What, When, & Wear?

Years ago around Christmas time, a miscommunication led me to wear a cocktail dress to an engagement party that was supposed to be a "drop in and out for a quick drink in between Christmas shopping in your sweats" party. 

.....Needless to say, I dropped out faster than Cinderella at midnight.

Awkward moment #okayI'velostcount: That feeling of walking into a room to notice you are severely under or overdressed. We've all been there.

I thought of this story the other day after I received a text from a panicked girlfriend asking what to wear to a wedding she was attending as a date. She really liked the guy and was going to know no one there, so her wardrobe decision was critical. As we swapped pictures of potential outfits, I realized just how to tricky weddings can be when it comes to what to wear. I began to think about all of the weddings I've attended and how often I see women dressed improperly dressed for the occasion.

Choosing proper attire is all about taking into consideration the season, time of the wedding, and the venue where it is taking place.

1. Season: Spring or Summer
Go for a fun floral dress. You want to wear something colorful. Stay away from black or navy. Too dark you'll look like you're going to the office. Most importantly, do not wear white.

 Winter and Fall

During these seasons you can tone your color down. Anything too bright will draw attention and take away from the bride, which we never want to do. 

2. Time 

Rule of thumb: the later the wedding, the more formal. 

Most use 6:00 p.m. as the standard before and after time (before 6 p.m. is casual, while after is more formal.)  

3. Venue: 

The Venue plays a huge part in what to wear as a guest. If it's a backyard or beach wedding, a casual dress with flats would work perfectly. If it's in a church or more elegant setting, go for a nice "After 6" dress with heels. If the ceremony is in a church, wear something with a sleeve or at least wide straps. This may seem "old school" for some, but you can spare a few nasty glares from grandparents this way. ;)

Get these down, and you'll be flawless. Happy attending :)