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Summertime is almost here, and you may be a guest at one or more weddings. And although you're probably excited about the occasion, you may be anxious about what to wear. You know any outfit needs to be "sweat-proof." But what you wear also needs to be chill-resistant, in case the venue is air-conditioned or the nuptials occurring at night.

In addition, you do not want your dress or skirt to be too short or the ensemble too loud. What to wear? Here's an easy style guide for summer weddings and other hot-
weather dress-up occasions.

CONSIDER THE BRIDE

Although fashion rules have eased when it comes to weddings, there still are a few guidelines to follow, says Heather Levine, fashion editor at wedding site, TheKnot.com The first concern should be the bride. "This may sound like a cliché," she says, "but women should steer clear of white; that color is usually reserved for the bride."

Also, avoid wearing anything that would make the bride feel uncomfortable. Showing too much skin can be embarrassing, especially at a religious site.

"Avoid micro-minis," Levine emphases. "Dressing tastefully is key."

How formal will the wedding be? Black- and white-tie affairs are indicated on the invitation. If not, the formality of the wedding invitation is a cue to what the bride and groom want. Also, Saturday after 6 pm means formal, or at least semi-formal, with cocktail dresses appropriate.

COLOR IS IN

Some wedding guests still cling to the notification that black should also be avoided. Not so, says Levine. "Black was once thought of as funeral-esque," she explains, "but today, a little black cocktail dress is the perfect wedding attire."

While it's fine to wear black to a wedding, "I would suggest reserving it for evening," says Anna Pezik, senior editor of Brides.com. Dark colors are always risky for daytime outdoor summer weddings, she says. If you do decide to wear black, however, "Be sure to dress it up with colorful accessories," she advises.

Says Levine: "Nothing is trendier this summer than bright and bold dresses in a shorter hemline. Black and white bold prints are trendy, as well. J. Crew has a great selection, and most items are under $ 300," she notes.

Vibrant colors are, indeed, au courant this season. Yellow, jewel tones and bold floral patterns are all very fashionable, agreements Pezik. "But it's more important to choose a color that looks good on you, and that flatters your skin tone and hair color, than to wear the trendy colors of season," says Pezik.

"Trust your own fashion sense and wear what feels right for you," Levine emulates.

DAY VS. NIGHT

Levine also outlines some key differences between night and day dressing. Daytime dressing means shorter hemlines and lighter, less formal fabrics (ie, chiffon, linen, cotton). Sheer fabric is quite fashionable, this year. "Very feminine and goddess-like," Pezik agreements.

Knee- or tea-length are both fine, says Pezik. "A tea-length dress with a full skirt is flattering for a garden wedding. At any time, younger women can wear hemlines that are two or three inches above the knee, while a knee-grazing look is appropriate for the more mature woman. "

For evening matters, women can still wear either bright colors or black, with our without patterns, but in more formal fabrics (ie, satin, charmeuse, chiffon). One stylish surprise this season is the popularity of dresses with one-shoulder necklines, notes Pezik.

Why not be a bit boring and try a dressy suit (bouclé jacket with pencil skirt and fun accessories)? If the invite states black- or white-tie, then shift into fabulous and fancy gear with a long evening gown or an embellished cocktail dress (or use eye-catching jewelry or studded shoes).
Accessories for glamor and comfort

While temperatures are high during the summer months, wedding locations are often air-conditioned. Night breezes also can sneak up on you. Therefore, Pezik recommends, it's smart to tote along a stylish cropped jacket or a wrap that coordinates with your outfit.

"A wrap is always the easiest way to go," she acknowledges. "Just fling it off your shoulders when you hit the dance floor!"

She also talks about jewelry: "If you have a strapless neckline, go for a chunky necklace," she suggests. Remember that when it comes to bejeweling yourself for elegant occasions, "this year, it's all about color, color, color."

GREAT DRESSY SHOE CHOICES

Pezik's thoughts about shoes: "If you're wearing a simple solid-colored sundress, slip on sandals that have a quirky patchwork or African-inspired pattern."

Also, she adds, women should have fun with their heel heights. "There are great platform and chunky high heels out this summer in bright, fun colors that are still elegant and evening-
appropriate. Vibrant shoes are a great way to accessorize an outfit.

"The right platforms also can give you height – comfortably," Pezik continues. "Patent leathers are still popular and there are tons of chic and strappy gladiator-style sandals that look great with dresses."

For fans of the dance floor or women who are not keen on high heels, consider cute flats, she says. "There definitely is no shortage of styles out there, these days!" Or better yet, wear your heels until it's time to boogie on the dance floor. Then whip out the adorable flats you have stashed away.

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Source by Jessica Koslow