After ooo-ing and ahh-ing over the fashion at the Royal Wedding, you may feel inspired to take your look up a notch during the wedding circuit you’re bound to do this spring. While it’s important to look good at a wedding (single groomsmen anyone?), you also want to look appropriate for the occasion and not take attention away from the bride with a wacky or ostentatious get up (which apparently the British don’t have a problem with).
Take a hint from the Brit’s and try out these new formalwear trends without going overboard.
Hats
Covering your head in a church used to be a rule. Now British socialites use hats to make outrageous fashion statements. You can also be inspired by Philip Treacy’s millinery masterpieces without blocking the view of the people sitting all around you.
Rather than wearing a full on church lady hat, go for a mini clip in headband with tiny feather and fabric details on it, also known as a fascinator. Make sure you’re committed to a hairstyle that will work with the hat (either low and pulled back, or down).
Top off your look with Oh Dina!’s Straw Braided Judith Fascinator. Available at boutiques around Canada listed at ohdina.com.
Gloves
Nothing says formal like gloves. Rather than getting full length satin ones that will make you look ready for a cotillion, consider shorter ones fit for a garden tea party. Try to avoid pure white ones or you may end up looking like a butler or Mickey Mouse. And yes, you can do them with no sleeves or a short-sleeve cardigan.
Try BHLDN’s Unabashedly Gloves in Ivory, $60. Available at bhldn.com.
Cover-up
Please avoid any and all strapless cocktail dresses at a more formal occasion. We all know what’s going to happen after a few drinks when “YMCA” comes on.
If the ceremony is in a proper church consider a dress that covers up most of your chest. Sheath dresses come in a variety of colours and styles and can really go with anything. Plus they look great when they fit your body in the right way. Whatever you choose make sure you cover up your arms and shoulders for the ceremony using a shrug, bolero, or cardigan. If it’s really traditional go for a full on fitted blazer.
Cover up your shoulders with Banana Republic’s Lace Trim Pointelle Cardigan in Nile Clay, $110. Available at Banana Republic.
Tiny Purses
If you lug a huge hobo to a wedding guests will probably wonder if you’re stuffing food into it. You only need a small, dainty purse, clutch or wristlet. Pack a bit of make-up, some tissue (for the tears) and Band-Aids (in case your sky-high, Victoria Beckham-inspired heels start to hurt).
Oversized envelope clutches are very in this season but consider a clutch in a classic shape for a more formal look.
Check out Coach’s Natalia Hula Straw Clutch, $228. Available at Coach.
