I guess I’m at that age when all the dominos around me start falling… and getting hitched. I wasn’t quite prepared for the deluge of wedding invitations this year, but now that we’re here, let’s help each other get dressed.
Each wedding takes place in such a different setting, so reusing the same looks really isn’t an option. While this will hurt my pockets a bit, weddings are momentous occasions that deserve the respect of curated looks you’ll look back on for years to come. To this day, I look back at photos of my parents at their friends’ weddings and gush over every little detail. It’s our turn to create those memories, right?
If you’re like me, you’ll want to start planning your looks ahead of time, and these picks from Shopbop will provide a good head start. Keep scrolling to see how I’ll be dressing for each of the different settings, from the beach to the courthouse, from formal to bohemian.
Daytime weddings are definitely becoming more popular, and finding an appropriate outfit is all about striking a balance between relaxed and festive. Voluminous dresses like this gorgeous number by Autumn Adeigbo are practically made for a daytime wedding in the garden. The fitted bodice and voluminous skirt are so flattering. Plus, pockets are always a nice touch.
Absolutely ready to live in this dress.
A lesson in how to serve drama in the daytime. It comes with earrings, too.
The forecast says sunny.
The shape of this dress is so retro. I’m obsessed.
The geometric print of this dress is drool-worthy.
I recently attended my first courthouse wedding and proceeded to add “become a wedding witness” to my bucket list. When that day comes, I will come through with my fountain pen dressed in a bright, relaxed suit like this one by Jonathan Simkhai. Once business is complete, take off the blazer to reveal a lace cami top, and cheers to the new couple.
Wear this suit with no jewelry—it says enough on its own. Shop the matching Full-Length Pants ($50).
This suit will get a lot of airtime. Shop the matching Wide Leg Suit Pants ($40).
Everyone needs a classic tuxedo suit in their life. Shop the matching Cigarette Pants ($50).
Satin suiting is so comfortable, you’ll feel like you’re wearing pajamas. Shop the matching Bed Suit Pants ($340)
You’ll earn major compliments in this power hue. Shop the matching Tailored Split Hem Trousers ($72).
Most city weddings I’ve attended don’t have a strict dress code (i.e., the best dress code), and you already know I capitalize on the opportunity each time. I love to start with a minidress and build out a full look that doesn’t scream “wedding guest” and will also fit right in at the inevitable after-party. This sparkly Oséree dress inspired me to go for a flirty-edgy look, which I achieved by pairing it with this pink Staud bag and an oversize vintage leather jacket.
Feather trim can sometimes look overly precious, but in this case, it looks more rockstar than tea party. I’m obsessed.
Remove the strap for a clutch moment.
The plumage trim creates the perfect flared shape.
The intricate embroidery and feather trim at this price is unheard of.
I’m drooling! Silver jewelry, sky-high heels, and hair up, okay?
Wow, this looks so much more expensive than it is.
It’s all about the open back here.
Dumplings, anyone?
Finding the right outfit for a beach wedding can be tricky due to all the natural elements that arise throughout the day. With all these considerations, give me a shorts set over a dress any day. This Kika Vargas set is roomy enough to get down and dirty and has festive details, like the peplum hem, that remind us of the occasion. Last—no shoes, no problem!
This shape is festive but fun.
No one will be more comfortable than you are.
The vest-and-tailored-shorts set is one of my favorite trends on the horizon. Get on board with the look in this neutral, relaxed-fit set. Shop the matching Pleated Pants ($60).
This mirrored pattern reminds me of a lotus flower.
This lavender set will look great with your tan. Shop the matching High-Waisted Shorts ($70).
TBH, getting an invite to a formal wedding makes me kind of nervous. After all, 90% of my life lately is spent in super-casual clothes. However, in many ways, dressing for a formal wedding requires less work than putting together a casual look. All you’ll need is a long dress and some statement jewelry to make it look like you’ve really put in work to get “red carpet ready.”
It ties in the back for extra support around the bust.
Remember to butter up that left leg.
This dress has a lot of built-in movement—it’s begging to be twirled.
I’m envisioning this dress for a winter wedding. The draping is gorgeous.
We all have those friends who get married on a ranch, in the woods, or next to a river. And we love them dearly. Choose dynamic prints and interesting shapes to match their free-spirited energy.
A low-maintenance beauty.
Can you feel the romance?
Farm Rio is reliably bohemian and celebratory.
You’ll definitely be the best-dressed guest at the ranch.
Zambian brand Mangishi Doll uses a combination of traditional chitenge prints to create some of the most unique dresses out.
