If you're in the midst of summer wedding planning, finding bridesmaid dresses that make your favorite ladies with different body types look and feel absolutely amazing may not be easy. Some dresses that look killer on your tall, willowy bestie might be way too long or clingy on your petite maid of honour. And while your curvy bridesmaid rocks that sheath dress, your apple-shaped friend may feel self-conscious in something so curve-hugging.
Fear not, though! Mix and match. We'll dive into gorgeous warm-weather dresses designed to elongate petite frames, whittle down apple shapes, and highlight hourglasses. Your pear ladies will love flowing A-lines that glide over hips and thighs. We've found stunning maxis and hi-low styles for statuesque figures. And we'll cover curve-clinging yet breathable plus size frocks with flattering ruching and wrapping details. The best part? Budget-friendly.
In this article:
- What Are the Best Colours for Summer Bridesmaid Dresses?
What Are the Best Colours for Summer Bridesmaid Dresses?
The colours you choose for summer bridesmaid dresses set the overall tone and vibe for your wedding celebration. Lighter, more vibrant hues tend to work beautifully for warm-weather nuptials.
Soft, romantic pastels like peach, sage, lavender, and blush pink evoke a dreamy, whimsical feel perfect for spring and summer weddings, especially lovely for outdoor garden ceremonies and rustic chic venues. For a cheerful, high-energy look, turn up the brightness with coral, fuchsia, canary yellow, emerald, and turquoise bridesmaid dresses that practically radiate summer vibes.
If you prefer a more pared-down palette, creamy neutrals in champagne, sand, dove gray, and slate blue create an understated, sophisticated look for summer bridesmaid dresses. Let the simple neutral shades be the canvas for ornate lace, embroidery, or sparkling embellishments. Neutrals also easily mix and match for a tonal ombre effect.
For more detailed colour choices, please refer to The Best Bridesmaid Dress Colours for Your Summer Wedding 2024.
What fabrics work best for hot weather?
When summer temps start to soar, lightweight, moisture-wicking materials are must-haves. Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric perfect for bridesmaid dresses. Chiffon's delicate hand allows it to hang in beautiful folds and movement.
With a crisp, slightly stiff hand, organza offers beautiful structure while still being very lightweight. This sheer fabric works especially well for full-skirted bridesmaid dresses that won't cling.
Georgette is another lightweight crepe fabric with a gorgeous drape and floaty movement. Its semi-sheer finish keeps things breezy while disguising clingy areas.
Satin and silk are also increasingly popular. They are another luxurious yet breathable option for summer bridesmaid dresses.
Should grils wear long or short dresses for a summer wedding?
The dress length you choose for your bridesmaids can dramatically impact their overall look and comfort level at a summer wedding. Both long and short styles have their advantages depending on your venue and vision. Let's explore the pros and cons of short bridesmaid dresses and long bridesmaid gowns:
| Short Dresses (Cocktail, Midi, Knee-Length) | Long Dresses (Maxi, Floor-Length) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | - Less fabric for optimal airflow | - Glamorous and romantic look |
| - Ability to show off shoes | - Elongates and flatters most figures | |
| - Easier mobility for dancing | - Effortless sophistication for formal affairs | |
| - Playful and youthful aesthetic | - Beautiful movement and flow in light fabrics | |
| Cons | - May feel too casual for formal events | - More fabric can feel heavy in extreme heat |
| - May be tripping hazard for outdoor venues | ||
| - Not as breezy as shorter lengths |
| Venue Pairings | Short Dresses | Long Dresses |
|---|---|---|
| Rustic/Boho | ✓ | ✓ |
| Garden/Outdoor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Beach | ✓ | ✓ |
| Casual | ✓ | |
| Formal/Black-Tie | ✓ |
What are some trending summer bridesmaid styles 2024?
1.One-Shoulder Necklines
One-shoulder bridesmaid dresses emerged as a major trend in 2023 and the asymmetrical neckline is still going strong for summer 2024. These romantic, Grecian-inspired styles create an alluring, draped effect that flatters many figures. Look for one-shoulder details embellished with fluttery accents, ruching, or dainty straps for added interest.
