Mismatched bridesmaid dresses have been in style for years now, and it doesn’t look like they’re going to go out of style any time soon! Mix and match bridesmaid dresses work for any type of wedding, both formal or casual, and traditional or contemporary. Best of all, it allows each of your girls to dress according to their body type and personal style. Ready to jump on this trend, but unsure where to start? Keep reading to learn how to coordinate mismatched bridesmaid dresses, with tips and tricks, as well as real wedding inspiration!

How to Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses

Featuring mix and match bridesmaid dresses is a foolproof way to have an on-point wedding party! However, there is more than one way to pull of mismatched bridesmaid dresses. Consider which of the following options best align with your style, or shop one of the palettes we created. Just be sure to get your bridesmaid’s input as well!

Bridesmaids Dresses: Same Color, Different Styles

When shooting for a mismatched bridesmaid look, most brides opt to features dresses in different styles but the same color. Mostly because it is the easiest choice, and because it allows their ‘maids to dress according to their personal preferences. You’ll see everyone’s personality shine through, and know that they feel comfortable and confident! Simply choose a color that best fits your wedding vision and let your bridesmaids choose a style they love. We do however recommend that they choose gowns from the same designer so that the color is an exact match.

Bridesmaids Dresses: Same Style, Different Color

Don’t sleep on dresses of the same style but in a different color! This option is a little more fun yet will look equally cohesive - granted all of your ladies will have to agree on one style. But how do you select the colors to feature? We recommend selecting undertones that prevalent in your wedding palette. For example, if one of your primary colors is blue. Dress your girls in different shades of blue or blue-grey. If you prefer a more diverse color range, opt for similar hues. For example, dusty pastels like a desert rose, wisteria, and a fog blue. Just ensure that these colors don’t clash with your overall scheme!

Bridesmaids Dresses: Different Color, Different Style

Selecting bridesmaid dresses in a different color and style can be intimidating. But fret not, we’re here to help! This option is ideal because it allows everyone so much freedom, and is extra memorable. The trick is choosing dresses that feature similar elements. Otherwise, the sky is the limit! You can grab gowns of different lengths, that have unique patterns or textures, and so on. You will still want to ensure that all of the colors complement one another and that the overall look lends to your wedding theme. So be sure to give your girls some guidelines and encourage everyone to collaborate and share their plans.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses: Real Wedding Inspiration

Sometimes a little help is required to spark your creativity! Here are just a few ways that you can feature mismatched bridesmaid dresses at your wedding, all of which are from real weddings. Feel free to recreate these ideas or alter them to make them your own.

Light Blue Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

It takes a bold party to pull off a bright color like these light blue bridesmaid dresses. But it is the perfect color for a preppy, warm-weather wedding, indoor or out. Light blue is a stunning color that contrasts well with white, yet adds to the bright and chic vibe. All of these bridesmaids are wearing different gowns, but they each feature thin straps, for a sleek cohesive look.

Mismatched Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses

Neutral bridesmaid dresses lend a timeless look that we’re loving! Even better if you feature different bridesmaid dress styles in the same neutral color, as shown below. These gowns all feature beautiful flowing details, ideal for a romantic wedding. The color lends a more traditional look that will easily stand the test of time. It is an especially beautiful choice when complemented with bouquets of white flowers and greenery.

Shades of Blue Bridesmaid Dresses

Different bridesmaid dress styles in different shades of blue are such a classic choice! It lends a look that is bright and chic, which stands out beautifully in a lush outdoor setting. The following line up features shades of blue that have a grey undertone. Notice that all of these girls are wearing similar styles, in that each dress has a high neckline. Where they differ is the straps, which are thin or thick, and some of which criss-cross.

Mismatched Pink Bridesmaid Dresses

One of the most popular bridesmaid dress colors is pink. Why? You can do so much with it, no matter the type of event. It is one of our favorite colors to use for mismatched bridesmaid dresses, whether you want a lighter or darker look. Consider putting your girls in two different styles of dresses and colors, like this wine and blush bridal party.

Alternatively, pick one shade of pink but let all of your girls choose their style. You’ll end up with a fun mix and match look, and girls who look like themselves. Notice how this group is rocking gowns with different style bodices, from high necklines and v-necklines to embroidered and pleated designs. 

Why Choose Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses?

There are plenty of reasons that a bride may opt for mismatched bridesmaid dresses. If you’re still on the fence, here are just a few! For starters, it lends a unique look to your wedding party. Matching bridesmaid dresses are traditionally beautiful, but mix and match will mean that no other bridal party will look exactly like yours. Second is the fact that it allows your girls to be at their most confident and comfortable. They can choose a gown that best flatters their size, shape, and style. In addition, they can cater to their budget - a factor that is way too frequently overlooked.

Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dress Advice

We know that trying to coordinate mismatched bridesmaid dresses can be an overwhelming task, but we promise that if you follow our tips and suggestions, you’ll pull off this trend fabulously. Check out some of our best tips on how to pull of mismatched bridesmaid dresses!

1. Don’t Be Afraid of Pattern & Texture - In fact, we recommend you embrace it! Patterns and textures can lend a lot to a mismatched bridal party and keep it from looking to matchy-matchy. Think sequins, florals, ruching, embroidery, and so on. If more than half of your girls want to feature patterns, we do recommend going with a larger print so as not to overwhelm the eye!
2. Necklines & Waistlines - There is no rule that you have to have the same waistlines and necklines. However, a smattering of each that match can help make your line up more cohesive. So if you have one girl with one specific detail, like embroidery or spaghetti straps, have another girl match her. This way no single person stands out!
3. Use Transition Colors - If you want to feature colors that aren’t next to each other on the color wheel, use transition colors. That is a color that falls somewhere in between. This is the secret to rocking both green and blue dress, or red and orange, or purple and pink, in the same lineup.
4. Guidelines Are Important - While you want your ‘maids to have some freedom, a set of guidelines are important. Whether it be recommending a designer, a length, a material, colors, and so on. You don’t want it to be a total free-for-all, or your risk looking chaotic.
5. Pre-select Dresses - If you have a problem relinquishing control, or have a bridesmaid who doesn’t take kindly to direction, pre-select the dresses. This will still allow everyone to choose their dress, but it ensures they can’t stray from your vision.

Conclusion

Ready to start shopping for mix and match bridesmaid dresses? At the Wedding Shoppe, we offer a range of dress designers and dress sizes so that you can easily create a cohesive bridal party look in one place. With the latest in both styles and colors, we have something for everyone! Whether you’re on the hunt for neutral mismatched bridesmaid dresses or bright blue mix and match bridesmaid dresses, we’ve got you covered. Did any of the colors or styles mentioned catch your eye? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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Want to include a touch of Hollywood glam in your mix and match bridesmaid party? Sequin bridesmaid dresses are the way to go! Check out our recent blog to learn how these designs can lend a luxe and timeless look to your wedding.