The wedding guest

There, is an art to being a stylish wedding guest and it starts with knowing what’s appropriate for the occasion.

Whether black tie, formal/black tie optional, cocktail, semi-formal, casual or destination, reading the invitation will guide you in knowing what to wear.  Here are a few tips that will make you ready to mix and mingle the moment the reception begins.

If an invitation says black tie, that translates into a floor-length formal gown or, for a man, a tailored tux.

If it’s formal/black-tie optional, you have your pick of a floor-length gown, dressy jumpsuit or upscale midi dress.

Cocktail is a mini, knee-length, midi or maxi cocktail dress or suit.

Semi-formal means slip dress, sheath dress or upscale jacket and skirt in lux fabrics like satin, silk or light wool.

Casual or garden calls for a sundress, floral print, light summer suit or separates in quality fabrics like linen, cotton or chiffon.

Destination (on a beach, for example), translates into a sleeveless, thin-strap, off-the-shoulder or bandeau dress with sandals and summer accessories like a straw bag, designer sunglasses and chunky or colorful jewelry.

Sites that have made shopping for wedding guest attire easy include Meshki which offers a search under: Occasion: Wedding Guest Dresses with subcategories such as cocktail, black tie, garden and destination. Petal and Pup is another site that’s easy to navigate with less expensive alternatives for wedding guest dresses.

A few tips on dressing for a wedding and yes, some rules still do apply. No. #1. Avoid wearing white if you are a guest and No. #2. Never outshine the bride.

Yes, you can color coordinate with your escort as long as you don’t go overboard. A nod to your color choice could be your escort wears a matching tie, puts a flower in his lapel that compliments your dress, or both. Or he wears a suit that’s in the same family of colors as your dress though not an exact match.

When attending a wedding, steer clear of bright colors, heavily-beaded dresses, too many sequins, or dresses that are too revealing. Understated, sophistication is best. Being respectful of the bride and groom shows a couple that on their special day, you are simply grateful to be able to share in it.

Good taste rules as a wedding guest just as it should with all of your fashion choices. Put your best foot forward by looking good. Making fashion choices that are right for you is where true style begins.

Need styling advice?  Email our fashion editor to subscribe to our newsletter and for a chance to win a complimentary one-hour styling session at info@velvetjournal.com.