“The best part about it is that you can shorten it and wear it again!”  This is the infamous quote from 2007′s 27 Dresses, and I’m sure it is one of many brides’ favorites as well, when referring to their bridesmaids’ dresses.  However, the trend for bridesmaid dresses is currently taking a trial shift toward patterned fabrics.  Some think these are more practical because occasions that call for a dress more often than not lead women to be more inclined to go for a short, patterned dress rather than a long, solid-color dress.  Furthermore, the idea that a dress can be shortened to “modernize” it for future use is a myth.  Indeed, like to every rule, there are exceptions, but for the most part, dresses are cut to the style they are meant to be worn as.  Altering a dress just does that; it alters the entire style of it.  I am in a sorority at Michigan State, which requires an absurd amount of dresses.  I see multitudes of girls bringing their old homecoming and prom floor-length gowns up to school to be shortened, and they never look quite right.  So in conclusion, I think it is meant to be common knowledge that most bridesmaid dresses should be worn knowing that it is for a one-time, special occasion.  We don’t see brides altering their gowns to be worn again!  However, the patterned bridesmaid dresses are a nice alternative, especially in today’s economy where most women can’t afford to be buying a dress they probably won’t ever wear again.

Article Created by:

Alina Blackford, Bliss Event Assistant

Photo Credits:

http://community.theknot.com/cs/ks/blogs/wedding_style_file/archive/2009/01/30/bridesmaid-dress-ideas-pretty-patterns.aspx?MsdVisit=1

http://www.whitelacewedding.com/50226711/trend_watch_patterned_bridesmaids.php

http://manolobrides.com/2009/01/29/lovehate-the-magic-eye-edition/