Your best friend since first grade, your sister, your sorority gal pals — chances are, these ladies have always been there for you, way before you had that shiny diamond ring on your finger! Who are they? They're your bridesmaids, the girls who will help you prep before the ceremony, smooth out the train of your gown and offer their support as you say "I do" to your soulmate! These ladies have a special job to do, so you'll want to make sure they look gorgeous and polished while they're standing by your side on the big day!

Still, picking bridesmaids dresses that coordinate with one another can be tough — unless you're a professional stylist or fashion expert. Since many of us don't have that title to our names, we've decided to enlist the professionals! The wonderful team from David's Bridal has graciously agreed to share their advice for helping you and your 'maids navigate the fitting room — and we can't wait to hear what they have to say!

1. Pick a unifying element. Whether you're pro at matching bridesmaid dresses or not, something should tie your bridal party together style-wise. Pick at least one aspect of your bridesmaids "look" — be it the color, neckline or fabric — that unifies the group. This could even be a surprising add-on accessory, like a fun shrug or bolero.

2. Coordinate your fabrics. It's going to look odd if you're wearing a soft, flowy chiffon gown, while your bridesmaids wear structured taffeta shifts. Choose a fabric for the bridesmaid dresses that complements your own.

3. Choose a length. Again, not all of your dresses need to match, but they should be the same length. Be sure to set a few guidelines. You definitely don't want one of your 'maids "hemming up" the agreed upon tea-length skirt when all of your other gowns are the same length!

4. Select a style that flatters. Choose silhouettes that work well with your bridesmaids "body types." Jersey fabric and straps fit well on petite women," says David's Bridal Bridesmaid Dress Merchant Alissa Banks, "while a flowy empire waist allows for extra tummy coverage. "For bridesmaids looking to add some shape, a fit-and-flare silhouette with a corset back adds curves" Banks says.

5. Alter as needed. Even though bridesmaids shouldn't go rogue with alterations (see #3), the girls in your group should get their dresses tailored to their bodies. It may cost a few extra dollars, but the alternative is having a poorly-fitted dress that no one will want to wear or see ever again.

6. Listen to your bridesmaids. At the end of the day, having an unhappy bridesmaid helps no one. If a friend is giving you flack about her dress, try to work with her as much as possible. Is the fit bothering her? Does the dress cost too much? Troubleshooting the problem before the big day will make everyone happier.

Thank you to the wonderful team at David's Bridal for offering their amazing insights on this topic! If you'd like to scoop up more style inspiration for your wedding day, be sure to check out the David's Bridal website and blog! Happy Styling! Xo, Amanda