Q. I’m so confused! A number of my friends are getting married this year in many different settings. When I read the invitations and it gets to the part about the ‘dress’, I feel like tossing in the towel. Can you help me decode wedding dress codes?
a. i can totally understand that you may be feeling a bit intimidated about making the right choice in what to wear…but here are some basic guidelines to help you be a well-dressed guest…if no particular dress is indicated…your attire is determined to a large degree by the time of day…
now…from the most formal to the least:
black tie
as the most formal attire…women usually dress in floor length styles although that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with convention…when in doubt…err in the direction of overdressing a little – in fact it’s hard to overdress in this circumstance so pull out the stops…
black tie optional
though black-tie optional events necessitate a certain level of formality…don’t feel compelled to wear a sweeping gown…a flirty mini or a knee-length style punctuated by luxe accessories feels modern and fits this sort of occasion…
totally traditional
while this look should err on the side of understated (and not show an excess of skin)…it doesn’t mean you’re limited to dowdy silhouettes in stiff neutrals…jewel tones are sophisticated yet subtle…while inspired accessorizing showcases your personal style…a simple elegant dress in a rich color is chic without being too showy…
in the city
treat this type of wedding as you would an art opening (especially if it happens to be at a gallery) or a fancy party…feel free to define “dressed-up” on your own terms-while being mindful of the sensibility of the couple…of course…a city setting means you can get a little edgier…go for graphics or cutout styles…
morning/afternoon wedding
depending on the season…your attire is likely to be lighter colored and a bit more casual than you might wear for an evening wedding…opt for a nice dress skirt or suit and something comparatively colorful or floral…
laid-back locale
outdoor or so-called “casual” weddings can be the most confusing of all…keep the look playful and festive as opposed to overly formal or out-and-out glam…airy fabrics accented by natural accessories fit the bill perfectly…choose a feminine whimsical print…it’s fun and fits the lighter mood…
tropical destination
more than just a great excuse to drink mojitos poolside…a wedding in the tropics is the ideal occasion to break out of the basics with a bold flower print…neutral accessories provide balance and suit laid-back island style…tropical weddings call for something sassy…make a statement with a splashy floral…
