Planning your perfect day takes time and effort. There is a lot to think about, from reception venues, food and wine, to guest lists and honeymoon destinations. One of the most difficult decisions you will have to make, however, is how to dress your bridesmaids.

Bride dresses are easy to find, but choosing bridesmaid dresses can be way trickier. When you go looking for a wedding dress, you only have yourself to please. Ok, ideally, your husband-to-be loves the dress too, but ultimately your decision is the one that counts. Bridesmaid dresses are more difficult to pick because you need to consider the wearer. No way can you expect a loyal friend to wear a dress that was seriously unflattering. If you are currently looking for the perfect bridesmaid dresses, here are the top trends for 2016!

Asymmetrical Dresses

Who says dresses should be a classic symmetrical design? The latest craze on the bridesmaid front is asymmetrical detailing. Strapless dresses or simple dresses with thin spaghetti straps remain popular, but if you want your bridal party to stand out this year, look for asymmetrical one-shoulder dresses. This is a seriously classy look, especially when the dresses are in muted, neutral colors.

Mismatched Dresses

It is rare to have a bridal party where all the girls are the same size. Life just isn’t like that, so one dress will not necessarily fit all parties. For this reason, a selection of mismatched dresses in matching colors or different hues of the same color will look absolutely fabulous. Each bridesmaid can choose a dress that flatters her figure rather than wearing a dress that does nothing for her.

50 Shades of Blue

Blue is the ‘in’ color this season. Midnight blue is very classy, especially when worn with brightly colored shoes. For a more bold and vibrant look, go for royal blue. Shades of teal and duck egg blue look super sophisticated, and for a romantic feel, a soft grey-blue is perfect.

Soft Pastels

Pastels never go out of fashion and for a spring wedding, pastel shades really hit the spot. Pale yellow is adorable, as is pale blush pink. If you want to mix and match your bridesmaids, let each girl choose their own perfect pastel shade and draw the dresses together with matching shoes and floral posies. Alternatively, choose mismatched dresses in the same color, or opt for variations on the same hue. Soft greys and blues are very in right now, but neutrals also look super chic.

Short but Sweet

If brides are wearing full-length wedding gowns, why not shake it up a little and go for short bridesmaid dresses? Bridesmaid dresses that are barely high mid-thigh work well for younger women. They look really cute and fun, especially when paired with strappy sandals. Another stylish option is to throw out the idea of a dress and go for a patterned skirt with a plain, white top. It’s fun and totally different.

Always consult with your bridesmaids before buying dresses!

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