Bridesmaid Planning
It is universally known that to be a bridesmaid means having to perform an active role in the wedding event. Being one of the closest to the bride is a privilege and other than being tasked to assist the bride in the ceremony, among others, it is likewise expected of you to coordinate with the bride in identifying and selecting the stunningly perfect bridesmaids dress for the occasion.

With the emergence of numerous dress manufacturers today, not to mention the multitude of styles to choose from, one is always left uncertain of which style will look exceptionally elegant for the wedding. The dress of course, should likewise be in consonance with the bride's wedding dress and few others as necessary considerations.

Having the basic and most important considerations at this point can greatly facilitate in narrowing down your choices. With reference to the following, we are optimistic that this guideline will expedite your decision-making as to which dress will perfectly suit the most important occasion in the life of a woman – her wedding day!

The following may be considered:

I. THEME

This is the general concept of the wedding event. Details of the occasion will basically evolve on the theme set.

1. Traditional Wedding - weddings in banquets, country clubs, hotel ballrooms. Full length dresses in either sheath or A-line cut are recommended. Shawl will add elegance.
2. Outdoor Wedding – weddings in country park / vineyard wedding, garden wedding. Tea length with shawl and lighter shades are recommended.
3. Seaside Wedding – weddings by the beach. Tea length, spaghetti-strapped dresses with shawls are recommended.
4. Trendy Wedding – weddings in restaurants and loft museums. Combination style is recommended (different styles in the same colors/fabric).

II. SEASON

Styles/colors are determined based on what season of the year it is. For instance, the shades of burgundy, taupe and orange are most common during the fall season. In the same manner, lighter shades are better for the summer season.

On the other hand, other than the time factor involved, one's complexion is another important thing to consider when choosing a color to wear. The bride, as well as the bridesmaids should try to select the color that will blend well with the bridesmaids' complexions.
Fair Complexion – both dark/light colors are recommended such as turquoise, hot pink, red, royal blue, lilac, burgundy, orange
Brown Complexion – earth-tone/neutral colors like champagne, beige, burgundy
Dark Complexion – earth-tone/neutral colors are recommended like champagne, beige, black, brown
Another option which is becoming more popular now is selecting bridesmaids dresses from the same fabric and color but in different styles, or the so-called Combination style.


III. CONTOUR / BODY TYPE

Certain body types will require certain styles to look best. Take a closer look and check your category.

1. Round Body Type – wearing dresses with drop down waist will de-emphasize the waist being the biggest part of the body. Dark colored dresses are highly recommended. Certain styles recommended: 13494, 1007.
2. A-Body Type (small busted) – emphasis should be on upper body with the smallest measurement. Wearing styles with stunning upper bodice might help improve the disproportion. Choosing dark colors will give a slimmer/thinner look.
3. Petite (short) – wearing form/slender fitting dresses will give an illusion of height. Earth-tone/neutral colors are highly recommended for it makes one appear taller.
4. Tall/Slender - wearing either a short/full-length dress is not of big issue. Any style is recommended though A-line dresses may add a “weight look” on the person.
5. Hour Glass Figure – any style will work for this perfect, womanly body.
6. Athletic/Full-Figured Body – this body type would want to better emphasize curviness by wearing figure-flattering dresses like mermaid cut styles.

PROM DRESSES (discounted) can easily be found online. For your dance you can find formal wear including accessories from variety of vendors online. For instance go to Yahoo! or Google and search for "discount prom dress"; " cheap prom dress " or "inexpensive prom dresses" to find many retailers that carry inexpensive gowns. We have found that For cheap and discounted Prom Dresses we recommend Discountdressup.com. They have a huge selection and awesome prices!

PROM DRESSES are undergoing healthy growth in the niche fashion areas also. For example, the gothic prom dresses , brand name tiffany prom dresses or even a punk prom dress are likely to be seen.

PROM DRESSES should be carefully selected for fit and quality. Make sure to have your exact, recent measurements on hand when ordering. Further, you should check the reputation of the retailer or dress-maker.