What Should A junior Bridesmaid Wear?

Dressing the Youngest Star

Younger female relatives and friends who are too old to toss petals with the flower girls, and too young to join your bridesmaids for Champagne toasts and bachelorette parties are perfect for the role of junior bridesmaid. Junior bridesmaid can be a sister, daughter, niece, cousin, or other teen or tween you’re close to.

Having a junior bridesmaid adds a touch of youthful charm to your wedding, but figuring out what she should wear can be tricky. You want her to feel comfortable, look adorable, and complement the bridal party without looking like a miniature bride.

junior bridesmaid wear — junior bridesmaids

If you have included a junior bridesmaid in your bridal party, it is essential that she feel part of the festivities as much as any other bridesmaid. In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about junior bridesmaid wear, including what they should wear, the ideal colors, and how to coordinate these dresses with your bridal party.
When it comes to dressing your junior bridesmaids, a perfect balance of elegance and age-appropriate style is essential.

Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect junior bridesmaid dresses.

Understanding the Junior Bridesmaid Role:

How old should a junior bridesmaid be?

First, let’s clarify the role. Junior bridesmaids are typically between the ages of 9 and 15. They’re too old to be flower girls but too young to be full-fledged bridesmaids. Their dresses should reflect this in-between stage.

Finding responsibilities for junior bridesmaids will help them feel included and a valued part of your bridal party. It will also create lifelong memories of this experience for them.
Your junior bridesmaid may not be able to spearhead your bridal shower, coordinate a bachelorette party, or pay for your pre-wedding manicure, but during your pre-wedding planning, she can provide input on her dress, help plan games and other details of the bridal shower, and join you for gown fittings or cake tastings.
On the day, ask her to be in charge of putting the bouquets in water, helping with the flower girls, or handing out programs. It’s likely that your junior bridesmaid will be very honored with her role and take it very seriously. She might even be more focused than some of your ‘maids!

Key Considerations for Junior Bridesmaid Dresses:

1. Age-Appropriateness:

Junior bridesmaid dresses can be slightly more mature, featuring longer lengths and a variety of silhouettes that complement their growing sense of style. There’s nothing cuter than a little one dressed up in a grown-up gown but remember that you want her to look and feel her age too.
Avoid overly mature or revealing styles. Keep hemlines at or below the knee.
Opt for age-appropriate necklines and avoid deep V-necks or low-cut styles.
Focus on comfortable fabrics that allow for movement.

2. Coordination with the Bridal Party:

Does junior bridesmaid dresses Have to Match adult bridesmaid’s dresses?
Do you want your junior bridesmaid to perfectly match the rest of the crew or do you want hers to be slightly different? It’s all up to you but know that you can be creative with the process. Consider dressing your junior in a patterned dress to coordinate with your bridesmaids’ solid colors or put her in a similar gown with a slightly different cut or color.

If you want the junior bridesmaid’s dress complement the bridesmaids’ dresses in color and style, follow this:

Consider using the same fabric or color palette as the bridesmaids’ dresses, but in a simpler design.
Choose fabrics that are comfortable and soft, such as satin, tulle, or lace. These delicate materials will ensure that your junior bridesmaids feel like princesses, while still allowing them to move freely.
A slight variation in style or a different shade within the color family can create a cohesive yet distinct look.

3. Comfort is Crucial:

Junior bridesmaids will likely be involved in a lot of activities, so comfort is essential.
Choose fabrics that are soft and breathable, and avoid overly tight or restrictive designs.
Ensure the dress is easy to move in and dance in.

4. The Bride’s Vision:

Ultimately, the bride’s vision should guide the choice of dress.
Communicate with the junior bridesmaid’s parents and consider their preferences as well.

5. Color Choices:

The choice of colors for junior bridesmaid dresses should complement your overall wedding palette while enhancing the charm of these young participants.
Match the bridesmaids: Using the same color as the bridesmaids creates a cohesive look.
Complementary colors: Choose a shade within the same color family or a complementary color.
Pastel shades: These are often a popular choice for junior bridesmaids, as they are soft and youthful.

6. Accessories:

Just because she’s younger doesn’t mean she shouldn’t get the royal treatment with the rest of your girls!

Simple jewelry: Delicate necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.
Comfortable shoes: Flats or low heels are ideal.
A small bouquet: A smaller version of the bridesmaids’ bouquets. She should carry a bouquet that is smaller than the bridesmaid bouquets, but within the same design aesthetic.
Hair accessories: A simple headband, hair clips, or a flower crown.

Junior Bridesmaid Dress Style Suggestions:

A-line dresses: These are universally flattering and age-appropriate.
Tea-length dresses: These offer a classic and elegant look.
Sheath dresses: A simple and sophisticated option.
Dresses with subtle embellishments: Lace, ruffles, or bows can add a touch of sweetness without being overly childish. To add a touch of whimsy, consider dresses with delicate floral appliques, lace details, or subtle beadwork

*dusty pink appliqued junior bridesmaid dress with bow knot*

Tips for a Smooth Experience:

Involve the junior bridesmaid: Let her have some input in choosing her dress.
Consider her parents’ budget: Be mindful of the cost of the dress and accessories.
Order the dress early: This allows time for alterations and avoids last-minute stress.
Have a dress rehearsal: Ensure the junior bridesmaid is comfortable walking and moving in her dress.

*high low ivory lace bridesmaid dress for junior*

Who Pays for a Junior Bridesmaids’ Dress?

While the junior bridesmaid’s parents usually cover the costs of her attire and alterations, it’s a thoughtful gesture for the bride to offer to pay for the dress as a thank you. Regardless, a clear discussion with the parents about attire expectations, including style and ordering deadlines, is essential.

If her parents are also a part of the wedding or have other tasks and costs associated with your special day, try to keep your dress selection relatively reasonable. Be sure to communicate with her parents throughout the dress-selection process.

Remember, your junior bridesmaid wants to be like one of the big bridesmaids, but she’s still a kid. As long as you keep that in mind while you’re selecting her dress, she’ll feel right at home when walking down the aisle and standing next to your besties at the altar.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your junior bridesmaid looks and feels her best, adding a special touch to your wedding day.