As we all know, each one of these nightmare frocks was never worn again. They were all delivered to second-hand charity shops, where these were pulled off the rack and tried on for any laugh, and some of them made it to 1980s liven-up parties.

However, our history of buying wearable outfits hasn't improved. For some reason, bridesmaid gowns seem to age quickly, also it’s rare that they're ever re-worn.

This is a concern because:

You’re usually spending a bunch of money on something that’s worn once

The fashion market is terrible for that environment, and re-wearing clothes are among the best ways to help minimise our impact

So how will you ensure the outfit you purchase for your attendant is a that won’t age, is going to be re-worn, and never banished to some second-hand store to become giggled at by 20-year-olds? Does this unicorn exist?

Bridesmaid Attendant Separates

Mix-and-match separates so the top and bridesmaid dresses (or pants, more about that later) could be worn separately. For instance, an adorable lacy top could be re-used within a work suit, with jeans or nice pants, having a skirt… it’s a really easy-to-re-wear wardrobe item.

For the underside half, there are lots of tulle or silky ankle-length skirts. These aren’t always super-wearable in the real world for everyone (maybe you have tried running following a toddler inside a floor-length tulle skirt?) but they're easy to hem and re-use like a knee-length skirt. Also, the boho-chic look is extremely ‘in’ at this time.

Pants and Trousers

Pants and trousers are extremely versatile, whether or not they are ultra-tailored cigarette pants, or perhaps flowy wide-legged palazzo pants. Paired having a lacy or silky top, they appear elegant, or with sequins could be fun and sparkly. Pants provide the added bonus to be highly functional, with pockets and lots of scope for wedding cartwheels.

There are coloured suits easily obtainable in men’s clothing stores, and these could be tailored to suit perfectly.

Colour and Pattern Choices

Choices of colours and patterns could be the difference between re-wearable, or otherwise. Is your attendant pleased to wear green, or rust, or peach again? If the colour they're wearing is past the shark nets on their behalf, it’s going to become a no-go, it doesn't matter how amazing it's.

Also, colours and patterns can date quickly. That 1990’s maroon or 1970s pale yellow are instantly recognisable and can end up being discarded.

Black never is out of style (in New Zealand, a minimum of), and each dress-wearer has a minimum of one failsafe within their wardrobe that gets employed for every slightly formal occasion. Blue is yet another easy-wear colour. Ask your attendants what colour they think comfortable in and follow their lead.

Also, patterns are an easy way to ensure a bridesmaid dress is casual enough to pass like a summer BBQ dress.

Keep the Cut and Style Flattering

Some styles are universally flattering, and when people feel good in their clothes, they’ll put them on again. Opting for v-neck dresses, and tailored and beautifully fitted outfits might help these clothes remain on rotation within the wardrobe.

Still, Want a Traditional Bridesmaid Dress?

There is definitely the possibility that a floor-length gown could be hemmed following the wedding, which might help it to appear less ‘weddingy’. Although, this is exactly what every bride says, and 99% of the time it does not so keep in mind that this is probably most unlikely to happen.

The infinity convertible dresses are a little more wearable than other kinds or opt for any fun, slightly sexy bridesmaid dresses that are more reusable than an all-out ballgown.

Rent a Dress

You will go as elaborate, trendy, or bridesmaid-y as you like, also it gets re-used, again, and again. No one needs to worry about storing a dress within their wardrobe forever after feeling guilty once they drop them back at the Salvation Army.

While renting an outfit does have some limitations on sizing and colour selection, it’s economical and great for that environment.

Versatility is Key

Whatever clothing choice you select, versatility may be the name of the game. Your attendants don’t have to become matching, so remember that too; you may have them within the same colour but different dresses, as well as entirely different prints within the same shade of the wedding colour.

Above all, if you're keen on your bridal attendants re-wearing their outfits; question them what they can envisage themselves using again.