Stylepoints: Bridesmaids revisited

Anyone can fall victim to an unflattering fashion, but bridesmaids have no choice: They have to wear whatever the bride selects for them.

At a special advance screening of the comedy "Bridesmaids," some brave Twin Cities women demonstrated just how unfortunate those selections can be. Some donned dresses (or facsimiles thereof) that they had worn in actual ceremonies, while others hammed it up by adding their own worst-taste touches.

Kristen Wiig and Wendi McLendon-Covey, who co-star in the movie (it opens Friday), showed up to see the spectacle.

McLendon-Covey said she remembered once having to wear a pink Little Bo Peep-style bridesmaid dress, but added that it was "nothing this bad."

The event was all in good fun, but the veteran bridesmaids did have some practical advice to offer brides and their attendants.

Cassie Donnelly, Afton

Dress: Her mom wore it in a 1991 wedding.

Advice: "Let everyone pick their own dress in the same color," she said.

Jeni Warwick, Richfield

Dress: She had to alter this dress, which she wore in her best friend's wedding, herself. "None of the dresses fit," she said.

Advice: "Keep the cost down, if at all possible," she said. "A jersey H&M dress is cost-effective."

Carol Crosbie, Lakeville

Dress: Her mother made this dress 40 years ago for her sister's wedding.

Advice: It's all about the bride, so when it's your wedding, "do whatever you want to do!"

Jenny Geist, Lakeville

Dress: Her mom wore this "polyester princess" gown from J.C. Penney to a wedding 30 years ago.

Advice: "Avoid ruffles. They are not as timeless as you think," she said. "Also, not as much sheen -- flat colors will photograph better."

Shelli Sowles, Maplewood

Dress: She wore it in a theme wedding. (The bride and groom met in clogging class.)

Advice: "Don't do themes. It's really fun for the bride and groom, but not for the guests," she said. "Theme up your bachelorette [party], but have a normal wedding."

PICK OF THE WEEK

Espadrille wedges by Isabel Toledo for Payless$60, www.payless.com

Espadrilles are favorites of fashion insiders because they boost your height without sacrificing comfort, plus they won't sink into the lawn if you're at an outdoor event. This pair by Isabel Toledo, known for designing the outfit that Michelle Obama wore on inauguration day, has the added benefit of adding a pop of color to your summer wardrobe.

THURSDAY

Ladies Night Out at Houndstooth: The event will feature Karla Haugen of K.H. Design and a DJ. Take 20 percent off everything in the store all day.

5 to 9 p.m., 5749 Egan Dr., Savage, 952-440-2807.

Chicks for a Cause: A shopping event with beauty, fashion, accessories, home décor and food from women-owned companies in Minnesota. The first 50 attendees will receive a gift bag.

5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Nicollet Inn, 14201 Nicollet Av. S., Burnsville, www.chicksforacause.org.

Vintage City Classics yard sale: The local jewelry label will have a sale that also includes vintage housewares and clothing.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 3204 Grand Av. S., Mpls.

SATURDAY

Lonnie Lovness spring sample sale: Necklaces, earrings and watches will be on sale for 50 to 75 percent off retail prices. Also for sale: a collection of artisan crafts from Lovness' world travels.

9 a.m. to 3 p.m., 321 S. Main St. (above Alfresco), Stillwater.

Kelly Cutrone book signing: Fashion publicist and TV personality will be signing her newest advice book, "Normal Gets You Nowhere."

1 to 3 p.m., Macy's Court, Mall of America, Bloomington, www.mallof america.com.

NEXT WEEK

Fashion Exchange: Pre-owned designer women's clothing, accessories and shoes will be for sale, including a Gucci peach tank top ($40), Stella McCartney blouses ($30 and up) and a vintage Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress ($60).

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 18-19, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 20, the Bluffs party room, 7475 Flying Cloud Dr., Eden Prairie.

Sara Glassman • 612-673-7177 • sglassman@startribune.com