“Create an outfit for a summer wedding (the dress code is up to you). For bonus points (and this is what I’ll be doing!) try to make your whole outfit, head to toe, come in under $100!”
This is the first year I have had more than a handful of friends ask me for advice on what to wear as guests to upcoming weddings. I shutter to think that it is because I am approaching “that age” when you are supposed to be married. Being a career focused woman, and trained in the law nonetheless, marriage and popping out babies just is not something on my mind. Still, I am sure most of my friends are a decade older than me 😉
The weddings I have attended were very formal so I am taking this challenge as a chance to play around with less formal looks… Dress code a la resort formal or cocktail attire.
My default is usually a long halter top black dress; however, I intend on changing this because I have heard from different sources that some cultures see all black as bad luck. To not seem as if you are hoping ill will on the happy couple, go for a dress with pattern.
Need help on what shoes to wear for a wedding? Do a dance test. Below I am attempting to see whether this dress lends itself to a night of dancing. No, I am not salsa dancing. Instead I am twitching about a la Eileen in Seinfeld on the dance floor…
As when dressing normally for work, do not be afraid to accessorize your dress. Cinching in your waist is always a good thing! Even with this leather sash belt that does not necessarily ‘match’ my dress, the cinching fixes up the baggy fit of the top. Although the dress is already designed with a cinched waist, I am petite so having not altered the dress, it still has a cut made for someone taller.
As for my handbag option, I like to go for a clutch or small purse with an interesting chain. This go-to purse rule works for weddings and night outings alike. This Bottega Veneta clutch holds my iPhone, lipgloss, car keys, small compact, and card case with room to spare.
In most American or European weddings the bride will wears white. So be free to be the lady in red. Do take note that a Chinese or Indian bride may wear red when following traditional customs.
Wedding Outfit details:
Kirribilla dress (here, similar here), Bottega Veneta knot clutch,
Christian Louboutin no prive slingback heels, Rolex watch
General Tips:
- If you are unsure of the dress code, ASK!
- Sticking out and being yourself is always good but try not to stand out for the wrong reasons.
- Opt for comfortable shoes.
- Dancing the night away is fun and encouraged. Help make that wedding video capture fun memories by busting a move on the dance floor.
- When in doubt a wrap dress with classic jewelry can save you!
- It is a wedding, not a nightclub. Your makeup should reflect this difference.
Also, particularly if you are petite and on a budget, try shopping junior sized formal dresses. Just choose a classic cut and stay away from glittery options.