How to Choose Mix-And-Match Dresses with Bella Bridesmaids

SylvieGil-0039 Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Sylvie Gil

We all have those free-spirited friends, reserved beauties or fiery fashionistas in our bridal party that we just can’t imagine saying “I do” without. One of our favorite ways that brides balance each of their bridesmaids’ different styles (and opinions) with their cohesive wedding look is through mix-and-match dresses. But experts and brides agree that pulling it off is a lot more challenging than it seems.

“Mix-and-match is really a look that takes a lot of effort to make it look effortless,” says Stephanie Wilkinson, co-owner of beloved Houston bridesmaids dress boutique, Bella Bridesmaids. We talked with Wilkinson, co-owner Natalie Taylor, and their team, about how to make the mix-and-match look more manageable. Here’s what they had to say:

Give Them Something to Work With — Though the team at Bella Bridesmaids are experts in selecting the best fit and style for each of your gals, Natalie Taylor, co-owner of Bella Bridesmaids’ Houston location, urges brides to have at least one solid idea of how she wants her girls to look before embarking on this mix-and-match journey. “It’s really helpful if they have at least a color or fabric nailed down and set in stone,” she says. “That’s what we can start with, and work from there.”

bridesmaids Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Minerva House 

Think Texture — When considering mix-and-match dresses, don’t limit yourself to just differing colors or style. Taylor advises brides not to be afraid of bringing in different textures! “Texture is what really makes a mix-and-match look successful,” she says. “When there is lace, and maybe some metallic or tulle, it looks purposeful and intentional.” 

Keep it Short… or Long — Color, texture and designs can differ from bridesmaid to bridesmaid, but Taylor warns that mixing floor-length dresses with cocktail dresses is a big no-no. “A high-low dress and a floor-length dress would probably be okay, but we would stay away from a short and a long,” she says.

Stick with a Designer — Bridesmaid dress designers typically use similar color tones and textures across their styles, which helps brides keep things cohesive. “A lot of the time we will stick with one designer,” Taylor says.  “Bridesmaids can still get that mix-and-match look with different necklines in the same shades of color.” One designer that Provost highly recommends for achieving a flawless mix-and-match look is the simple and refined Amsale.

View More: http://jessicagoldphotography.pass.us/diane--chris Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Photo: Jessica Gold Photography 

Trust the Process — Patience is key when selecting your mix-and-match dresses. The team at Bella Bridesmaids will guide you as you carefully select your options, but it does take time. “I start with one thing first, either a fabric or a color,” Taylor says. “I will pull one color and then move on to what our next shade would be. It’s a step-by-step process.”

Ready to start mixing up some mauve-toned pinks or gray-blue hues? Grab your gals and schedule an appointment with Bella Bridesmaids today. Hurry — their appointments book up fast! And make sure to let them know you found them on the Houston Wedding Blog. Happy shopping, loves!

Pastel Spring Wedding By Kelli Durham Photography

pastel spring wedding houston racquet club kelli durham bride groom brett ashley
Photo: Kelli Durham Photography

We love a good “road obstacle” proposal story…don’t you?? “Brett proposed at my family ranch on Easter weekend of 2017,” bride Ashley tells us. “On the road leading up to our ranch my uncle and dad had strategically placed a large branch in the middle of the road, so while we were driving, we had to stop to move it. When I starting walking back to the car, I turned around and Brett was on one knee asking me to marry him! My whole family and Brett’s parents were at the ranch to celebrate afterwards. It was the perfect weekend!”  But here’s what wasn’t so perfect:

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Romantic Sustainable Wedding At The Astorian

astorian wedding venue downtown houston city skyline views rooftop
Venue: The Astorian | Photo: Chris Zamora Photography

Talk about a meet cute: When Ashley and Andrew both showed up a Halloween party dressed as Tom Cruise (Ashley as T.C. from “Risky Business,” Andrew as T.C. from “Top Gun”), it was only natural that they’d find each other and hit it off. That was in 2016. Two years later, the self-proclaimed goofballs–both of whom say that a sense of humor and ability to make one another laugh is what they love most about each other–tied the knot at The Astorian, in the presence of 200 loved ones. “We were raised to try and waste nothing, repurpose much, include those who are challenged, and when spending time or money, make decisions with love and prayer that support those efforts,” the couple tells us. And by taking special measures with their wedding planning, such as delivering their repurposed bouquets to senior assisted living communities in the Medical Center area of Houston, and choosing guest favors from Sweet Heat Jam Co., which sells products handmade by mentally and physically challenged individuals in Katy, the couple was able to achieve that, “and so much more, on the BEST DAY EVER!” Ashley says. We invite you to take a moment and enjoy this thoughtful and elegant wedding (including a GORGEOUS cake from local legend Cakes By Gina) as we wish Ashley and Andrew a lifetime of love! Click here to read the rest of this post »

