Junior Bridesmaid Dresses – How to Match Them to Your Wedding Theme

Choosing dresses for junior bridesmaids can be one of those surprisingly fiddly parts of wedding planning. You want everything to look pulled together, but younger bridesmaids need a different approach than the grown-ups. The goal is to create a look that ties into your theme and keeps your junior bridesmaids feeling comfortable, confident, and included. 

No matter if your wedding is elegant and formal or relaxed and rustic, there are plenty of ways to style junior bridesmaids so they match the vibe of your day while still wearing something that suits their age and personality.  

So, what exactly is a junior bridesmaid? 

Junior bridesmaids usually fall somewhere between 7 and 13 years old. They’re in that in-between stage where they’re too grown-up for the flower girl role but not quite ready for a full-on adult bridesmaid dress. 

Think of them as the little sisters of the bridal party, literally or figuratively! They’re often nieces, cousins, or family friends, and they’re usually very excited to be part of the big day (and maybe even more excited about their dress!). They want to feel part of the crew, and getting to wear a “real” bridesmaid dress is a big deal when you’re that age! Once they hit around 13 or so, many are ready to wear adult-style dresses, but younger juniors often need something a bit more tailored to their age and comfort. 

 

Matching junior bridesmaids to the wedding theme 

Most brides want their wedding party to have a cohesive look, and that includes the juniors. The trick is finding dresses that feel like they belong without being carbon copies of the adult styles. 

Here are a few easy ways to keep things coordinated: 

Stick with the same colour 

Of course, keeping the colour palette consistent is probably the simplest way to tie everything together. Whether your main hue is soft sage, dusty blue, or champagne, look for junior styles in that same tone. 

Tweak the style, not the entire look 

If your bridesmaids are wearing strappy gowns, you might choose a similar dress for your juniors with a little more coverage; think cap sleeves or a higher neckline. It still matches but feels just right for their age. 

Echo the details 

Details like lace, tulle overlays, or sparkly waistbands can help tie in junior dresses with the adult ones. A dress doesn’t need to be identical, instead a few shared elements can do the trick nicely. 

Use accessories to bring it together 

Floral headpieces, matching sashes, or even similar shoes can help the whole bridal party to look and feel like they’re matching, even if the dresses aren’t exact replicas. 

Use the same designer or brand 

Some designers even offer junior versions of their adult bridesmaid styles, which is ideal if you’re going for a uniform look. Brands like Dessy, for example, often create junior dresses that are nearly identical to the adult versions, just with a few age-appropriate tweaks. 

 

What styles work best for junior bridesmaids? 

When it comes to styling younger bridesmaids, comfort is just as important as aesthetics as they’ll often be on the go and the first to hit the dance floor! The best dresses are the ones they’ll be happy to wear all day. 

Popular choices include: 

A-Line and empire waist dresses 

These styles are flattering on all body types and give juniors plenty of room to move around comfortably. 

 

Soft fabrics like chiffon or tulle 

Light, floaty fabrics are perfect for younger bridesmaids as they look elegant but still feel soft and breathable. 

Short sleeves or sleeveless styles 

These tend to be the most comfortable, especially for spring and summer weddings. If you’re planning a cooler-weather celebration, you can always layer with a cute cardigan or wrap. 

Knee-length or tea-length skirts 

These are great for younger girls who might not be used to floor-length gowns. They're easier to move in and feel a bit more relaxed while still being dressy. 

A few handy shopping tips 

If you’re in the dress-hunting stage, here are some quick tips to keep things stress-free: 

Make comfort a priority 

The best dress in the world won’t work if it’s scratchy or hard to move in, so look for soft linings, easy fits, and breathable materials. This will help stop your younger party members from feeling frustrated or uncomfortable on the day. 

Start shopping early 

Junior sizes can sell out really quickly, and if you’re matching to a specific style, it’s best to give yourself extra time. 

Give them a say (just a little one) 

If your junior bridesmaid is old enough, let her help choose between a couple of options you’ve already pre-approved. She’ll feel extra special being part of the decision and it’s a fun activity to share with them! 

Need help finding bridesmaids dresses or even your own wedding dress? Book an appointment with our friendly team, we’d absolutely love to help!