Mismatched bridesmaid dresses have been in style for years now, and it doesn’t look like they’re going to go out of style any time soon! Mix and match bridesmaid dresses work for any type of wedding, both formal or casual, and traditional or contemporary. Best of all, it allows each of your girls to dress according to their body type and personal style. Ready to jump on this trend, but unsure where to start? Keep reading to learn how to coordinate mismatched bridesmaid dresses, with tips and tricks, as well as real wedding inspiration!
How to Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses
Featuring mix and match bridesmaid dresses is a foolproof way to have an on-point wedding party! However, there is more than one way to pull of mismatched bridesmaid dresses. Consider which of the following options best align with your style, or shop one of the palettes we created. Just be sure to get your bridesmaid’s input as well!
Bridesmaids Dresses: Same Color, Different Styles
When shooting for a mismatched bridesmaid look, most brides opt to features dresses in different styles but the same color. Mostly because it is the easiest choice, and because it allows their ‘maids to dress according to their personal preferences. You’ll see everyone’s personality shine through, and know that they feel comfortable and confident! Simply choose a color that best fits your wedding vision and let your bridesmaids choose a style they love. We do however recommend that they choose gowns from the same designer so that the color is an exact match.
Bridesmaids Dresses: Same Style, Different Color
Don’t sleep on dresses of the same style but in a different color! This option is a little more fun yet will look equally cohesive - granted all of your ladies will have to agree on one style. But how do you select the colors to feature? We recommend selecting undertones that prevalent in your wedding palette. For example, if one of your primary colors is blue. Dress your girls in different shades of blue or blue-grey. If you prefer a more diverse color range, opt for similar hues. For example, dusty pastels like a desert rose, wisteria, and a fog blue. Just ensure that these colors don’t clash with your overall scheme!
Bridesmaids Dresses: Different Color, Different Style
Selecting bridesmaid dresses in a different color and style can be intimidating. But fret not, we’re here to help! This option is ideal because it allows everyone so much freedom, and is extra memorable. The trick is choosing dresses that feature similar elements. Otherwise, the sky is the limit! You can grab gowns of different lengths, that have unique patterns or textures, and so on. You will still want to ensure that all of the colors complement one another and that the overall look lends to your wedding theme. So be sure to give your girls some guidelines and encourage everyone to collaborate and share their plans.
Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses: Real Wedding Inspiration
Sometimes a little help is required to spark your creativity! Here are just a few ways that you can feature mismatched bridesmaid dresses at your wedding, all of which are from real weddings. Feel free to recreate these ideas or alter them to make them your own.
Light Blue Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses
It takes a bold party to pull off a bright color like these light blue bridesmaid dresses. But it is the perfect color for a preppy, warm-weather wedding, indoor or out. Light blue is a stunning color that contrasts well with white, yet adds to the bright and chic vibe. All of these bridesmaids are wearing different gowns, but they each feature thin straps, for a sleek cohesive look.
Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses
Neutral bridesmaid dresses lend a timeless look that we’re loving! Even better if you feature different bridesmaid dress styles in the same neutral color, as shown below. These gowns all feature beautiful flowing details, ideal for a romantic wedding. The color lends a more traditional look that will easily stand the test of time. It is an especially beautiful choice when complemented with bouquets of white flowers and greenery.
Shades of Blue Bridesmaid Dresses
Different bridesmaid dress styles in different shades of blue are such a classic choice! It lends a look that is bright and chic, which stands out beautifully in a lush outdoor setting. The following line up features shades of blue that have a grey undertone. Notice that all of these girls are wearing similar styles, in that each dress has a high neckline. Where they differ is the straps, which are thin or thick, and some of which criss-cross.
Mismatched Pink Bridesmaid Dresses
One of the most popular bridesmaid dress colors is pink. Why? You can do so much with it, no matter the type of event. It is one of our favorite colors to use for mismatched bridesmaid dresses, whether you want a lighter or darker look. Consider putting your girls in two different styles of dresses and colors, like this wine and blush bridal party.
Alternatively, pick one shade of pink but let all of your girls choose their style. You’ll end up with a fun mix and match look, and girls who look like themselves. Notice how this group is rocking gowns with different style bodices, from high necklines and v-necklines to embroidered and pleated designs.
Why Choose Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses?
There are plenty of reasons that a bride may opt for mismatched bridesmaid dresses. If you’re still on the fence, here are just a few! For starters, it lends a unique look to your wedding party. Matching bridesmaid dresses are traditionally beautiful, but mix and match will mean that no other bridal party will look exactly like yours. Second is the fact that it allows your girls to be at their most confident and comfortable. They can choose a gown that best flatters their size, shape, and style. In addition, they can cater to their budget - a factor that is way too frequently overlooked.
Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dress Advice
We know that trying to coordinate mismatched bridesmaid dresses can be an overwhelming task, but we promise that if you follow our tips and suggestions, you’ll pull off this trend fabulously. Check out some of our best tips on how to pull of mismatched bridesmaid dresses!
