How to Dress for a Summer Wedding

by Allison Winn Scotch

Always the guest and never the bride? Yes indeed, summer brings an endless parade of blissful nuptials, but while you're over the moon for your engaged pals, you can't help but be thrown into a fashion tizzy at the thought of all of the events that surround each affair. Fear not. We've broken down the couture do's and don'ts to keep you looking picture-perfect throughout the "I do" season.

Black Tie

So you got the fancy invite in the mail, and in the bottom corner you see "Black Tie," which immediately sets off alarm bells in your head. After all, like Cinderella, you can't show up without the proper gown. (One wedding tip: not all invitations for black-tie weddings say so; you're wise to ask around if you suspect the bash might be an ultraformal affair.) But what exactly constitutes tuxedo attire these days? A good rule of thumb is that the dress should be long — either tea length (which hits mid-calf) or to the floor, hovering just above your fabulous strappy sandals and perky pedicure.

Strapless, halter and spaghetti-strap tops are great ways to show off your toned arms and light tan, and don't shy away from color. Basic black is, well, basic, and certainly you can't go wrong with it, but since it's summer, feel free to get a bit more daring. Bold reds and pinks will have heads turning (which might piss off the bride but will suit you just fine). Finally, don't be afraid to go for a two-piece ensemble. A gorgeous top and skirt are plenty fancy, and they might be more flattering to harder-to-fit figures. Top off your outfit with simple jewelry (we love quality cubic z — trust us, no one can ever tell), and you're ready to raise your glass to the happy couple.

Outfit: Kay Unger Lace Dress. Available at Saks.com; ($365)

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