PHOTO BY ALEXA FRANKOVITCH PHOTOGRAPHY

When you picture a group of bridesmaids, it’s likely they’re all dressed in a uniform color and style, matching each one to the next. The unvaried look is a go-to choice for most weddings, as it spotlights the dazzling bride gowned in white on her special day.

But for brides who want to add some flare to their bridal party, mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a stand-out option.

Under the umbrella of mismatched bridesmaid dresses falls three separate categories, according to Brides: different colors in the same styles, different styles in the same color, and different dress styles and colors. 

PHOTO BY ALEXA FRANKOVITCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Chelsey Ptak, who married Michael Evans on Oct. 27, 2023, at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, went with mismatched dresses for her bridesmaids, in both style and color. 

“I wanted something different,” Chelsey says.  

Chelsey picked a variety of styles, and each of her bridesmaids was assigned a specific color. From there, each bridesmaid chose what style she was happiest in.

“I was so specific on colors, I actually spent a lot of time trying to find the dresses, and it wasn’t easy,” Chelsey says. 

PHOTO BY ALEXA FRANKOVITCH PHOTOGRAPHY

“I know how uncomfortable it is being in a dress that you feel, ‘God, this looks hideous on me.’ I wanted to give my friends the ability to choose a style that they think they’re actually going to look good in,” she adds.  

Chelsey and Michael’s wedding was an array of autumnal colors, with the bridesmaids’ dresses as a cherry on top. 

“They loved it,” she says.