fashion | Ultimate Bridesmaid

It’s really hard for me to pick a favorite J.Crew bridesmaid dress, but for summer I’m loving the Anita dress in cotton cady.

The cotton is lightweight and breathable, so it’s perfect for outdoor weddings where other fabrics might cling or show sweat. A bridesmaid’s nightmare is being stuck in a dress that doesn’t fit the season or the location. The neckline is classically chic and will look good on everyone (I’m partial to dresses with straps) and the colors are all fresh and happy. The included sash fancies it up just a touch, so I think it could swing formal to casual depending on color.

Anita dress by J.Crew

Fabric: Cotton cady

Colors: Bright hydrangea (shown), black, cypress, graphite, sweet papaya, spiced wine, dark navy, sweet orchid, fresh tangerine

Price: $235

Wear It Again factor (1-5): 5! The silhouette is so classic that it will never go out of style and the fabric makes it completely versatile so it can easily go from day to night.

Bonus: J.Crew updates color palettes each season, so if the colors aren’t thrilling you now, check back in six months (or less) for a whole new crop.

I recently discovered BHLDN (Anthropologie’s wedding line) and I’m now obsessed with their Tracery dress.

The detailing around the neck is absolutely gorgeous and draws all the attention to the face, and the silhouette looks comfortable and flattering to all body types. I love the drape of the silk and the pleating at the bust as well. Everyone talks about wearing dresses after the wedding (we’ll call it the “Wear It Again” factor), but this one truly passes that test. I’d definitely wear it to a fancy restaurant or office holiday party. The only downfall is that it’s only available in three colors.

Tracery dress by BHLDN

Fabric: Silk blend

Colors: Grey, shell, night

Price: $260

Wear It Again factor (1-5): 4, only because the fancy fabric won’t lend itself to everyday wear.

Bonus: The shell version would be a perfect rehearsal dinner dress for the bride!

Shop all of BHLDN here.