General rule for all wedding guests: No matter the time of day, use your invitation as a guide to selecting your attire. If it says 'black tie option' or 'formal attire required' that is your first indicator of the type of dress you should seek. Otherwise, if the invitation is formal looking, your attire should match. If it is less formal in appearance, you can opt for a less formal, but still sophisticated look.
1. Outdoor Wedding:
Avoid dresses that can easily blow upwards; opt for something more tailored
High heels can sink into the mud or grass; wedges or strappy sandals are best
Floral prints are perfect for an outdoor summer wedding, particularly a garden wedding. You can also seek out color -- light pastels, bold brights, etc. Skip the sequins and beading; it's too much for the outdoors.
Take note of the weather. If the wedding is to take place under a midday sun, you may want to avoid dark colors. If nightfall, have a cardigan or shall for warmth.
2. Saturday Evening:
Saturday evening is synonymous with formal
Floor length dresses are great, but not for everyone so feel free to opt for a cocktail dress that has have some glitz and glam (embellishments sequins, etc).
Richer hues are often preferred
Heels are a must
Opt for a small bags or clutch in place of a larger bag
3. Sunday Afternoon:
Think church-appropriate, not cocktail; avoid glitz and glam embellishments
Florals and patterns are great options, just make sure they aren't too 'busy'
Lighter colors are best for this time of day as if worn correctly they can convey casual chic
T-length is very appropriate, as well as right above the knee; avoid floor length dresses as that is too formal for that time of day
4. Destination/Beach Wedding:
Should be relaxed, but not too casual
Typically destination weddings involve a very warm climate so think lightweight fabrics and flowy styles; nothing too heavy or structured
In case the wedding itself takes place on the beach, opt for strappy sandals over heels
Longer lengths, including waterfall cuts, are ideal as they often flow nicely with the tropical scenery
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