Is There a Bridesmaid-Gown Style That Flatters Everyone?

Most bridal parties include women with a number of body types, so it can be difficult to select a dress that will make everyone happy. Not only do A-line gowns flatter almost every figure, it is absolutely okay to choose one dress and ask your bridesmaids to wear it -- you are the bride, after all. Just be sensitive -- select a dress the maid who's a size 16, not the one who's a size 6, and be sure to suggest a good tailor who can help fit each dress properly. If you want to make sure everyone wears something that's flattering to her individual figure, consider choosing a color (and length, if you wish), and allowing the bridesmaids to pick their own gowns. For additional coherency, have them choose dresses in similar fabrics, such as silk or satin.

Separates are also a fantastic option and allow each girl to mix and match skirt and top styles -- keeping the fabric and color identical -- for the most flattering combination for her body type.

>>See photos of bridesmaid dresses.