Planning a wedding comes with plenty of excitement and a few tricky etiquette questions. One that often sparks confusion is:
What are the rules around bridesmaid dresses, and who’s responsible for paying for them?
Whether you’re a bride trying to be thoughtful or a bridesmaid wondering what to expect, understanding the modern etiquette around bridesmaid dresses will help make the process smoother for everyone.
To help you, this guide will cover the following key points:
- Who typically pays for the dresses
- Key etiquette rules for dress selection
- Tips for keeping everyone happy (and stylish!)
Who Pays for Bridesmaid Dresses?
Traditionally, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses.
This includes the cost of:
- The dress itself
- Alterations, if needed
- Accessories like shoes, jewelry, or shawls (if specified by the bride)
In today’s weddings, however, there’s room for flexibility. Some brides may:
- Offer to cover a portion of the cost (especially if the dress is expensive)
- Gift the dress as part of the bridal party thank-you
- Let bridesmaids choose their own dresses within a certain color palette or style
Tip for brides: If you want a very specific dress or designer, consider contributing to the cost, or at least being mindful of your bridesmaids’ budgets.
Bridesmaid Dress Etiquette Rules
Beyond who pays, there are some basic etiquette guidelines that help keep everyone on the same page.
1. The Bride Has the Final Say. But Be Considerate
As the bride, you get to choose the look and feel of your bridal party. However, being flexible will go a long way. Keep in mind:
- Body types and comfort levels vary
- Your friends are likely paying out of pocket
- Open communication is key
Consider letting bridesmaids choose their own style within the same fabric and color family, which is an increasingly popular trend that results in a cohesive but personalized look.
2. Start the Dress Search Early
Give your bridesmaids plenty of time to shop, budget, and schedule alterations. Ideally, dresses should be ordered at least 4–6 months before the wedding to allow for shipping delays and tailoring.
At JJ’s House, we offer both made-to-order and ready-made bridesmaid dresses, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your timeline and budget. With a wide range of styles, sizes, and color options available, it’s easy to find the perfect look for your bridal party, whether you’re planning ahead or need something beautiful on short notice.
3. Communicate the Full Cost Upfront
Always be clear about:
- The price of the dress
- Any required accessories (heels, shawls, jewelry)
- Hair and makeup expectations
This helps bridesmaids plan ahead and avoids last-minute stress or miscommunication.
4. Coordinate With the Wedding Theme
Your bridesmaid dresses should reflect the formality, season, and color palette of your wedding. For example:
- Chiffon or tulle gowns for summer garden weddings
- Satin or velvet dresses for fall and winter events
- Floor-length gowns for formal weddings, tea-length or midi dresses for casual affairs
JJ’s House offers styles in over 70 colors, making it easy to find a look that suits your vision.
What If a Bridesmaid Can’t Afford the Dress?
Weddings can be expensive so it’s important to be sensitive to financial differences in your bridal party. If a bridesmaid expresses concerns:
- Offer a more affordable option within your color scheme
- Help cover the cost if you’re able to
- Consider a mismatched look where everyone chooses their own dress that is within their budget
At JJ’s House, we offer affordable bridesmaid dresses starting at budget-friendly price points. So elegance doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. And here are some options for you to consider:
Final Thoughts: A Dress That Feels Good and Looks Great
Bridesmaid dress etiquette has evolved but respect, communication, and a little compromise are always in style. Whether you’re the bride setting the tone or a bridesmaid looking to support your friend, the goal is the same, which is to help create a beautiful and joyful day.
Shop Bridesmaid Dresses for Every Style and Budget
At JJ’s House, we make it easy to dress your bridal party in stunning, affordable styles. From classic chiffon gowns to sleek satin looks, our bridesmaid dress collection is designed to flatter every shape, suit every season, and match every color scheme.
Embrace harmony and style with coordinated looks at JJ’s House. Shop now to find bridesmaid dresses your whole bridal party will love.
