You’ve found the person, you’ve picked the venue, and you’ve got your ‘I Do’ crew by your side—now comes the task of getting everyone dressed to perfection. While it’s tempting to leave the shopping for later, the secret to a relaxed morning of wedding prep is all in the timing. Between lead times for specific colors, shipping windows, and the inevitable nip-and-tuck of alterations, a little planning goes a long way.
At happyprom.co.uk, we know that a happy bride starts with a prepared bridal party. Whether you’re dreaming of a uniform look or the modern mismatched aesthetic, our 2026 bridesmaid dress timeline will ensure your best friends look—and feel—incredible when the big day finally arrives.
Let’s break down the perfect bridesmaid dress shopping timeline and give you the insider tips you need to make it happen.
The Ideal Timeline: Finding the Goldilocks Zone
Most bridesmaids assume that “off-the-rack” dresses mean “ready today.” In reality, even readily available bridesmaid dresses often require time for delivery, and custom or semi-custom styles? They can take weeks. The truth is, there’s a sweet spot for ordering—not too early (avoiding changing your mind), and not too late (avoiding rush fees and delivery stress).
7–8 Months Before the Wedding
The Vision Phase: Style Research & Mood Boarding
This is where the magic starts. The bride should gather inspiration: colours, silhouettes, fabrics, and overall wedding vibe. Create a Pinterest board or WhatsApp group dedicated to dress ideas. This is also the time to decide on key details like whether bridesmaids will wear matching dresses (classic and cohesive) or coordinate in different styles (the trending “mismatched” look).
Action items:
- Bride shares mood board with the bridal party
- Decide on colour palette (dusty rose, sage green, navy, blush—be specific!)
- Consider season and venue when choosing fabrics
- If going mismatched, agree on unifying elements (same colour, same fabric, different silhouettes)
6 Months Before the Wedding
The Order Deadline: Lock It In
This is your golden window. Ordering now gives you cushion for shipping delays (especially important during wedding season, May–September in the UK, when postal services get overwhelmed), manufacturing delays, and the occasional backorder. Many high-street and online retailers offer faster processing if you order within this timeframe.
Why this matters: Ordering too close to the wedding can result in rush fees (£15–£30 extra), or worse, your dress arriving just days before the big day with no time for adjustments.
Action items:
- Get each bridesmaid’s accurate size (see our sizing guide below)
- Order all dresses at the same time to ensure colour consistency
- Check for any seasonal shipping warnings on the website
- If mismatched, each bridesmaid should order their chosen style now
2–3 Months Before the Wedding
The Arrival Window: Dress Fittings Begin
Your dresses have arrived! Now comes the fun part—trying them on. This window is ideal because it gives you time to arrange fittings with a tailor and get adjustments done without rushing.
Action items:
- Inspect each dress upon arrival for quality and colour accuracy
- Schedule first fittings with your tailor
- Discuss any major adjustments needed (hems, strap length, nipping in at the sides)
- Order any accessories you’re still missing (shoes, jewellery, hairpieces)
1 Month Before the Wedding
Final Tweaks & Steaming
All alterations should be complete by now. This final month is for final fittings, making sure everything is perfect, and getting your dress professionally steamed (not ironed!) the day before or morning of the wedding.
Action items:
- Final fitting with your tailor
- Pick up your dress a few days before the wedding
- Store in a garment bag in a cool, dry place
- Arrange professional steaming (your local dry cleaner can do this for £5–£10)
The Overlooked Essential: Planning for Alterations
Here’s the biggest secret nobody tells you: nearly every bridesmaid dress needs alterations. And this is where many bridesmaids panic, thinking they’ve run out of time. Let’s change that narrative.
Pro Tip: Alterations typically take 2–4 weeks, depending on how busy your tailor is (especially during peak wedding season, May–September). If you’ve ordered 6 months in advance, you have plenty of time.
The Most Common Alterations
- Hemming: The most universal alteration. Bridesmaid dresses don’t always account for individual heights, so a hem is almost always needed (typically £20–£40).
