According to the National Bridal Service an organization of which I am a member these are 10 ways to have Happy Bridesmaids.
Following are some guidelines to help you select bridesmaids' gowns with the greatest of ease. When these steps are followed, the selection, sizing and delivery of gowns will be worry-free!
1. If you have two or more attendants, choose a style that will flatter all body types. The A-line style works well for all figures.
2. It is beneficial for you to select a few styles and colors for your bridesmaids, then let them choose from your selections. This will save you many hours of decision-making and frustration. Consider bringing one attendant with you to help you with your selections. Fewer choices make it much easier to come to a decision for the whole party.
3. Most bridal stores will provide you with bridesmaids' measurement cards to be given to each of your attendants. They can be measured anywhere as long as it is done professionally. Simply have them return their cards to you along with a deposit. If they send a check, they need to include their current address, phone number, social security and/or license number. Most stores accept major credit cards. To ensure timeliness of your bridesmaids' order, provide your bridal party with a deadline to return all measurement cards and their deposits.
4. You then bring all deposits and measurement cards into the store to place the orders. This will give you the confidence and assurance that all bridesmaids' gowns will be ordered at the exact same time. Gowns are not ordered until all deposits have been received for the whole wedding party, so you can be certain all gowns will be cut from the same dye lot.
5. Sizing is always "by the book"…the manufacturer's book. Bridesmaids' gowns are not custom-made, but special ordered according to the manufacturers' size charts. A bridal consultant will go over the measurement and size chart with you before a size is selected. She will offer advice, but leave the final decision to you. If there are any questions about size, the individual bridesmaid will be contacted for final size.
6. If a person is over 5'8", an extra length charge from the manufacturer may be necessary. If the person is size 18 (in some cases 16) or above, there may also be an extra size charge from the manufacturer.
7. The average delivery time for bridesmaids' gowns is approximately 10-14 weeks. Some manufacturers offer six-week delivery with a "rush cut" charge.
8. Once the gowns have arrived, you will be notified by phone or mail. It is your responsibility to notify your bridesmaids that the gowns have arrived. (If you move or change your phone number or address, please remember to notify the store immediately to update their records.) Please advise your attendants that dresses must be paid in full within 30 days of notification and always before any fitting, pinning or alterations.
9. It's usually to your bridesmaids' advantage for the bridal store to coordinate needed alterations, as they can save you time and money. Please communicate this to all of your attendants.
10. To assure the proper fit at their alteration appointment, each bridesmaid will need to bring the shoes and undergarments she will be wearing with her gown. Most bridal stores have an excellent selection of bras, slips and shoes at reasonable prices. 
