Buying your bridesmaids’ dresses for them is a lovely gesture if you can afford it (and, of course, provided you don’t harbour a sadistic wish to cramp their style!) so if you’re on the lookout for flattering dresses that you can give as gifts without breaking the bank, Matalan has some styles that may interest you.

This ‘Et Vous’ structured-waist detail dress would make perfect wedding wear, either for attendants or guests. It’s a classic and very flattering shape in a colour that works well at summer weddings. Best of all, it’s just £28.

Related: Budget Bride: Bridalwave’s guide to surviving the credit crunch | Bridesmaid chic: Yellow fever!