I think whatever the bride and bridesmaids want to wear is fine. I couldn't give two hoots if the bride is in a burka and the bridesmaids are in bikinis, as long as the marriage is genuine and the bridesmaids are supportive. I've seen too many weddings where the bridesmaids wished the happy couple ill and didn't want to be there, better a pants suit and an honest gesture than a pretty dress and malicious intent.
Wow that was deep for a question about pants. My answer seems so lacking of thought now! But I agree with you regarding your sentiments - I feel that way too - but I still like dresses - but hey, they could wear a hessian sack, cause everyone knows it's all about the bride anyway right