- Strap adjustments: Strap length can make or break a dress’s fit. Your tailor can easily shorten or lengthen straps (£15–£25).
- Taking in at the sides: If you’ve lost weight or the dress is slightly oversized, nipping in at the side seams creates a custom fit (£25–£45).
- Letting out seams: If you’ve gained weight or the dress is tight, a tailor may be able to let out seams for a better fit (£20–£50, depending on how much fabric is available).
- Bra tabs or adjustable straps: Some bridesmaids opt for hidden bra tabs or adjustable straps for comfort (£10–£20 extra).
Finding a Good Tailor
Don’t just pick the cheapest option. Ask for recommendations from friends, check reviews online, and schedule a consultation before committing. A good tailor will assess your dress, discuss the look you want, and give you a clear timeline.
Golden Rule: Always bring the shoes you plan to wear to the wedding when you have your first fitting. Heel height dramatically affects the perfect hem length. A difference of just one inch in heel height can throw off your entire silhouette.
The Trend That’s Here to Stay: Coordinating Mismatched Dresses
Mismatched bridesmaid dresses—where each bridesmaid chooses a different style in the same colour or fabric—are all the rage in 2026. They look effortlessly chic, allow bridesmaids to choose styles that suit their bodies, and honestly? They’re more fun. But coordinating them requires a bit of extra planning.
Keeping the Look Cohesive
Set a firm deadline for style choices. Once you’ve chosen your colour, give bridesmaids a deadline (ideally 7–8 months before) to choose their dress style from your selected retailer or a curated list. This prevents endless deliberation and ensures everyone orders at the same time.
Keep the fabric consistent. The secret to making mismatched bridesmaid dresses look intentional rather than chaotic? Same fabric, different silhouettes. For example, all satin, different necklines and sleeve options. Or all chiffon, ranging from wrap dresses to A-line gowns. This unified fabric creates cohesion even when the styles vary wildly.
Establish a colour standard. If you’re doing “dusty rose,” be specific. Provide a fabric swatch or a colour code (Pantone colour, for example) so that when bridesmaids order from different shops, everyone’s dress matches. Nothing looks worse than mismatched bridesmaids in wildly different shades of pink.
Pro Tip: Create a shared Pinterest board or WhatsApp group where each bridesmaid can share their dress choice before ordering. This way, the bride can approve the selection and ensure it fits the overall aesthetic. It prevents awkward surprises later!
[Check out our guide to: Mismatched or Matching Bridesmaid Dresses? ]
Measurement & Sizing: The Do’s and Don’ts
Getting the right size is crucial. Too small and you’re stressed and uncomfortable; too large and you’re swimming in fabric and facing expensive alterations.
The Golden Rule: Always order for your current size, not your goal size. It’s infinitely easier for a tailor to take a dress in than to let it out. Plus, ordering too small causes unnecessary anxiety and may result in a dress that can’t be altered enough to fit.
How to Measure Yourself at Home
For the most accurate fit, grab a flexible measuring tape and ask a friend to help (or use a mirror and do your best!).
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the ground. Don’t pull too tight.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waist (the narrowest part), again keeping the tape relaxed but not loose.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, about 20 centimetres below your waist.
- Height: Stand against a wall and have someone mark where the top of your head is, then measure from the floor. This helps determine if you’ll need significant hemming.
- Inseam (if relevant): For dresses with a slit or if you’re particularly tall or short, measure from your inner thigh down to your ankle.
Pro Tip: Check the retailer’s size chart carefully. UK sizes (8, 10, 12) differ from US sizes (4, 6, 8), and every designer sizes differently. If you’re ordering from Happy Prom or another retailer, review their specific size guide rather than assuming your usual size.
The Money Conversation: Budget Transparency
Ah, the awkward part. Discussing money at weddings can feel uncomfortable, but clarity saves relationships and stress. Here’s how to navigate it.
Who Pays for What?
