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Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses vs. Matching Bridesmaid Dresses

Green Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a wedding trend that's here to stay! The chic mix-and-match look lets each bridesmaid showcase her unique style. Plus, it gives the overall bridal party look a little extra Dive in as we guide you through the various ways to achieve this look, complete with tips, tricks, and inspiration from real Kennedy Blue weddings.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses: Everything to Know

Before you decide whether or not to mix and match your bridesmaids' dresses, it's important to know your options! From different ways to achieve the mismatched look, to how to style your bridal party together - let's get started!

Ways to Style Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

There is more to mix and match bridesmaid dresses than letting your girls grab their personal favorites. In fact, there are three ways to pull off mismatched bridesmaid dresses. First, you can opt for different dress styles but keep the same color. The second approach is to have a uniform dress style but include varying colors. Lastly, for the most diverse look, you can choose dresses that differ in both style and color.

Desert Rose Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Styles in Desert Rose | Photo

1) Different Bridesmaid Dress Styles, Same Color

The most common type of mismatched bridesmaid dresses is choosing different dress styles in the same color.  This is a great way to get that trendy mismatched look while keeping things simple. This option is the easiest to coordinate while still allowing your bridesmaids to have a choice in picking a style they like. Remember, different dress styles look better on different people!

Rust Bridesmaid Dresses

2) Same Style Bridesmaid Dresses, Different Colors

Can't settle on a single color? Go for a variety! Choosing different colors in the same dress style is simpler than mixing both styles and colors. This way, you avoid mismatched designs. Pick a dress style that suits everyone, like the ever-flattering A-line silhouette. Then, decide on the colors, ensuring a balanced mix among your bridesmaids. It's best if the bride specifies the color for each bridesmaid to ensure a harmonious look!

Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

Fawn Bridesmaid Dresses | Latte Bridesmaid Dresses in Rose | Photo

3) Mix of Bridesmaid Dress Styles & Colors

Want a truly unique bridal party look? Consider dresses in varying styles and colors for your bridesmaids! This choice requires more planning, but the result is fun and memorable. Start by picking 2 to 4 colors that go well together, such as different shades of blue, pinks, or neutrals. When choosing dress styles, it's essential that each fits the overall theme. To avoid a chaotic appearance, focus on similarities in silhouette, fabric, or other details like waistlines, necklines, or straps. This ensures a cohesive yet varied bridal party look!

Blue Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Slate Blue, Sky & Marine | Reigh Walker

Tips for Coordinating Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Choosing different dresses for your bridesmaids can be fun, but you still want them to look like they go together. Here's a few simple ways to make ensure the bridesmaid dresses maintain a similar vibe!

1) Choose An Element that's the Same Across All Dresses

All the bridesmaid dresses should have at least one thing in common. This could be the type of fabric they're made from, like satin or chiffon. Or maybe they all have a similar neckline, like a v-neck. Another idea is to pick colors that go well together. For example, if one dress is light blue, another might be navy blue. By having one thing that's the same, the dresses will look different but still belong together. This way, your bridesmaids will stand out - but also look cohesive!

Mismatched Blue Bridesmaid Dresses

Slate Blue Bridesmaid Dresses | Storm Bridesmaid Dresses | Autumn G Photo

2) Opt for the Same Bridesmaid Dress Lengths

It's a good idea to choose bridesmaid dresses that are all the same length. Mixing short and long dresses can look mismatched. Long dresses feel fancy, while short ones are more casual. To make sure everyone looks like they're part of the same special event, pick one length for all the dresses. This way, your bridesmaids will look coordinated and ready for the big day!

Midi Bridesmaid Dresses

3) Choose Your Wedding Color Palette Carefully

When choosing dresses for your bridesmaids, it's important to pick colors that look good together. Some colors might not coordinate well, like if one is really warm and the other is cool. A good idea is to look at pictures for ideas and get small samples of fabric to see how they look next to each other. (Kennedy Blue has lots of these fabric swatches!) When you pick colors that flow together, your bridesmaids will look like belong together!

4) Give Your Bridesmaids Ample Direction!

When you let your bridesmaids pick different colors or dress styles, it's still good to give them some ideas. You should come up with an inspiration board or sample photos to show them the kind of dresses you like. Don't assume they'll just know the perfect dress you're thinking of. It's your job to help them choose! A good way to do this is to suggest they all look at dresses from the same designer.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dress Styles in Deep Sea | Valen Lee

Benefits of Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses offer a win-win situation. They allow for personal expression, comfort, and budget flexibility, ensuring that your special day is memorable for everyone involved!

