Calendar Full Of Weddings? Here’s What To Wear This Spring
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6 months ago
How to look the best dressed guest this season
Spring has sprung (well, almost), which means wedding season is once again upon us. Fielding a schedule bursting with back-to-back nuptials? Then you’ll be looking for outfit ideas. Here, we bring you our ultimate guide to spring wedding season, with ideas on what to wear, outfit ideas and top tips from a stylist.
Spring Weddings: A Guide
With a new season comes new (wardrobe) challenges – and spring, while beautiful when the clouds behave, can be a tricky one to nail. ‘Spring brings unpredictable weather, so wedding guest outfits need to balance warmth with style,’ advises Nicole Smallwood, stylist and Fashion Director at Country & Town House. ‘Lighter fabrics, softer colours and smart layering pieces become essential.’
A spring wedding offers up plenty of outfit ideas – ‘I reach for flowy midi or maxi dresses, or a sharp, well-cut suit,’ says Nicole – but the rule of thumb is seek out something that intersects both comfort and style. (After all, it’s going to be a long day.)
For this reason, Nicole steers clear of one season staple: linen. ‘Linen is a spring cliché – and honestly, I’d avoid it, as it creases so easily,’ the stylist tells us. ‘You’ll look crumpled before the couple has even said “I do”.
‘Shoes depend on the outfit,’ she adds. ‘Heels are a great starting point, but I always have flats on standby for later. Accessories also need thought – hats are a commitment (your hair will not survive), and jewellery, bags, and shoes should stay simple and chic.’
How To Navigate The Dress Code
While not always the case, many weddings – spring or no – come with a dress code, as per the couple’s wishes. Make sure to pay attention to this; not only will it help you build an outfit, it will also save you from making any accidental sartorial faux pas.
‘Pay close attention to the dress code, as spring weddings can range from full formal to relaxed garden party,’ adds Nicole. ‘When in doubt, polished and comfortable will always win.’
And the one golden rule for any wedding guest? ‘Steer well clear of white or near-white outfits – this is not your moment.’
The Edit: Spring Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas
A Stylist’s Top Tips: What To Wear To A Spring Wedding
Layer Up
While spring may be the season for fresh blooms and sunshine, it’s not always the warmest (or driest) – especially in the UK. With this in mind, Nicole recommends starting with layers: ‘a blazer, wrap or scarf are all good things to have to help you handle any temperature changes.’
Pick Your Palette
From there, you can choose a palette to construct your outfit around. But while pastels are a strong choice for spring weddings, they’re not the default. ‘If pastels don’t suit you, don’t force it – darker colour palettes are absolutely allowed and can look just as spring-appropriate,’ says Nicole. ‘Instead, choose colours that suit you and, more importantly, that you love.’
Don’t Fall For Florals
Florals are, of course, a springtime go-to (insert that one The Devil Wears Prada quote here) – but they’re not always the best choice, warns Nicole. ‘Be cautious with florals as they can look ageing; colour blocking or interesting patterns often feel fresher.’
Dress For The Venue
The one thing most people forget, says Nicole, is appropriate footwear. ‘Always dress for the venue, especially when it comes to footwear if the event is outdoors,’ she emphasises. ‘You’ll want to avoid impractical fabrics and shoes that won’t survive grass, gravel or a long day.’ So if you know the day will involve hours in a garden or field, avoid the stilettos – they’ll just sink in the grass.
Multiple Weddings? Rewear Or Rent
Don’t give in to the temptation to buy a brand new outfit for every wedding on your calendar. The best wedding guest is a proud outfit repeater – not a ‘one and done’ kind of girl – or someone who will happily borrow their outfit for the day, either from a friend or a high fashion rental platform.
Spring Wedding Guest FAQ
Can You Wear Black To A Spring Wedding?
While spring is more commonly associated with soft pastels and sugary tones, it’s not uncommon for people to wear black to weddings throughout the season – especially for guests only attending evening celebrations.
What Are The Colours To Avoid?
As long as you don’t match the bride in white, or clash with the bridesmaids, you’re fine to wear any colour.
Can You Wear Trousers?
Not a dress fan? Don’t worry. A lightweight suit or trousers and top combo are perfect choices for guests to a spring wedding. And there are plenty of fresh colours – not just the usual black, grey and navy – that you can wear for the season: pastel pink, soft mint, or even a playful floral print.
What Shoes Should You Wear?
As we’ve already mentioned, practical shoes are a must for any wedding – especially in spring. Keep in mind the venue – gravel in your sandals isn’t fun, nor is a stiletto wedged in the mud – and make sure your feet stay comfortable.
