Do bridesmaid dresses have to come from a bridal store? I'm thinking when the time comes to go shopping with my bridesmaids and go look at department stores instead. One I want them to be short instead of long. Two I don't want them to have to shell out a lot of money for a dress. And three I want them to be able to wear it more. What are your ideas? Yes. or No. on department/store shopping instead of bridal shops?