THE GEMMA IN BLACK LACE

Bridesmaid style has come a long way in the past few years. Gone are the days of shiny satin strapless dresses and shoes dyed to match. Today's brides are getting more creative with their choices, and thankfully more fashion forward. Here's three tips to keeping your bridal party happy. 

1. Pick shoes they can wear in all night

One of us here at ANYI LU was bridesmaid at nine months pregnant, and the bride insisted she wear stiletto heels to match the bridal party. Now, most don't go to those extremes, but if you're a bride be sure to remember a wedding lasts many hours and involves a lot of standing during the ceremony and dancing afterward. You want your ladies to remember having a good time, not remember limping in pain or wearing flip flops during the reception. We chose to feature the Gemma in black lace for this look because its low mirrored triangular heel is stunning while being very stable and comfortable. Plus, black lace is a twist on the white lace used for so many wedding dresses. 

2. Try mismatching dresses

Bridesmaids come in all shapes and sizes, so the best way to keep everyone happy is to have a mismatched set of dresses. This can get complicated, so be sure to only vary a couple features. For example, different necklines and colors (within in a color-palette) but the same fabric or different necklines and fabrics (lace, floral pattern, chiffon) but the same color. And don't let them go it alone! Give them only a couple choices at most to keep the looks cohesive.

3. Pick dresses that aren't "bridesmaid dresses" 

Ever had to buy a sheath of cheap material and a zipper that was hundreds of dollars just because it was a "bridesmaid dress?" Those who have gotten married know if something has the word "wedding" or "bridal" attached, the price goes up 300%. Plus, bridesmaid dresses are often the same tired designs everyone has seen over and over again. If you're looking for something more unique, just look for dresses you like at your local department store or online. 

1. GUCCI lace-paneled pleated crepe dress
2. YUNOTME Lisbeth feather headband
3. SUZANNE KALAN 18-karat white gold diamond cuff
4. ANYI LU Gemma in black lace