As a wedding planner, one of the most fun aspects of the big day is helping choose the perfect dress for the flower girl. The flower girl has an important role in the wedding, so her outfit should be carefully selected to complement the bridal party while allowing her personality to shine.
Consider the Wedding Style and Colors
The flower girl’s dress should fit in with the overall style and color scheme of the wedding. Here are some tips:
- For a formal wedding, choose an elegant dress in satin or taffeta.
- For a casual wedding, a sundress or simple cotton dress can work well.
- Stick to the wedding color palette – blush pink or navy for a blue and white nautical wedding, for example.
- Add accents like sashes, flowers, or jewelry in the wedding colors.
Knowing the wedding theme will help narrow down dress options for the flower girl.
Consider Her Age and Comfort
You want the flower girl to look adorable but also feel comfortable during the wedding. Here are some age-appropriate style tips:
| Age | Dress Style |
|---|---|
| Under 2 | Simple dress or romper with easy on/off access for diaper changes |
| 2-4 years | Sweet sundress or short puffed sleeve dress |
| 5-8 years | Flower girl dress with more detail, but still simple enough to move around in |
| 9-12 years | More mature dress styling appropriate for her age |
| Teenager | Age-appropriate dress similar to bridesmaid styles |
Prioritize her comfort – soft fabrics, simple shoes, and no itchy petticoats. Let her have input on the dress style.
Shop at Specialty Stores
For the widest selection of flower girl dresses, check stores focused on special occasion kids clothing such as:
- Janie and Jack
- Lolly Wolly Doodle
- Sweet Baby Girl
- H&M Kids
- Nordstrom
- David’s Bridal
- Azazie
These retailers offer tons of stylish options that are well-made and available in a range of sizes. You’ll be able to find a dress that matches your wedding in no time!
Consider Dress Styles
From traditional gowns to trendy mini designs, here are popular flower girl dress styles:
| Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic satin gown | Timeless style with satin fabric, often in white or ivory |
| Lace overlay | Romantic layered lace over a satin dress |
| Flower accents | Dress accented with floral embellishments |
| Tulle skirt | Full, billowy tulle skirt adds movement |
| Sundress | Casual cotton sundress style |
| Puffed sleeves | Sweet short puff sleeves |
| Off the shoulder | Trendy off the shoulder neckline |
| Tea length | Graceful below the knee length |
| High-low | Shorter in the front and long in the back |
| Pantsuit | Pants and coordinating top |
| Jumpsuit | Trendy floral jumpsuit style |
Consider the wedding formality, season, and flower girl’s age when deciding on a dress style.
Choose the Right Colors
White or ivory are traditional but don’t be afraid to pick a color that flatters the flower girl. Here are suggested colors for different seasons:
| Season | Color Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Spring | Pastels like blush pink, mint, sky blue |
| Summer | Bright floral colors like yellow, coral, light green |
| Fall | Jewel tones like ruby red, emerald green, rich purple |
| Winter | Wintery tones like ice blue, berry, maroon |
Avoid pure white or very pale dresses at winter weddings which can look stark. Have the flower girl try on dresses in a few colors to see which is most flattering.
Pick Fun Accessories
Complete the flower girl look with coordinating accessories:
- Shoes: Mary janes, ballet flats, metallic sandals, sparkly sneakers
- Headband: Floral headband, sequin headband, lace hair comb
- Basket: Flower basket for petals, white birch basket, basket with bows
- Flower crown: Matching flower crown for an enchanting look
- Jewelry: Simple pearl necklace, flower girl bracelet
- Sash: Satin or lace sash to match the bridal party dresses
Keep accessories minimal and comfortable so they don’t distract from the dress or overwhelm her.
Plan for Growth Spurts
If shopping far in advance, keep in mind that kids grow fast! Here are some tips:
- Shop as close to the wedding date as possible
- Size up at least one size, especially for younger flower girls
- Choose a style with some room to let out – sash waist, fuller skirt
- Get professional alternations as needed closer to the wedding
Schedule any final alterations or accessory additions a month before the wedding. And bring the shoes she’ll wear to her fitting!
Keep Her Involved
The flower girl will feel most special if she gets to participate in choosing her dress. Here are some tips:
- Show her flower girl dress options and let her point out favorites
- Narrow it down to 2-3 dresses and let her choose the final dress
- Take her along to try on dresses so she can model options
- Let her accessorize with a sash, shoes or jewelry she picks
While the dress needs to fit your wedding vision, also ensure the flower girl loves her outfit. Offering her some choices makes her feel proudly involved!
Set a Budget
Flower girl dresses range widely in price. Set a comfortable budget before you start shopping:
| Price Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| $50 – $150 | Department store dresses, simple styles |
| $150 – $300 | Boutique styles with more detail |
| $300 – $500 | Designer name brand dresses |
| $500+ | Couture flower girl gowns |
For a high-end dress, also budget for accessories, undergarments, alterations, etc. Kids consignment stores are great for discounted dresses.
Take Time for Alterations
Plan for alteration time so the dress fits perfectly:
- Hemming to the right length based on her shoes
- Taking in or letting out the sides as needed
- Adjusting straps, waist or other closure
- Seam smoothing and finishing touches
For ideal timing, have alterations done 4-6 weeks before the wedding. Build in at least two fitting appointments to get the adjustments right.
Have a Backup Outfit
Kids can have accidents! Have a backup outfit ready for the flower girl:
- Extra dress in a larger size
- Second dress option in a different style
- Matching hair bows, shoes, basket, etc.
- Stain remover, fabric tape, safety pins
Give the extra outfit, accessories and emergency kit to her parents or a bridesmaid. One backup outfit gives peace of mind if a spill or tear happens before walking down the aisle.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect flower girl dress is a fun part of wedding planning! Keep the wedding style and flower girl’s age and comfort in mind. Allow her to help select from quality dress options in your colors. Schedule fittings and alterations in advance so the dress is flawless. Add complementary accessories for a complete look. With the right dress and some flexibility, your flower girl will confidently charm guests as she floats down the aisle.