How to Dress for a Wedding

Maybe next time it’ll be me!

It’s a typical day. You check your Facebook for like the twentieth time and all of a sudden you see that one of your friends is engaged! Your mind is racing about how to react, but most of all, you’re selfishly wondering what on earth are you going to wear to  the wedding. Using this guide, you might find some ideas on what you could wear to look stunning without upstaging the bride.
   

As a rule of thumb, it is generally frowned upon to wear white to a wedding as a guest. All eyes will gravitate to you, when they should be focused on the woman of honor: the bride. Also, it is also advised never to dress provocatively for a wedding. If you feel like your grandmother would judge you for wearing a certain dress, it is highly likely that it is not right to wear attending a wedding. Many say that one shouldn’t wear black before a 6 p.m. wedding. I disagree with this rule and believe that black can be worn at anytime if done with a tasteful amount of colorful accessories.

After doing all of that, you should read the invitation to see if it’s indoors or outdoors and to check the time and dress code. Although it is always best to overdress for a wedding than to underdress, it might be awkward to be in a full length satin gown to a garden wedding, or a mini dress in an elaborate ballroom.

For formal and semi-formal affairs, one of my favorite stores to look at is the Windsor Store. It’s best known for making discount prom and homecoming gowns, but they can also help you sparkle when you need a more extravagant dress. David’s Bridal can be considered a great resource for finding dresses. Department stores such as Macys, Dillards and Nordstrom are also quick and easy ways to find potential dresses.

For classy weddings, try a dress in a chiffon, silk, tafatta or satin material in a jewel tone. Black can be done with pops of color or as a more tasteful little black dress than what you would consider for a college party. Stappy heels or anything that sparkles can be considered a great accessory. But don’t over do it. If you are going to take an outfit from your school wardrobe, consider what you would wear for a sorority or fraternity formal.

Department stores are also great options for more casual weddings. Bright (but not neon) or pastel colors and lighter materials are great options and can be worn with either a neutral, black or matching pump or classy flats. Looking ladylike, despite not being absolutely formal, is still key.

For weddings, I would steer against carrying your usual tote bag. Consider a small clutch bag and only carry your basic essentials (makeup, money, feminine products and your cell phone) instead of the usual arsenal you carry everywhere.

But most of all, one of the best things you can wear to a wedding is a smile. It’s the best accessory you’ve got! Have fun ladies!

♥AUTHOR: MARISA H.