Quick—what's the second hardest thing after finding the perfect wedding gown? Oh, IDK—maybe shopping for bridesmaid dresses?! It's an important task, ya know—being a bridesmaid (AKA supporting the bride for and on her big day and hopefully beyond that). There's real pressure—especially if the bride (or groom) means so much to you or, there's a special somebody you wanna impress as you walk down the aisle and/or slay the dance floor. Fortunately for you, I've been a bridesmaid in several weddings! Not like 27 Dresses, and no I'm not in the double digits yet but I am veryyy close. (Haitians love weddings and oftentimes, have big families—so yeah, this girl has a closet full of gowns.)
I'm a firm believer that bridesmaids should look good, too. So I've found the best dresses that are sure to make ya fall in love. There are bold, classic and eccentric styles in the prettiest colors and materials featuring pleats, flounces, ruffles, sequins (yes, sequins) and so much more! Ahead, 24 gowns that'll make you feel beautiful as you celebrate your friend's union and will make for the most beautiful girl gang photos.
Our top picks for the best bridesmaid dresses in 2023:
Bridesmaids, if you wanna be a favorite (or super helpful), here are some unique bridal shower gifts! Also, brides, tap in! These are the best bridal earrings you'll want to keep forever (or pass down if you're feelin' generous) and lingerie for when you're feelin' spicy. And if your guests don't know what to wear, send them this list of wedding-guest jumpsuits and dresses (there are some on Amazon, too)! PS: Sign me up to be your bridesmaid. (Serious inquiries only, lol).
Bridesmaid in a beach wedding? Looks like I just found your dress...(Seriously, not only is this aqua color so eye-catching, but this is actually a convertible design!)
Rave Review: "I wanted this dress for a while and finally ordered it in two colors. I wore it in blue & I felt wonderful, lovely, beautiful and pretty. I received tons of compliments!"
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this floral one
Romance that Wows Dark Teal Floral Print Organza Maxi Dress
this floral one
Romance that Wows Dark Teal Floral Print Organza Maxi Dress
Expect lots of "omg where'd you get that dress?" in this organza number! Apparently it caused one reviewer's fiance's "jaw to drop." Bonus: It looks and feels expensive (but it's under $100 ha!).
Classic gal? Then, you'll love this satin trumpet gown.
Rave Review: "I am 5’11 and this dress was perfect for my height. I was wearing 5 inch heels and the bottom of the dress still touched the floor, just barely. It’s very comfortable, great quality, and the color was so vibrant. I felt pretty and I received many compliments."
this popular style
Toryemy Toryemy Purple Long for Women Satin One Shoulder Bridesmaid Dresses
this popular style
Toryemy Toryemy Purple Long for Women Satin One Shoulder Bridesmaid Dresses
Good news: This dress is even prettier in person! A popular style, you'll definitely fall in love with how it looks and feels on ya. PS: That feeling is far from cheap.
Can't go wrong if you choose simplicity with this maxi wrap dress style.
Rave Review: "This is a pretty dress. It runs more true to size. The length and cut of the bottom is nice so it doesn’t drag on the floor and wouldn’t need to be altered (I am 5 foot 3)."
this flowy masterpiece
Meshki Meshki Calliope One Shoulder Maxi Dress - Lavender
this flowy masterpiece
Meshki Meshki Calliope One Shoulder Maxi Dress - Lavender
Can't go wrong with a custom-made gown! This one comes in multiple colors but I'm loving it in teal.
Rave Review: This dress was very beautiful. The material feels great against the skin. It's a bit long but I felt amazing and received numerous compliments.
this unique gown
Aidan by Aidan Mattox Women's Satin Bow-Neck Off-The-Shoulder Gown
this unique gown
Aidan by Aidan Mattox Women's Satin Bow-Neck Off-The-Shoulder Gown
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.