numerous colors and fabrics, free swatches.
2. Choose Coordinated but Not Matching Colors
Gone are the days of forcing all your bridesmaids into identical dresses. Now, many brides opt for coordinated but not matching colors, allowing for some variation in shades, while still creating a cohesive look. For instance, choose a palette of soft pastels or jewel tones, and let each bridesmaid choose a dress style that suits her figure.
Product Recommendation: David’s Bridal Color Palette Guide
David’s Bridal offers a tool to help you choose the perfect color palette for your wedding. Visit David’s Bridal to explore their extensive selection of bridesmaid dress colors and coordinating accessories.
- Pros: Extensive color options, expert advice.
- Cons: Limited customization on the dress style.
- Price: Dresses start at $99.
- Features: Color palettes, accessories, and expert styling assistance.
3. Accessorize for Extra Flair
Accessories are a great way to elevate your bridesmaids’ looks without going overboard. From statement earrings to delicate necklaces, the right accessories can complete the outfit and give it a touch of elegance.
Product Recommendation: Bridesmaid Jewelry from BHLDN
BHLDN offers a stunning collection of bridesmaid jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that can complement any dress style.
- Pros: Elegant designs, high-quality materials.
- Cons: Higher-end pricing.
- Price: $40-$200.
- Features: A wide variety of styles, elegant packaging for gifts.
How to Style Your Groomsmen
Just as with your bridesmaids, your groomsmen play an important role in your wedding day style. From tailored suits to fun accessories, here’s how to get your groomsmen looking their best.
1. Tailored Suits or Tuxedos
The foundation of styling your groomsmen is the suit or tuxedo. Whether you opt for a classic black tux or something more modern, like a navy or grey suit, a well-tailored outfit is essential. The fit should be impeccable to ensure that the groomsmen feel comfortable and confident.
Popular Suit Styles for Groomsmen:
- Classic Tuxedo: Timeless and formal, perfect for black-tie weddings.
- Slim Fit Suits: Modern and sharp, these suits offer a sleek silhouette.
- Three-Piece Suit: For a sophisticated look, opt for a three-piece suit, adding a vest for extra elegance.
Product Recommendation: Men’s Wearhouse Groomsmen Suits
Visit Men’s Wearhouse for a wide selection of groomsmen suits and tuxedos. They offer rentals and purchases in all styles, with expert tailoring.
- Pros: Affordable rentals, tailored fits, large selection of colors.
- Cons: Shipping fees for purchases, rental policies may vary.
- Price: Suits start at $199, tuxedos start at $139 for rentals.
- Features: Tailoring services, online rentals, accessories available.
2. Add Fun, Personalized Accessories
Accessories for groomsmen are a fun way to add personality to the wedding look. Think personalized cufflinks, stylish pocket squares, or even socks with quirky patterns. These small touches can make the groomsmen stand out while still maintaining a cohesive look.
Product Recommendation: Cufflinks and Accessories from The Tie Bar
The Tie Bar offers stylish and customizable accessories for groomsmen, from cufflinks to ties and pocket squares. Visit The Tie Bar for personalized groomsmen accessories.
- Pros: Customizable, stylish, affordable.
- Cons: Limited sizing for certain items.
- Price: Cufflinks start at $19, pocket squares at $15.
- Features: Custom designs, stylish accessories, wide range of options.
3. Shoes to Complete the Look
Shoes are an essential part of your groomsmen’s attire. Whether you choose classic dress shoes or more casual loafers, make sure the shoes complement the suit and match the formality of the wedding. Comfort is key, especially since your groomsmen will likely be standing or dancing for long periods.
Product Recommendation: Allen Edmonds Dress Shoes
For high-quality, comfortable dress shoes, check out Allen Edmonds. Their shoes offer both style and durability, perfect for wedding day wear.
- Pros: Comfortable, long-lasting, wide range of styles.
- Cons: Higher-end pricing.
- Price: $250-$500.
- Features: Premium leather, customizable sizing, various styles.
Comparison Table: Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Styling Products
| Product | Use Case | Pros | Cons | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Azazie Bridesmaid Dresses | Bridesmaid dresses | Custom sizes, variety of colors | Shipping times can vary | $69-$249 | Customizable sizes and colors, free swatches |
| David’s Bridal Color Palette | Color palette and accessories | Expert color advice, wide range | Limited dress style customization | Dresses start at $99 | Color selection, accessory options |
| BHLDN Bridesmaid Jewelry | Bridesmaid accessories | Elegant designs, high quality | High-end pricing | $40-$200 | Variety of jewelry styles, gift packaging |
| Men’s Wearhouse Suits | Groomsmen suits/tuxedos | Affordable, tailored, large selection | Rental policies vary | $199+ | Tailored fits, rental options |
| The Tie Bar Accessories | Groomsmen accessories | Customizable, affordable, stylish | Limited sizing for some items | $15-$50 | Cufflinks, ties, socks, pocket squares |
| Allen Edmonds Shoes | Groomsmen shoes | Comfortable, premium leather | Higher-end pricing | $250-$500 | High-quality leather, customizable sizes |
How to Buy and Where to Buy
- Bridesmaid Dresses: Buy from Azazie or David’s Bridal for the best selection of bridesmaid dresses in various styles, sizes, and colors.
- Groomsmen Suits: Shop at Men’s Wearhouse for affordable suit rentals and purchases.
- Accessories: Customize accessories for both bridesmaids and groomsmen through The Tie Bar and BHLDN.
- Shoes: Purchase high-quality dress shoes from Allen Edmonds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I choose different dress styles for my bridesmaids?
A: Yes! Modern wedding trends encourage mixing and matching dress styles, as long as they coordinate in color and fabric.
Q2: Should the groomsmen wear matching shoes?
A: While matching shoes are traditional, some couples opt for personalized shoes or even allow the groomsmen to wear their own stylish footwear.
Q3: How can I make my groomsmen accessories fun without being too casual?
A: You can personalize items like cufflinks, pocket squares, and socks with small, quirky details that align with your wedding theme.
Q4: How do I make sure my bridal party is comfortable in their outfits?
A: Always choose breathable fabrics, and make sure that the clothing fits well. Consider providing a small comfort kit (like deodorant, breath mints, or band-aids) for your bridal party.
Q5: Can I rent groomsmen suits for my wedding?
A: Yes, rental services like Men’s Wearhouse offer a wide selection of suits and tuxedos for groomsmen.
By carefully selecting the right attire and accessories for your bridesmaids and groomsmen, you can ensure that your wedding party looks stylish, feels comfortable, and complements your vision for your big day. Use these products and ideas to create a cohesive look that is uniquely yours, and make your bridal party shine!
