Bridesmaids Dresses They'll Actually WANT To Wear Again

It's a problem almost as old as weddings themselves: if you've ever been a bridesmaid there's a good chance you were forced to drop a pretty significant chunk of change on a dress the bride gushed "you could totally wear again" that, in reality, would get stuffed in the back of your closet and never see the light of another day. 

Luckily, this scenario is becoming much easier to avoid. The options for bridesmaids are as limitless as your imagination and creativity. Try going somewhere unexpected for your dress, like a favorite retail or online shop (sites like ModCloth have great dress options). Even if you stick with traditional wedding-oriented shops, it is so much easier to find a dress that -- gasp! -- your maids will actually want to wear! We rounded up a few of our favorites that we wouldn't mind hanging in our closets...

Blake // Alexa // Justine // Kate

Jenny Yoo Collection makes beautiful, simple dresses for both brides and bridesmaids. Available in a range of colors and fabrics, her styles are timeless and flattering. They're perfect if you want a classic look for your bridesmaids. (PS - like what you see? We are partnering with Jenny Yoo for a sample sale July 31st-August 1st, 2012 at their Chicago flagship salon!)

Lemon Meringue Dress // Vivacity Shift (more colors available)  // Seaside Holiday Dress // Gens Du Monde Dress 

BHLDN is a favorite of brides looking for that vintage, chic flea-market vibe. (Which makes total sense given that it's a divison of Anthropologie!) It's no surprise that their dresses are listed under "bridesmaids and partygoers" -- they're perfect for attendants and guests alike.

Arabelle // Heidi // Lucienne // Sinclair

J. Crew is another favorite with beautiful, wearable dresses. Simple and chic, their styles are perfect for a contemporary wedding. The flirty chiffon styles above would also be perfect for dates, summer soirees, or even as a wedding guest!

Becca Halter Dress // Ethereally Ombre Dress // Mariposa Lace Dress // Sangeet Dress

Anthropologie is perfect if traditional wedding shops seem a little too... well... traditional for you. Their dresses were not designed specifically for bridesmaids or weddings, which makes them perfect "wear-again" candidates. Like their sister company BHLDN, Anthropologie dresses have a distinct vintage vibe, but many of their dresses would work well at more traditional or classic weddings too (like the navy one above!)

And for a fantastic selection of designer bridesmaids gowns, visit Bella Bridesmaids which has locations in many major markets.

With just a bit of savvy and creativity, it's possible to find dresses that your bridesmaids won't have to clear space in the back of their closets for... in fact, don't be surprised if you see them out and about in their fabulous new frocks!