How to Make Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Fun and Easy
- Admin
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Bridesmaid dress shopping can be one of the most fun aspects of wedding planning! Your dress likely has already been chosen, so now it's time to sit back, relax and enjoy watching your closest friends and family try on dresses for your big day. With the right boutique, like Ivory & Blush, this experience is both enjoyable and memorable. Here are some tips to help make the process easier and fun for everyone involved.
Tips for Successful Bridesmaid Shopping
Make sure to create an enjoyable environment. The best way to do this is by choosing a boutique with many style options and sizes to try on. If you have a large bridal party, start by bringing along a curated group of your closest friends. Too many opinions might complicate things, while a smaller, trusted circle can make the decision easier.
Consider setting a budget early on. Discuss it with your bridesmaids so everyone is on the same page. This can avoid any uncomfortable situations later. When everyone knows what they can spend, the process becomes more straightforward.

The Perfect Group Dynamics for Bridesmaid Shopping
When gathering your team to go bridesmaid shopping, remember that it's essential to consider group dynamics. It might be tempting to invite all your bridesmaids, but having a core group—perhaps 2 to 3 people—might lead to a more enjoyable experience and help solidify your decision. From there, you can make a second appointment with the rest of your bridal party because you've already made your decision on which designer, color and style(s) they can choose.
Opt for friends whose styles align with your vision. They should also be individuals who are known for being positive and supportive. You want people who will uplift each other and help narrow down choices rather than creating confusion or rivalry over styles.
Another fun way to include other friends is to host a virtual shopping day. Platforms like facetime allow you to dress shop with loved ones who live far away. You can share your screen or send photos of potential dresses to get their input, making everyone feel included!
How much does the average bridesmaid dress cost?
Budget is a critical factor in the dress selection process. The average cost of a bridesmaid dress typically ranges between $150 to $300. However, keep in mind that other expenses might arise, such as alterations, accessories, and shoes.
To provide some insight, a recent survey found that about 60% of bridesmaids found the initial dress cost reasonable but felt the additional costs caught them off guard. Therefore, ensure that everyone is in the loop about potential extra expenses.

Making the Dress Fitting Experience Fun
Dress fittings do not have to be mundane! To keep spirits high, consider creating a fun schedule. Plan a day filled with brunch and shopping. Once you’ve selected bridesmaid dresses, treat everyone to a celebratory lunch or coffee afterward.
Encourage each bridesmaid to take a turn trying on dresses while the rest cheer them on. Capture moments with photos or short videos, turning the experience into a fun memory compilation over time.
Engage in light-hearted discussions about themes, colors, and other wedding details while trying on dresses. This will create a lively, conducive atmosphere where everyone feels involved in the wedding planning process.
Setting Realistic Expectations
While it can be tempting to aim for the perfect dress the first time around, it is essential to have realistic expectations. Everyone has different body types and styles, and the goal is to find dresses that most flatter everyone, not just match perfect visions from Pinterest.
Create a checklist for the types of dress silhouettes that might suit various body types. For instance, A-line dresses tend to be flattering for different figures, while fitted styles might work better for others. This way, each bridesmaid has a better chance of finding a dress that resonates with her comfort zone while still promoting your theme.
Final Thoughts on Bridesmaid Dress Shopping
Ultimately, bridesmaid shopping should be a joyous occasion—a chance to bond, celebrate friendship, and create lasting memories. By planning ahead and fostering a supportive environment, this experience can become a highlight of wedding preparations, rather than a stressful chore.
Don’t forget: the real focus should be on celebrating love, friendship, and unity. While the perfect dress is important, the memories created during the shopping for these dresses will last a lifetime. For those looking for a special in store shopping experience, make your appointment at Ivory & Blush here!
Happy shopping, and may your bridesmaid journey be filled with laughter, joy, and some fabulous dresses!

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