What to Wear to Every Wedding Event
What to Wear to Every Wedding Event You'll Attend This Season
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When you're invited to a wedding, it's almost never a one-and-done type situation: engagement parties, bridal showers, and rehearsal dinner invites will come pouring in, requiring your attendance and a semifancy outfit. But getting dressed for these things can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. What's appropriate? What's not? And for crying out loud, why is every dress you like white (aka the ultimate no-no for everyone but the bride)?!
Naturally, we've been stuck in the same predicament, so we've pulled all the pieces that will make any woman a well-dressed guest at all those wedding-related occasions. From tips to tons of shoppable picks, our ultimate wedding guest guide awaits.
Products: Nasty Gal dress, Rue Gembon earrings, Edie Parker bag, Banana Republic heels
The Engagement Party
Tip: Typically, an engagement party will be at a restaurant or bar or even hosted in someone's home, so you'll want to rock a somewhat simple cocktail dress. Don't overthink it, though — a lacy shift or even a floral maxi will be fine.
Aryn K Women's Midi Dress ($114)
Mango Minimal Dress ($50)
Bridal Shower
Tip: You'll be around older family members sometime in the late morning/early afternoon. Keep it conservative but fun with a wrap-front or sundress.
Ann Taylor Printed Tie-Front Dress ($120, originally $139)
Bachelorette Party
Tip: It's possible to look sexy without venturing into risqué territory. Formfitting or cutouts are your best bet if you're heading out on the town, but if you're doing something tame — spa day, paint party — opt for a jumpsuit you can really move in.
Bec & Bridge Printed Cutout Dress — Bloomingdale's Exclusive ($220)
Keepsake End of Time Dress ($150)
Bridesmaids Lunch
Tip: If you're part of the wedding party, your bride may take you out to eat prewedding as a thank you. Keep it classic, and just dress for a day out with the girls. Now is the perfect time to break out that feminine fit-and-flare.
Cynthia Rowley Cutout Dress ($398)
Madewell Abroad Dress ($75, originally $98)
Rehearsal Dinner
Tip: This outfit should be dressy, but not quite wedding status. Cocktail attire will work well, as will structured pieces.
The Wedding
Tip: If you're not part of the wedding party, feel free to go big — while keeping in mind that the bride won't be pleased if your outfit upstages her. Party dresses, A-line styles, and one-shoulder options will still look fashion-forward without being over-the-top.
Vilma Dress ($289)
Kate Spade Swift Dress ($223, originally $448)
Morning-After Brunch
Tip: You may be a bit hung over or tired, but the food at the brunch is totally worth waking up for. Casual but classy is best — rompers, shirtdresses, and shifts are all acceptable options.
DKNY Pure Midi Shirt Dress ($255)
Zara Long Scarf Print Dress ($100)
