What Should Your Bridesmaids Wear That’s Timeless?
When it comes to bridesmaid dresses, finding that perfect balance between modern style and timeless elegance can feel like a challenge. Trends come and go, but your wedding photos are forever, and the last thing you want is to look back in 10 years and cringe at a fashion choice that hasn't aged well.
So how do you choose bridesmaid looks that feel stylish today but won’t look dated down the road? Here’s how to strike the perfect balance and ensure your bridal party looks effortlessly chic for years to come.
Stick to Classic Silhouettes
Certain dress shapes never go out of style. A-line dresses, column gowns, and soft wrap dresses have a timeless appeal that flatters most body types. Avoid overly trendy cuts like exaggerated high-low hems or extreme plunging necklines, which may feel outdated within a few seasons. Instead, focus on clean lines and well-tailored fits that give off an effortless and refined look.
Pro tip: Floor-length gowns tend to feel more formal and timeless, while midi and knee-length dresses are perfect for a more relaxed yet still polished vibe.
Choose a Neutral or Muted Color Palette
Bold colors can be fun, but they can also date your wedding photos quickly. Soft, romantic shades like champagne, blush, mauve, dusty blue, sage green, and taupe are classic choices that work across seasons and settings. If you want more formal, you can’t go wrong with a classic black vibe. If you want a pop of color, consider deep jewel tones like emerald, navy, or burgundy, which have a rich and timeless feel.
Embrace Mismatched Styles & Patterns (But Keep It Cohesive)
Gone are the days when all bridesmaids had to wear the exact same dress. Mismatched bridesmaid dresses allow your bridal party to feel comfortable and confident in a style that suits them, while still looking cohesive as a group. The key is to keep one element consistent, such as fabric (like chiffon or silk), color family, or length.
Example: Have your bridesmaids wear different dress styles in the same color family, like shades of dusty blue, or mix up fabrics (velvet and satin) within a similar color palette. You can also put a few in patterns that complement each other.
Keep Accessories Simple
Statement jewelry and bold hairpieces might feel exciting in the moment, but they can age a look quickly. Stick to delicate gold or silver jewelry, understated hairpins, and neutral heels or sandals. This keeps the focus on the dresses and creates a unified, timeless aesthetic.
Pro tip: Opt for natural makeup looks, glowing skin, soft blush, and neutral lip colors to create a fresh, effortless vibe that won’t feel overly trendy. Tell your bridesmaids to pick a good neutral nail color vs. a bold color.
Think About the Season
Consider the season when selecting bridesmaid dresses. Lighter fabrics like chiffon and crepe are ideal for spring and summer weddings, while velvet or satin work well for fall and winter.
Timeless Over Trends
It can be tempting to follow the latest trends, but ask yourself: “Will I still love this look in 10 years?” Keep it simple, elegant, and focus on what looks best on your bridal party.
Final Thoughts
Timeless bridesmaid dresses don’t mean boring. The key is to focus on flattering silhouettes, a cohesive color palette, and classic fabrics that feel sophisticated and effortless. Your bridal party will thank you for choosing looks that they not only feel great in but can also wear beyond the wedding day.
However, that’s not to say we don’t love to see some very trendy dresses every once in a while!
