Image by REEM Photography
Bridesmaids are traditionally meant to serve as the fashion prelude to that of the bride’s special look; as a calm and understated yet glamorous addition to an already glamorous occasion. But as the world progresses, so does the world of bridal fashion and more and more, we are seeing a rise in foregoing that antiquated trend and instead, seeing brides empower the role of the bridesmaid and give their girls looks to shine in unashamedly.
From actress Aisha Hinds dressing all of her bridesmaids in wedding gowns of their own to singer and actress Danielle Brooks dressing her girls in monochromatic rust satin dresses with varying bodices and strap variations; gone are the days of the typical, uniformed bridal party and incoming are the distinct choices of bride’s having their girls in unique outfits that make them shine in their own, stunningly respective ways.
Here are some unique and beautiful ways you can switch up tradition and switch in specially curated trends to style your girls in that ditch the traditional norms.
Same Dress, Different Bodices
Actress Naturi Naughton dressed her bridesmaids in NYC Fashion Boutique gowns that featured the same hue of peach, similar trains, and varying bodice tops. With some of the girls opting for deep V-cut straps and halter tops with others in off-the shoulder or capped sleeves, this helped differentiate the girls and cater to all of their individual styles’ they each naturally exuded and helped flatter them all to meet their unique desires and needs. This was an easy yet simple, uniformed way to provide diversity in your bridesmaids gowns if you still want there to be some level of similarity.
Image by Stanlo Photography.
DIY Looks
Solange took after her big sister and “stopped the world” when she released her wedding photos which showcased one featuring her bridal party all donning varying white looks. With her wedding party including her big sister Beyoncé, mother Tina Knowles-Lawson, cousin Angie Beyincé, director-friend Melina Matsoukas and singer-friend Janelle Monae just to name a few, by opening up the floor to let them choose their own style fates, it not only took some pressure off of the bride herself but also allowed her girls to create looks they not only looked great in but felt great in. This is the perfect choice for brides that aren’t looking to be overly controlling and want to take the easy and scenic route in styling choices for her special day.
Image by Rog Walker.
A True Bridal Party
Actress Aisha Hinds rightfully shook the Internet when she dropped images from her stunning destination wedding of her and her bridal party all donning white, wedding gowns in honor for her ceremony. With gowns all by various designers including Belle Bridal Atelier, Jila Atelier, Brides by Nona, and Houghton NYC, this deliberate styling choice was one that exuded innate glamour and sophistication; a bold decision that contrasts every traditional wedding rule—including not wearing white to someone else’s wedding. Although grand, this choice to share the stage with your bride tribe is perfect for soon-to-be wives looking to make a momentous statement for their special occasions.
Image by Stanlo Photography.
Color Gradient
If you have a larger number of bridesmaids for your special day or are struggling with choosing a particular hue of your chosen color, choosing to go the gradient direction might be your best answer! Tia Mowry-Hardrict chose this route at her 2008 nuptials to actor hubby Cory Hardrict when opting for Tadashi silk chiffon gowns for her bride tribe which included her twin sister, Tamera Mowry-Housley, as well as her mother and grandmother who all donned gowns in varying berry hues that worked well on every skin tone. Having your bridesmaids each in varying hues of the same colors allows for their to be slight difference amongst their looks while still providing uniformity and beauty for your girls.
Image by Amy & Stuart.
Written by contributing fashion writer, Kennedi Fort.
