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How to shine (not too much!) as a bridesmaid

As a wedding attendant, you usually don’t get to choose your dress. But there are things you can do to stand out, says Judy Gordon.
/ Source: TODAY

OK, so you’re not the star of the show, but when you’re honored with the role of bridesmaid, you’re definitely a belle of the ball.

While all eyes are on the bride — as they should be — it’s also your time to shine.

After all, bridesmaids are the first ones to walk down the aisle!

Want to find out how to look your best on the big day?

We’ve rounded up the latest finishing touches, from jewelry to handbags to hair and glowing skin.

Ready to wear spring summer 2005
RALPH LAUREN
New York Fashion week september 2004
Ready to wear spring summer 2005 RALPH LAUREN New York Fashion week september 2004

It’s customary for the bride to give her bridesmaids a gift, of course, and pearls are a wonderful choice. They serve double-duty — the bridesmaids can wear them during the wedding, and then happily ever after.

NEW YORK Fashion week february 2004 BADGLEY MISCHKA Ready to wear fall winter 2004/05
NEW YORK Fashion week february 2004 BADGLEY MISCHKA Ready to wear fall winter 2004/05

Heading for a warm-weather wedding at a resort or beach destination? Look to a glamorous resource like Miss Trish of Capri for both flat and low-heeled sandals. They’ll be right at home at the toniest resort.

Steer clear of fringed wraps and shawls, even though they are trendy right now. First of all, fringes are notoriously ill-behaved, so they will most likely work themselves into unflattering configurations during every photo op. Secondly, you don’t want to look at pictures a year from now and wonder why everyone looked as if they dressed for a “Sonny & Cher” re-run!

Carolina Herrera backstage ready to wear spring summer 2005 NEW YORK fashion week september 2004
Carolina Herrera backstage ready to wear spring summer 2005 NEW YORK fashion week september 2004

If you’re wearing an up-do, don't forget to add highlights underneath your hair, so when you walk down the aisle your hair looks just as lovely coming as going. If you don’t want to go to a salon, it’s easy — and less expensive — to do it yourself with a home product such as Herbal Essences Highlights. This comb-in application evenly spaces and places highlights. Don't try any new and daring hair colors or styles, and experiment well before the event so you feel absolutely comfortable (and gorgeous!) on the big day.

Ready to wear spring summer 2005 CALVIN KLEIN New York fashion week september 2004
Ready to wear spring summer 2005 CALVIN KLEIN New York fashion week september 2004

Don’t leave your choice of glow until the last minute! To avoid unsightly mishaps — or the rare chance that you might have an allergic reaction — test your self-tanner, bronzer or new cosmetic a few weeks before the wedding.

Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more, you can visit her Web site, , which highlights style trends in America.

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