Ladies Who Shine: Gowns to Make Your 'Maids Stand Out

7 bold and beautiful dress styles for the women in your bridal party.

Ladies Who Shine: Gowns to Make Your 'Maids Stand Out

bold-bridesmaid-dresses-for-your-favorite-ladies-bridesmaids
Photo: Kat Braman Photography

There is an old-fashioned idea that brides often select ensembles for their bridal party that work on two levels: to make the women uniform and to keep them as background players during the wedding. Thankfully, that notion is outdated, and modern brides are electing to have their ‘maids pick out their own gowns, participate in the mismatched trend, and decide on more audacious designs to allow the women to stand out. 

With this shift in thinking comes bolder bridesmaid gowns. Whether in color or design, brides’ leading ladies are donning ensembles that accentuate their lively personalities and allow them to take their portion of the spotlight on the special day. After all, why would you want your favorite gals to shy away? Highlighting them as essential parts of your life is an incredibly special gesture. Stuck on what dress design might work for your bridesmaids? See the examples below from real weddings, and be sure to click on each photo for further inspiration from these celebrations.

Photo by Kat Braman Photography; Wedding Planning & Design by Posh Parties


Photo by Brian Leahy Photography; Rentals by Revelry Event Designers

Photo by Lin & Jirsa Photography; Bridal Gown by Liancarlo

Photo by Brian Leahy Photography; Floral & Event Design by Flowers by Cina

Photo by Carasco Photography; Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld Bridal; Floral & Event Design by Kesh Designs

Photo by Michael Carr Photography; Wedding Planning & Design by Ann Whittington, Event Planner

Photo by Troy Grover Photographers; Wedding Planning & Design by White Lilac Inc.

See how to have your bridesmaids in white and navy blue, and discover how to ensure they can wear their gown again.