Weddings celebrate love, and not just between the happy couple! Your wedding also celebrates bonds of love and friendship between you and your closest friends. Your bridesmaids have been through it all with you! As a seasoned wedding photographer in DFW, I have had the honor of witnessing some truly beautiful looks for bridesmaids, so I am here to help answer all the questions: Where to buy bridesmaid dresses? Should you rent or buy? And who traditionally foots the bill? Let’s get into it!

Where to Buy Bridesmaid Dresses

There are many places to buy bridesmaids’ dresses. But, here are some of the most popular options:

For Brides Shopping Online

Birdy Grey is the current trending option for bridal parties shopping online. Certainly, their website is easy to navigate. Simply search their inventory by color, fabric, neckline, silhouette and/or dress features to find the perfect style. In addition, dresses can be expected to be delivered in around eight weeks. And a big bonus is that Birdy Grey offers inclusive sizing (XS-3X) for all your girls!

Azazie: Azazie offers a wide selection of beautiful dresses. Any style, length, color or budget, you’re likely to find it here. They also have an amazing try-before-you-buy program!

Lulus: Lulus is another online retailer that offers a wide variety of trendy and stylish dresses, including a section dedicated to bridesmaids.

For Brides in Dallas

In Dallas, the highest-rated boutique is Terry Costa. Terry Costa has an incredible selection of designer dresses for all occasions. The store is highly organized and efficient – and offers exceptional customer service. 

For Brides on a Budget

David’s Bridal is well-known throughout the US for having affordable, off-the-rack dresses. The same is true of our David’s Bridal location in North Dallas. They have a full selection of dresses under $100, and offer diverse styles for the right wedding look. 

Another option I personally love is Stardust Celebrations in Plano. I had a great experience here while I was shopping for my own Welcome Dinner and Engagement Session dresses. Their selection is fantastic and the customer service was great!

Do Bridesmaids Buy Their Own Dresses?

When it comes to the financial aspect of bridesmaid dresses, there really is no one-size-fits-all answer. Traditionally, bridesmaids have covered the cost of their own attire as part of their role in supporting the bride on her special day. However, modern times have seen a shift in this tradition, and many couples now choose to handle the expenses differently.

Open and honest communication is key in determining who will pay for the bridesmaids’ dresses. Some couples may generously offer to cover the cost as a gesture of appreciation for their friends’ participation and support. Others may work out a compromise where the bridesmaids contribute a portion, while the couple takes care of the rest. Additionally, some bridesmaids may be more financially capable than others, so it’s essential to consider everyone’s circumstances.

The most important aspect is to approach this discussion with kindness, understanding, and flexibility. Have an open conversation with your bridesmaids about their expectations and financial situations, and try to find a solution that works for everyone involved. Remember, the goal is to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and valued throughout the wedding planning process.

Pros and Cons of Renting Bridesmaid Dresses

Another way to help offset the cost for your bridesmaids is to consider renting instead of buying. While renting bridesmaids’ dresses can be a convenient option, it’s important to consider a few potential drawbacks before making a decision.

1. Limited customization: When renting bridesmaids’ dresses, you may have fewer options for customization compared to buying. Rental dresses typically come in standard sizes and designs, which may not perfectly suit each bridesmaid’s preferences or body type.
2. Fit and alterations: Since rented dresses are not tailored specifically for each bridesmaid, achieving the perfect fit might require alterations. Keep in mind that alterations on rental dresses may be limited, depending on the rental agreement, and you may need to cover the alteration costs separately.
3. Availability and selection: Popular dress styles or specific sizes may have limited availability when it comes to rentals. If you have a specific look or theme in mind, it might be more challenging to find the desired dresses for all your bridesmaids.
4. Return policies and damages: Make sure to thoroughly understand the rental company’s return policies and potential charges for damages. Accidents or mishaps during the wedding festivities may incur additional fees or affect the return process.

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy bridesmaids’ dresses depends on your specific circumstances and preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all answer here, do what works best for you and your crew!

If you do decide you’d like to rent, the online shop Rent the Runway is a popular rental service that offers a wide range of designer dresses for various occasions, including bridesmaids’ dresses (and more). They provide the option to rent for a specific event or through a subscription service, giving you flexibility in selecting the rental duration. This would be a great place to start for renting!

Wherever you choose to rent from, remember to check the rental terms thoroughly; including pricing, delivery options, return policies, and any additional fees or insurance requirements. It’s also advisable to order the dresses well in advance to ensure availability and allow time for alterations if needed.

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I hope this blog was helpful as you begin your search for the perfect bridesmaid dresses! If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to comment below or reach out here! I’d love to connect and help however I can! Congratulations!