One wedding trend that we don’t foresee going anywhere is mismatched bridesmaid dresses. Whereas matching gowns used to be the go-to, there is something extra chic about a mix and match look. Not to mention it allows each and every one of your girls to flatter her shape and show off her personal style. Granted creating a mismatched bridal party isn’t always as easy as it sounds. This is why we’re here to help you learn about all of the different ways to mix and match bridesmaid dresses! Keep reading to learn need-to-know tips and tricks, featuring real Kennedy Blue wedding inspiration.

Types of 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. The most popular being different style bridesmaid dresses in the same color. Next is different color bridesmaid dresses but in the same style. And last but far from least, is different bridesmaid dress colors and styles.

Bridesmaids with Different Style Dresses (Same Color!)

The most common type of mix and match bridal party features different dress styles but in the same color. It’s perfect for when you fall in love with a wedding color but want the popular mismatched look. This option is the easiest to coordinate and will allow your bridesmaids to have a choice. Allowing your bridesmaids to choose their own style will let them feel more comfortable and confident. After all, different styles flatter different body types!

Bridesmaids with Different Color Dresses (Same Style!)

When you can’t pick just one color, why not feature multiple? This option is easier to coordinate than a mix of different dress styles AND colors, as there is no risk of designs that clash. Simply choose a dress style that will flatter all of the maids in your entourage. Usually, an a-line silhouette works best. From there specify the colors that they can wear, but make sure there is an even spread! You don’t want all but one person to match. We recommend that the bride specify what color each person in the party should wear.

Bridesmaids with Different Color AND Style Dresses

So you want your girls to wear bridesmaid dresses in different styles and colors. No worries! While this option requires the most work, it will also lend the most unique look. First, you will need to determine which colors you plan to feature. We recommend 3 to 4, and make sure that they complement one another. For example, mix shades and hues of one color. Like blue, pink, or purple. Next is selecting the style of dresses. While you want gowns to flatter each of your girls, each gown should also complement one another. So aim for matching silhouettes, fabrics, or details. Otherwise, you will end up with a lineup that looks too busy or chaotic. The best bet is to feature similar silhouettes, waistlines, necklines, or straps.

Tips for Coordinating Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

Even when your goal is a mismatched bridal party you want to look thoughtful, not thrown together. Follow these tips to make your mismatched maids appear intentional and well planned.

Tie Your Bridesmaid Dresses Together with a Common Detail

Choosing dresses that feature common details are one of the best ways to ensure a cohesive look. This could be matching fabric (chiffon, tulle, velvet), similar necklines, matching colors, similar silhouettes, and so on. You need at least one or two details that match, otherwise, you risk a chaotic vibe that’s hard on the eyes.

Opt for a Uniform Bridesmaid Dress Length

We always recommend sticking to the same length dress. Mixing short and long dresses rarely works out! Especially when you consider that each length lends a different vibe. Long dresses are often considered more formal, while short dresses are a little more casual. You don’t want your girls to look confused about the occasion.

Be Thoughtful About Your Wedding Color Palette

When selecting colors for your bridesmaid party to wear, don’t just throw a palette together. Some colors just don’t mix, like warm and cool tones. Seek out inspiration photos and order swatches to test out how the dress colors will look side by side. Kennedy Blue offers fabric swatches in a mix of materials and colors to ensure that you can create a look you love! By choosing colors that complement one another your girls will look put together. Once you've found the perfect wedding palette, it's easier than ever to shop for your bridesmaid dresses online at Kennedy Blue.

Give Your Bridesmaids Ample Direction!

It’s important that when allowing your girls to mix and match colors and/or styles, that you still lend direction. You should come up with an inspiration board or sample photos that you can share and will give them an idea of the look you’re going for. Don’t expect your bridesmaids to find a dress (that you love) themselves. You are responsible for coordinating. One of the best ways to help them out is by directing them to the same dress designer.

Benefits of Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

There are so many perks to mismatched bridesmaid dresses. The first, as we mentioned, is that your girls will know which styles best flatter their bodies. They can also dress according to their personal style, whether it be modest or sexier. Meaning they will feel comfortable and confident. In addition, and as important, is that it will allow some flexibility in regards to price. Not everyone may be able to afford the same dress. Allowing your girls to pick their own dress means that they can cater to their own budget, without any guilt or pressure.

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.

Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

Neutral bridesmaid dresses are a popular choice. They lend a look that is timeless and oh so stylish! Not to mention the color is flattering on everyone. We love the following styles and colors for warm weather or outdoor wedding, whether it is casual or luxe. For a winter wedding, you could easily get your girls a brown or black faux fur shawl.

Mismatched Blue Bridesmaid Dresses

Blue mismatched bridesmaid dresses are such an underrated choice, ideal for a chic indoor or outdoor wedding.! This cool-toned lineup looks gorgeous no matter the season and lends a bright look. It is easy to complement with pastel colors, like pink or purple wedding flowers. Our most popular blue color is our Slate Blue bridesmaid dresses.

Mismatched Pink Bridesmaid Dresses

Mismatched pink bridesmaid dresses are always in style. It is a classic feminine color, ideal for a more traditional bride. Yet you can create a more toned down or vibrant look, depending on the shades and hues of pink you feature. These colors look especially beautiful for spring or summer, whereas darkes shades look better come winter.

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 around the wintertime. A deep brown-red, our color Bordeaux looks beautiful on everyone. And with a wide selection of flattering styles and a large range of sizes, we having something for each of your girls.

Conclusion

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!

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