Bridesmaid fashion has come a long way. From cranberry sheaths to blueberry bow details, you don’t have to be embarrassed anymore. Here are three trend ideas straight off the spring 2005 bridal runways.
Not only do these three styles look fabulous, they’re flattering on the range of body types. We promise: Your maids will love you for this.

• Look No. 1: Color

Thankfully, the days of the pastel palette are gone. Brides have more color choices. This season we saw bright yet highly wearable hues such as raspberry, orange and lime green. On the lighter side, champagne, butter yellow and lilac also popped up. For a more formal look, a shimmering plum, chocolate brown and never-fail black are great options. Check the Web site TheKnot.com/bridesmaids for a full trend report.

• Look No. 2: Mix & Match

Designers are adding two-piece options to their lines in mix-and-match colors, bringing even more variety to the maids’ menu. Bright orange and hot pink makes a bold statement. We have also spied one-piece dresses with interchangeable sashes and ribbons in an array of colors that give the girls options.

• Look No. 3: Versatility

As brides attempt to find dresses for their party that can be worn again, experience has shown unlikely results. The little black dress with a halter or draped neckline is as fashionable on the aisle as it is at a cocktail party. Plaid and patterned knee-length dresses go from reception to Sunday brunch, accessorized slightly differently.

This season’s dresses are definitely maid to order.