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So you got invited to a wedding (or five) and now it’s time to figure out what to wear. Since the days of “traditional” weddings are tossed out the window, it makes it a little confusing as to what is appropriate to wear as a guest. Some weddings are held in barns and others in country clubs, for instance. It may be hard to distinguish what you should wear to these types of weddings. How do you know what’s appropriate? Here are some ground rules.
1. Don’t ever wear jeans. Ever.
The invitation may say “casual” under dress code, but this is not an invitation to wear your favorite pair of jeans or shorts. It’s just inappropriate and disheveled looking. Not to mention, you’ll stick out like a sore thumb among the other guests. If the dress code is casual, opt for a nice pair of pants and a blouse, or a pretty sundress. You can even wear a cocktail dress! Remember that it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
2. Don’t wear white.
Does this even need to be mentioned? Believe it or not, there are some guests that actually wear white to a wedding. Why? I have no idea. I mean, obviously white is for the bride and the bride only. Don’t upstage her. Speaking of colors…
3. Be aware of colors.
If you can, try to figure out what color the bridesmaids are wearing. If you aren’t in the bridal party, it’s probably not a good idea to show up wearing the same color. If you aren’t privy to that information, try staying away from solid (popular) colors like navy, pink, purple and gray. Go for something printed or an out-of-the-box color. This way, there’s no chance you’ll be matching the bridal party.
4. Keep it simple.
When it comes to deciding on what to wear, keep it simple! If your dress is short, then keep that as the main element. Don’t combine a short hemline with a plunging neck or low cut back. Too much of those elements will have you looking like you are going to a club and not to a wedding.
5. Make sure to read the invitation!
Some invitations may have a very specific dress code like beach chic, black-tie or semi-formal. If you don’t read the invitation and show up wearing a ball gown to a beach wedding, well, things might not be looking to good for you. Also, if the wedding ceremony takes place in a church or other religious setting, make sure you wear an appropriate dress or at least bring a shawl to color yourself.
Figuring out what to wear to a wedding might seem stressful, but just make sure to pay attention to little clues the bride and groom give away in the invitations. Also, keep in mind what kind of couple they are and the vibe they usually set. If you keep all this in mind, you’ll be good to go!
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[Photo: Viva Luxury]
