Problem with strapless bridemaids dress

#1 Tealengthplease

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Posted 09 December 2025 - 06:45 AM

I have 6 bridesmaids in my wedding. I knew going in that they were all shapes and sizes, as well as having a range of different skin tones. I love my friends and cousins, and I want them to look pretty, so I picked a colour which looks nice on all of them (royal blue) and sent them a preview of the dresses before I purchased them (they are paying me back when they get here, as most of them live out of town). They all liked the dresses, and the empire waistline suits all of them. However, there was one problem none of us took into account. Two of my bridesmaids arrived yesterday and I had them try on their dresses. These two particular friends are very busty. One of them is a 38 DDD and the other is a 30 G (I know...the poor girl). Well, the dresses fit as per their measurements, but matched with their large breasts the overall look is VERY inappropriate as they are strapless and neither girl can wear a bra. The other girls that are arriving all range from an A to C cup, and so I know they will look okay, but I have no idea what to do about these dresses. Would it be tacky to let the girls wear bras with clear straps? Should I invest in matching shawls for all my bridesmaids, or just the two busty girls? Thank you.

#2 Wedding Queen and MOG

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Posted 09 December 2025 - 08:41 AM

You're a very caring and generous friend.

Have you considered taking the dresses to a seamstress and adding straps to the dresses of the larger breasted women? The dresses don't have to match perfectly since I assume they are all of the same color and fabric.

Your idea for getting shawls could work, but they don't stay on well like an actual fitted garment (like a jacket) would.

#3 Nancy Tucker

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Posted 09 December 2025 - 08:50 AM

I agree, you can have the straps added tastefully and make them comfortable. That is the ultimate goal.

#4 Makeup Expert

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Posted 09 December 2025 - 10:06 AM

Excellent advice from the Forum Expert; I would recommend exactly the same: have a seamstress add straps for support! That's the easiest and frankly, the best solution to the problem!

#5 Tealengthplease

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Posted 09 December 2025 - 10:40 AM

You're all absolutely right. I can't believe I didn't think of that before. I will take the dresses to one of the local alteration shops and see what can be done. Thank you sooo much! I know the girls will be much more comfortable with straps.