Invited to a wedding? You'll want to be sure to dress to impress the bride and bride groom. That can be easier said than done. Sydney’s Closet offers these tips on what to wear - and what not to wear - so you can be the best dressed wedding guest.
Dress Code: Check the invitation. It’s likely to give you a hint of what to wear by sharing the Dress Code the bride has set as her preference. As a guest, you should respect her decision. Even if you don’t agree with it! Let the dress code steer you to the dress you select in the store - or from your closet.
White Tie Only: Fanciest and most formal of all evening weddings. Nothing short of a floor-length formal evening or ball gown will do. Keep the glamorous look with elegant accessories: jewelry, evening purse and party shoes. Long evening gloves are optional but certainly add a fashion flair.
Don’t stop with your choice of formal attire. This is your chance to wear dramatic makeup that you always wanted to try but had no place to wear. Don’t be afraid of deep red lipstick and smoldering eyes.
Black Tie: This dress code is just a notch down from White Tie. You have more choices here. Opt for a floor-length formal evening gown for the fanciest option.
Or wear a dressy cocktail dress sewn in a rick fabric like velvet or sequins. You can also slip on a new, or your very favorite, “Little Black Dress.” Dress it up with rhinestone accessories for a glam look or pair with pearl accessories for timeless elegance.
Remember, evening separates such a floor-length skirt or chiffon evening pants paired with a sequin shell and matching jacket won’t break the Black Tie dress code.
If the invite reads “Black Tie Optional” you can wear a formal gown, a cocktail dress or dressy separates.
Cocktail Attire: Skip long formal style dresses. Arrive in a knee, tea or ankle-length design. For a very contemporary look, wear a chic jumpsuit. Be sure it is in a fabric like satin or jersey suitable for a wedding. Avoid materials like denim that are certainly more suitable for casual, everyday clothing.
Beach Formal: This can be a fabulous opportunity to slip on a dress that is pretty and comfortable. Shop for maxi plus size dresses to wear to a wedding that can keep you cool sitting or standing on the beach.
Add a bolero to keep you warm in case the weather turns cool on the beach. Or show off your lengths in a knee-length sundress in a flowing fabric like chiffon that blows in the tropical breezes.
Accessorize your beach wedding guest dress with bright color jewelry. A straw hat easily shields your face from the sun. Leave your high heels at home. Flats or sandals fit the occasion perfectly. And who knows, you may just end up going barefoot after the couple ties the knot!
Dressy Casual: This code always raises the toughest questions on what to wear. It tends to be vague and open-ended. Avoid a formal dress. But steer away from attire that is too casual. Feel free to put on a pretty skirt with a fancy top. (Think lace!) Pants are also appropriate but avoid jeans, leggings or sweatpants. You don’t want to look like you’re going to the gym or shopping.
When in doubt, reach for your Little Black Dress. You’ll never go wrong! If it’s any afternoon wedding in a simple setting, a flirty, fun informal cocktail dress works perfectly.
Double Check: Still unsure what to wear, then check with family and friends you know who are going to the wedding. Ask them what they plan to wear. Or check with the bride via an email or text well in advance of the wedding day. (You don’t want to bother her just before her big day!).
When you shop Sydney's Closet's collection of plus size formal gowns for wedding guests, rest assured that you will arrive in style no matter what the dress code requests. And the bride and bride groom will love your wedding attire! Plus, you’ll look great.
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