Bridesmaid Dresses: What’s Hot

Posted by: image

As I browse my Facebook news feed, I can see that love is in the air! Between the plethora of weddings and engagements, it’s hard NOT to get drawn in to “wedding mode”. And it looks like The Today Show caught the bug, too!

A few weeks ago, they featured a great segment highlighting bridesmaids dress trends for 2012. Their tips inspired me to put my scavenger-hunting skills to the test and find YOU the perfect ensemble – and fingers crossed, it would be something your favorite ladies would want to wear again (at least that’s the goal, right?!).

Tip #1: Who says bridesmaids dresses have to come from a bridal boutique? Explore your favorite local retailer!

With the flagship Nordstrom store just a hop-skip-and-a-jump from my home, I had to start here. For under $200, this strapless ruched Monique Lhuillier dress caught my eye. The ruching amps up this classic silhouette, making it the perfect choice for an evening wedding – and that cocktail party a couple months down the road!

Nordstrom Bridesmaid Dress, Sweet Pea Events, Seattle Wedding Planner, Bridesmaid Trends, Dallas Wedding Planner

Photo taken from Nordstrom.com

Tip #2: Pleats are on trend

Can’t quite fully embrace a head-to-toe pleated gown? (Me neither – yet at least!) Never fear – baby steps are the key!

This pleated gem was uncovered at the online fashion retailer, asos, for just under $100 and boasts an ever-classic boat-neck collar. The subtle hint of gold in the simple belt dresses this look up just enough to make it the perfect selection for an afternoon affair.

Bridesmaid Dress Trends, Bridesmaid Dresses, Seattle Wedding Planner, Wedding Planner in Dallas, Wedding Planner in Seattle

Photo taken from asos.com

Tip #3: Go bold! Go neutral!

What’s a girl to do? Though The Today Show chose to embrace the ever-bold jewel-toned hues (which I love!), I couldn’t help but rebel and focus my attention on the elegant world of neutrals. This soft-spoken palette of hues allows for such versatility of wear after the wedding day and Target’s ruffle neck shantung dress caught my eye. Not just for its playful neckline, but for the price! Who can beat $70 for this look?!

Target Bridesmaid Dress, Bridesmaid Trends, Bridesmaid Dresses, Dallas Wedding Planner, Seattle Wedding Planner

Photo taken from target.com

Tip #4: The skirt – shirt combo

I am drooling over this sequence and lace combination. Your ‘maids are sure to love you because after your big day, the sequin skirt could easily be dressed down by paring it with a simple t-shirt or classic, understated blouse.

Sequined Bridesmaid Dresses, Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses, Seattle Wedding Planner, Wedding Planner in Seattle, Dallas Wedding Planner

Photo taken from jarviestudios.com

Though I can’t find the exact skirt featured in JarvieDigital’s photo, I did find this great silver sequin pencil skirt from Banana Republic for only $98 – can’t beat that!

Banana Republic Bridesmaid Outfit, Bridesmaid Trends, Wedding Planner in Seattle, Dallas Wedding Planner

Photo taken from bananarepublic.com

What are some of your favorite bridesmaid dress trends for this year?

Happy Shopping!