We’re excited to feature our pals, Vow to Be Chic, on our blog today! Need help feeling confident in your bridesmaid dress? Here’s some of their favorite tips! 

 

Being a bridesmaid is a wonderful honor, but it’s also fraught with tension. Sure, you want to make sure everything goes smoothly for your best friend, but you also want to look and feel great in your dress on that big day too. She and hubby will enjoy looking back at the photos (and reposting them on social media) for years to come. Most bridesmaids would prefer to see these photos as new profile picture options… rather than incriminating evidence of a style faux pas. Luckily, there are a few things that you can do, both aesthetically and emotionally, to get you feeling fabulous in your bridesmaid dress on the day of the wedding.

 

1. Dress correctly for your body type.  You’ll need to bring the bride in on this one and get her opinion. The key is to express to the bride the value of coordination over exact matching. For example, on Vow to be Chic you can rent from an amazing array of dresses, most of which will look fabulous next to other dresses because of similar color or fabric. However, the dresses are cut differently to cater to the specific needs of every body type.  Know your body type; if you’re apple-shaped, opt for styles that show off your neckline, forearms and a little leg. Conversely, if you’re willowy, a drop waist in a shorter length can help show off your long legs and delicate collar bone.  You know what your assets are, and don’t be afraid to show them!
2. Ask what/how you can customize.  Some brides will have very specific ideas about how they want you to look, and that’s fine. (It’s the bride’s big day, of course!) However, if you want to show off your artsy side with an awesome hair style or a radical pair of shoes, see if she’ll let you.  There’s no better way to feel great than to pick a look that reflects your personal style.
3. Consider wearing a favorite piece of jewelry or shoes.  It’s always nice to have something new, but there’s something to be said for an emotional connection with your clothes, especially on an important day. Wear a power piece that make you feel like yourself.
4. Take time to reaffirm your friendship with the bride in the weeks and months prior to the wedding. This may be the most important thing you can do.  If you were best friends in high school or college but you’ve grown apart in the last couple of years, there is no substitute for sharing memories, telling new stories and reforging that closeness.  Part of feeling comfortable is the feeling of sisterhood with your friend, and no amount of expensive accessories can replicate the comfort of true friendship.   Make a habit of calling her regularly in the months prior to the wedding to make sure that you’ve been supportive and feel connected when the day comes.  Also, enjoy getting ready together on the big morning with a glass of bubbly!
5. Get some sleep the night before. We know it’s an exciting, celebratory time but set yourself a sensible curfew. All the make up in the world is no substitute for feeling well rested and looking relaxed.  Not to mention, you’ll be full of energy and ready to dance the night away at the reception!
6. Remember to be yourself. Yes, it’s a big party, but do what makes you happy. If you’d rather be sitting in the corner talking to the groom’s great uncle than bringing the house down at the reception with karaoke, then do it!  You’re never happier (or more beautiful) than when you’re letting your true personality shine through.  Whatever happens, don’t forget to smile!
7. When in doubt, get expert help. Lastly, if you need more help or style advice, give our bridal stylists a call (or email). They love making recommendations on how to make any bridesmaid look and feel more comfortable. Whether your questions are regarding which undergarments will work best with your dress or how to hem your dress at the last minute for your height.  Garnering a second opinion is always helpful… especially when that second opinion is an expert.

– Felicity Aldridge, Vow To Be Chic Blog Team