While every bride tries to pick bridesmaid dresses that her closest friends will be happy to wear, it's impossible to please everyone. And whether it's the style, the color, the fabric, or a combination of all three that doesn't appeal to one (or a few) of your bridesmaids, there comes a point where a bride has to put her foot down. What's a bride to do if she gets a little push-back? Our experts have a few tips for handling a bridesmaid who is unhappy with your fashion choices without going full bridezilla.
Picking a dress that flatters not one, but many people is a tall order to begin with (which has a lot to do with the rise of mismatched bridesmaid dresses). But if you've fallen in love with a gown that completes your wedding-day vision, it's hard to see any other options. If you have a bridesmaid who's being vocal about her dissatisfaction with your choice, start by finding out what the problem is. If it's that she doesn't like the color or it's "not her style," explain that while you know it's not her first choice, you'd really love a unified look and would hope that she'll be able to deal with it for a day. Remind her that she can get sartorially creative at the bachelorette party!
See more: Have You Broken in Your Bridesmaid Dress Yet? (Yes, That's Something You Need to Do...)
If it's the fit or silhouette (like a more revealing neckline when she's very modest), look into alteration options that will help her feel more comfortable. There might be a coordinating wrap or an altered neckline that solves the problem while still keeping your ladies looking fabulous.
Something that plagues a girl who is on her third or fourth bridesmaid gig could also be cost. The $300 price tag might sound reasonable compared to your wedding dress budget, but remember that it's not her wedding, and that there are other costs (travel, lodging, hair and makeup, gifts, etc.) that go along with standing by your side at the altar — costs that can add up quickly. Check out resale sites like eBay or PreownedWeddingDresses.com to see if you can find the same gown at a lower price, or (if you can afford it) offer to chip in.