Who Pays For Bridesmaid Dresses?

Congratulations on being asked to be a part of the bridal party for a close friend or family member’s wedding! While this is a thrilling endeavor, it can also be quite expensive, which raises the question of who pays for the bridesmaid outfits. Is it the bride’s responsibility to purchase all of the wedding party dresses, or do the bridesmaids shop for their own? What about the cost of alterations, or what if one of the bridesmaids can’t afford the gown?

According to Risatti, traditional conventions about who pays for bridesmaid outfits have been abandoned. If the bride can afford it, paying for the dress or a portion of the cost for each of her bridesmaids is a really considerate gesture. “We’ve seen more brides paying for their bridesmaid dresses,” she said.

Even though it’s generous, it is still an outlier. Bridesmaids are typically responsible for their own dresses and accessories, as well as possible hair and beauty appointments, and transportation to the wedding. They should be prepared to shoulder these expenditures after they accept the offer, according to Gottsman. That said, it is the bride’s responsibility to inform all bridesmaids of any potential financial obligations from the start, and bridesmaids should be honest and transparent if they will be financially strained.

If a member of the bridal party is unable to fund the cost of the bridesmaid dress, Risatti suggests that the engaged couple chip in to assist cover the expenditure and, if feasible, incorporate it into their wedding budget. However, so that the other bridesmaids aren’t offended, this should be a private matter. Risatti also advises brides to choose their dresses as early as possible so that each of the bridesmaid has the most time to save for the gown. Also, examine if the store where the gowns are sold provides a payment plan.

Opting for mismatched bridesmaid dresses, on the other hand, opens up a whole new universe of possibilities: If the bridesmaids all choose different gowns within the same color scheme, it’ll be much easier to locate a pretty, flattering style that won’t break the bank. If all other possibilities have been exhausted and you’re still stuck, the bridesmaid may need to switch roles during the wedding. According to Risatti, she may deliver a reading at the wedding or assist in greeting visitors, making her feel more involved without having to spend money on a dress.