Bridesmaids’ Dresses 101: When to Buy Them?

Bridesmaids’ Dresses 101: When to Buy Them?

Bridesmaids’ dresses

Bridesmaids’ dresses

Buying your own wedding dress is bound to be a journey into the realm of one thousand and one options – but don’t you even think that once your dress is readily ordered you are done!

As a bride, you want your lovely attendants to be the mirroring perfection of the entire Big Day – and that means that, aside from your own wedding dress, you will also want to search for the perfect option for them as well.

When should your bridal party purchase their gowns? We have some tips for you – keep reading and find out more.

· In general, the sooner, the better, really. The exact timeline depends on whether you choose to get designer/ custom dresses or if you want to buy them off the rack. Naturally, it will take a little more time if you settle for the first option, but at least you will have a wider range of versions to choose from.

· If you want to get custom dresses for your bridesmaids, start as early as seven months into the Big Day. Why? Because it will take at least three months for the dresses to arrive and, depending on how complex they are, the alterations can take up to another two months as well. The extra time is there to leave you some leeway – you don’t want to stress over whether your bridesmaids’ dresses will be ready for the wedding date.

· If you want to buy off the rack dresses, you will normally need a lot less time. In general, one month is enough for the shipping process, and two extra months are more than enough for the alterations. DO keep in mind that, being off the rack, these options are a little more limited – so if you want to make sure you find the right attire for your lovely ladies you should start the search as soon as possible. If you are still feeling worried check in with your local bridal shop, they can help ease your mind about lead times, but do remember that sometimes even off the rack dresses can take a few months for delivery, it will just depend on the designer you choose.

· If you want to take the ultra-easy path, allow your friends to choose their own dresses within certain rules (e.g. color, décolletage, cut, fabric, etc.). This will give them freedom of choice (so that they can wear something they genuinely enjoy).

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Wedding Expos & Bridal Shows in Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Sunday, August 2, 2026

Embassy Suites by Hilton

12 - 5 p.m.

Albuquerque

Sunday, January 17, 2027

Isleta Resort & Casino

12 - 5 p.m.