How to Dress for a Summer Wedding

You're invited to a beautiful summer wedding. Summer weddings offer lots of elegant and inexpensive fashion options that won't break the bank or max out your credit cards. Here are some fashion ideas to wear to an upcoming summer wedding.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a dress style.
   
   For an informal summer wedding, a light, breezy sundress in a pastel shade or a floral print will not only look stylish but will be comfortable as well. Pair your dress with some open toed sandals in a light color and a simple clutch bag in a matching shade. You'll look refreshingly cool and elegant for the big event. Another more formal alternative is to pair a long slim skirt with a loose, breezy summer top. Add a fashionable belt and some simple jewelry to complete the look. A strapless dress or halter dress that doesn't show cleavage in a simple, neutral shade worn with discrete jewelry would also be appropriate for most daytime weddings. Be sure to carry a wrap or shawl if you select a strapless dress or you may get cold at the reception.

2. Decide how formal you want your dress to be.
   
   If the wedding is to be held in the evening, you'll probably be expected to wear more formal attire such as a long dress. Otherwise, unless the invitation specifically mentions formal or white tie, you have the option of wearing a shorter dress or skirt. If in doubt, try to get an idea from the bride or from friends how formal the wedding is to be.

3. Choose a dress color.
   
   Pastel shades of pale pink, peach, or yellow can be flattering for a summer wedding. If you favor neutrals, try wearing shades of light taupe or beige or light, dove gray. Stay away from white or black. You don't want to upstage the bride or look like you're going to a funeral.

4. Go light on the makeup.
   
   A fresh, clean look is more flattering for a summer wedding. Leave off the heavy lipstick and apply a pale, shimmering gloss to keep lips moist and shiny. Be sure to wear a sunscreen if you'll be outdoors but go light on the foundation or wear a light coating of powder instead. Keep your eye makeup light and use a waterproof mascara if you cry at weddings. The look for a summer wedding should be light, airy, and unpretentious.

5. Go light on the jewelry.
   
   A summer wedding isn't the time to pile on the heavy jewelry and earrings that stretch your ear lobes. When wearing light, breezy clothing, keep your jewelry simple and elegant. Simple pearl earrings paired with a single strand necklace and a pearl pendant will be flattering without being cumbersome.