- The dress: Traditionally, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses. However, some brides cover the cost (especially if they’re choosing expensive options). This should be clarified upfront.
- Shoes and accessories: Bridesmaids typically pay for these themselves, unless the bride specifies otherwise.
- Alterations: Usually the bridesmaid’s responsibility. Budget £50–£150 depending on the complexity of changes needed.
- Hair and makeup: Varies. Many brides hire a hair and makeup artist and either cover the cost or split it with bridesmaids (typically £30–£80 per person).
A Budget Breakdown for Bridesmaids
- Dress: £80–£300+ (depending on designer and quality)
- Alterations: £50–£150
- Shoes: £30–£100
- Accessories (jewellery, hairpiece, clutch): £20–£60
- Hair and makeup: £30–£80 (if not included)
- Total estimated cost: £210–£690
Buffer Fund Tip: Always budget a little extra (10–15%) for unexpected costs. Shipping delays might require a rush fee, your tailor might need extra fabric for alterations, or you might need to reorder shoes. Having a £50–£100 cushion prevents stress when surprises arise.
The bride’s role: Be upfront about costs from the beginning. If you’re asking bridesmaids to spend more than usual, acknowledge it and offer options. Can’t afford a £200 dress? Ask if they’d be open to a £100 alternative in the same colour. Flexibility goes a long way.
[Check out our guide to: Wedding Etiquette- Who Pays for the Bridesmaids’ Dresses?]
Your Shopping Calendar at a Glance
- 7–8 Months Out: Research styles, create mood boards, decide on colour and neckline preferences
- 6 Months Out: Order all dresses; confirm sizes and colours
- 2–3 Months Out: Dresses arrive; first fittings and alterations scheduled
- 1 Month Out: Final fittings complete; dresses picked up and stored safely
Oops! What If You’re Already Behind?
Life happens. Maybe you didn’t realize how early you needed to order, or perhaps the original choice fell through. Don’t panic. Here’s how to salvage the situation:
Your Last-Minute Options
- Ready-to-ship dresses: Many retailers, including high-street stores, have dresses in stock that ship within 3–5 working days. Look for these options and budget for any rush shipping fees.
- Express alteration services: Some tailors offer rush alterations for 25–50% extra. Call ahead and explain your timeline.
- Professional steaming instead of tailoring: If time is really tight and the dress fits reasonably well, professional steaming can work wonders. It’s not a substitute for proper alterations, but it’s better than nothing.
- Buy from a high-street retailer: Stores like Debenhams, John Lewis, and Reiss often have bridesmaid or occasion wear collections in stock. You can try on in person and get same-day or next-day delivery.
Pro Tip: Even in a rush, don’t skip alterations for a dress that doesn’t fit properly. A £50 hem is worth it for looking polished on the day.
Your Bridesmaid Dress Checklist
- ☐ Research styles and colours 7–8 months before
- ☐ Confirm budget and who’s paying for what
- ☐ Measure yourself accurately for the right size
- ☐ Order 6 months in advance to avoid rush fees
- ☐ Remember: order your current size, not your goal size
- ☐ Schedule first fitting 2–3 months before the wedding
- ☐ Bring your wedding shoes to every fitting
- ☐ Budget £50–£150 for alterations
- ☐ Pick up your dress at least a week before the wedding
- ☐ Have it professionally steamed the day before or morning of
Frequently Asked Questions: Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Timeline
When should I order bridesmaid dresses?
The ideal time to order bridesmaid dresses is 6 months before the wedding. This timing allows for shipping delays, potential backorders, and adequate time for alterations without rush fees. Ordering this far in advance is especially important during peak wedding season (May–September in the UK), when postal services and tailors get overwhelmed. If you order any earlier, you risk changing your mind or encountering style regrets; any later, and you’ll likely face rush fees or delivery stress.
How long do bridesmaid dress alterations take?
