Going to a Wedding Soon?  Me too…My Son’s!

Whether you’re the mother of the bride or a wedding guest, you may be a bit nervous about what to wear. You’ll want to be sure the outfit you plan, fits into the dress code, and that you’re confident about what to wear to the location of the wedding. And then there’s the weather to prepare for! It can all seem stressful which is not how you want to feel on that day.

What if I told you I could help you manage the variables so you felt prepared for anything? Would it take some stress off your shoulders? Good news: I’ve helped countless women prepare for wedding seasons. I’d love to help you feel less stress like they did. I’ve created a guide you can use so you’re ready and relaxed when your loved one’s big day arrives.

The Dress Code
Be sure you check the invitation for the dress code to the event so you have time to prepare the right kind of outfit. Here’s a reminder of what the different dress codes require.

White Tie
This will be a lavish affair. The most formal of all event types, gentlemen are in long tailcoats and women are in floor-length ball gowns.

Black Tie
Men wear tuxedos and women wear formal evening gowns, normally floor-length. This is less opulent than a white tie wedding but still very dressy.

Formal Wear or Black Tie Optional
Black Tie Optional means tuxedos are encouraged but dark suits for men are just fine. Women can wear formal gowns of any length.

Beach Formal
Beach weddings aren’t necessarily casual events unless that’s been stated. If it’s beach formal wedding, opt for a formal sundress or a knee-length dress or longer. Plan to wear dressy flats. Men can wear a summer suit with a linen shirt.

Cocktail Attire, Dressy Casual, Semi Formal
If in doubt about how dressy to be in these dress codes, I suggest being more formal than less formal. It’s better to be a little overdressed than underdressed. Women can wear a cocktail dress and men can go with a suit and tie or a sport coat.

Casual
For this type affair, think dressed up casual. I’d suggest a sundress for women and dress pants with a button down shirt for men.

It’s best to avoid wearing white or any shade of white. Let the bride have her shining moment!

Undergarments
When you have your dress picked out, make sure you have the proper undergarments to go with it. Do you need a bodyshaper, a particular bra, no show panties or special hosiery? A proper shaper and a bra that’s suited for the style of your dress will make you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day. Don’t leave these undergarment details to the last minute; as soon as you’ve decided on the dress, plan to get the undergarments at the same time.

Shoes
A safe choice for any dress is a nude or metallic shoe. Whether heels or flats, these colors blend well with prints or solids and can be worn with many other outfits later. If the ceremony is going to be in a garden, try to wear flats or wedges so your heels don’t sink into the ground. If you really want to wear heels than look for items you can attach to your heels to keep you from sinking. Google “heel stopper for grass” and you’ll find some nifty resources. If you’re prone to blisters, Google “blister prevention for heels” to find solutions. Try these resources before the day of the wedding so you feel secure about your backup plan.

Purses and Handbags
Consider carrying a small purse like a clutch, a small cross body bag or a petite shoulder bag. This day is not the day to be carrying around a large purse. Metallic bags work well. Consider fabric bags or faux animal skin bags. Again, be sure to check to see if you have the right bag to go with your dress. Take care of this detail early as well.

Hair and Makeup
If you know you’re going to want to get your hair, makeup and/or nails done professionally, don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your appointments. Work backwards and schedule early. It’s also not a good time to try someone new.

Prepare for Weather
Be sure to check the weather periodically so you know what to expect. If you know there’s a chance it could get chilly, be sure to bring a loose knit cardigan or a no-slip shawl.

Bring Extra Shoes
Decided to wear heels? Fabulous! But if there’s lots of dancing after dinner you may want to kick off the heels and slip into a pair of comfy flats. Don’t risk missing out on any of the fun because your shoes start to feel uncomfortable. Some flats can easily fold up and be tucked into a clutch. One brand to look for is Tieks.

Pack the Essentials
Be sure to bring with you some essentials for the day. Bring lipstick for touchups, blister Band-Aids for shoe rubs, tissues for tears, a stain remover pen, some ibuprofen and of course sunblock/sunglasses if you know you’ll be in the sun. I hope you won’t need these but it’s always nice to have them on hand. You may be able to keep them in your car or leave your essentials in a bag that goes to coat check.

Pack Snacks
Don’t risk getting overly hungry. There may be several champagne toasts before food comes out. Eat some protein snacks before the ceremony begins or pack a bag of almonds or an energy bar just in case. We’ve all experienced what happens when drinking on an empty stomach. You don’t want to be that kind of guest!

I would be overjoyed to help you prepare for weddings in your future no matter what your role will be in them. Attending a wedding being fully prepared ahead of time will help you have a great time and be a great guest. Give me a call and we’ll start a plan right away!