by Alana Joy

My best friend is getting married in Santa Barbara over Labor Day weekend. For the first time ever, I’m a bridesmaid! I’ve heard the endless horror stories about awful bridesmaid dresses, but luckily my best friend gave her wedding party quite a bit of freedom.

She registered with the bridal department at J Crew and selected the colors that she liked best for her theme. From there, she let us choose whatever dress we like out of 4 of the materials available in those colors.

At first, I was thinking I would go for the cheapest dress they had in the available selection of colors. I tried on the Cecelia, but it really wasn’t me. It’s very plain and conservative and I couldn’t imagine ever having the occasion to want to wear it again. I was most drawn to the dresses that were made of Silk Chiffon, especially this one, but alas: it wasn’t available in her colors.

I finally ended up getting the Blakely in Light Pewter Silk Taffeta. It was a bit dull on the hanger but was surprisingly flattering when I put it on. Most of my occasion dresses are black, and this lightest-of-greys color will make this a great new go-to for Spring and Summer over the next couple years.

The dress is $250 but luckily, the Light Pewter color was on sale for $179 and I snagged the last one they had in my size. Full on win!

If only planning the bachelorette party was so easy!