Talking Bridesmaid Fashion

Transform a typical walk down the aisle into something more.

Outfitting your bridesmaids can be a pretty daunting task. After all, you don't want to be that bride: the one bridesmaids loathe for making them wear a dress that looks like, well, a bridesmaid's dress. So, how can you win over your bridesmaids? Borrow from these Fashion Week trends to make them look-and feel-like they've just stepped off the runway:

Go for the Gold-or a Bold Color

This fall is the season for metallics-and purples, cranberries, reds and burnt sienna. These colors offer bold possibilities for fall weddings. "Burnt sienna is great for less formal fall weddings, especially if you're using fall-themed flowers," says stylist Michael O'Connor. "Your bridesmaids dresses could bring out that burnt sienna color in your flowers."

"If your wedding is formal, cranberry-colored dresses will bring out the fall colors while creating a more elegant look," says O'Connor.

Whatever hue-or hues-you choose, borrow a page from fall 2010's ready-to-wear collections and add black accents. We love the idea of pairing cranberry, burnt sienna, or metallic-hued bridesmaid dresses with black shoes, a black hairpiece, or a black necklace.

Forget Slinky Dresses

"Designers are going for a more relaxed look," says O'Connor. "Even in formal gowns, we're seeing a more relaxed silhouette with a less tight fit around legs and hips."

Consider this a gift to your bridesmaids: Dresses that are more fitted on top and looser on the bottom can be more easily modified and-gasp! - worn again. Pick a dress with a distinct waistline, for instance, and bridesmaids can repurpose it with a skinny belt.

Plus, says O'Connor, a more relaxed-looking dress with a wider skirt looks good on both voluptuous bridesmaids as well as less curvy gals.

Opt for One-Shoulder Style

Designers love one-shoulder-strap dresses right now, and so will your bridesmaids. "One-shoulder styling creates height for shorter bridesmaids while flattering bridesmaids who are a little wider or taller," says O'Connor.

Embellish Their Necks-in a Big Way

From layered chains to large single pendants, big necklaces will rule this fall. Some, like the Marika Necklace by DANNIJO ($395), can be used to add color to your bridesmaids' ensemble. Others, like Anthropologie's Bookends Necklace ($42) and J. Crew's Crystal Supernova Necklace ($128), up the elegance when paired with a less fitted dress.

Adorn Their Locks

Hair bows were big at Fashion Week, but O'Connor suspects that hair adornment will probably translate into hair "jewelry"-feathers included-off the runway. Want to give your bridesmaids a colorful, sophisticated look? Try Ban.Do's She's a Proud Bird Headband ($200). For a more refined, antique look, try Jennifer Behr's Crystal Leaf Barrette ($298).

Emulate the First Lady's Heel Fashion

Sandals are making a comeback, with black and metallic options aplenty. O'Connor recommends opting for low kitten-heels. Not only are they elegant (and first lady Michelle Obama's shoe of choice); they'll keep your bridesmaids' feet comfortable so they can dance the night away with you and your groom. Try Cole Haan's Air Vineyard Sandals ($178); their Nike Air Technology ups the comfort factor and they're versatile and rewearable.

Laura Nathan-Garner

 
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