When it comes to cementing a friendship, few things can top being asked to be a bridesmaid for one of your besties.
It means helping her find the perfect dress for when she says ‘I do’, planning her hen, and being there to pass the tissues when the stress of planning gets too much. And of course, it means standing at the altar with her on the big day, as an official part of the wedding.
All in all, it’s a pretty magical time… except when it comes to deciding on a bridesmaid dress.
I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of some of my closest friends’ weddings, so trust me when I say that finding a stylish bridesmaid dress can be put a strain on even the longest-standing friendships.
Between choosing a style that fits with her vision and your personal style (not to mention the other bridesmaids, who all have completely different tastes), bridesmaid dress shopping can be a bit of a minefield.
After all, no one wants to end up wearing something that doesn’t suit them and that they’ll never wear again – not only is it a waste of money (whoever is paying for it), but it’s definitely not sustainable either.
At first Google, it might seem that all bridesmaid dresses look exactly like, well, bridesmaid dresses; the kind of wear-once pieces that are, let’s face it, rather naff, and destined to hide in the back of your closet.
However, I’ve searched the high street and found six stylish bridesmaid dresses that the bride-to-be will love, and you’ll actually wear again – whether on holiday, a date night or to future weddings.
So, before the bride chooses another pastel tulle dress directly from the bridesmaid section, I suggest forwarding her some of the below links. You can both thank me later…
1. The ASOS sequin midi dress
If your bride is happy to share some of the spotlight with you, this sequin midi pencil dress is an eye-catching style for the big day. Whilst all-over sequins might sound a little garish, this dress is a sophisticated take on sparkle with its flattering, form-fitting cut and batwing sleeves.
Keep accessories simple, and pair the dress with black strappy heels.
Post-wedding, I can picture this would become a go-to party dress – you could have the hem lifted to above the knee, then throw on some heels, grab an equally sparkly bag and you’re ready to hit the dancefloor.
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2. The River Island asymmetric midi
A bridesmaid dress doesn’t have to mean sparkle and tulle. This fitted bodycon dress from River Island is a minimalist’s dream – so if your friend is allergic to all things puffy and frilly, be sure to send a link her way.
The one-shoulder and asymmetric hem create a modern silhouette that looks much more expensive than £36. With the money saved, you can buy a pair of simple yet dramatic drop earrings and a pair of stiletto heels.
And whilst it’ll look picture-perfect in her wedding photos, this dress works surprisingly well for glam holiday evenings – and it packs like a dream with zero creasing.
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3. The Y.A.S cowl neck silk dress
When it comes to sustainability, it doesn’t get better than a bridesmaid dress that is also a wardrobe staple. Enter the slip dress – a simple, yet stylish bridesmaid option that can work for everything from beach weddings to traditional church ceremonies.
The punchy shade of red elevates the simple cut of the dress and will make for some seriously Instagram-worthy photos. Emphasise the cowl neckline with an eye-catching necklace and add in some classic heels.
And unlike any other bridesmaid dress you’ve had before, this one will be a hardworking staple in your day-to-day wardrobe – wear it for a night out, team it with a blazer for a date or even throw it on under a jumper and trainers for in-between weather days.
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4. The Reformation printed maxi
A printed dress is a modern (and very chic) take on a traditional bridesmaid dress. Combining a soft floral print with a flattering wrap dress design, this Reformation dress isn’t cheap but I can guarantee that your bride-to-be friend will love it, and even more importantly, you’ll get maximum cost-per-wear post-wedding.
This dress would pair beautifully with gold jewellery and neutral heels for an elegant, timeless bridesmaid look.
And after the big day? It’ll fit seamlessly into your wardrobe as a must-have holiday dress with sandals, a throw-on with trainers in the heat of London summer and a date night go-to when teamed with a chunky block heel.
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5. The H&M satin gown
Who knew H&M did such good bridesmaid dresses? For less than £50, this long satin number drapes beautifully, and comes in a flattering simple wrap style. The light gold colour is super chic, and depending on the style preferences of the bride (and you), wear it loose for a boho-chic feel or cinched at the waist for a sleeker look.
The beauty of the dress is its simplicity, so don’t hold back when it comes to accessorizing – go for a pair of statement earrings and a stylish pair of heeled sandals.
Post-bridesmaid duties, it’s the perfect wedding guest dress that won’t have you looking like part of the retinue; it can be easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion, so it’ll quickly become a special event staple in your wardrobe.
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6. The Whistles tie-back maxi
If you’re on the hunt for a feminine-yet-modern bridesmaid dress, I’ve found the perfect dress for you. With a column silhouette and high neck, this Whistles dress might look simple, but it delivers on drama with the statement tie back detail. Can you imagine the photos? Swoon.
It’s a pared back look that would work perfectly with equally minimalist styling; think barely-there sandals and a simple piece of jewellery. And whilst this might not be the kind of dress that you’ll be able to wear regularly, it is a timeless occasion piece that will be a part of your wardrobe for years to come; so, for all future weddings and special occasions, consider yourself sorted.
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