In our 20’s, we filled our closets with fairly hideous bridesmaid dresses (apologies to our girlfriends) that never fit any one of any size andwere made in an array of rainbow pastels that may have looked good on one in fifty young girls. And, let’s admit it, we really never wore them again to anything!
Moving ahead, wedding venues have changed from standard fare country clubs to flowered fields and beaches and even caves. It seems like one can’t even get engaged today without going to the top of Machu Picchu. 
What has not changed is the really unattractive chiffon and or satin dress options for bridesmaids. The Internet is filled with sites featuring appalling bridesmaids outfits and yet the tradition continues. How is it possible in this day and age that there are few fashionable choices for the troupe of gal pals who attend the bride? We finally found one answer to this mystery:
http://mentalfloss.com/article/74033/why-do-bridesmaids-traditionally-wear-same-dress
While we are fairly certain we have little influence on changing this entrenched custom, we might want to take a look at the mother-of-the-bride outfits. What do you think? Isn’t it time to pass on the brocade sheath with the matching jacket?