4 wedding types – and how to dress for them, whatever your age!
Before you read on, did you know that you can sign up to receive the latest Supersavvyme articles, tips & tricks and competitions? Register here.
Long gone are the days when wedding guests aged over 50 had little choice apart from a floral frock or a lilac skirt suit. Be inspired by our fresh ideas to suit both you and the occasion. We’ve carefully suggested timeless pieces that won’t date in a hurry. So with a bit of smart accessorising, you can wear them again and again – whether that’s for another wedding, a birthday or even a graduation.
And once you’ve found the right outfit, keep it in top condition for next time with Bold 3in1 Pods. These handy capsules come in six glorious scents, and will clean, soften and refresh your clothes in one. Meaning you’ll feel and smell fabulous all day (and night!).
1. Modern city wedding
To fit in with this trendier setting, why not try a trouser suit instead of a dress? Look for one with a structured blazer, worn with trousers in any fit you favour – wide leg, cigarette and skinny all work well.
A suit in a pastel shade will help it feel more “weddingy”, but if you still feel too much like you’re heading for the office, then a jumpsuit is an excellent alternative. It negates the need to work out which top to wear, as well as any worries about your top riding up on the dancefloor!
While a floral dress may feel too traditional for this environment, a trouser suit or jumpsuit with bold blooms can actually feel very modern and edgy. A plain silk camisole or T-shirt pairs brilliantly with a statement print trouser suit.
2. Destination beach wedding
In theory, a beach wedding sounds really romantic. In reality, however, it can bring wardrobe challenges. Not only does your outfit need to be suitable for the elements, but it needs to be comfortable – the last thing you want is to overheat. In addition, it needs to survive the journey intact and not be crushed in your suitcase en route.
An outfit that is loose and flowing will keep you cool in tropical climes. Palazzo pants, for example, are an ideal way to look stylish and feel comfortable in higher temperatures. Pick a pair in a lightweight silk or linen, either plain or printed, and wear with a loose cotton or silk shirt to keep the look smart.
If it’s a low-key affair, then smartened-up versions of beachwear could also work. That doesn’t mean any old shorts and T-shirt though! Classically tailored shorts are key. Either go for a co-ord set, or wear with a bright top. Or save the hassle of separates by opting for a playsuit in a vibrant print instead.
Beachwear has really upped its game in recent years, so you could even go for a luxe kaftan in a bright colour, or a tropical-print maxi dress with jewelled flip-flops. Plus, this way you can dance all night without getting sore feet!
3. Formal black-tie wedding
With black-tie events, most people tend to go one of two ways. Either they go all out, searching for a heavily beaded and embellished gown. Or they simply go for a classic LBD.
But there are alternatives. If you want to go full length, don’t feel like you have to embrace the embellishment too – less is more! In fact, a plain gown with a structured silhouette can look much more stylish, and you can add sparkle in your accessories.
A cowl or cape back detail will keep a long gown looking elegantly understated, and you don’t need to go for a big ballgown skirt – a soft mermaid can be very flattering. Play with proportion – if your dress has a high neck or sleeves, you could show a little skin with a split at the front to reveal some leg. If full length is not for you, then a cocktail dress can fit the dress code if it’s not too short.
Either way, black-tie events are a great time to wear bright colours and stand out from the crowd, as many people tend to stick with black. But if you do prefer a darker dress, try navy as it can be more flattering and look more sophisticated than black.
4. Traditional country wedding
If you’re going to a classic event, there is an understandable impulse to reach for a standard floral dress. And there’s nothing wrong with that – a colourful print can look great in countryside surroundings.
However, if you want to mix things up, then a stylish way to wear a similar silhouette in a fresh fashion is to pair a statement A-line skirt with a fitted top. The midi-length offers a classic look, and allows the skirt’s bold colour or print to take centre stage. Or try a high-low hem for extra drama – midi at the front and ankle length at the back.
Keep the focus on the skirt by teaming it with a plain top or even a high-quality T-shirt. If you’re conscious of your arms, go for long or elbow-length sleeves, with a slash neckline or even off-the-shoulder in a cool jersey fabric.
If you prefer trousers to skirts, then culottes are a modern and stylish alternative. They’re really having a fashion moment now too. Apply the same ideas as above for a chic yet comfortable style.
What’s been your favourite outfit to wear to a wedding? We’d love to hear about your best looks in the comments box below.