Choosing Bridesmaid Dresses: Tasteful Choices Over Envy

The question of whether brides should deliberately pick ugly bridesmaid dresses to make their friends look bad on their wedding day is a topic that often prompts discussions about etiquette and friendship. Many brides find themselves entangled in such ethical dilemmas, leading to concerns over taste and consideration for their guests.

Is Picking Ugly Dresses a Mean Move?

Well-meaning brides sometimes consider picking bridesmaid dresses that are intentionally unflattering to their guests, believing that everyone will appear equally unremarkable. However, this kind of thinking can breed resentment and can ultimately hinder celebration. Choosing bridesmaid dresses purely for the sake of uniformity is better than making unnecessary comparisons based on physical appearance.

Empowering Bridesmaids to Choose

One approach is to give bridesmaids the freedom to choose their own dresses as long as they match the color scheme. This way, you avoid the pitfalls of potential envy or dissatisfaction. For example, my daughter chose this route for her wedding, allowing her bridesmaids to select their own dresses while maintaining the desired aesthetic. It ensures that each member feels special and valued, and the focus remains on celebrating the bride and the love they share.

Poor Taste or Personal Choice?

Another viewpoint is that an ugly dress simply reflects the bride's poor taste rather than a deliberate attempt to make others look bad. If a bridesmaid chooses a dress that doesn't flatter them, it doesn't mean the bride intended to make them look bad; she might simply have a different taste in attire. What matters is that the bridesmaid feels good and comfortable on her special day. It's not about making someone look bad but about making them look their best within the context of the overall theme.

Overall Appearance is the Goal

Ultimately, the key is to ensure that the overall appearance complements the theme of the wedding and makes everyone feel happy and confident. Just as in my experience, I gave my bridesmaids a specific color and let them choose their own dresses. This allowed for individual expression and personal style, while still maintaining a cohesive look. My approach was driven by the idea that my bridesmaids are special to me, and their personal choices reflect their true selves.

Respecting Friendships and Collaboration

Another instance of choosing bridesmaid dresses with care is seen in collaborative efforts. For instance, when my daughter planned her wedding, she and her bridesmaids worked together to pick out matching dresses. The idea was to choose something beautiful that would enhance their overall appearance and create memorable wedding memories. It's a team effort that honors each individual's tastes and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to pick bridesmaid dresses based on personal preferences or to avoid making friends look bad, the focus should remain on creating a memorable and joyful celebration. Empowering bridesmaids to choose their own dresses or collaborating to find a common thread can result in a more inclusive and appealing wedding. Remember, a pretty girl in an ugly dress is still pretty, and an ugly dress simply speaks to the bride's taste rather than the guests’ appearance. The goal is to make everyone feel amazing and invested in the ceremony, not to create unnecessary competition or envy.