Where to buy the best bridesmaid dresses in London
Calling all bridal parties. Here are the best nuptial-worthy styles available this season, from mix-and-match dresses to fluid silhouettes and contemporary jumpsuits - and not a lilac gown in sight
If you’ve ever been asked to be a bridesmaid you’ll know the initial elation of becoming part of your friend’s big day is swiftly followed by a looming sense of panic about The Dress. Because, while bridesmaid dresses are far from the most important, they are going to be enshrined for perpetuity in wedding photos that will, inevitably, be shared far and wide across social media – and, frankly, shiny pastel satin just isn’t your brand.
Thankfully, the capital’s best bridal boutiques and designers are here for you. Steer your favourite bride-to-be in the right direction and you could find yourself picking from a thoroughly modern selection of flowing gowns, tailored jumpsuits and form-fitting slips chic enough to be worked into your summer wardrobe after the wedding is over. Here’s where to find the best bridesmaid dresses in London.
Rewritten
Rewritten was founded in 2016 by ex-work colleagues Katie Arnott and Frances Cookson, both of whom were frustrated at the limited options available for bridesmaid dresses. The brand, which has a chic showroom in Hackney Wick, offers a capsule collection of modern dresses and jumpsuits cut from lightweight crepe in a rich palette of 17 colours including oyster, forest green and hot pink and every design is available in sizes ranging from XS to XL. For those worried about the environmental impact of their wedding, Rewritten’s dresses are made from 50 per cent recycled fabric and its packaging is 95 per cent recyclable (the brand is aiming for 100 per cent by the end of 2024).
From £120, wearerewritten.com
Ghost
Millie Mackintosh opted for blush pink Ghost bridesmaid dresses for her first wedding to great effect. The original dye-to-match doyenne, Ghost offers a capsule collection of timeless and romantic dresses, bias-cut in vintage-inspired satin. Flattering, floor-skimming styles are elevated by simple details spanning scooped backs and cowl necks. Dresses come in dusty pink and chalky hues, as well as rich jewel tones for autumnal weddings.
From £129, ghost.co.uk
Maids to Measure
While working at Vera Wang, India Sellers saw a gap in the market for contemporary mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses in London, which hit the sweet spot between high street and designer. She founded Maids to Measure with her sister Sinclair in 2012, specialising in feminine, fuss-free silhouettes cut from premium silk chiffon and crepe. Colours span appealing shades, like sage green and champagne ivory, while classic details include cut-out backs and dropped shoulders. Maids to Measure also offers a full range of maternity bridesmaids dresses that are in-keeping with its signature line. Visit the elegant showroom in Chelsea to peruse the collection in full.
From £130, maidstomeasure.com
Grace Loves Lace
Australian brand Grace Loves Lace has been creating effortlessly elegant, comfortable, and stylish bridalwear since 2011. The authentic and luxurious design language extends to its bridesmaid dresses with a selection of lustrous options spanning from slinky satin slip dresses to seductive lace iterations available in a palette of earthy neutrals and delicate pastels. While easy designs make the dresses easy to re-wear, the brand's sustainability commitments are infused in each garment with dress crafted with GRS fabrics developed using 97 per cent recycled materials.
From £50, graceloveslace.co.uk
Whistles
Traditionally your go-to for high-quality workwear and elegant separates with modern design touches, whether your bridal party is one or ten-girls strong, Whistles offers contemporary dresses, jumpsuits and two-pieces that your bridesmaids will actually want to wear again. Think minimalist column dresses and flattering wrap silhouettes with subtle feminine details, in a myriad of punchy jewel tones and classic pastels.
From £199, whistles.com
Reiss
Another upmarket high street stalwart making in-roads in the bridal sphere, Reiss specialises in subtly chic gowns that range from classic block colours in flattering cuts to vivid prints perfect for boho brides. With many of its gowns available in multiple colours, it's also ideal for those with a bridal party who want to show a bit of personality.
From £128, reiss.com