If You Wear One Thing This Wedding Season, Let It Be Glamorous

Legendary Fashion Supermodel Iman once famously proclaimed, “glamour never takes a day off”. Glamour does not only encapsulate what one wears, but their state of mind. It has a unique ability to tell the most compelling story while provoking thought and interest. Glamour is enchantment, magic and certainly defines the world of luxury.

There was a time period recently where it lost its lustre. The pandemic prioritized comfort, elasticized waistbands and the athleisure trend ruled our personal runways. Now, we are seeing a collective desire to feel good and return to channeling an oh-so-fabulous decadent state of mind: Elizabeth Taylor as the queen of diamonds (and husbands). Audrey Hepburn and her stunning little black dress. And, who could forget Sarah Jessica Parker's Carrie Bradshaw’s Vivienne Westwood wedding dress kick her sweet vintage suit to the curb?

As a Celebrity Fashion Stylist, I am enamoured with this world of opulence and fantasy. I always tell people that I’ve never met a ballgown, feather or a sequin that I didn’t love. Everything I do starts with telling a compelling story. From working on red carpet projects with clients like Academy Award winning actress, Youn Yuh-Jung for the Critic’s Choice Awards, to editorial feature’s with Mortal Kombat star, Ludi Lin in Rolling Stone or on a cover story featuring Marvel’s Hawkeye star, Aleks Paunovic. Each and every part has to be balanced, working together in harmony to create the perfect moment and produce the most stunning image.

As it turns out, getting dressed for a red carpet event, like the Oscars, isn't all that different from getting dressed for a wedding. In fact, it is oh-so-similar: the pressure is on to look good because the event will be heavily documented (hello flashbulbs everywhere) and cemented in history, emotions are high and it will truly be a once in a lifetime experience. A luxury wedding will take their guests on a journey from start to finish and it is crucial to have the right look.

And, as a guest, each has a lead role to play to pull of the perfect look to honour their loved ones red carpet day.

Know your audience It is an absolute must to know where the event is being held and the specific dress code. For example, if the event is white tie, think the most formal dress you can imagine. For women, a floor-length evening dress and for the men, a tuxedo with tails. Black tie would allow perhaps a cocktail dress or elegant pantsuit. The invitation will inform of all dress code details so be prepared to follow the etiquette.

Be authentic According to designer, Michael Halpern, “Authenticity is the most important thing when it comes to glamour” and I could not agree more. You want to make pieces that perhaps you would not traditionally wear feel like they are an extension of your style and ensuring it is not a costume for that occasion. A classic never goes out of style.

Refine your look. Keep one element of your look pared back, whether that is teaming a bustier with sleek pant, keeping the hair and make-up very undone or dialling down the jewellery with a traditional gown or cocktail dress.

Have some fun One of the most joyous occasions is a wedding and this summer everyone will be ready to celebrate. A great way to enfuse fun into your look is with an interesting clutch, think a Judith Leiber Swan Crystal Encrusted piece or with a hair accessory like a Prada puffy oversize headband.

The best tip, however, always remember that glamour never fails.

SARAH D’ARCEY is a Celebrity Fashion Stylist based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Sarah is known for her creativity and discerning eye for style, which is shown through her accomplished portfolio featuring celebrities, musicians, models, and professionals. She has styled award-winning campaigns, more fashion editorials than she can count, and buzz-worthy red-carpet looks. Sarah is passionate about supporting Canadian designers and educating her clients on the importance of living with fewer, better things when it comes to their wardrobes.