|
You Want Me To Wear What!?!
By: Jenny Bailly
Photos by: Austin Gorum
FWD/ Aug 8, 2001/ --- A dainty taffeta dress in the palest of pink. A "merlot" sheath with dyed pearl
straps (matching tulle stole included). A two-piece lavender satin ensemble. My closet offers a glimpse
into my sordid bridesmaid past - and future: there's also the silver ball skirt and plum-colored silk
sleeveless top I'll be wearing for a friend's September nuptials.
I could be happily retired right now if only I had invested all the money I've shelled out as a wedding
attendant. And we all know bridesmaid dresses are notorious for their sky-high cost-per-wear. Yet I have
nothing but admiration for the brides who have bedecked me in recent years. Finding something that will fit,
flatter and be financially feasible for 3, 4, sometimes up to 10 women, is not an easy feat.
So what are the secrets to pinning down an ensemble that will let your attendants' personal style shine
through without offending yours? Let me offer some suggestions.
First, keep in mind that the trend today in bridesmaid-dom is toward contemporary styles. Even A-symmetrical
tops and halters are appearing on the scene. Not to say that your aisle should turn into a catwalk, but be
open and don't wed yourself to traditional poufs and pearls.
Don't be afraid to mix-and-match. My September bride selected a Vera Wang skirt for us, and then found a
simple sleeveless silk top at Ann Taylor to pair it with. She created an elegant look, kept the cost down
and the styles fit everyone.
If your attendants range from a raven-haired Snow White to a bronzed California girl, consider choosing a
style you like and leaving color selection to each bridesmaid. One June bride selected a satin face organza
sundress from Thread for her Hamptons wedding. She let her maids choose their own color, and the result was
an exquisite array of summery blue, yellow and green.
If you fear a rainbow on your wedding day, another option is to tell your friends what your palette is and
have them find any ensemble that fits the color scheme.
If you don't have an army of attendants, look for dresses off the rack at one of your favorite boutiques.
BCBG has flirty styles or consider a classic Diane Von Furstenberg. Many beach brides are choosing
happy-go-lucky Lilly Pulitzer for their attendants. The off-the-rack designer offers cotton poplin and
sateen skirts of various lengths, as well as tank tops and halter tops.
Having a formal wedding? Tell your bridesmaids to wear a black evening gown of their choice. They may
already have an appropriate match, and if not, they're sure to wear whatever they purchase for years to come.
|
