As wedding season approaches, the arrival of wedding invitations on your doorstep sparks thoughts of ideal attire. Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a guest, the abundance of spring/summer collections can be overwhelming. With so many options to consider, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to wear. That’s where I come in today to offer guidance and share my personal experience with selecting the perfect wedding guest outfit, alongside House of Fraser. Their extensive range of stylish wedding attire, both online and in-store, offers a treasure trove of possibilities. When approached by House of Fraser to curate my ideal wedding outfit from their collections, I jumped at the opportunity. However, the sheer variety of options made the selection process more challenging than anticipated. Ultimately, I chose the Warehouse Trailing Floral Midi dress, paired with Vivienne Westwood’s elegant clutch and Dune’s Klicks wedge sandals. In this piece, I’ll delve into my thought process behind the ensemble and provide valuable hints, tips, and advice for dressing impeccably for weddings.
The Dress Code
As you receive your wedding invitation, it’s essential to not only RSVP promptly but also thoroughly review all the included details. This includes exploring any online resources linked from the invitation. Your goal is to gather information about the dress code, if one exists, or pick up on subtle hints that will help you decide on an outfit straight away. If there are no specific guidelines provided, it’s considerate to reach out to members of the wedding party – excluding the busy bride and groom – or fellow guests to get a sense of the expected attire. For instance, our own wedding website encouraged guests to dress in layers for our outdoor ceremony, as it got chilly later on.
Location Location Location
When planning a countryside wedding, it’s essential to consider the venue’s terrain and adjust your attire accordingly. If you’ll be venturing into fields or woodlands, a relaxed dress code is often the norm. Footwear becomes a crucial aspect to think about, as you don’t want to sink into mud, gravel, or grass. I opted for wedge heels, which offered comfort, style, and practicality – perfect for dancing the night away while keeping your feet dry. The length of your dress also deserves consideration. A midi like mine strikes a balance between looking elegant and avoiding ruined hems or unwanted chill. As a mum, it’s crucial to prioritize practicality at a wedding reception, where you’ll likely be juggling childcare responsibilities alongside enjoying the celebration.
Seasonal Dressing
When planning your outfit for a wedding, consider the time of year as it will greatly influence the style of attire you should aim for. For Spring or Autumn celebrations, a simple layering trick can make all the difference – add an extra layer with a pashmina, cardigan and tights. Don’t forget to pack an umbrella in case of unexpected showers. In contrast, summer weddings call for light and airy dresses that will keep you cool and comfortable. Be sure to also bring sunglasses and sun protection essentials. For winter weddings, a stunning coat is a must-have to keep you warm and cozy. Additionally, consider dresses with long sleeves and have a spare pair of wellies in the car just in case the weather takes an unexpected turn.
Outfit Style
While dresses are always a popular choice, why not consider alternative options like trouser suits, jumpsuits, or separates that can be mixed and matched with other pieces in your wardrobe? House of Fraser offers an impressive range of stylish alternatives to dresses, including luxe materials that exude wedding-day glamour. The beauty of opting for separates lies in their versatility – you can wear them again in the future by pairing them with different tops or bottoms. And if you’re worried about duplicating a dress worn by another guest, rest assured that House of Fraser has an extensive collection of dresses to choose from, ensuring your unique sense of style shines through.
Gorgeous Accessories
When discussing wedding attire, accessories often get overlooked in favour of shoes and dresses. However, a thoughtfully chosen bag or piece of jewellery can elevate an outfit from simple to stunning. A delicate necklace, pair of earrings, or elegant bracelet can add a touch of sophistication and glamour to your overall look. When it comes to bags, a clutch or small cross-body bag is often the perfect choice for a wedding. Not only do they provide ample space for the essentials, but they also make a stylish statement. The one I chose was roomy enough to hold everything I needed while still being classic and cool. Its versatility shone through as it proved just as suitable for the evening party as it did during the daytime proceedings.
Looking Like A Guest
When selecting an outfit for a wedding, one common concern is avoiding wardrobe mishaps that might make you look like part of the wedding party or, worst-case scenario, the bride herself. To sidestep this issue, I opted for a floral print dress with flowing sleeves and a bohemian flair. While bridesmaid dresses have evolved to showcase more diverse styles, a floral print remains a reliable choice. If concerns persist, consider asking the bridesmaids or wedding party for a rough idea of their attire to ensure harmonious dressing.
Feeling Beautiful
When it comes to completing your wedding guest look, don’t overlook the finer details. A well-groomed manicure and pedicure in a shade that complements your outfit can elevate the overall aesthetic. Meanwhile, a bit of hair and makeup styling will not only boost your confidence but also give you a radiant glow. It’s all about the little touches that make a big difference.As you get ready to attend weddings this year, I hope these tips have given you a solid foundation for choosing the perfect outfit. If you’re looking for one-stop shopping, House of Fraser is an excellent destination. Their online collections offer a vast range of stylish options under one virtual roof. And as always, we only partner with brands that align with our values and meet our high standards.