While it’s definitely not a required item for your wedding day, bridal party getting-ready outfits make for an extra special touch and look both stylish and cohesive in your wedding photos. And while gorgeous getting-ready robes are a firm favourite with One Fab Day brides and their ‘I do’ crew, we know this look isn’t for every bride, or every bridal party. If you are looking for something beyond the classic robe or matching satin pjs look, there’s lots of unique wedding morning ensemble alternatives for your squad. From cosy rompers and oversized shirts, to comfy loungewear and even vintage looks, we’ve found lots of alternative wedding getting ready outfits for both brides and bridesmaids that’ll suit any wedding party and aesthetic.
Alternative Wedding Getting Ready Outfits
The Nap Dress
First coined by Nell Diamond, founder of Hill House Home, the Internet-famous Nap Dress is a loose-fitting, flowy, and feminine dream that leans toward Victorian romance. It’s a great alternative getting ready option as it’s is pretty enough to wear on your wedding day but comfortable enough to wear after the big day, or sleep in every night!
Oversized Button-Downs & Boyfriend Shirts
Whether you prefer crisp white, ‘something blue’, rainbow pastels, or striped, there’s no shortage of oversized button-down shirts to choose from. Also a great sustainable option, there are lots of great oversize mens shirts to be found in charity, thrift and secondhand stores. You could even get them personalised for yourself with your wedding date, or your bridesmaids names embroidered on them too. Add leggings to the look for an extra cosy factor. Or, for colder weather weddings, why not opt for a plaid or flannel version.
Classic Striped PJs
Nothing gives that classic girly sleepover vibe better than a set of classic striped PJs! Plus, everyone can always use another pair of pajamas and if they’re classics…even better! With a relaxed fit, breathable fabric and button down top, a pair of striped PJs will ensure everyone from the bride to the bridesmaids are cool and comfy throughout the wedding morning. As a bonus, they are easy to take off without messing up your makeup or hair.
Rompers
A twist on the classic shortie pyjama set, rompers offer a more romantic or luxurious vibe. From glamorous silk and satin options to delicate lace, or ruffled linen, there’s a wedding romper to match every bride and bridal party style. For the bride, it’s both comfortable and offers an easy transition from romper to wedding gown when you’re all glammed up.
Activewear
For the busy wedding morning girl gang looking for something with a bit more coverage, this alternative wedding getting ready outfit is something your bridesmaids will love as they will be able to wear it again really easily. One of the main advantages of choosing this alternative activewear look is that you will have tons of readily available options.
Sleepshirts
A sleepshirt or oversized getting-ready shirt are both very similar to a robe except you don’t have to fuss with making sure that it’s properly tied at all times, plus it’s easy to put on and off without messing up your wedding day glam! Your crew will love the ease of this alternative getting ready look which can be found in a wide range of colour options and sizes. They’ll also appreciate them when they’re getting ready to curl up in bed after a night of celebrating and dancing!
Sweatshirts & Hoodies
Who doesn’t love a good sweatshirt or hoodie? Perfect both for keeping you and your girls comfy for that wedding morning early start, and for wearing around the house or on errands after the big day. One Fab Day tip: don’t embroider them or emblazon the word “bridesmaid” on them – your gals will get more wear out of ones with just their names or initials.
Kaftans & Sundresses
Similar to a robe but a little more conservative while still being flowy, a kaftan or sundress flatters every body type, doesn’t break the bank and is guaranteed to be worn again and again. It’s a pretty option for a warm weather, or destination wedding where it can also be used as a swimwear coverup. Long or short, chose one with a wide neckline so it wont smudge makeup when taking it off.
Cotton or Linen Nightdresses
We love the nostalgia of a classic white cotton or linen nightdress. If you are looking for an alternative bridal or bridesmaids getting ready outfit that’s simple but iconic and timeless, a white cotton or linen nightdress is a great option.
Comfy Loungewear
Carefree linen or luxurious cashmere, whatever your style, there’s a comfy loungewear look to suit your bridal party. Your bridesmaids will thank you for choosing this cosy and practical option that they can wear again and again.
Fun Prints & Patterns
Who says you have to stick to white and netural tones, or your wedding colour palette for your wedding getting ready outfits? We love the idea of switching it up with fun prints and patterns. Whether it’s PJs, nighties, robes or rompers, stick to one print for a cohesive style, or mix and match to your hearts content for a truly unique look!
A Vintage Find
For the bride who covets all things vintage and is looking for a unique and alternative wedding getting ready look that stands apart from the rest, look to your mum’s wedding wardrobe, or a vintage store for a vintage nightdress, slip dress, sleep set or gown. Choose a piece with extra pretty details, or make it your own with custom embroidery to turn it into a keepsake outfit you, or they’ll wear for getting ready and cherish beyond.
Check out our handy Where to Find Guides for those hard-to-find wedding bits and bobs, or visit our Real Weddings and My Wedding Wardrobe features for more real bridal party inspiration.
