Planning a dream wedding may be an extremely stressful affair. As the bride, you have to make decisions about your wedding theme, reception decorations, the catering, your wedding dress and the dresses of your bridesmaids.

A great bridesmaid dress should complement or provide a great contrast between your wedding dress, the invitations and even the flowers you're using to decorate your chosen venue.

The following are some tips on how you can pick out your bridesmaid dresses:

Tip 1: Pick something simple that will make your bridesmaids look elegant and sophisticated.
You're the bride, so it's only fitting that you be the center of attention on your big day, but it's equally important that your bridesmaids look their best as well. Simple but elegant bridesmaid dresses will keep eyes on you without making your closest female friends and family members look like complete eyesores.

Tip 2: Choose bridesmaid dresses that flatter everyone's figure.
Bridesmaids, just like bridesmaid dresses come in different shapes and sizes. Though you want keep uniformity, it is possible that your chosen bridesmaid dress design won't flatter everyone. If you really want uniformity between the bridesmaid dresses, then choose universally flattering dress shapes and styles for your bridesmaid gowns. Empire waists, princess skirts and A-Line dresses all flatter different figures. Pick the style that will suit all the female members of your wedding entourage.

Tip 3: You can ask your bridesmaids for their desired dress styles and colors.
Some brides prefer a little variety when it comes to bridesmaid dresses. If you're okay with having bridesmaids dressed in different colors or styles, then save yourself from the headache of having to choose dress designs for each of your bridesmaids. Ask your bridesmaids to pick out their preferred dress styles themselves.

Tip 4: Work with a budget.
Weddings will cost so much. Unless you have a massive bank account, you have to work with a wedding budget. It's unfair for your bridesmaids to pick out extremely pricey designer bridesmaid dresses. If you have a budget to follow, inform your bridesmaids. You have to do what you can to make sure all the other aspects of your wedding are financially taken cared of.

Tip 5: Consider the season when picking out your bridesmaid dresses.
The weather and the time of the year are helpful factors when it comes to determining gown styles and fabrics. For summer or spring weddings, go for lighter fabrics, short hems and even strapless styles. For winter weddings, you may want to go for floor-length dresses, sleeved gowns and shawls for the bridesmaids dresses.

Tip 6: Keep things simple when it comes to accessorizing.
Less is more when it comes to bridesmaid jewelry. Since it's customary for the bride to give her bridesmaids gifts, why not give your bridesmaids matching jewelry pieces to wear to your wedding? A lovely pair of earrings, a necklace or a brooch is enough to make your bridesmaids appear chic, sleek and fashion-fabulous.

Tip 7: Keep things comfortable when choosing footwear.
To keep your bridesmaids looking the best, keep their comfort in mind when you pick out their shoes. Think about it: they'll be standing for long time and will probably dance the night away during the reception. You wouldn't want them tripping and feeling uncomfortable in high heels, right? Low-heeled, strappy sandals are always comfortable and stylish options for your bridesmaids' footwear.