There’s something undeniably charming about wedding season, the florals, the settings, the cake. But for me, the true magic lies in the fashion. As a stylist, I see every wedding invitation as an opportunity to dress with intention, poise, and a deep respect for the couple's vision. Dressing as a guest isn’t just about looking beautiful (though, by all means, do that). It’s about showing up polished and appropriate while feeling beautiful yourself. Here’s my latest take on wedding guest attire; what to wear, what to thoughtfully avoid, and how to approach the day’s dress code with confidence.

Always Dress According to the Dress Code
Fashion etiquette 101: the dress code is your compass. The happy couple has spent time curating the atmosphere of their day, and your outfit should align with that. If the invitation leaves room for interpretation, err on the side of sophistication. Being slightly overdressed is never a misstep; looking underdressed or too casual, however, is.

Make sure to check out my quick stylist reference guide at the bottom of this post or my latest reel on Instagram!

Soft Hues Done Right

Pastels and soft tones remain a timeless choice for wedding dressing; shades like butter yellow, sage, powder blue, and dusty rose evoke elegance and romance. However, tread lightly when working in the palest of hues. A yellow, blush or pale champagne dress may unintentionally encroach on bridal territory. As a general rule: if it might be mistaken for white in photos, it’s not a good choice. When in doubt, reach for rich alternatives like deep mauve, midnight navy, espresso brown or garnet, all colors that still feel formal but decidedly guest-appropriate.

The Fine Line of Allure

Elegance and sensuality can absolutely coexist; but subtlety is the secret. Dresses that are overly revealing, overly tight, or poorly fitted rarely photograph well and often feel uncomfortable throughout a long day of celebration. Overly plunging necklines, mini and micro-mini lengths, or sheer cutouts are best saved for the after-party (or another event entirely). Instead, opt for pieces that flatter your figure; this might look like bias cuts, side slits, asymmetric necklines, or off-shoulder details that hint without shouting.

Bold, Bright, and Beautiful

Color is one of the most joyful parts of wedding fashion. A strong pop like fuchsia, coral, saffron, turquoise, or cobalt can feel modern, spirited, and celebratory. I encourage clients to lean into vibrant hues, especially for spring and summer weddings. The key is choosing a shade that flatters your complexion, aligns with the tone of the venue, and is styled with restraint. Where bold becomes too bold is in over-the-top colors or prints like neon colors, anima or garish graphic prints, head-to-toe sequins, or combinations that pull focus. Let your color be the statement, and keep your silhouette classic. A tailored midi dress or a structured two-piece in a punchy hue says “confident guest,” not “scene stealer.”

My Quick Stylist Reference Guide:

Black Tie: A floor-length gown or a sleek tuxedo in sumptuous fabrics that feel glamorous while looking polished and refined.

Formal or Cocktail: Midi-length dresses, fluid tailoring, and formal separates are a great place to start.
Beach or Garden: Embrace movement and lightness; think flowy silhouettes, breathable fabrics, and subtle, sun-friendly accessories.
Festive or Creative: Have fun with it - this can be bold colors, playful ruffles, unexpected necklines, or directional tailoring. But keep it chic, not costume.