Maid Of Honor Dresses 2018: A Look Back At The Year's Most Cherished Styles

Choosing a maid of honor dress for a wedding is a really big deal, you know? It's not just any dress; it's a special outfit for a very special person standing right by the bride. For weddings back in 2018, this was especially true, as styles were shifting, and there was a real push for dresses that felt unique yet still totally fit the day.

The maid of honor, or MOH, plays a pretty big part, as a matter of fact. She's the bride's closest support, someone who helps out with a lot of things, from planning the bridal shower to coordinating the bridesmaids. In a way, it's like she's a steadfast presence, much like Alex Russell in the series "Maid" found strength and kept going, building a better future even when things were tough. Your MOH is there to help build that dream wedding day, making sure everything feels right and looks lovely.

So, looking back at maid of honor dresses 2018, we can see a lot of interesting ideas that really came to life. We're going to explore what made those dresses stand out, what colors were popular, and how MOHs really made their mark that year. It's almost a little trip down memory lane for anyone who loves wedding fashion, and perhaps even for those who are just starting to think about what a special role the maid of honor has.

Table of Contents

• The Maid of Honor's Special Place in 2018 Weddings
  • More Than Just a Bridesmaid
  • The 2018 Vibe for MOH Attire
• Top Trends for Maid of Honor Dresses in 2018
  • Popular Silhouettes and Shapes
  • Colors That Made a Statement
  • Fabric Choices for the Year
  • The Rise of Mismatched Dresses
• Finding the Perfect 2018 Maid of Honor Dress: Tips and Tricks
  • Considering the Wedding Theme and Season
  • Working with the Bride's Vision
  • Comfort and Practicality for the Big Day
  • Accessorizing a 2018 MOH Look
• Where to Look for 2018-Inspired Maid of Honor Dresses Today
  • Online Boutiques and Resale Sites
  • Local Bridal Shops

The Maid of Honor's Special Place in 2018 Weddings

More Than Just a Bridesmaid

The maid of honor is, well, she's really something special. She's not just another person in the bridal party; she has a unique spot right next to the bride. This means her dress often gets a bit more thought, a little extra attention, if you will. Back in 2018, there was a growing trend to make the MOH stand out, even more than before. This could mean a dress in a slightly different color, perhaps a shade that complemented the bridesmaids' outfits but wasn't exactly the same. Or, it could be a different style altogether, like a dress with sleeves when the others were strapless, or a different neckline. The idea was to visually show her important role, to basically say, "Hey, this person is the main support here."

Her duties, as a matter of fact, are quite extensive, going beyond just looking good. These often included things like helping plan the bridal shower, going dress shopping with the bride, and making sure the other bridesmaids were all on the same page. So, her dress needed to be something she could move in, something that allowed her to do all those things while still looking completely put together. It's not just about appearances; it's about being ready for action, kind of like how Alex in "Maid" was always ready to face whatever came next to care for her child.

The 2018 Vibe for MOH Attire

The general feeling for maid of honor dresses 2018 was a move towards something less stiff, more personal, and a bit more relaxed. Gone were the days of everyone in the bridal party wearing the exact same thing, down to the last detail. Instead, 2018 brought in a breath of fresh air, allowing for more individuality. Brides were often giving their MOHs a bit more freedom to pick a dress that felt right for them, as long as it fit within the overall wedding vision. This meant a greater variety of styles could be seen, which was pretty exciting, honestly.

There was a real push for dresses that felt comfortable and could be worn again, which is a practical consideration for anyone, you know? Brides wanted their closest friend to feel good all day and night. This shift also meant that MOH dresses started to look more like evening dresses or gowns that one might wear to a special event, rather than just a uniform. It was about finding something that truly suited the person wearing it, while still honoring the wedding's look. This made the search for maid of honor dresses 2018 a lot more fun, and in some respects, a bit more challenging too, with all the choices.

Top Trends for Maid of Honor Dresses in 2018

Popular Silhouettes and Shapes

When we talk about maid of honor dresses 2018, certain shapes really stood out. The A-line silhouette was, and still is, a classic choice, and it was very popular then too. It's flattering on many body types, offering a gentle flare from the waist that feels both elegant and comfortable. Sheath dresses, which follow the body's lines more closely, also saw a lot of love, especially for more modern or city weddings. These gave a sleek, somewhat sophisticated look, and were often chosen in lighter fabrics for warmer weather.

