GETTING married this year? If your dress is good to go, next up — your ladies-in-waiting!
The search for the right bridesmaids' dresses can be as tricky as finding the bridal gown.
But once you get the main frock out of the way, there are even more options out there to make your girls look (almost) as good as you.
But if you're like me and choosing not to have bridesmaids (easier to stick with one maid of honour, I say), the decision is narrowed even further.
Go for classic elegance and a matching style that will be flattering alongside the happy couple.
We chatted with Elana Mirtsos, dress queen of Something Nice, Kogarah, who is largely inspired by her social media followers.
"I am really trying to create a fun and engaging shopping experience through our social media platforms," she said.
"The girls have fun tagging each other in different posts and sharing our photos with their group.
"It's such a fun and interactive means of sharing concepts."
Old-fashioned personalised service can make the big difference, Elana said.
"We hear many disaster stories from brides having horrible experiences purchasing dresses online or even getting them cheaply made," she said.
"We know when it's appropriate to give the girls the space and time they require to make decisions and get inspired.
"We also know when to step in and volunteer our advice — it can be overwhelming for a bride, so our personalised service alleviates some pressure from the bride."
Elana said soft silver and slate hues were nice for larger groups.
"Many brides are also opting for black and white themes.
"This is very fashion-forward and is becoming increasingly popular. Labels such as Shona Joy, George and Nicholas deliver here.
"Navy and midnight blue also look divine. Eileen Kirby and Truese have some gorgeous options.
"Clean simple lines and Grecian draping in these colours are very elegant choices."
She said this look had wide exposure because of fashion bloggers such as Nikki Phillips, who recently opted for navy blue silk drape gowns for her bridal party this year.
"Classic nude and tea-rose hues are always going to be a traditional and timeless choice," Elana said.
"I'm also fond of the idea of choosing a colour scheme and having the bridesmaids wear variations of a particular style.
"I also really love the bohemian chic style — think ivory lace maxis by Shona Joy or Billion Dollar Babes, soft wavy hair and gorgeous House of Harlow headpeices.
"It is also a nice idea to have the maid of honour stand out.
"It's a lovely idea to highlight and celebrate individuality. It adds a bit of character and flair."
Instagram: somethingniceboutique; Pinterest: snfashion; Facebook: SomethingNiceKogarah
