What to Wear to a Wedding: 9 Must-Follow Rules for Every Girl

We all have to walk that fine line when it comes to deciding what to wear to a wedding: You want to look striking and somewhat fun, but still look appropriate. You want to be remembered for the right reasons, even if it isn't your day whatsoever. Well, there are some basic ground rules that are worth referencing before rushing to the big day in a floral-print panic. We've covered the official dressing dos and don'ts of formalwear so that you can be the best dressed guest at all manner of nuptials and high-society soirées—with zero wardrobe stresses.

So whether you have a city wedding to attend, a religious ceremony to consider carefully or you just don't want to have a very miffed bride on your hands (no white lace, okay?), this is a very good place to start. We can all lose our heads a little when a swanky event comes a-knocking, but it's really just a case of being fully prepared for every eventuality—and learning from some of our own fashion faux pas. Those strappy stilettos looked great in the store, yes, but were they really cut out for a marquee reception in a field? Not so much.

Click through to read the nine must-know rules for what to wear to a wedding when you're just not sure.

So whether you have a city wedding to attend, a religious ceremony to consider carefully or you just don't want to have a very miffed bride on your hands (no white lace, okay?), this is a very good place to start. We can all lose our heads a little when a swanky event comes a-knocking, but it's really just a case of being fully prepared for every eventuality—and learning from some of our own fashion faux pas. Those strappy stilettos looked great in the store, yes, but were they really cut out for a marquee reception in a field? Not so much. Click through to read the nine must-know rules for what to wear to a wedding when you're just not sure.

If you're struggling to compile the perfect trousers, top and jacket combination with ease, then simply reach for one of your trusty statement dresses. Add heels and a slick of lipstick. Perfection.

It's not only about respect for the bride, but it's also a lesser-known fact that longer hemlines are conservatively sexy, especially irregular hemlines that give a peekaboo flash of leg when the woman is in motion. Err on the classy side, and go long.

White lace and cream embroidery are major no-nos when attending a wedding as a guest. Leave that sartorial territory to the bridal party. Instead go for sequins, coloured lace and clever textural layering.

The modern world has ushered in many wonderful changes: iPhones, Headspace, hashtags, Voga and the acceptance of wearing black at weddings and baptisms. Black once was the mark of doom and gloom, but now it's a tone for the chic urbanites. Wear it to weddings, and wear it with aplomb!

Large tote bags and cumbersome shoulder bags don't ooze "special occasion"; rather, it looks like you're going on a daylong trek across the urban jungle. Go minimal, and head out to the wedding with a micro or clutch bag, and cut loose from your heavy accessories for a day. Think of it as a handbag detox.

There's nothing worse than climbing into a pair of heels only to find that you are limping across the dance floor a mere few hours later. Find the comfy elevated shoes that will party harder than all your other footwear.

There are lots of religious wedding ceremonies that may take place in sacred spaces that require a respectful covered-up dress code. Think Royal Enclosure at Ascot and wear thick straps, take a generous silk scarf to drape across your décolletage or wear sleeves to nail the issue in one.

If you're really not sure about your outfit, and there isn't a clear dress code on the invitation, it's always a good idea to check with the bride. Pro tip: make sure it's at least a couple of weeks before the big day, as the bride will most likely have bigger things on her mind the days running up to the wedding, and will not appreciate a text hours before she's about to walk down the aisle. And if you're still not sure, stick with a suit, jumpsuit, or classic wedding guest dress.

Despite the changes in formal dressing over the past few years, and with many brides opting to go for non-white or cream wedding dresses, that doesn't necessarily mean you should turn up in a floor-length white number. Debrett's wedding guide still says it's a no-no too. But if you're still wanting to make an impact with your outfit, choose standout accessories that won't make it look like you're trying to overshadow the bride.

Opening Image: @_jeanettemadsen_

This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Original Article

Fashion

March 19, 2019