Flowy, somewhat whimsical styles were also a big hit, especially for outdoor or bohemian-themed weddings. Think dresses with soft, cascading skirts that moved beautifully with every step. And, believe it or not, jumpsuits even started to make an appearance for the MOH in more fashion-forward weddings. This was a bold choice, but it certainly made the maid of honor stand out, giving her a unique, contemporary edge. So, there was quite a range of options, basically, for how a dress could be shaped.

Colors That Made a Statement

Color choices for maid of honor dresses 2018 were really interesting, showing a move towards softer, more sophisticated palettes. Blush pink was still a huge favorite, offering a romantic and gentle touch. Dusty blue, a muted, somewhat grayish blue, also gained a lot of popularity, giving a calm and chic vibe, especially for spring and summer weddings. Emerald green was another color that made a serious statement, particularly for fall and winter celebrations, bringing a rich, luxurious feel.

Burgundy, a deep red wine shade, was also very much in vogue, offering warmth and drama. Metallics, like rose gold and champagne, continued to be chosen for their shimmer and celebratory feel, adding a touch of sparkle without being too flashy. You know, these colors really helped set the mood for the whole wedding, and the MOH's dress was a key part of that visual story. It wasn't just about picking a color; it was about picking a feeling, a mood, for the day.

Fabric Choices for the Year

The fabrics chosen for maid of honor dresses 2018 played a big part in how the dresses looked and felt. Chiffon was, without a doubt, a top pick. Its light, airy quality made it perfect for flowy styles and for weddings in warmer months. It drapes beautifully and gives a soft, romantic appearance. Satin also had its moment, especially for more formal or evening weddings. Its smooth, shiny surface offered a touch of glamour and sophistication, looking quite lovely under the lights.

For weddings happening in the cooler seasons, like fall or winter, velvet started to appear more frequently. This fabric adds a luxurious texture and warmth, making a dress feel really special and cozy, if you will. Crepe was another fabric that gained traction; it's known for its subtle texture and how it holds a structured shape while still being comfortable. So, the fabric really helped define the overall look, and in some respects, the comfort level for the maid of honor throughout the day.

The Rise of Mismatched Dresses

One of the biggest shifts in maid of honor dresses 2018 was the widespread acceptance, and even embrace, of mismatched dresses. This trend allowed each bridesmaid, and especially the maid of honor, to pick a dress that truly suited her body and personal style. The bride would often choose a color palette or a range of shades, and then let her bridal party select their own styles within those guidelines. This was a huge win for comfort and individuality, honestly.

For the maid of honor, this often meant she could choose a dress that was a slightly different shade from the rest of the bridesmaids, or a completely different cut, as mentioned earlier. This made her stand out in a really natural, organic way, without needing a sash or a special bouquet to mark her role. It was about creating a cohesive look that still celebrated each person's uniqueness. This trend, you know, really made the overall wedding photos look more dynamic and interesting, with a bit more visual variety.

Finding the Perfect 2018 Maid of Honor Dress: Tips and Tricks

Considering the Wedding Theme and Season

When looking for maid of honor dresses 2018, thinking about the wedding's overall theme and the time of year was really key. A rustic barn wedding in the fall might call for a dress in a deeper hue, perhaps with a bit more texture, like velvet or a thicker satin. On the other hand, a beach wedding in the summer would likely mean something light and flowy, in a soft pastel or a bright, airy color. The season also influenced fabric choices, obviously, with lighter materials for warm weather and heavier ones for cold. It's about making sure the dress feels right for the setting, you know?

The theme also guided the level of formality. A black-tie wedding would mean a long, somewhat formal gown, while a more casual garden party might allow for a shorter, perhaps even a knee-length dress. It's all about matching the vibe. This careful consideration ensured the MOH's dress looked completely in place, not just lovely on its own, but also a perfect fit for the entire celebration. It's a pretty important detail, as a matter of fact, to get just right.

Working with the Bride's Vision

The most important thing when picking a maid of honor dress, then and now, is to work closely with the bride. Her vision for her wedding day is what truly matters, after all. Even with the trend towards more individual styles in 2018, the bride usually had a clear idea of the colors, the general level of formality, and the overall aesthetic she wanted. The MOH's role was to help bring that vision to life, while still finding something that made her feel good.

This often involved going shopping together, trying on different styles, and talking through options. It's a collaborative process, you know? The bride might have specific ideas about the length, the neckline, or even certain details she really liked or disliked. The MOH, being her closest friend, was there to offer support and honest opinions, kind of like how Alex in "Maid" supported herself and her daughter through every challenge. This joint effort ensures that the dress not only looks great but also makes the bride happy, which is the ultimate goal.

