Wedding season is now in full swing. All your RSVP’s have been sent, transport arranged, presents bought and accommodation booked, the only thing left to do is choose your outfits.
With August upon us no doubt you will have already been to several weddings, with possibly a few more to go. Choosing outfits for a summer full of weddings can be tricky, especially as ceremonies are becoming increasingly elaborate or held in far flung locations. Not to mention the added pressure of getting the dress code right, not duplicating outfits, as well as always being photo ready – thank you Facebook and Instagram!
What to do? Do you automatically reach inside your wardrobe for one of your tried and trusted weddingy style dresses or hit the shops like a woman on a mission, before each and every wedding?
My advice as a personal stylist is to stop and think. Think about what you already have inside your wardrobe before you rush out to the shops. Does the occasion warrant a wedding specific dress; can you dress up another item of clothing such as jumpsuit? Who will be at the wedding, how many times will friends and relatives cross over? By just buying one new item of clothing or accessory you can completely change the look of an outfit – so even if the guests duplicate, it doesn’t look like your outfit has.
Here is a selection of wedding looks and style tips to help you through the rest of the season:
City Chic
Rather than opting for a dress, this is the perfect occasion to try a more modern contemporary look such as a jumpsuit. Choose a silky fabrication that drapes and pair with a statement necklace and fierce sandals.
Beachy
Dressing for your surroundings is key at a beach wedding – sun, sea and sand won’t accommodate super high stilettos or feathery hair pieces. Sand friendly flat detailed sandals are imperative, wear with a printed maxi dress and try an arm cuff rather than dangly necklaces.
Country Garden
Go for a fashion forward matching two piece set, either a top with a skirt or straight cut trousers. Look for formal fabrics that have lustre and detailed pattern such as jacquards and silks. Aside from looking great you will still be able to wear them long after, even to casual events.
Country House
A quintessentially British wedding that can either be held in a country hotel or golf club. Wear a pretty printed cocktail dress with a statement summer coat and pretty accessories. Opt for a fit and flare silhouette to allow for comfort during the day.
Black Tie Evening
A dressed up event that calls for a sleek gown worn with glittering accessories. Avoid at all costs wearing head to toe white or ivory; instead try a brighter or deeper jewel tone. This is an occasion for a floor skimming gown: with a small box clutch and statement earrings completing the look.
Cocktail Reception
Go for optimum wow in a bright coloured or printed knee length fitted cocktail dress. Choose a jewelled hair slide or small hat over a feathered fascinator to make your look more modern.
Enjoy the rest of your weddings looking and feeling fabulous!
Author Bio
Lisa O’Shaughnessy is the founder and owner of Always Stylish a personal stylist and shopping agency. Prior to this she worked as a Fashion Designer for 15 years for luxury and high street labels alike. Using her design experience she coach’s and styles a wide range of clients from successful professionals , to busy parents and high profile individuals of all ages. For monthly style tips and fashion advice subscribe to www.alwaysstylish.co.uk