2. High Slits
Sultry yet breezy, bridesmaid gowns with soaring side slits up to the thigh provide great movement and ventilation for summer weddings. High slits visually elongate the leg and allow plenty of airflow. This sexy-meets-effortless look pairs perfectly with lightweight fabrics like chiffon or georgette.
3. Floral Appliques
Three-dimensional floral accents bring a romantic, whimsical touch to summer bridesmaid dresses. From delicate embroidered vines to lush blooms adorning sheer bodices and shoulders, these botanical embellishments add an exquisite touch of artistry. Look for detachable floral appliques that can be repurposed after the wedding.
4. Off-the-Shoulder
The perennially flattering off-the-shoulder neckline continues dominating bridesmaid dress trends for summer 2024. This femme fatale style draws the eye to toned shoulders and collarbones while creating a lengthening effect. Off-shoulder bridesmaid gowns strike the perfect balance of sexy and timeless for warm-weather "I dos.
Where to buy summer bridesmaid dresses?
Here are some of the best places to buy summer bridesmaid dresses at every price point:
Lulus
While better known for everyday styles and occasion wear, Lulus' bridal collection has steadily expanded to include gorgeous bridesmaid dresses in of-the-moment summer colours and trends. You'll find black and floral bridesmaid dresses here. Their Bridesmaid Edit generally ranges from $30 to $158.
ASOS
As one of the largest uk online retailers, ASOS offers an extensive selection of bridesmaid dress styles and colours perfect for summer weddings. You can filter bridesmaid dresses by season, fabric, length, size range and more. ASOS carries moderately priced options(£25-£190) from their own line as well as designer bridesmaid labels.
Ever-Pretty UK
This online bridesmaid dress retailer specializes in mix-and-match styles made from premium, summer-friendly fabrics. Ever-Pretty UK offers flattering chiffon, tulle, and satin designs in over 40 colours(the most popular one is sage green) - ideal for summer palettes. Their collection can be customized for each bridesmaid's body type(ready-to-ship petite and plus size bridesmaid dresses are retailed around £59.99, for final sale item, under £10).
Six Stories
Six Stories does not have hundreds of bridesmaid dress listings. But it is an incredibly satin bridesmaid dresses online shopping destination. If you’re a fan of satin fabric, shop it. Their dresses are priced around $150.
Best Summer Bridesmaid Dresses for different body types
For Petite Frame
Show off a petite and feminine shape in a fitted bodice with ruffles or lace detailing on the skirt. A shorter cocktail or tea-length dress will elongate the legs. Try a chiffon A-line dress with a cinched waist or look for skater dresses with flirty box pleats.
For Apple Shape
An A-line or fit-and-flare silhouette that nips in at the natural waistline is ideal for balancing a fuller midsection. Look for styles with a deep V-neckline to create an elongating effect. Empire waist dresses that flow past the tummy area also flatter apple shapes beautifully.
Empire Waist Tulle Dress with Slit, Price: £59.99
For Pear Shape
Styles that highlight the narrow shoulders and slender upper body work best on pear shapes. An embellished or draped halter neckline draws the eyes up. Go for an A-line skirt that provides movement away from fuller hips and thighs.
Spaghetti Strap Maxi A-line Dress, Price: £49.99
For Hourglass
Embrace an hourglass silhouette in a figure-hugging sheath dress that skims your curves. Belted or wrapped waistlines cinch the narrowest part of the figure. An off-the-shoulder neckline adds flirty femininity to balance out curves.
Bodycon Sequin Dress, Price: £49.99
For Tall
Lengthier maxi dress styles make the most of a tall, statuesque frame. A sleek column gown elongates and streamlines. Or opt for a sweeping hi-low or high-slit skirt to showcase legs. Floor-grazing lengths work best to avoid awkwardly short hems.
Square Neckline Long Gown, Price: £48.99
For Plus Size
Ruched waists and wrapping details create a flattering gathered effect to define the waistline on plus frames. Curve-hugging cuts in thicker jersey or structured crepe hold their shape beautifully. Off-shoulder straps add romantic femininity.
Classic Faux-wrap Plus Size Dress, Price: £48.99
