Wedding season is officially here and chances are, you have a few “Save-the-Dates” already marked in your calendar. A big question for any wedding guest, is what am I going to wear!
Today, I’m sharing a few tips to keep in mind when planning your wedding guest attire. Whether your shopping for yourself or your date, it’s important to remember a few key tips when showing up for a wedding.
DRESS CODE
First things first, take note of the dress code. Sometimes it’s listed on the actual invitation (or website) but if not, you may want to look at the venue. If it’s at a beach, you could opt for a light and airy cocktail dress. Something nice, but not too formal. And if it’s at a ballroom, those tend to be more formal. Something long or embellished would be a safe bet!
For guys, it always a safe bet to wear a suit and jacket. Austin always brings his jacket and if the guests are more casual, he takes it off. He will also bring a tie (usually stashed in my clutch) just in case! He purchased this modern fit navy suit for his sister’s wedding a few weeks ago and he was very impressed with the quality and overall fit of the suit. Since then, he went back to pick up this Grey Suit in the Modern Producer Fit.
BE COLOR CONSCIOUS
After all, weddings are a celebration of love, so keep that theme in mind when you’re deciding what to wear. Obviously avoid white, but look for something with floral prints, crepe, ruffles, or lace. A little black dress is always a safe bet too, however be sure that it isn’t too revealing or edgy. Try pairing it with nude heels (they will also elongate the legs) to break up the black. I love this Tapestry Print Maxi Dress from Express. The length is perfect for these metallic flats or nude heels and I love that front slit (a little sexy without it being too over the top).
BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES
While a wedding is a special occasion, you still want to be comfortable, especially if there’s dancing! It’s all about that balance of looking great and comfortable. Wedges (I love these blush wedge sandals), mid-height heels, dressy sandals (my favorite is the metallic flats), and even chic ballet flats are all good options. I personally like to wear heels to the ceremony and beginning of the reception, but stash a pair of flats in the car or purse (depending how big it is) to change into later in the evening. I’ve been to many weddings where people stash a pair of flats in their bag just in case!
These Nude Strappy Heels are my absolute favorite. I wouldn’t recommend them for hours of standing or if you have far to walk, but for dinner and a movie or wedding ceremony and reception, they are perfect. This may sound odd, but they really make your feet and legs look good. I wear them with almost every cocktail dress because they make my legs appear longer. Austin loves these shoes!
DON’T WEAR WHITE
This is the number one rule! This color is reserved for the bride on her special day, so it’s a good idea to steer clear of white or cream in general. If for some reason you can’t avoid it, be sure to pair it with bright or colored accessories. Perhaps throw on a jacket or shawl to break up the color. Blush or pastels are a great alternative if you love neutrals!
BE COMFORTABLE
Make sure you wear something that you feel comfortable in. Though all eyes will be on the bride, you still want to feel comfortable and confident in your selection. Wearing something that requires too much “fashion tape” or something that you are constantly pulling up, will cause you stress and worry while you’re at the wedding. I suggest having one dress in your closet that you can always turn too if you can’t find anything else. I have two dresses on hand in my closet that are staples for such emergencies. While they are very simple, I can always add a fun heel, like this colorful Fringed Heeled Tassel Sandal, or a statement clutch like this Fringed Nude Clutch, to make them more exciting.
OUTFIT DETAILS
FOR HER
Tapestry Print Maxi Dress (fit: true to size, I am in a small) c/o | Gigi New York Stella Tan Foldover Clutch (also comes with a strap for a crossbody option!) | Nude Strap Heels (fit: true to size) c/o | Pearl Earrings | ‘Double X Crossover’ Ring | Lipstick: “Beloved” (this stuff lasts all day!)
FOR HIM
Modern Fit Producer Cut Navy Suit Jacket & Pants (fit: These run true to size) | Modern Fit White Button Down (fit: true to size) c/o | similar Brown Leather Shoes | Leather Strap Watch
MORE WEDDING GUEST OPTIONS
THIS POST IS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EXPRESS. ALL OPINIONS AND SELECTIONS ARE MY OWN.
images by: Mary Summers Hafner
Natali says
Beautiful wedding guest style!! You look gorgeous!
http://lartoffashion.com
Teresa Hill says
You guys are adorable! Thanks for sharing!
Stylehue says
Some great advice 🙂 I’m going to a wedding later this Summer and def. think I will get some wedges. I can’t wear heels, and really love the peach/pink one you linked 🙂
I will for sure not wear white :p
Hope you have a happy Friday!
http://style-hue.com/
How 2 Wear It says
Most stylish couple award goes to ….
You both look fabulous!
-Morgan
How 2 Wear It [] http://how2wearit.com
monika says
Great tips. You nailed it!
Love,
http://www.thestyleventure.com
Vera Sawicki says
I LOVE this look!!
Blonde in Cashmere
Les Eve says
Love both looks! Stunning! Both looks are fresh and crisp!
http://www.lesleyandeve.com
Sharan says
Such a cute dress! Also, I am such a fan of the navy on men! I make my husband wear navy whenever possible!
xoxo
Sharan
http://www.MyGoldenBeauty.com