Bridesmaid dress alterations typically take 2–4 weeks, depending on how busy your tailor is and the complexity of the changes. This is why ordering 6 months in advance is so important—it gives you a comfortable window for alterations without panic. Always plan alterations 2–3 months before the wedding to give yourself a safety cushion. If your tailor is particularly busy during wedding season, book your appointment as soon as your dress arrives.
What is the most common bridesmaid dress alteration?
Hemming is the most universal bridesmaid dress alteration. Bridesmaid dresses don’t always account for individual heights, so nearly every dress requires a hem adjustment. Hemming typically costs £20–£40 and is essential for a polished, finished look. Even if the dress fits perfectly in the bust and waist, the hemline almost always needs adjustment.
How much does it cost to alter a bridesmaid dress?
Bridesmaid dress alterations typically cost £50–£150 total, depending on the complexity of changes needed. Here’s a breakdown of common alterations:
- Hemming: £20–£40
- Strap adjustments: £15–£25
- Taking in at the sides: £25–£45
- Letting out seams: £20–£50
- Bra tabs or adjustable straps: £10–£20 extra
Budget accordingly when planning your overall dress expenses—remember, alterations are essential for that custom-fit look.
Should bridesmaids order a smaller size to lose weight into?
No. Always order for your current size, not your goal size. It is much easier for a tailor to take a dress in than to let it out. Ordering too small causes unnecessary anxiety and may result in a dress that cannot be altered enough to fit properly. Additionally, restrictive sizing limits your comfort on what should be a celebratory day. Order confidently in your current size and trust that your tailor can make adjustments if needed.
How do I measure my bridesmaid dress size at home?
To measure accurately at home, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape and ideally a friend to help. Here are the key measurements:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the ground. Don’t pull too tight.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waist (the narrowest part), keeping the tape relaxed but not loose.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, about 20 centimetres below your waist.
- Height: Stand against a wall and measure from the floor to the top of your head.
- Inseam (if relevant): Measure from your inner thigh down to your ankle for dresses with slits or if you’re particularly tall or short.
Always check the retailer’s specific size chart, as sizing varies significantly by designer. Don’t assume your usual high-street size will match a bridesmaid dress size.
What are mismatched bridesmaid dresses?
Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a trending style where each bridesmaid chooses a different dress style in the same colour or fabric. This approach allows bridesmaids to select styles that suit their body types and personal preferences while maintaining a cohesive, intentional look. The key to success is keeping the fabric consistent (all satin or all chiffon) even when styles vary, and ensuring all colours are exactly the same shade.
Benefits of mismatched dresses include increased bridesmaid satisfaction, more flattering silhouettes for different body types, and a modern, effortless aesthetic. Just make sure to set firm deadlines for style choices and establish unifying elements like fabric and colour.
Who pays for bridesmaid dresses?
Traditionally, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses. However, some brides choose to cover the cost, especially if selecting expensive options. This should be clarified upfront—ideally when first asking someone to be a bridesmaid. Here’s a typical breakdown:
- The dress: Bridesmaids typically pay (unless bride specifies otherwise)
- Shoes and accessories: Bridesmaids pay
- Alterations: Bridesmaids pay (£50–£150)
- Hair and makeup: Varies (bride may cover, split costs, or bridesmaids pay individually)
The total cost for a bridesmaid can range from £210–£690, so clear communication about budget is essential for keeping relationships happy and stress-free.
What should I bring to my bridesmaid dress fitting?
Always bring the shoes you plan to wear to the wedding when you have your first fitting. This is non-negotiable. Heel height dramatically affects the perfect hem length—a difference of just one inch in heel height can throw off your entire silhouette. Without the correct shoes, your tailor may hem the dress incorrectly, resulting in an awkward length on the actual wedding day.
Additionally, consider bringing undergarments you plan to wear (particularly if it’s a strapless dress), any hairpieces or accessories you’ll be wearing, and ideally, reference photos of your makeup style if it might affect how the dress sits or looks visually.
Can I order a bridesmaid dress if the wedding is less than 3 months away?
