These 5 Modern Bridesmaid Dress Trends Will Rule in 2022

The freshest colors, prints, and silhouettes for a stunning lineup.

By
Alison McGill
Alison McGill
Alison McGill
Alison McGill is an award-winning editor, writer, creative producer, media personality, and brand strategist. She was previously the Editor-in-Chief of Weddingbells for two decades.
Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on 03/03/22
Courtesy of V.Chapman

Courtesy of V.Chapman

Fashion choices for modern bridesmaid dresses have been vast and varied for the past several years—which equals great news because there are tons of style options to choose from for your squad. It goes without saying we’re in the era of individuality when it comes to bridal party looks. “We’ve been moving away from the very traditional look of bridesmaids wearing identical dresses, with matching hairstyles, makeup, shoes, and accessories,” says Kate Halfpenny, founder and designer of Halfpenny London. “The modern style of different outfits, but in the same colorway, is a very welcome change.”

Meet the Expert

Kate Halfpenny is the founder and designer of the luxury British-based bridalwear company Halfpenny London. Launched in 2005, her brand and designs are renowned for their incredible fabrics, detailing, and silhouettes.

Even more, we are also in the age of sustainable fashion. The idea of being able to re-wear a bridesmaid dress should be a key consideration for the styles you choose. For Halfpenny, the concept of re-wearing a bridesmaid dress, and incorporating it into one's everyday wardrobe, was the inspiration behind her new collection, Sister. “This is a collection for bridesmaids, and all of the pieces can be worn again,” the designer explains. “I believe well-made, lovingly crafted clothes are made to be worn and loved for many, many years.”

Below, with the help of Halfpenny, we share more thoughts on what’s stylish and chic for bridal party dresses, and break down the top trends that are sure to dominate in 2022.

01 of 05

2022 Bridesmaid Trend: Ultra-Whimsical Details

Think fanciful-like details like watercolor florals, ruffles, floral appliques, and gowns with a sweeping swoosh factor. We’re also talking about bridal party dresses in super-soft and subtle shades like blushing nudes, pale grey, greens, and the super-pretty 2022 Pantone Color of the Year, Very Peri.

V.Chapman The Dahlia Dress

V.Chapman

Courtesy of V.Chapman

There is so much to love about this romantic, chiffon midi dress. The dreamy sage color; the fitted silhouette; the ruffled tiers; and the floral embroidery make this dress a showstopper.

SHOP NOW: V.Chapman

Rixo Evie-Blush Poppies Dress

rixo

Courtesy of Rixo

This pretty tea-length dress has ruffled hemlines, a delicate handpainted poppy design, and airy flutter sleeves that boast incredible movement. With sizes ranging from XS to 3XL, this is one of our top style choices.

SHOP NOW: Rixo

Marchesa Portici Dress

Marchesa

Courtesy of Marchesa

If you're opting to embrace the white bridal party dress trend, then this muted dove grey dress is a perfect choice. Thanks to the intricate 3D floral appliques scattered over the entirety of the gown, this look is the definition of light and airy. We also give it bonus points for the ruffled sleeves and ultra-thin ribbon tie belt.

SHOP NOW: MARCHESA

Needle & Thread Iris Grace Dress

Needle & Thread

Courtesy of Needle & Thread

This floral-tulle dress features a stunning watercolor pattern of oversized iris motifs, in soft shades of rose, pale pink, lavender, and sky blue. Trimmed in delicate ruffle details, this design just might be the prettiest bridesmaid dress imaginable.

SHOP NOW: Needle & Thread

02 of 05

2022 Bridesmaid Trend: The Classic Black Dress

Who can’t use another black dress in their wardrobe? This closet staple adds an instant air of elegance and polish to any wedding party. Halfpenny says without question this is a bridesmaid dress that will be worn again, and will be unanimously adored by your closest friends. “Invest the time finding the right style and they will love it and feel great wearing it.”

BHLDN Tansy Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress

bhldn

Courtesy of BHLDN

We adore the retro wrap style of this flowy, floor-length ruffle neck dress. We also love the incredible range of sizes offered for this gown, available in standard sizing up to 16, and curve sizing up to 26W.

 SHOP NOW: BHLDN

Amsale Caroline Dress

Amsale

Courtesy of Amsale

The flattering high neckline and sleek racerback of this textured faille gown are a few chic details that make it a standout modern bridesmaid dress. The fit-to-flare skirt adds a dramatic architectural element to the silhouette.

SHOP NOW: Amsale

Morilee by Madeline Gardner Tiered Strap Chiffon Dress

Morilee by Madeline Gardner

Courtesy of Morilee by Madeline Gardner

The square neckline is back, and totally on trend in 2022. This tiered maxi dress is easy and fun to wear, and the bow tie straps are a fabulous finishing touch. 

 SHOP NOW: Morilee

Narces Caterina Dress

Narces

Courtesy of Narces

If you don’t want to go all black, consider a cool color block style. Pink and black make for a beautiful combination, and the statement bow on the bodice of this gown is an outstanding design detail.

