Spring and Summer Wedding Styles

Today is the first day of summer, and what better topic to present then one about seasonal styles for your wedding guests. When hosting a summer wedding, especially outdoors, it's important to consider your guests and ways to make them comfortable. Choosing the attire for your wedding, such as formal, semi-formal, casual, (and possibly mentioning it in the invitation) will allow your guests to gauge what's most appropriate to wear for your wedding festivities.


Today we're featuring an article that discusses the current spring and summer styles that are not only weather appropriate for your guests, but also a great source for chic bridesmaids dresses as well.


Written By: Shannon McCarthy via MSN.com


These warmer months are the most popular time of the year to tie the knot, and with an average of 7,000 couples marrying each day in this country, odds are you're going to be invited to a wedding. We'll help you navigate those nuptials in style.

Photos by:

Alvina Valenta, Jim Hjelm Occasions, Kathy Ireland Weddings by 2be, Liz Fields, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Formal: Glam Gatherings

A formal wedding is by definition a swanky affair, so bring out all the glam you can. The only rule? Don't wear white as that's solely the bride's domain. Consider long, streamlined sheath dresses in matte metallics, or a universally flattering jewel hue like ruby or sapphire blue. Soft column gowns in gossamer silk, especially those with a bit of ruching at the bodice or a jewel-trimmed neckline, look especially divine by candlelight at the reception. Hem length is best worn long, just floating above the floor. If you prefer it higher (perhaps a hem that hits mid-calf) be sure the outfit is extra luxe, like a glowing taffeta skirt and fancy jacket combo or an all-over lace fit-and-flare dress. 

Deck yourself out in a few sparkling baubles. Bold jewelry happens to be very in right now, so there's lots of super-sized cocktail rings, breathtaking pendants and chunky, large-stone necklaces to choose from. A red-carpet-worthy minaudiere is the perfect purse choice, but an oversize envelope clutch in metallic leather or gleaming satin works beautifully, too. Footwear should follow form and bedazzle. Closed-toe pumps and slingbacks can sport either skinny stilettos or easy-dancing mid-height heels and be perfectly proper. Only wear flats? Make sure they're saturated with faux-gemstone embellishment to continue your luxurious line. 

Photos by:

Ashley Dru Wedding & Portrait Photography, Belle Meade Plantation, Bridesmaid Trade.com, Kathy Ireland Weddings by 2be, Siri Bridesmaids, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Semi-Formal: Perfect Parties

Semi-formal weddings hit the sweet spot between fancy and relaxed, so there's lots of gorgeous and really wearable outfit choices to choose from. Aim for a pretty and put-together look, but save darker colors for cooler-weather nuptials. Of-the-moment floral prints and lighter, brighter colors are seasonably fresh—just avoid cartoony designs or loud neon hues. Go higher on the hemline with knee-length fit-and-flare or sheath dresses in refined and substantial fabrics like silk charmeuse, metallic brocade or heavier-weight rayon blends. Or try the ease of a body-skimming maxi dress, but steer clear of too-casual cotton and go for sophisticated silk in a solid color

Glitz is still welcomed at semi-formal ceremonies, but it's better to express that through accessories instead of too-glam gowns. Long fringe earrings and lengthy draped necklaces are both gorgeous and trend-right, while chain-handle mini bags are portable yet pack a lot of style. Satin scarves cover bare shoulders and décolleté if need be, say, during a church service. High slender heels are flattering, but consider a pair of reptile-embossed or bejeweled flats for those hours of celebratory booty shaking on the dance floor. Still like a lift? Dressy platform and wedge sandals provide height without fright.

Photos by:

Jenny Yoo Collection-Los Angeles, Jim Hjelm Occasions, Siri Bridesmaids, Sophia Tolli , The Dessy Group

Outdoor and Destination: Sunny Ceremonies

Bare and beautiful are the major style points to hit when attending a vow-taking outdoors. For those invites that mention a garden, backyard or beach, consider a cool halter-strap maxi dress or knee-length frock in a breathable fabric like cotton sateen, crisp linen or our favorite warm-weather pick; a linen-silk blend. Now's the time to indulge in all the big, bright prints and colors so popular this season—sleeveless and strapless sheaths and shifts look extra modern when they sport slightly retro floral fields. Comfy sundresses can even be wedding-appropriate if they're made of silk-cotton blends, cotton broadcloth or other materials more refined than, say, lightweight jersey or velour.

Add an extra hit of embellishment to your more casual dresses with the right accessories. Take your jewelry inspiration from the natural surroundings and sport turquoise-rich cuff bracelets or wood bangles, rough-hewn necklaces and pearl-happy earrings. Straw clutches are hot this year, so carry one of these little natural wonders. Your shoes should take into account what's underfoot. High spiky heels may not be ideal—consider shell- or floral-bedecked flats or demi-wedges for easier walking. If you need a height boost, strap into a totally trendy espadrille wedge sandal. 

**We love all these summer styles, from the patterns to the fashionable details. Are you going to be a bridesmaid or guests at a summer wedding? How will you sport these summer fashions?


                           Love,
                              The Emily Weddings Team