California Texas Wedding At The Petroleum Club

california texas wedding, getting, wedding dress, bride, bridesmaid, wedding photography
Photo: Chris Wineinger Photography

Ahem, gentlemen, take notice: “What struck me about Matt’s online dating profile were his adorable smile (and dimples!), his ambition, and the fact that he was holding a puppy.” That’s what Marjorie initially thought of the man who would eventually become her husband. “Matt had moved to Houston for his residency at Texas Children’s Hospital after completing medical school at the University of Southern California,” she notes. “He did not know a single soul upon moving here, so he immediately signed up for online dating. I moved to Houston that same summer to intern at Texas Children’s Hospital while working on my MBA through Baylor University. Some friends of mine encouraged me to give eHarmony a try.” And there you have it. After eventually jetting back to California to retrieve his great-great-grandmother’s ring, then privately asking Marjorie’s dad for her hand in marriage, Matt popped the question in front of both sets of parents. He was, we’re happy to report, blessed with a hearty, “YES!!” The couple’s California Texas wedding at The Petroleum Club Of Houston paid homage to the bride’s and groom’s backgrounds, especially with the food: fish tacos and In-N-Out burgers for his, beef tenderloin and “Texas margaritas” for hers. Click here to read the rest of this post »

8 Beautiful 2019 Bridesmaids Dress Styles

Our favorite 2019 bridesmaids dress styles are a mixed bunch, but they all share one feature: versatility. From garden-inspired floral prints to fun and feminine sleeves to elegant flowing skirts, these 2019 bridesmaids dress styles will have your ladies looking (and feeling) beautiful as they stand by your side on your big day. And they’ll be able to wear these bridesmaid dresses long after your big day. Find a look you love and visit one our top Houston bridal salons to hook up your girls!

floral print bridesmaid dress long flutter sleeves pastel blush green white
Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Designer Available At: Bella Bridesmaids

There’s nothing more feminine than a floral print bridesmaid dress. A long floral dress is a perfect style for a Hill Country destination wedding, a rustic-chic wedding or a Texas barn wedding. Available in four colors.

V-neck, bridesmaid dress straps plunge formal red crimson scarlet burgundy
Dress: Hayley Paige Occasions | Designer Available At: Houston Bridal Gallery

For a more formal Houston wedding or a wedding at a downtown Houston wedding venue, a long bridesmaid dress with a satin bodice and flowing skirt is a great fit. This elegant Hayley Paige Occasions style is available in five colors.

bridesmaids, fashion, dresses, short dress, pink, halter, Watters
Dress: Watters Bridesmaids | Designer Available At: Bella Bridesmaids

A short bridesmaid dress with a keyhole neckline, lace detail and open back is a fun look for a relaxed Houston wedding. Plus, this bridesmaid dress style from Watters Bridesmaids includes pockets! This popular 2019 bridesmaid dress comes in five colors.

bridesmaids bridesmaid dress boho chiffon lilac lavender flutter sleeve
Dress: After Six | Designer Available At: Houston Bridal Gallery

Want a boho vibe for your bridesmaids? This luxurious full-length chiffon bridesmaid dress with split bell sleeves is a comfortable bridesmaid dress that is also ultra-elegant. We love that this After Six bridesmaid dress is available in 106 colors!

pink blush chiffon off shoulder bow bridesmaid dresses jenny yoo houston bella bridesmaids
Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Designer Available At: Bella Bridesmaids

With the “Julia” bridesmaid dress from Jenny Yoo, you can get 10 different bridesmaid looks in one. This versatile bridesmaid dress style features back tie panels and detachable straps that can be used to create different necklines. The gathered detailing in the bodice creates a slimming look your bridesmaids will appreciate. This versatile design is available in 29 colors.

bridesmaids, bridesmaid dress, colored skirt, two piece, Dessy
Design: After Six available at Houston Bridal Gallery

With a two-piece bridesmaid outfit, your gals will be able to wear these bridesmaids separates long after your big day. The top and skirt are available in 25 colors.

monique lhuillier floral print halter bridesmaid dress navy blush
Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Designer Available At: Bella Bridesmaids

The bow-accent halter neck on this Monique Lhuillier floral bridesmaid dress gives it a touch of chic sophistication. This dark blue and blush floral print style is casual enough for bridesmaids to wear long after the wedding.

bridesmaid dress hayley paige plunge comfortable flowing choker open back
Dress: Hayley Paige Occasions | Designer Available At: Houston Bridal Gallery

The V-draped neckline on this sexy and comfortable bridesmaid dress from Hayley Paige includes a convertible choker strap for multiple fun bridesmaid looks. It’s available in 20 gorgeous colors.