What & Where to Look

• Flexible design range
• Figure-flattering styles
• Coordination of colors, fabrics, styles
• Sane prices

Bridesmaids' dresses are usually ordered through a bridal salon. Some brides have the dresses made by a professional seamstress. You may be able to find formal dresses at a department store. These dresses can serve your needs and your bridesmaids will most likely be able to wear them again to another formal party or wedding.

When ordering from a bridal shop your bridesmaids may need to leave a down payment to order the dress. It is important to get everything in writing to prevent any misunderstanding in the future.

Get started. Fittings should begin four to six months before the big day. You may want to take a few maids shopping with you.

Decide on a color and length. Depending on the time of day, season and degree of formality, you may choose a floor-length, silk sheath for an evening wedding, or a tea-length pastel sheer for a warm afternoon ceremony. Rule of thumb: If a bride is wearing a floor-length dress, bridesmaid dresses should not be short.

Keep the figures of all of your bridesmaids in mind when selecting a style. A full-figured woman may not feel comfortable in a short, strapless cocktail-style dress, for example.

Send your bridesmaids shopping for different dresses in one designer's line, or choose any dress of a certain color and length.

Less is more. Since bridesmaids usually pay for their own dresses, keep cost in mind. About $200 is a good figure, but if you can do it for less, everyone will be happier.