Comfort and Practicality for the Big Day

A maid of honor has a lot to do on the wedding day, so comfort and practicality were, and still are, super important considerations for maid of honor dresses 2018. She's going to be moving around a lot, helping the bride, dancing, and generally being on her feet for hours. A dress that's too tight, too restrictive, or just plain uncomfortable can really put a damper on her ability to do her duties and enjoy the celebration. So, picking a dress that allowed for easy movement was a pretty smart choice.

Things like breathable fabrics, a comfortable fit around the waist, and straps that don't dig in were all things to think about. Also, considering how easy it would be to sit, stand, and even help the bride with her own dress was part of the practicality. It's not just about looking good in photos; it's about being able to fully participate in the day's events. This practical approach meant that while the dresses were stylish, they were also designed for real-world wear, which is actually quite sensible.

Accessorizing a 2018 MOH Look

Once the dress was picked, accessorizing it was the next step to complete the maid of honor dresses 2018 look. This could involve jewelry, shoes, and sometimes a wrap or a small clutch. The accessories were often chosen to complement the dress without overpowering it. Delicate necklaces, simple earrings, or a bracelet could add a touch of sparkle without taking away from the dress itself. Shoes were usually chosen for both style and comfort, as she'd be standing for long periods. You can learn more about wedding dress etiquette essentials on our site, which often applies to the MOH's look too.

For cooler weather, a lovely shawl or a faux fur wrap could add warmth and a touch of glamour. A small clutch was useful for holding essentials like lipstick, tissues, or a phone. The key was to make sure the accessories felt cohesive with the dress and the overall wedding style. It's all about those little details that really pull an outfit together, making it feel complete and polished. This careful thought about accessories really elevated the whole look, and in a way, showed the care put into the maid of honor's appearance.

Where to Look for 2018-Inspired Maid of Honor Dresses Today

Online Boutiques and Resale Sites

If you're someone who loves the look of maid of honor dresses 2018 and wants to find something similar today, online boutiques are a great place to start. Many retailers still carry styles that were popular a few years ago, or new designs that have a similar feel. You can often filter by color, silhouette, and even fabric to find something that matches the 2018 aesthetic. This makes it pretty easy to browse a wide selection from the comfort of your home, which is convenient, you know?

Resale sites are also a fantastic option. Many people sell their once-worn bridesmaid or maid of honor dresses, and you can often find some really lovely pieces from 2018 at a much lower price. This is a sustainable way to shop, and it means you might stumble upon a truly unique find. Sites specializing in pre-owned formal wear are definitely worth exploring if you're looking for that specific 2018 vibe. It's a bit like a treasure hunt, actually, trying to find that perfect dress from a few years back.

Local Bridal Shops

While local bridal shops might not have a huge selection of "2018 specific" dresses, they can still be a wonderful source of inspiration. Many classic silhouettes and popular colors from 2018 are timeless and continue to be carried in stores. Visiting a shop allows you to try on different styles, see how fabrics move, and get a feel for what looks good on you. The staff can also offer valuable advice on what might work for a wedding with a similar aesthetic to those popular in 2018. It's a hands-on way to explore options, which some people really prefer.

Even if you don't buy a dress from a local shop, you can get a lot of ideas for shapes and cuts that were popular then. This can then help guide your online search or inform what you look for on resale sites. It's a good way to get a sense of the quality and fit of different brands, which is pretty useful information, basically. So, don't rule out a visit to a physical store, even if you're looking for something from a specific past year. You can also link to this page for more wedding fashion ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maid of Honor Dresses 2018

Q: What were the most popular colors for maid of honor dresses in 2018?
A: In 2018, popular colors for maid of honor dresses included soft shades like blush pink and dusty blue, as well as richer tones such as emerald green and burgundy. Metallics like rose gold and champagne were also quite favored, adding a touch of shimmer to the wedding party's look, you know.

Q: Did maid of honor dresses in 2018 typically match the bridesmaids' dresses exactly?
A: Not necessarily! While some weddings still had everyone in matching outfits, 2018 saw a significant rise in the mismatched bridesmaid dress trend. This often meant the maid of honor might wear a slightly different shade, a complementary color, or a distinct style to stand out from the rest of the bridal party, which was pretty common, actually.

Q: What kind of dress styles were common for maid of honors in 2018?
A: For maid of honor dresses 2018, you'd typically see a range of styles. A-line and sheath silhouettes were very popular for their flattering fit. Flowy, somewhat romantic gowns were also chosen, especially for outdoor or bohemian-themed weddings. Some more adventurous brides even had their maid of honor wear a stylish jumpsuit, so there was a good bit of variety, basically.