Wedding Attire

Wedding season has made a valiant return with the resumption of big gatherings as people rush to reconnect with family and friends. With it, the question of what to wear has returned too. The answer to that question comes down to one element: the venue.

Be it a destination wedding to Italy, a beach ceremony, or a formal event in the city, your attire should reflect the venue, unless otherwise noted on the invitation. Unsure? Check with the bride and groom.

Some universal rules:

1. You’re not clubbing, so pick an appropriate skirt/dress length;

2. Regardless of what the bride is wearing, don’t wear white-it makes things unnecessarily awkward; 3. If the ceremony is on the grass, wear a wedge heel or flat so you don’t sink into the sod; and

4. Depending on the denomination and formality, consider taking a wrap for the ceremony if your shoulders are exposed or if cleavage is showing.

If you tack on vacation to a destination wedding, select attire which is easily worn again. I’d suggest a lightweight solid color, non-wrinkling dress and low-heeled shoes. For a beach wedding, wear what you would to a nice country club and flat sandals are a must here. Don’t wear your bathing suit or short shorts.

For a formal wedding in the city, wear a maxi dress or gown, skip the racy cocktail attire. Don’t wear an evening gown with a plunging neckline and sequins unless you have a wrap for the ceremony. Consider what you will look like when taking communion at the altar during high mass.

Regardless of your venue, these few simple rules should make you comfortable and appropriately dressed for any wedding.

Tammy’s Truism: It’s not okay to take off your shoes as a wedding guest, even if the bride does, unless you’re on the beach.