We’ve all been there. You got the invitation for your friend’s wedding, tagged the date in your iPhone, then begin to wonder… “What am I going to wear?!?” Since most invitations don’t say explicitly, we have to look for clues: Is the invitation fancy and engraved with very formal wording? Or fun, colorful and cheeky? Is the wedding taking place at the country club, or in someone’s backyard? The answers to those questions will help you determine if it’s a formal or casual affair, and you can tailor your outfit to the occasion.
Daytime Wedding
For her: A short dress or long maxi dress is perfect! Have fun with prints and color, but steer clear of solid black. A light colored suit is also great. If the ceremony is taking place outside, you may want to pass on wearing those super-skinny stiletto heels – unless you’re planning on aerating the lawn
For him: A dress shirt, pants and tie, or a light colored suit.
White House Black Market, J.Crew, White House Black Market, Hugo Boss
Evening Wedding
For her: Fun cocktail dress or a classy suit. Keep it appropriate though – save that slinky little number for Vegas! Don’t forget to bring a wrap, as AC or a cool night might send you begging the nearest man for his jacket. Unless that’s all part of your plan… For him: Dark suit and tie. Don’t forget that jacket to keep your woman warm
White House Black Market, BCBG, BCBG, Hugo Boss
Formal or Black Tie Optional Wedding
For her: A short dressy cocktail dress, or long gown. Break out those heels and fab accessories! For him: Dark suit and tie, or a tux if you enjoy wearing them.
Black Tie
For her: Long formal dress – beading, formal jewelry, fur wrap… go all out! I mean, how often do you get to get all glammed up like this? For him: You’re squeezing into a tuxedo, no complaining! Embrace it and show just how suave and polished you really are!
BCBG, J.Crew, White House Black Market, Hugo Boss
A few general rules…
Women:
• No white please! Any other day, go for it. But today the bride owns it. White in a pattern or mixed with other colors is fine.
• Keep your outfit tasteful. If you have to ask if it’s appropriate, it’s probably not!
• Don’t forget a wrap to cover your shoulders, especially for religious weddings.
Men:
• Save those orange and blue tuxes for Halloween and let the bride and groom have the spotlight for their day.
• If unsure what to wear, stick with a dark suit and conservative tie. You can’t go wrong!
Do you have any suggestions to add? Any great dresses you’ve seen that would be perfect for the next wedding you’re attending?
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