- Don’t Be Afraid of Pattern & Texture - In fact, we recommend you embrace it! Patterns and textures can lend a lot to a mismatched bridal party and keep it from looking to matchy-matchy. Think sequins, florals, ruching, embroidery, and so on. If more than half of your girls want to feature patterns, we do recommend going with a larger print so as not to overwhelm the eye!
- Necklines & Waistlines - There is no rule that you have to have the same waistlines and necklines. However, a smattering of each that match can help make your line up more cohesive. So if you have one girl with one specific detail, like embroidery or spaghetti straps, have another girl match her. This way no single person stands out!
- Use Transition Colors - If you want to feature colors that aren’t next to each other on the color wheel, use transition colors. That is a color that falls somewhere in between. This is the secret to rocking both green and blue dress, or red and orange, or purple and pink, in the same lineup.
- Guidelines Are Important - While you want your ‘maids to have some freedom, a set of guidelines are important. Whether it be recommending a designer, a length, a material, colors, and so on. You don’t want it to be a total free-for-all, or your risk looking chaotic.
- Pre-select Dresses - If you have a problem relinquishing control, or have a bridesmaid who doesn’t take kindly to direction, pre-select the dresses. This will still allow everyone to choose their dress, but it ensures they can’t stray from your vision.
Conclusion
Ready to start shopping for mix and match bridesmaid dresses? At the Wedding Shoppe, we offer a range of dress designers and dress sizes so that you can easily create a cohesive bridal party look in one place. With the latest in both styles and colors, we have something for everyone! Whether you’re on the hunt for neutral mismatched bridesmaid dresses or bright blue mix and match bridesmaid dresses, we’ve got you covered. Did any of the colors or styles mentioned catch your eye? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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Want to include a touch of Hollywood glam in your mix and match bridesmaid party? Sequin bridesmaid dresses are the way to go! Check out our recent blog to learn how these designs can lend a luxe and timeless look to your wedding.
I think I am going to have a color scheme and let the bridesmaids pick the style according to this article I think it will be fun.
I’m so on the fence about this. Sometimes this looks super cute but other times it doesn’t work out so well…
I love the idea of letting my bridesmaids pick out a style that looks best on them!
Thinking about this for my wedding. Great ideas to add.
Love the subtle differences in colors that give a little texture to the bridal party but still match well! Thank you!
We are doing same color different style! I want my girls to be comfortable all day!
Love the shades of blue!
Thanks for the tips and tricks so hard to decide what to do for bridesmaid dresses!
I love the same color but different styles. I think I want my maid of honor to have a different color from the bridesmaids tho.
I love this idea! I am letting my bridesmaids choose their own dresses. Not everyone’s body shape, comfort level, or budget are the same, so I want my girls to pick something they can afford and will feel their best in!
I knew I wanted my ladies in the same color but different dresses to fit their comfort levels.. it’s nice to see this!
I am doing different shades same color for mine.
I’ve always known I wanted to have my girls in different styles so that they feel comfortable and confident. It’s so nice to see visuals and ideas for not only different styles but using a variety of colors.
I have 3 bridesmaids all with SUPER different body types, finding one dress they all feel comfortable in would be impossible, but if they find their own dress, my stress is gone!
I know at the end of the day all that mattered to me was that my girls felt confident and comfortable in there dresses. Especially since the will be in front of a crowd. That is nerve racking as it is.
Totally doing this at my wedding!
I hadn’t considered this idea before, but I’m thinking about it now. I like the same color, different dress idea!
I am planning for my girls to all wear different style, different color dresses – I want them all to feel and look like themselves!
I am really set on having mismatched bridesmaid dresses at my wedding but I wasn’t exactly sure how to best do it. This article is super helpful!
I’m a fan of the same color different style idea!
I am 100% too chicken to do the different shades and different dress idea, but it’s definitely worth noting that the bouquet and maybe a piece of jewelry should be the same to keep some uniformity! I hadn’t really thought about that.
love the idea of mix and match! such a fun way to make your wedding party feel unique and stand out
Love the shades of blue and tips on how to make them still work together even with different styles too! That’s what I want to do and am glad to get the confidence here to go for it!
The idea of 1 or 2 colors and allowing them to pick styles that they feel good in…that’s a win-win for bride and bridesmaids!
I didn’t put too much thought into this, but the different styles different colors was what I was going with… but the different styles same SHADE… that sounds fun. Giving me something to think about! Thanks
This trend is such a great idea! I’m having 2 maids of honor and I’d love for them to be in different dresses than my bridesmaids to differentiate between the two.
i’m definitely going this route for my upcoming wedding. My maid-of honor is 27, and my bridesmaid will be 50, so they have different styles and body types. I’m going to keep it the shame shade, just different dresses.
I love these. I just dont know what style to go with or how many different mismatches to have.
Loved this article! Trying this for my wedding and can’t wait!
I love this idea!!
Such a great idea
Love mismatched dresses!!!
I LOVE these ideas. It’s hard to make a definite choice on the dresses, and I think these all compliment each other beautifully.
I love #2. Same color different styles!
Not sure how I feel about this, but I feel like I like a more uniform look.
I’ve had an idea of what I wanted to do, but this changed it. I love this. Too cute and original.
This is what I want to do! Love this idea!
