If it’s not your own nuptials, you may well be attending a ceremony of your nearest and dearest at this time of year.
Besides getting to the event and selecting an appropriate gift, what you’ll wear to the occasion is likely on your mind.
There are some basic things to consider when selecting an outfit:
- The dress code – Check the invitation for a dress code and choose accordingly. This means for a formal wedding, opt for a cocktail or evening dress. Semi-formal weddings call for a dressy cocktail dress or chic jumpsuit. More casual weddings permit more relaxed options like a sundress or dressy separates. If in doubt, or if it’s not on the invitation, contact the bride or groom and ask for their guidance on the style and vibe that would best suit. There are some things you should always avoid, including denim, jandals, anything too revealing or too sporty. It’s also a good idea to avoid black, unless it’s been expressly requested on the dress code.
- The location – Take in where the wedding will be held. Is it indoors, on a beach or in a leafy forest clearing? This will help you decide your outfit, and importantly, what shoes to accessorise with.
- The weather – A guess is your best bet as weather is always changeable, but plan ahead for variations and how unexpected rain might impact what you wear.
- Avoid white – Always, always avoid wearing white or cream to avoid upstaging the bride.
Top dress trends for wedding guests
With that in mind, here are five dress trends for the 2024 season that are perfect choices for a wedding guest:
Tea length dresses – As seen during awards season, dresses falling falling below the knee and above the ankle are seriously back in fashion.
Large floral prints – As opposed to dainty liberty prints, larger format floral prints are everywhere right now.
Sculptural accents or ruffles – Fabric twisted over one shoulder, or curling into a rose shape on your hip or in fluted layers from the knee down are also in abundance.
One shoulder – Baring just enough skin while remaining respectful.
Single colour – A clear and true shade that flatters your skin tone is perfect.
Image (top): Rixo