Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Sylvie Gil
We all have those free-spirited friends, reserved beauties or fiery fashionistas in our bridal party that we just can’t imagine saying “I do” without. One of our favorite ways that brides balance each of their bridesmaids’ different styles (and opinions) with their cohesive wedding look is through mix-and-match dresses. But experts and brides agree that pulling it off is a lot more challenging than it seems.
“Mix-and-match is really a look that takes a lot of effort to make it look effortless,” says Stephanie Wilkinson, co-owner of beloved Houston bridesmaids dress boutique, Bella Bridesmaids. We talked with Wilkinson, co-owner Natalie Taylor, and their team, about how to make the mix-and-match look more manageable. Here’s what they had to say:
Give Them Something to Work With — Though the team at Bella Bridesmaids are experts in selecting the best fit and style for each of your gals, Natalie Taylor, co-owner of Bella Bridesmaids’ Houston location, urges brides to have at least one solid idea of how she wants her girls to look before embarking on this mix-and-match journey. “It’s really helpful if they have at least a color or fabric nailed down and set in stone,” she says. “That’s what we can start with, and work from there.”
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Minerva House
Think Texture — When considering mix-and-match dresses, don’t limit yourself to just differing colors or style. Taylor advises brides not to be afraid of bringing in different textures! “Texture is what really makes a mix-and-match look successful,” she says. “When there is lace, and maybe some metallic or tulle, it looks purposeful and intentional.”
Keep it Short… or Long — Color, texture and designs can differ from bridesmaid to bridesmaid, but Taylor warns that mixing floor-length dresses with cocktail dresses is a big no-no. “A high-low dress and a floor-length dress would probably be okay, but we would stay away from a short and a long,” she says.
Stick with a Designer — Bridesmaid dress designers typically use similar color tones and textures across their styles, which helps brides keep things cohesive. “A lot of the time we will stick with one designer,” Taylor says. “Bridesmaids can still get that mix-and-match look with different necklines in the same shades of color.” One designer that Provost highly recommends for achieving a flawless mix-and-match look is the simple and refined Amsale.
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Jessica Gold Photography
Trust the Process — Patience is key when selecting your mix-and-match dresses. The team at Bella Bridesmaids will guide you as you carefully select your options, but it does take time. “I start with one thing first, either a fabric or a color,” Taylor says. “I will pull one color and then move on to what our next shade would be. It’s a step-by-step process.”
Ready to start mixing up some mauve-toned pinks or gray-blue hues? Grab your gals and schedule an appointment with Bella Bridesmaids today. Hurry — their appointments book up fast! And make sure to let them know you found them on the Houston Wedding Blog. Happy shopping, loves!
