be a stylish guest

Ican tell I’m far past my college days when it’s fun just to have something to get dressed up for. Whether it be a charity function, church, date night or someone’s wedding, it is so fun to either look for a new dress or find one that I haven’t worn in a while. For me, putting together the perfect wedding look is almost as fun as celebrating the happy couple. Here are some things to consider when putting together your look.

Dress Code

When going to a wedding you want to make sure you arrive to the event dressed appropriately, especially if the couple has taken the time to include a dress code on their invitation. Look for formal, semi-formal, dressy casual, casual, black tie, white tie or festive attire. If you’re unsure what each of those levels requires, a quick internet search should clear it up. When my husband I got married, we had a beach wedding. I really wanted to make sure that it was still a dressy event so I included a dress code on my invitation. I did feel a little bad for all the men wearing warm long sleeves on the beach, but I sure love my pictures!

Location

If the wedding is going to be inside, outside, at a church, or in a special venue, there may be certain dress codes that you need to follow. Depending on the church, they may want woman to have covered shoulders. The requirement can be easily achieved by bringing a shawl to cover your arms. I am not good at walking in heels in the grass. Usually I like to bring a pair of flats or wedges to wear to the wedding and then I can always switch shoes later. If you’re going to a country club or to certain restaurants, they may require sports coats.

Wedding Theme

Normally before I go to a wedding I like to check out what colors the bridal party may be wearing. Depending on the wedding I am attending, I want to make sure that I don’t pick a dress or color that may look too similar to the bridesmaids. I have been a personal attendant in a couple of weddings and did not want to look like I was getting confused on my role. It’s always a good idea to ask the bride if there is something she would like you to wear if you’re going to be included in any pictures.

Accessories

Accessorizing a look for a wedding is one of my favorite parts. It gives me a chance to pull out a favorite clutch purse or shoes that I do not get to use very often. Do not be afraid to let these items shape your whole look. If you have a pair of statement earrings that would go perfectly with your hair up, then pick a dress that does not detract from them. If you have a little black dress that fits perfectly, you can really switch up the look with some bright pink shoes or a big necklace. These are the key elements to pulling together a fresh look.

And, of course, the most important wedding attire rule is to never wear white to a wedding. You do not want to detract any attention from the bride on her big day.