The Bridesmaids Dresses.....

KrynnerBear

So I know it's customery for the bridesmaids to buy their dresses and I am aiming to make them wearable again. It's only going to be about 60 dollars max and I'm paying for everything else for them jewelry shoes and even getting them all a nice gift. How do I tell them that they need to buy their dresses and when?

misssunshine17

Definitely ask them. My senior year of college, I was fb messaged a $150 dress (with $50 alterations because they didn't make it small enough) when I would have told the bride $100 max because I was/am feverishly saving. Though I will say $60 is reasonable to many people. However, I wouldn't say "and you can totally wear it again!!"... it could be the cutest, most wearable dress to you,  but they might not like the cut/color, etc. Pet peeve of mine, I guess.

Also, if you're dictating shoes and jewelry, it's not a gift and shouldn't be treated like it is. This also goes for paying for their hair and makeup. If you choose, a real gift can be purchased, but also remember a sincere thank you note goes a long way! 

pkontk

Ditto missunshine.  As a bridesmaid a few times over, I have no problem at all with brides telling me what dress to wear, as long as it is within my budget (although I've never been asked about a budget).  I have worn one bridesmaid dress more than once, to a prom at age 18, but that was it.