Choosing an outfit for a wedding can be an effort, but don’t fret - LISA BOYLE has your guide to looking chic and fabulous for any summer wedding.
The table is dressed but what's the best thing for you to wear to the wedding? Courtesy of Tracy Hunter
Summer is a time when the wedding invites often come flooding through the door, making every woman instantly consider – what on earth should I wear?
Part of the excitement of being a guest is having the opportunity to get all dressed up to celebrate the big day.
However when it comes to choosing a wedding outfit, for some it can be a relentless task.
Dressing for a wedding means you will want to look several things – demure (but not too frumpy), effortless yet sophisticated and glamorous (without looking like mutton dressed as lamb).
Now that’s a lot of things to try and nail in one outfit.
To save you the hassle, Elderjuice has come up with the perfect guide to being the best dressed guest on the list. Check out these fabulous wedding buys for every body shape.
Fabulously Flattering
Making sure that your dress fits well is a key element to your wedding outfit attire. Flattering doesn’t have to mean frumpy, choose a classic style such as a breezy maxi or A-line number to streamline your silhouette.
A wrap dress is universally flattering. Choose one in your favourite shade and pair with a simple clutch for an effortlessly polished look.
If you are conscious of showing your arms, the high street offers myriad cover-up options such
as embellished shrugs and lace shawls. Lace cap sleeves are also extremely on-trend right now. This stunning embellished shrug from River Island rivals its designer counterparts.
Very Important Prints
As most of you will be aware, wearing white to a wedding should be avoided at all costs. Upstaging the bride is the ultimate faux pas and will only result in you leaving the party early, accompanied by a mysterious red wine stain on your fabulous dress.
Right now is the perfect time to experiment with colour and bold prints. Florals are always eye-catching without being too full-on. Go for large blooms in tailored fabrics to remain up to date with this year’s trends.
Duchess of Style
If you are looking for some inspiration, nod to Kate Middleton, who consistently looks classy and elegant to matter what the occasion.
Opt for a pastel-coloured chiffon dress like this blue number from Monsoon, which is perfect for most body-shapes. A ladylike dress paired with a fun shoe or quirky bag will also earn you instant style points.
If you are fearful of dresses, a feminine blouse and fitted skirt is the perfect alternative. Or if you can’t bear to get your pins out on display, a fitted trouser suit and statement necklace will set you apart from the crowd.
My last word of advice is to relax and enjoy yourself. It may feel like a fashion parade but really, if we’re honest, no one will be focusing on your outfit if the bride’s there.
That is unless of course, you do opt for the embellished, thigh-splitting white gown, which in that case, the bride will be sure to launch her bouquet quite forcefully in your direction.
christine stirling
August 15, 2012 at 9:44 pm
Great guide! I agree wrap dresses are the most flatering for us older women and to always avoid white!
cassie
August 15, 2012 at 10:47 pm
6antastic article lisa. full of great advice that I hope to put to use if I EVER get invited to a wedding… Ha well done xx
Maria
August 16, 2012 at 11:02 am
I agree weddings are always murder when it comes to finding out what to wear, I particularly struggle with finding something to suit my body shape and this is a great guide.
love the last anecdote about the bride made me chuckle haha.
Lisa Boyle
August 16, 2012 at 9:58 pm
Great to hear some of your comments.
Weddings are always an exciting occasion to dress up for but can often be stressful! Wrap dresses are great as they pull you in at the wait and emphasis your best bits.
Hope you enjoyed reading!
mags primrose
August 20, 2012 at 1:38 pm
I have always had much difficulty in trying to find an outfit, particularly for my nieces wedding day which was a few weeks back! in the end I opted for a sleek two piece cream suit and I was complemented on how elegant it looked. although i love dresses i just don’t seem to suit them. Great guide and lots of handy tips though.