1) Preferred Fit For Each of Your Bridesmaids

One of the biggest benefits of mismatched bridesmaid dresses is that each bridesmaid can choose a dress that fits her body perfectly. Every person has a unique body shape, and what looks flattering on one might not look the same on another. By letting them select their own dresses, you're ensuring each bridesmaid feels confident in a style that complements her figure!

2) Your Bridesmaids Can Express Their Individual Style

Everyone has their own fashion sense. Some bridesmaids might prefer a modest look, while others might opt for something a bit more daring. With mismatched dresses, each bridesmaid can express her personal style, ensuring she feels both comfortable and stylish.

Gold Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

3) Budget-Friendly Options

Let's face it – weddings can be expensive. And not every bridesmaid might be in a position to spend a lot on a dress. By allowing them to choose their own dresses, you're giving them the freedom to select something that fits within their budget. This way, no one feels pressured or guilty about spending more or less than others.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dress Inspiration

We understand that creating a mismatched bridal party is easier said than done! To help inspire you, check out these real Kennedy Blue weddings for colors and styles you can incorporate into your wedding.

1) Mismatched Pink Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched pink bridesmaid dresses are always in style. It is a classic feminine color, ideal for romantic and fun weddings. You can create a bold and vibrant look or soft pastel vibe, depending on the shades of pink you feature. These colors look especially beautiful for spring or summer.

Mismatch Pink Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Spice, Blush & Peach | Angel Portraits

2) Mismatched Black Bridesmaid Dresses

Since the only option for mixing and matching black bridesmaid dresses is by style  - this one is so fun and simple! First off, everyone looks amazing in black. And second, every style will look great together!

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Black

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Black

3) Green Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

The most popular wedding colors for the upcoming seasons are all green! Sage green, Forest Green, Olive Green, and Moss are turning heads all across the wedding industry. Choose to mix and match both colors and styles - or pick your favorite shade of green and mismatch just the styles!

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Sage Green

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Sage Green | Cori Delgado

4) Mismatched Blue Bridesmaid Dresses

Blue mismatched bridesmaid dresses are such an underrated choice! This cool-toned lineup looks gorgeous no matter the season. Whether you want to mix and match with different shades of blue, or just have mismatched styles, blue is so fun to work with.

Fog Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Fog | Beth Joy

5) Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

Neutral bridesmaid dresses are a popular choice, especially to mix and match! They lend a look that is timeless and stylish! Not to mention the color is flattering on everyone. If you choose to mix and match colors, neutral colored dresses are some of the easiest palettes to work with.

Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses in Latte and Fawn Makai Creative

6) Mix and Match Burgundy Bridesmaid Dresses

Wine or burgundy mix and match bridesmaid dresses are a classic choice. They look stunning year-round, but are a more common choice in the fall and winter seasons. By having your bridesmaids choose mismatched styles in burgundy bridesmaid dresses, you can't go wrong.

Burgundy Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dress Styles in Burgundy | Dani Nicole

Get the Perfect Mismatched Bridesmaid Look!

So now that we've given you some serious advice to consider, it's time to make a decision! Do you prefer mismatched bridesmaid dresses or all the same style? Leave us a comment with your decision below, including your favorite color(s). We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Leave a comment

Jeimy
June 30, 2022 11:08

I love the whole concept of having different types of styles for the bridesmaid dresses. Definitely something I want to give my ladies…options 😊

Ashley
June 21, 2017 11:51

I love the mismatched trend but completely agree with this article. It can look messy if it’s not done right. As long as there is a color scheme that’s followed by all bridesmaids, it looks perfect!

Kiersten Baker
June 20, 2017 20:27

I’m going to try letting each of my girls do their own style I was scared to do it until I saw your try at home option. It completely removed my fears I am so excited for our try on party!

Gal
June 03, 2017 18:44

Great article that’s keeping up with the trends

Janessa
May 10, 2017 22:17

The same dress style idea is still timeless.

Kelly M.
May 08, 2017 19:13

I like the mismatched look!

Ashlea
May 05, 2017 22:57

Love this!

Kristin
April 15, 2017 07:55

I love the option of multiple styles! There are very few dresses that are flattering on every body type. I know I wanted my bridal party to feel comfortable and confident in what they were wearing. I’m now in a wedding where we’re able to choose any style, it just needs to be short with some or all lace, using Kennedy Blue. I can’t wait to see what we all choose, there are so many great options!

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