Is it just me, or does it feel like the wedding schedule is more jam-packed than ever? Summer weekends filled with happy tears, bad dancing and too much champagne are on the cards, and chic outfits to see them through in style are needed.
What should I wear for a wedding this summer?
Dressing for a wedding throws up a ton of style questions: how glam is too glam? Is a midi dress too casual? Will you be outside at all? If so, you might need a jacket that works with your look.
Will there be lots of walking, in which case, should you reassess your heel height? Even more daunting, will there be grass to navigate in heels?!
Which outfits are trending for wedding guests in 2022?
All of this (and more) might seem tricky to work around, but there are some style formulas to note that work for every type of wedding and can be adapted to suit your personal style. Here are the five to know:
What to wear to an all-day wedding: the floral dress
Whimsical florals are always the first port of call when it comes to an English countryside wedding. Why? Because feeling like an extra in a Richard Curtis film, stumbling through an Oxfordshire village in my pretty, flowery dress is frankly irresistible. But there are numerous ways to take your floral dress to haute new heights.
When incorporating beautiful blooms into your wedding guest look, try searching for sleeker silhouettes and unexpected detailing and avoid anything with too much volume. Pair with a super simple shoe and low-key accessories because your dress should be the main event.
What to wear to a wedding if you don’t like dresses: The trouser suit
Tailoring at a wedding is nothing new, but is often underrated as an option. The key to wearing it well is in a relaxed fit: it’ll make it seem high end and stops it looking like work wear. There is a quiet power in wearing a trouser suit, a confidence that comes with eschewing the traditional in favour of something more daring and modern.
The brave will wear theirs buttoned up and with a bralette, but for a more palatable approach, team with a slinky silk shirt. For a glamorous touch fit for a wedding, sparkling earrings and heels are a must.
What to wear to a wedding if you want to make a statement: the mini dress
2022 is officially the year of the highest hemlines, and mini skirts and dresses have reappeared in a big way. I predict that they’ll be making their way into your wedding wardrobe in the blink of an eye. The popularity of the mini bridal gown is skyrocketing, but why should the betrothed have all the fun?
For short dress options, be sure to add extra volume and frou-frou detailing. Oversized bows, ruffles and layered skirts are all worth looking out for. Wear with platform sandals and a dazzling bag.
What to wear to a low key ‘do: A co-ord
A stomach-baring wedding outfit may seem daring, but a chic coordinating set will prove to be a winning alternative to a dress. A co-ord’s impact is greater than that of a suit or dress, and choosing matching separates will instantly set your style apart from your fellow guests.
Skirts should stay flowing and flippy, and the colours should be bright. An understated two piece will shine in its simplicity so don’t worry about interesting cuts or even busy prints.
What to wear for the traditional wedding: A colour block dress
Traditional wedding dressing doesn’t have to be boring, but as the saying goes, if it ain’t broke…
A form fitting, colour block dress is an age old classic and will rarely look out of place. Don’t scrimp on extras however, a contrasting tie sandal and skinny sunglasses can be used to form a failsafe city wedding outfit.
This outfit requires conviction and there’s no hiding with such a classic look, take your chance to have fun with beauty too as a deep red lipstick will add to the bombshell mood.
What to wear to a wedding reception: a bold frock
Allow me to make the case for the mega volume dress: it gives maximum impact and there’s not a pair of Spanx in sight. Fitting for a casual affair, the dress with added volume doesn’t need a statement sandal to stand out, so swap yours for zingy flats for extra flair.
Flowing layers of tulle will always prove to be a conversation starter during an awkward cocktail hour. Plus the lightweight fabric will successfully beat the midday heat whilst quickly demonstrating your sartorial prowess. Elevated comfort comes easily with this style but sparkling crystals and a clashing handbag will ensure your fashion selection stands out.