Yes, but with limitations and additional costs. If you’re ordering with less than 3 months to go, here’s what you need to know:
- Look for ready-to-ship options: Many retailers have dresses in stock that arrive within 3–5 working days.
- Budget for rush fees: Expect to pay £15–£30 extra for expedited shipping.
- Rush alterations available: Some tailors offer rush services for 25–50% extra cost.
- High-street retailers: Debenhams, John Lewis, and Reiss often have bridesmaid or occasion wear in stock with same-day or next-day delivery options.
The main trade-off is cost—expect to pay more for expedited everything. However, it’s still possible to look fabulous even with a tight timeline if you plan carefully and prioritise accordingly.
How early should I start shopping for bridesmaid dresses?
Start shopping 7–8 months before the wedding. This is the research and mood-boarding phase. During this time, the bride should gather inspiration—colours, silhouettes, fabrics, and overall wedding vibe. Create a Pinterest board or WhatsApp group dedicated to dress ideas. Discuss whether bridesmaids will wear matching dresses or coordinate in the mismatched style. This early planning phase prevents rushed decisions and allows everyone time to weigh in on the aesthetic.
What if a bridesmaid’s dress doesn’t fit after ordering?
This is why alterations exist! If the dress doesn’t fit perfectly, don’t panic. A good tailor can adjust nearly any issue:
- Too tight: Seams can be let out if fabric allows (cost: £20–£50)
- Too loose: Sides can be taken in for a custom fit (cost: £25–£45)
- Wrong length: Hemming solves this (cost: £20–£40)
- Straps uncomfortable: Strap length can be adjusted (cost: £15–£25)
This is exactly why ordering 6 months in advance and planning 2–4 weeks for alterations is so important. Your tailor will work with you to ensure the dress fits perfectly on the wedding day.
Should bridesmaid dresses be steamed or ironed?
Bridesmaid dresses should always be steamed, not ironed. Steaming is gentler on delicate fabrics like chiffon, satin, and silk, and helps preserve the dress’s shape and integrity. Irons can create shine marks, flatten delicate fabrics, and potentially damage beading, sequins, or other embellishments.
Professional steaming typically costs £5–£10 and is worth every penny. Have your dress professionally steamed the day before or morning of the wedding for a flawless, wrinkle-free look.
What is the best fabric for bridesmaid dresses?
The best fabric for bridesmaid dresses depends on your season and style preference:
- Satin: Luxurious, formal, holds colour beautifully. Perfect for winter weddings. Slightly less breathable.
- Chiffon: Lightweight, flowing, elegant. Ideal for summer and outdoor weddings. Breathable and comfortable.
- Crepe: Structured, drapes beautifully. Versatile for any season. Forgiving on different body types.
- Jersey: Stretchy, comfortable, casual. Good for mismatched bridesmaid looks. Easy to move in.
For mismatched bridesmaids, consistency in fabric is key—all satin or all chiffon ensures the group looks cohesive even with varying styles.
Can I buy a bridesmaid dress online and return it if it doesn’t fit?
Many online retailers have return policies, but they vary. Before ordering, always check the retailer’s return and exchange policy. Many bridesmaid dresses have non-refundable pricing if you’re purchasing from outlet sections or during sales. If ordering from Happy Prom or other retailers, confirm their policy before checkout. Keep all packaging and tags intact in case you need to return or exchange the dress. The safer route is to order the correct size (by measuring accurately) rather than relying on returns, especially when timing is tight.
The Bottom Line
Planning ahead isn’t about being controlling or obsessive—it’s about removing stress from an already busy time. By following this timeline, you’ll have beautiful, perfectly fitting bridesmaid dresses without the last-minute panic, hidden costs, or fashion regrets.
Whether you’re coordinating identical dresses or embracing the mismatched trend, the key is getting started early, communicating clearly with your bridal party, and remembering that a well-fitted dress makes all the difference.
Ready to find your perfect bridesmaid dress? Start browsing our collection today and remember: 6 months out is the sweet spot for ordering!
Explore our bridesmaid dress collection and find your perfect fit
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