It’s time to sit down and determine which special people will stand up next to you while you exchange your vows! Many times, the people who have been by your side supporting you through the years are a sibling or lifelong friend that just happens to be of the opposite gender. Traditionally, a Bride has Bridesmaids and a Groom has Groomsmen. You may be wondering what you should do if your closest friends and family don’t fit that particular role.

We say, don’t mind the old rules! Your loved ones should be able to stand by your side regardless of their gender. Why not make your brother a Bridesman? Why not make your lifelong girl best friend your Groomsmaid? It’s a fun and increasingly trendy way to make your wedding less about the age-old traditions, and more about what really matters to you and your loved ones.

One of the most common related questions is “what do they wear?” and to that we say, it’s up to you! Some Bridesmen have popularly worn the same suits as the Groomsmen, but with different details such as different vests, ties, or even suit jackets. Sometimes, all men are uniform in the same styles. For women, some Groomsmaids have worn the pencil skirt or pants with suspenders to match the men, some go with different colored dresses, and some adopt the uniform Bridesmaid dresses. Whatever your style and preference is will be executed beautifully because the most important part is that the people by your side love and support you. Inspiration photos are at the bottom of this post!

You have the option of allowing all of the girls to get ready together and all of the boys to get ready together. Depending on your relationships, you could also have the Bridesmen spend time getting ready with the ladies and the Groomsmaids could join the men. It’s whatever is most comfortable and natural for you and your parties.

Don’t mind traditional folks and naysayers that tell you it should be all women on one side, and all men on the other. The most important detail is that the people by your side are the ones that you feel closest too, no matter whether they wear a dress or pants.

Groomsmaid in Suit:

Bridesmen with Matching Accessories:

Bridesmen with Matching Suits: