Who Pays for the Bridesmaid Dresses: Debunking the Tradition

Who pays for the bridesmaid dresses? Many girls invited to be bridesmaids for the first time may have the query. The average cost for a bridesmaid dress in the US was about $150 last year. Brides with a small group of bridesmaids (1-2 girls) may be fine. However, those with a large bridal party may face a thousand dollars budget for bridesmaid attires, and that’s a significant burden for any new couple. Not all new couples have adequate funding for their wedding. Traditionally bridesmaid dresses are all paid for by the bride as the wedding hostess. Nowadays, more and more brides and their squads tend to have the bridesmaid select and pay for their dresses, while brides may share the cost with their team. Which way is suitable for you? 

Part 1. The Modern Reality: Shifting Responsibilities

Couples today often navigate wedding expenses based on their financial capabilities and priorities. This includes considering factors such as the overall wedding budget, the number of bridesmaids, etc.

Many modern couples opt for a more collaborative approach. They understand that their bridesmaids may have their financial obligations and limitations. Some new preferred ways involve shared costs between the bride and bridesmaids, or each bridesmaid pays for their dress. 

Part 2. 3 Ways for the Cost of Bridesmaid Dresses

1. Bridesmaids were covering their expenses. This approach acknowledges that everyone has different financial situations and allows each bridesmaid to choose a dress within their budget. They can opt for dresses they feel comfortable investing in, which can be worn on multiple occasions beyond the wedding day.
2. Cost-sharing options. Both the bride and the bridesmaids share the costs of the dresses. This can involve the bride contributing some expenses while the bridesmaids contribute the remainder. For example, the bride may take charge of all bridesmaid dresses, and each bridesmaid takes responsibility for their accessories, alterations, etc. Alternatively, the bride and bridesmaids may agree to split the total cost equally.
3. Personalized arrangements based on relationships and circumstances. In some cases, the financial responsibility for the bridesmaids’ dresses may be determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the relationships and circumstances involved. This approach recognizes that each wedding and bridal party is unique.

Personalized arrangements can also be made based on the bridesmaids’ individual preferences. For example, the bride may provide guidelines for the color or style of the dress while allowing each bridesmaid the flexibility to choose a dress within their budget.

There is also a new way that will not unburden the bride and bridesmaids. Some newly growing DTC brands have better control of chain supply and thus the price of bridesmaid dresses, making their dresses both good quality and budget-friendly. eDresstore is one of them. They are well-made dresses from $39 to $119, meet the different needs of brides and bridesmaids, and the sound control of material purchase makes it possible for bridesmaids to create a cohesive color ensemble. You can choose various maroon, cinnamon, and dark emerald bridesmaid dresses for fall weddings; burgundy, cobalt blue, and black satin bridesmaid dresses for winter ceremonies, not to mention the numerous options of spring colors like dusty rose, eucalyptus, sage green bridesmaid dresses for springs, and aqua, sky blue, sea glass bridesmaid dresses for hot summer weddings. 

Part 3. Communicating Expectations and Setting Clear Guidelines

1. Open communication is vital. The bride needs to have honest and transparent conversations with her bridesmaids about the expectations and financial responsibilities associated with the dresses. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, the bride can better understand each bridesmaid’s financial situation and concerns.
2. To avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts, it is crucial for the bride to establish clear expectations regarding dress expenses early on in the wedding planning process. This includes discussing the budget, the style and color preferences, and any limitations or guidelines for the bridesmaids’ dresses. 

Societal norms and financial dynamics have evolved. The notion that the bride is solely responsible for covering the expenses of the bridesmaids’ dresses is no longer the only approach. Instead, modern weddings embrace more flexible and personalized solutions.

Clear communication between the bride and bridesmaids is key in establishing expectations and finding a solution for everyone involved. By embracing collaborative decision-making, bridesmaids can actively participate in the dress selection process and take on a shared financial responsibility. Alternatively, individual bridesmaids can cover their dress expenses based on their financial capabilities.

The focus should be on creating an inclusive and supportive environment that respects each bridesmaid’s financial situation and fosters open dialogue. Through these discussions, the bridal party can find a solution that ensures everyone feels valued and comfortable throughout the wedding planning journey.