How To Be The Best Dressed Summer Wedding Guest

It’s officially wedding season! One or more of your friends are about to say “I Do” and all you can say is, “I don’t have anything to wear!” Figuring out what to wear to a wedding isn’t always easy. You want to dress appropriately according to the bride’s instructions, but still be comfortable enough to enjoy the ceremony, eat a meal and dance the night away. With weddings venues and styles getting more and more creative, knowing what to wear can be complicated. Here is my guide to deciphering wedding dress codes, so you can be the best dressed summer wedding guest at the party.

First things first, buying a dress isn’t your only option when you are a summer wedding guest. If you’ve got a ton of wedding to attend or even just one, you can always rent your dress. Rent the Runway has so many options in every style imaginable, from sizes 0-22. This could save you big!

Afternoon or Outdoors

If you are attending a wedding during the afternoon or outdoors, your invitation may say – Dressy Causal. When shopping for your dress, consider factors like, will you be in the sun, wind, and the possibility of the weather getting cooler as the night goes on. Just in case the weather is unpredictable, I recommend outfits that allow for a jacket or shawl. Simple or statement jewelry will both work, and casual sandals or heels are your best option.

Beach

I don’t think showing up in a tank and cutoffs is what the bride had in mind. Beach weddings can be very stylish and chic, so keep that in mind when selecting an outfit. You can’t go wrong with a Maxi dress or something flowy, but if you decide to go short just make sure you don’t look like you are going to a pool party. Most importantly… No Stilletoes!

Semi-Formal or Cocktail

Don’t pull out the sequins and ball gowns just yet, semi-formal affairs aren’t red carpet galas, but you still need to be dressy. I would say that sticking to a cocktail dress is the way to go. Wear something that fits your style, and stay away from anything too short, (you are going to a wedding, not the club).

Formal Or Black Tie Optional

My wedding was exactly this, Black Tie optional, meaning that the venue or event is formal enough for evening gowns and tuxedos but you aren’t obligated to wear one. With formal events, you have the option of either long or short dresses, but they should be upscale than your typical dress.

Black Tie

This is the occasion to wear that long evening gown you look so fabulous in. With Black Tie, nothing is too formal. Go long and flowy, straight and sophisticated, or you can even rock split like Angelina. To finish your look, just be sure your hair and accessories match your ensemble.