What You Should and Shouldn’t Wear to a Wedding

If the bride and groom haven’t specified the degree of formal attire on the invite, your best bet is to play it safe with either a mid-length or floor length dress. If you’re sick of the standard gown options, try something new with a crisp, tailored pantsuit. Go for something in a soft, feminine hue to counter the suit’s masculine feel and layer on some statement jewelry to give it that little “extra something.” Forgo the trend of all-over print and go for something in a solid colour to keep the look modern yet classic without being too busy. Consider it an investment, as you’ll be able to re-use and mix and match these pieces all season long.

Don’t clip the tags on that risqué little number with the low cut neckline and shorter-than-short hemline just yet. We’re all about flaunting what you got, but when it comes to celebrating someone else’s big day, your best bet is to avoid anything that might be deemed inappropriate or “flashy.” We would never tell you to compromise your own personal style, but keep in mind that someone else has gone to great lengths to set the tone for what will be one of the most important days of their lives, and odds are they’re expecting you to know that as you debate between that chic gown and backless sequin mini.

Much as we’d like to leave everything at home and just enjoy the moment, a full day of wedding festivities means makeup touch-ups and the photos on your phone. Keep your must-haves close by but out of sight in a chic little bag or envelope-style clutch that compliments your outfit and provides easy-access to whatever you need throughout the day and into the evening.

You’ve spent time and energy putting together the perfect outfit for the day, so why does every photo of you have your phone in hand stealing the show? While we’d never suggest leaving your phone at home, we can’t stress enough how rude it is to be caught sneaking calls or sending texts during someone else’s big day. Aside from taking photos, it’s impolite to be seen – or worse, snapped on film – prioritizing your social media updates over your gracious hosts. Stash it in your purse and periodically check it discreetly. And if you must take a call, excuse yourself so your hosts don’t feel as though you can’t be bothered to give them your full attention.

When it comes to making it from the ceremony to the reception, and keeping it together for all the hours in between, you’ll want to go for as low maintenance a beauty look as possible. We recommend wearing makeup that stays in place and focusing on one specific aspect like a red lip or smoky eye, to minimize the amount of makeup you’ll need to carry and facilitate any touch-ups. If it’s an outdoor soiree, go for the anti-humidity, mattifying products to minimize oil and if you know you’re a crier, layer on the waterproof mascara.

This is as true today as it was 20 years ago. We get it, times have changed, and some brides don’t mind if their guests rock the same colour to their wedding; but unless you get the go-ahead from the bride herself – don’t do it! It’s the bride’s big day and every consideration should be made to ensure she feels like the belle of the ball. If you know she’ll be wearing white, don’t risk it by trying to pass off a cream colour as “champagne” – just play it safe and pick something else. It may just be one day for you, but it’s a lifetime of memories for the bride and groom – be considerate.

From all that standing at the ceremony, to a night full of dancing at the reception, you’re going to be on your feet for most of the day. Dress accordingly. If you’re coming by car, stash a pair of comfortable dancing shoes or fun flats in the trunk to pull out once you decide to hit the dance floor. If you know you’ll be drinking and have opted to cab it between venues, choose a pair of heels that balances your style with your comfort. Skip the stilettos and go for something with a thicker heel. Block-heel style sandals are big on the trend circuit right now, and there’s no shortage of formal designs out there that won’t clash with your outfit. The last thing you want is to be sitting out on your favourite song, or limping your way between your table and the buffet.

You might be tempted to go all out for the day with a great updo; something fun that you can only really try for a formal occasion, but beware anything that might become a distraction. Unless you’ll have a glam squad on hand for the day, opt for something that’s fun and flexible – loose waves pinned back or a sleek low pony; something you can adjust and re-work as the day passes and the heat and possible humidity take their toll. We also love the idea of stashing a small can of travel hair spray in your purse, just in case.

Don’t feel obligated to buy a new outfit for every wedding you’ll be attending this summer. You can achieve a dressy look by mixing and matching pieces you already own. This is where a classic silk blouse and pencil skirt can really work, with the right accessories to amp up the glam. You can also try using a classic button down tucked into a full skirt for that effortless-chic look.

Keep things in place, and seamlessly covered with the right undergarments and shape wear to have you looking – and feeling – your best. More than your outfit, the right base pieces to wear underneath are worthy of the investment. Nothing upgrades your look or your sense of confidence like the right fit, in any outfit.