With one mention of bridesmaid dresses, most people conjure up images in their minds of hideous taffeta gowns with unflattering cuts in the tackiest of colors and designs. Many modern brides, however, are taking care to choose dresses for the bridesmaids that are almost as beautiful as the wedding dress. No longer are bridesmaids confined to the traditional choices of drab and boring dresses. With cocktail dresses and evening gowns to choose from, bridesmaids can actually wear these dresses again and feel as good about the way they look as the bride does.

Although the wedding dress is always going to be the most elegant and eye-catching gown at the ceremony, there is no reason that the bridesmaids shouldn't look beautiful as they stand beside their beloved friend on her big day. There are different routes a bride can take when choosing the bridesmaids dresses though. Many brides allow the bridesmaids to choose their own gowns, for example, as long as they are all the same color and fabric. This way everyone will be able to find a gown that is flattering for their body shape whether they are short, tall, thin or heavy.

The choice of bridesmaid dresses will also depend on the type of ceremony and reception. Evening gowns might be perfect for a nighttime wedding with an elegant reception at a hotel or fine restaurant. Flirty cocktail dresses, on the other hand, might be more appropriate for a daytime wedding with a casual buffet dinner and dancing to follow. Dressmakers offer a wide variety of gowns to choose from with lengths that range from above the knee to floor length. There are long sleeve, short sleeve, thick-strapped, spaghetti strap and strapless gowns in a variety of styles. Some dresses are adorned with jewels and bows, while others are simple and straightforward.

There is no reason to force friends and family to purchase bridesmaids dresses they will never wear again. Today's gown choices can make everyone happy.