SHOP NOW: Narces

03 of 05

2022 Bridesmaid Trend: Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are not just a smart choice for brides looking for an alternative look, but they're also a popular style for bridal parties. It’s a very fashion-forward option that’s also a breeze to wear. “There are so many ways to style the jumpsuit, it’s a piece you can have fun with," says Halfpenny. “After the wedding day, rock it with a denim jacket.”

Halfpenny London Klass Jumpsuit

Halfpenny London

Courtesy of Halfpenny London

Your crew will thank you for choosing such a sleek and comfortable bridesmaid option with this silky, easy-wear, wide-leg design. The cinched waist creates a polished silhouette, and the convertible neckline can be worn on, or off the shoulder.

SHOP NOW: Halfpenny London

David’s Bridal Crepe Plus Jumpsuit

DB

Courtesy of David's Bridal

This curve-size crepe jumpsuit has a chic ‘70s feel thanks to the wrap-style bodice, waist tie, and flutter sleeves. It’s available in three shades: black, royal purple, and this sophisticated hunter green hue which is our fave.

SHOP NOW: David’s Bridal

Dessy Open-Back Halter Jumpsuit With Scarf Tie

Dessy

Courtesy of Dessy

The beautiful thing about this striking, open-back crepe jumpsuit is that it’s available in a range of 30-plus shades. Choose to go monochromatic or pick a fun secondary shade for the scarf tie in order to add a fab, personalized detail.

SHOP NOW: Dessy

Reformation Alfred Jumpsuit

reformation

Courtesy of Reformation

Toile is an incredible fabric choice for bridesmaids, especially when it’s presented with a mod twist. This jumpsuit reimagines the vintage-feeling fabric with a figure-hugging design, complete with a fitted bodice and smoked backline.

SHOP NOW: Reformation

04 of 05

2022 Bridesmaid Trend: Slip Dresses

The obsession with all things ‘90s has brought back the love for this classic dress silhouette, for both brides and bridesmaids. This style compliments a variety of body shapes and sizes, as it skims the body giving a flattering shape and silhouette.

David’s Bridal DB Studio Midi Satin Slip Dress

david's bridal

Courtesy of David's Bridal

We love the shorter length of this lustrous satin slip dress. The look is available in five colors, including this rich cinnamon shade which is a bold, and unexpected choice.

SHOP NOW: David’s Bridal

Park and Fifth Belmont Dress

Park And Fifth

Courtesy of Park and Fifth

This is a slip dress that’s friendly for all figures with a size range that runs from XS to 7X. The floor-length gown is strapless bra-friendly, has a fully lined bodice, and a sleek-bias cut skirt.

SHOP NOW: Park and Fifth

Olivia von Halle Issa Oyster Silk Satin Slip Dress

Olivia von Halle

Courtesy of Olivia von Halle

The soft shade of this dress, plus its ultra-simple and sleek silhouette, makes it a standout modern bridal party style choice. Dress it up with bold gold accessories, or keep the vibe subtle and elevated with delicate layered necklaces.

SHOP NOW: Olivia von Halle

& For Love Odile Dress

& For Love

Courtesy of & For Love

This black gown is a beautiful example of what happens when two bridesmaid dress trends collide. This sultry and sleek floor-length slip is a fashion classic and a perfect choice for any "it girl" wedding party vibe.

SHOP NOW: & For Love

05 of 05

2022 Bridesmaid Trend: Separates

“This is a beautiful way to customize everyone’s looks,” explains Halfpenny. “Going with separates allows you to mix and match skirts, necklines, and sleeves.” Circling back to the theme of sustainability, choosing separates is also one of the savviest fashion moves because multiple pieces mean infinite re-wear options.

BHLDN V. Chapman Naples Top & Pisa Skirt

bhldn

Courtesy of BHLDN

Floral fabric, lace details, and puffed sleeves make this two-piece ensemble an absolute dream. The sweet cropped top pairs perfectly with an ankle-length mermaid skirt.

SHOP NOW: BHLDN 

Jenny Yoo Kenzie Top & Hampton Skirt

Jenny Yoo

Courtesy of Jenny Yoo

A scalloped edge, lace top matched with a chiffon circle skirt is a graceful and timeless bridal party style choice. Individualize the looks for each person by mixing and matching top and skirt shades.

SHOP NOW: Jenny Yoo

Lulus Ellarina Light Blue Metallic Tie-Strap Two-Piece Midi Dress

lulus

Courtesy of Lulus

This two-piece look is made from thick jacquard fabric with metallic pink threading that creates a spectacular embroidered floral design. Our favorite part, however, is the sweet shoulder bow tie straps, made from blue satin.

SHOP NOW: Lulus

Claire Pettibone Magnolia Lace Corset Top & Magnolia Floral Midi Skirt

Claire Pettibone

Courtesy of Claire Pettibone

More than a decade after Pippa Middleton served as a bridesmaid for her sister Kate’s royal wedding, white remains a huge trend for bridal parties. This two-piece lace corset top and skirt is ideal for a beach or garden celebration.

SHOP NOW: Claire Pettibone

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