Going Off Rack: Bridesmaid Dresses

Being a bridesmaid these days is tough business - hosting his and hers showers, creating fun memories during bachelorette weekends in Vegas, plucking, spray tanning, highlighting, and manicuring to prepare for the big day - and she isnʼt even the bride!

One way to make your maid happier (besides more champagne) is offering a dress she can really wear again. Buying off the rack or online is one easy, and more affordable, way to do just that.

Allowing your maids to pick a dress within your color scheme and accessorize with her own shoes and jewelry is a great way to keep her costs down and provide a look she can wear to her next wedding or event. Iʼm loving all the pretty spring frocks from Nordstrom. For example, this flirty floral eyelet Adrianna Papell silk shantung number, paired with simple metallic sandals and dainty pearls make it the perfect look for a preppy outdoor shindig. Add navy and green ties for the groomsman and youʼre done! And, at under $150, the price is right.

For a more formal fete, try a full length matte jersey. Universally flattering, this fabric can be found at most department stores in a myriad of colors and styles. Nordstrom offers several styles from JS Boutique, including this sleek and sophisticated t-back gown. Your maid can easily use a dress like this for a charity function or formal wedding in the future. Additionally, fabrics like matte jersey are easy to alter, making it simple to change into a cocktail length.

While styles found in high end department stores and online are often more fashion forward and re-wearable than those found at bridal salons, there are some challenges when buying off the rack. 

Before heading out, make sure to note these items:

- Gather your maidsʼ sizes before shopping. Often, when you buy off the rack, the sizes on the sales floor are the only ones available. Knowing sizes allows you to purchase when the dress is available or the sale is best. Simple alterations can often be done onsite.

- Provide guidelines. If you allow your maids to shop for themselves, give them swatches or pictures of preferred styles. This way, they arenʼt overwhelmed by choices and are able to purchase something they like that is also in line with your event aesthetic.

- Utilize wedding services. Many department stores and ready to wear lines offer wedding party looks in store on on their site. (Look at Nordstrom Weddings, Bloomingdaleʼs Wedding Boutique, and JCrew Weddings for ideas.) Most store associates are happy to help you locate an online item, and free shipping is usually available.

- Have fun! Remember that your bridesmaids are women close to your heart - enjoy the time shopping together!


Sara