So helpful. I know I definitely want to go with different style same color. I would have loved to see the convertible type dresses as I’ve been leaning towards that
I really love the same color different style look. It looks even better than same dress for everyone.
I definitely want to mix the colors of my bridesmaids’ dresses. I’m doing a Gatsby themed wedding and I think vintage means I don’t have to be so worried about matching exact colors. The beauty is in the creativity of the thing!
Such great ideas! I want each of my bridesmaids to not only feel beautiful but also unique while sharing my special day with me. I was worried that with what I had picked out it wouldn’t look good to have mismatching styles or colors, even though I love mismatching everything, even my socks! Now I have a better idea of what I would like my girls to wear and I will definitely be letting my girls pick out their own styles, as long as they buy from the same designer and use the colors I have picked out. Thanks for all the input! Love this article
I love the color wheel advice for different color bridesmaid dresses!
This is a nice way for bridesmaids to show off their personalities. Love it!
I love the mix and match idea! It gives each bridesmaid the ability to personalize and pick a dress that is the most flattering for their body shape. We are not all cookie cutter shape, and so finding the best fit of a dress for each bridesmaid will make each bridesmaid feel more confident and beautiful!
I love the idea of different styles and colors!
I love this idea! I have been a bridesmaid in two of my friends weddings with mismatched dresses and it was so nice to be able to suit my style.
I like this trend, it makes everyone a bit more comfortable because they can all pick a dress they like and feel comfortable in.
So pretty!
I would really love to do mismatched bridesmaid dresses but I was nervous. After seeing this post I think I can put a step forward in the right direction to get it completed. They are beautiful all together!
I definitely want to have mixmatched dress styles at my wedding. Our colors are burgundy red and a burnt orange color for our fall wedding. I have two maid of honors so I am considering having them wear different colored dresses than the other bridesmaids. I was thinking maybe have bridesmaids wear a burgundy dress with orange shawl, and maid of honors wear orange dresses with a burgundy shawl. I’m just not sure how that will look.
I’m planning on doing this for my marriage celebration! It’s a great way to keep your bridesmaids feeling comfortable and not have to fit into a style of dress they don’t agree with. Thanks for the article!
I love the idea of mismatched bridesmaid dresses cause you get to see the uniqueness of each bridesmaid and you can just choose a color and they can pick the dress!
Definitely love the flexibility of this idea! I want my girls to feel as beautiful as I do on this special day. It definitely doesn’t hurt that this trend also gives them a little more power over what they budget for the dress. Super excited to see this trend gaining traction!
I’ve been thinking about doing shades of purple in different styles. My biggest concern is the wide variety of types of purple out there
I love these ideas. I have been struggling to find ways to mix and match! So helpful🥰
I love this trend! I think it’s such a fun way to add personality to your wedding!
My sister is getting married in September and we are all wearing different dresses but by the same designer! Two of us are in one color (the Maid and Matron of Honor) and the Bridsmaids are in a different, complimentary color!
I really want to do mismatched dresses for my wedding!! I love how the different styles and different shades of blue look next to a pretty white wedding dress. LOVE LOVE LOVE!
This article is amazing. I wild have never thought of some of the ideas!!!! Having different bridesmaids dresses is perfect for my bridesmaids because they All have different body styles.
These are some awesome tips! I will be sure to include some of them in my wedding vision.
This was extremely helpful!
Love this idea!
I am in love with the idea of mismatched but coordinating styles. I like different colors because then I don’t have to worry about making sure that all of the dresses are exactly the same or from the same dye batch (I’ve heard stories of issues) and style wise, each person gets to choose what fits them best! Another thing I’ve been exploring is potentially going the route of dress separates. I feel like that might give ladies the opportunity to be even more likely to wear their dress for other occasions.
This is super helpful for visualizing how to let bridesmaids show off their individual styles and body types will still maintain a cohesive look. Thanks!
I’m so excited to try mismatched dresses!
I am working on same color different styles. Yet, even same color with different shades of the color so my friends are comfortable to wear what they want, when they want.
I’ve really been wanting to mix and match my bridesmaids in shades of purple, but I feel like it won’t look as nice as I imagine. I love the plum, wisteria, and mauve colors.
Mismatched dresses are always fun specially if not all your bridesmaid decide on the same dress 🙄
I plan on doing different colors (shades of blues) and styles of Kennedy Blue dresses for my bridesmaids and can’t wait to have our appointment to pick everything out
We are planning on doing mismatched dresses/ bridal parties. I love everything non-traditional about this!!!
My best friend did mismatched dresses at her wedding that I was in and I LOVED the idea. I’m stealing it for my wedding next year.
I love this idea. Though some of my family think it’s such a horrible idea and want one consistent color for my wedding. However I want every girl to feel comfortable in their dresses.
Love!
Can’t wait to try this!
This was actually super helpful! So far, no other websites have given more than “same style different color” or “same color different styles” I’m glad this gave so many tips!
I love this trend so much! Different styles for sure, to flatter each bride.
My sister-in-law had us do mismatched dresses and it was really fun! The photos turned out really well.
I’m vibing with the level four mix n match ?