Traditionally, bridesmaids pay for their own bridesmaid dresses, while the bride chooses the style or color palette. That custom is changing, though: many couples now cover the dress, split the cost or give bridesmaids a budget-friendly range to choose from. This guide covers who pays for bridesmaid dresses, how much they usually cost, when to order them and how long alterations take, so everyone in the bridal party knows what to expect.
Still choosing the look itself? Start with our guide to choosing bridesmaid dresses by color and style, then come back here for the etiquette and timeline.
Who Pays for Bridesmaid Dresses?
By tradition, each bridesmaid pays for her own dress, shoes and alterations. The bride (or couple) decides on the color, length or specific style, and bridesmaids buy the dress as part of accepting the role.
That said, there is no single rule anymore. The most common approaches are:
- Bridesmaids pay. The traditional option. It works best when the bride picks dresses at a price everyone can manage.
- The bride or couple pays. Some couples cover the full dress cost as a thank-you, especially when they have chosen a specific designer gown.
- Split the cost. The couple pays for the dress and bridesmaids cover alterations and shoes, or the reverse.
- Mix and match. The bride sets a color palette and each bridesmaid chooses a dress in her own budget.
Does the Bride Pay for Bridesmaid Dresses?
The bride is not expected to pay, but many choose to. If she asks for an expensive designer style, a specific dress for every bridesmaid or extras like a custom shawl, it is gracious for the bride to help with the cost.
How to Talk About Who Pays
Bring it up early, ideally when you ask your bridesmaids to stand up with you. Share the price range before anyone commits. A mix-and-match plan, like the ideas in our post on mixing and matching bridesmaid dresses, is an easy way to respect different budgets.
How Much Do Bridesmaid Dresses Cost?
Bridesmaid dresses vary widely in price. Many of the bridesmaid styles in our collection are priced between about $60 and $170, while designer and heavily embellished gowns cost more. Budget separately for alterations, shoes, undergarments and accessories, which can add a meaningful amount to the total.
Fabric, length and construction affect price. Simple midis and chiffon gowns tend to be the most affordable, while luxe satin, corset bodices and embellishment cost more. A few styles to compare:
- The Justine Satin A-Line Gown with Lace-Up Back comes in Dark Sage, Emerald, French Navy, Sienna and more.
- The Ella A-Line Strapless Chiffon Gown is a light, easy-to-wear chiffon option.
- The Cosima Luxe Satin A-Line Corset Gown adds structure for a more formal wedding.
- The Caitlin Convertible Tie Chiffon Gown can be tied several ways and comes in colors like Dusty Sage, Lavender, Burgundy and Hunter Green.
- The Marlena A-Line Keyhole Soft Satin Gown is offered in Sage, Navy, Burgundy, Mauve Rose and more, in sizes 4 to 24.
- The Jocelyn Fitted Satin Bustier Luxe Satin Gown comes in Emerald, Smoky Blue, Mauve and other shades.
- For a shorter look, the Lorena Satin Cowl Neck Midi Dress comes in 13 colors, including Sage, Dusty Blue and Champagne Gold.
Browse the full bridesmaid dresses collection to compare prices and colors.
When Should Bridesmaids Order Their Dresses?
Bridesmaids should order their dresses about four to six months before the wedding. That leaves time for production or shipping, a first fitting, alterations and any exchanges, without a last-minute rush.
A simple timeline:
- 8 to 6 months before: bride shares the color palette or style; bridesmaids try on sizes.
- 6 to 4 months before: order all dresses, ideally at the same time so colors come from the same dye lot.
- 2 to 3 months before: dresses arrive; try them on right away and book alterations.
- 2 to 4 weeks before: final fitting with the shoes you will wear.
Ordering together matters most when every bridesmaid wears the same color, since fabric shades can vary slightly between production runs.
How Long Does It Take to Get Bridesmaid Dresses?
It depends on whether the dress is in stock or made to order. In-stock dresses can ship quickly, while many designer bridesmaid styles are made to order and take several weeks to a few months. Timing can also differ by color and size, so check the estimate for your exact color and size before you order.
If your wedding is coming up soon, filter for in-stock styles, or visit the boutique to try on and take home dresses that are available now.
How Long Do Bridesmaid Dress Alterations Take?
Most bridesmaid dress alterations take two to four weeks, and longer during the busy spring and summer wedding season. Simple hems are quick; taking in a bodice, adjusting straps or reworking a lined or beaded dress takes more time.
Tips for smooth alterations:
- Book your seamstress as soon as the dress arrives.
- Bring the exact shoes and undergarments you will wear on the day.
- Plan for one main fitting and a final check.
- Ask for a price quote up front so there are no surprises.
How Much Do Bridesmaid Dress Alterations Cost?
Costs vary by tailor and region. A basic hem is usually the least expensive change, while bodice work, adding cups or altering beaded fabric costs more. Choosing the right size from the start is the best way to keep alteration costs down.
Choosing a Fabric That Fits Your Timeline and Budget
Fabric affects both price and how easy a dress is to alter. Chiffon is light, forgiving and simple to hem, which makes it a good choice for large bridal parties. Satin looks polished but shows every seam, so alterations need a skilled hand. Compare styles in our chiffon bridesmaid dresses and luxe satin bridesmaid dresses, and read satin vs chiffon bridesmaid dresses for a full comparison.
FAQ
Do bridesmaids pay for their own dresses?
Traditionally, yes. Bridesmaids usually pay for their own dress, alterations and shoes, unless the bride or couple offers to cover some or all of the cost.
Who buys the bridesmaid dresses?
Each bridesmaid typically buys her own dress after the bride chooses the color or style. Some brides place one group order to keep colors consistent, then bridesmaids reimburse her.
When should you buy bridesmaid dresses?
Aim for four to six months before the wedding. This allows time for shipping or production, alterations and any exchanges.
Can you wear a bridesmaid dress as a wedding guest?
Yes, as long as it is not white or the same color as the current wedding's bridal party. Many bridesmaid styles are designed to be worn again.
How long should a bridesmaid dress be?
Floor-length dresses should just skim the floor with your shoes on. Midi and tea-length styles are a nice choice for daytime, outdoor or casual weddings.
Shop Bridesmaid Dresses at Lady Black Tie
Now that you know who pays for bridesmaid dresses and when to order, it is time to shop. Browse our bridesmaid collection online, or bring your bridal party to Lady Black Tie in Hudson, MA to try on colors and sizes together. For more on shopping locally, see our guide to bridesmaid dress shopping in Massachusetts.
