What Goes with Red?
I am wearing a red wedding dress and don't know what colour I should dress my bridesmaids in. Can you help?
Yvette , Hawkes Bay
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Nadine of Wilkins Formalwear and Bridal answers...
Nadine of Wilkins Formalwear and Bridal is an expert at styling bridal parties. She was a bride herself not too long ago, so she's certainly an "authority" when it comes to questions like this!
Hi Yvette,
There are four main points to consider when deciding on bridesmaids attire...
First and foremost, consider the theme and style of your wedding. This will help you 'set the scene'. For example, if it is a beach wedding in Rarotonga, formal, black, satin, full-length gowns with diamante jewellery may be a tad heavy.
Next, think about the colour palette you want to create. Do you want to paint a warm and wintry scene or recreate French country with pastel pinks and greens? This is so important for you, as you already have your prominent colour - so think about how you want to interpret the colour red.
Thirdly, consider the wedding party as a whole. What will the guys wear, and what colours will and won't work?
Last but not least, think about what will look best on the girls!
In your case, there are probably more options than you realize. Black would work very well. It's dynamic, easy to work with and a favourite for bridesmaids. Not only does everyone look great in black, but your bridesmaids are also more likely to wear the dresses again. White or ivory would be striking as well. If you add a little red trimming, like a ribbon tie or a flower, they would look great. Again, it would work well and tie in nicely with the guys' attire and the entire wedding. Other suggestions include purple, navy blue, orange, yellow and pink...but please make sure the tones are right! Red and pink can either look fabulous or disastrous. The one colour I would certainly stay away from is green...unless you have a Christmas theme!
When you go shopping for bridesmaids dresses, take a little fabric sample, or something you know is a similar colour to your red gown, with you. Try to be open-minded. Consider your accessories for the bridesmaids as a way to connect your signature colour, like red nails, red lipstick or red shoes. Likewise, have the guys wear red ties...or even red socks! I think the most important thing is to tie it all in, so there is a clear flow - from clothing to flowers to favours etc.
Good luck and all the best for a beautifully, colourful wedding!
- Nadine
