What To Wear: Summer Wedding Guide

If you're like most Americans, you are probably attending at least one wedding this summer. Not only are June, July, and August the most popular times to get married, but there are nearly two millions weddings every year, ensuring that at some point you'll be in the audience while pals say, "I do."

While it's a privilege to be a guest, it can be stressful--picking out a gift, traveling to the event, finding a date, and especially where dress code is concerned. Wedding attire can come with many stipulations depending on the type of ceremony, and one outfit may not fit the bill for every occasion. There are some obvious rules: don't wear all white, don't outshine the couple, and don't be a distraction. But what about the finer points of dressing for the event? What if you aren't sure how to pick the perfect pieces? Worry not, we've got you covered with ideas, trends, and suggestions for the most casual of backyard weddings to black tie galas--and some of it you already likely have in your closet!

Casual Weddings: Backyard, beach, city hall, casual destination

The key to casual wedding attire is structured comfort. You don't want to look sloppy, but you don't want to overdress for the occasion. Look for a lightweight maxi dress in a bright print as a foundation item. Maxis are easy to dress up with wedges, statement earrings, and a clutch for a fancier event, and versatile enough to pair with flat sandals, bangles, and a sweater for a casual affair. If maxi dresses aren't your thing, consider nicely cut harem pants with an embellished crop top, flats, and a boxy clutch. Not only will you be comfortable, but you can mix and match the pieces for other weddings. Another casual wedding staple is a structured, preppy shirt dress in a light color--think pink, pastel blue, tangerine, or sea foam green. Keep it playful with a chunky enamel necklace and flats, or dress it up with kitten heels and a vintage broach.

When it comes to casual weddings, think about what the couple are telling you with their destination. Do they want you to be prepared to party all night? Or maybe walk up the beach to the perfect picture spot? Or trek around a grassy yard? Make sure your attire will keep you cool, comfortable, and able to have an amazing time.

Fancy Weddings: Garden parties, daytime church, wineries, boats, casual restaurants

Not quite casual, not quite formal, the business-casual of weddings can be the trickiest to dress for. Using professional dress standards is fine, as long as you add some elements to keep it romantic, warm, and seasonally appropriate. This is a great opportunity to be more fashion forward! A sleeveless jumpsuit is a perfect base, with sandals, a wrap, and a statement necklace. You can swap sandals for wedges and a capelet for an evening at a winery, or throw on a fringed kimono and pointed flats for a garden party. Another great fashionable choice is a short suit. Look for something well cut with a boxy shape and a fun print. High-waisted shorts paired with a pussy bow blouse and loafers will be charming, comfortable, and cute enough to wear again and again. But if you want to go more traditional, nothing works better than a striped, preppy A-line dress. Easy enough to dress up with a beaded cardigan or kept less formal with a denim jacket, this dress will serve you for many occasions.

Formal Weddings: Evening church ceremonies, fine restaurants, formal homes, destination weddings

The couple should let you know well in advance if they expect formal dress at their ceremony, so you will have plenty of time to prepare. Summer and formal sound like a dangerous combination of words, especially if the weather is warm. Start with lightweight, long gowns in effortlessly chic colors like pale grey, lavender, coral, and turquoise. Look for chiffon, jersey, or silk, which are dressy but still seasonally appropriate fabrics. If you prefer pantsuits, steer away from dark, boxy lines and look for Palazzo pants, flowy blouses, and quarter sleeve jackets. While a black suit is always stylish, consider adding a romantic touch by pairing it with a sheer pink bohemian top, or a vintage lace shell. If the wedding has a cocktail vibe, a knee-length dress with a statement necklace and stilettos and a sparkly clutch will be ideal, or a sexy metallic jumpsuit with a wide belt and beaded shrug.

Theme Weddings

If you find yourself invited to a theme wedding, such as Star Trek, Renaissance, or Masquerade, do your best to comply with the couple's requests. It's more fun to be part of the aesthetic than stick to something safe. If you just cannot bring yourself to show up in a costume, select a garment that reflects the color palette, style, or feel of the theme--remember, it's their day, not yours, and a good guest is there to celebrate with their loved ones.