Weddings are an occasion to dress up and have fun, so don’t make the mistake of wearing the same outfit you’d put on for a board meeting or job interview.
That said, here are some guidelines, from Denver stylist Rachael Donaldson; Tim Gunn, the host of Bravo’s “Project Runway” and author of “A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style” (Harry N. Abrams, $17.95); and Diane Forden, editor-in-chief of Bridal Guide magazine:
Read the invitation for clues
In addition to noting the time of day and location for the ceremony and reception, evaluate how formal the invitation is. If it has lots of pages, tissue layers and response cards, it signals a dressy event, Donaldson says.
When in doubt, overdress
Donaldson likes to see men in suits or linen jackets at weddings. “You can always take off your tie and unbutton your shirt,” she says. If the invitation specifies black tie, men wear a tuxedo; when dress is black tie optional, a dark suit is fine for the guys.
But don’t overdo it
Women who wear outfits that are sexy or otherwise revealing are making a mistake, Donaldson says. It’s the bride and groom’s day to shine, as well as their familyies’, so it’s distracting if you wear something too tight or revealing. “Some couples think it’s an occasion to get a babysitter and go out and party, but there’s a place for tradition and decorum. As a guest, you don’t want to be the spoiler.”
Black is a go, white is a no
“Unless the couple is conservative, wearing black is now considered fine, especially for evening weddings,” Gunn says. Donaldson says to avoid it for summer weddings and choose navy blue instead, as black isn’t universally flattering and can look more funereal than festive. Both experts advise leaving white for the bride.
Be discreet
An old rule, but one that doesn’t hurt to follow, is that you should be more covered up in church than you are at the reception (presuming it’s in a location other than the church). Prepare for the “big reveal at the reception,” Gunn says. “You’ll whip off your wrap and stun the room with the beauty of your shoulders.”
Fashion suggestions
Forden gives women these outfit ideas for different types of ceremonies:
Morning: Understated is best, so keep fabrics light, dresses knee-length, accessories discreet.
Afternoon: Go festive but refined with a sleeveless dress, open-toe shoes and bangle bracelets.
Evening: Wear a chic cocktail dress or black-tie gown when specified on invitation. Color is good; avoid bold prints.
Destination: A printed sundress, beaded thongs or metallic flats and a silky fringed shawl are perfect for a beach wedding.
– Suzanne S. Brown, Denver Post staff writer
