Ordering swatches before committing to a bridesmaid dress color is the most reliable step in the planning process — a swatch lets you see the actual color and fabric in your hands, in real light, before anything ships.

How the Dessy Swatch Program Works

Dessy offers fabric swatches for all bridesmaid fabrics. The first three swatches are free (you pay shipping only); additional swatches are $7 each. Fabric by the yard is available at $35–65 depending on the fabric. Order swatches for the specific fabrics your bridesmaids will be wearing — that's how you get a true read on each color.

What to Do with Your Swatches

Compare swatches in the lighting where the wedding will actually happen — natural daylight reads differently from church candlelight or ballroom tungsten. If bridesmaids are in different cities, order duplicate sets and compare notes. If you're doing a mix-and-match in the same color family, hold the swatches side by side — it's the best way to see how each fabric reads in person and confirm the shades work together the way you want.

The Most Popular Fabrics

The four most popular bridesmaid fabrics are Satin Twill — structured with a subtle sheen, the most versatile formal fabric; Lux Chiffon — lightweight and flowing, the standard for romantic and outdoor looks; Neu Stretch Charmeuse — fluid and body-conscious with a soft drape; and Crepe — matte and structured, holds its shape in heat and humidity. If you're not sure which fabric your bridesmaids will prefer, ordering all four is still under $30.

Order swatches as early as possible — allow time to compare, decide, and still place your dress order with enough lead time for delivery.