Recently in Weddings Category

Q. I have a lovely red satin dress that I would like to wear to a wedding but I am a little worried because everything I read says not to wear a red dress to a wedding…is this still true? Or is it an outdated taboo? I plan on wearing silver strappy shoes…but I am not sure how to do my makeup?

A. There are many who believe that wearing black (too funereal) or wearing red (too attention grabbing) to a wedding are big faux pas. I, however, am not one of them. To me, a little black dress is eternally chic, whether worn to a wedding or any other affair. As for red, in most cases it should be fine, provided it’s not too lowcut or too sexy. The idea is not to steal the attention from the bride, so a super sexy and revealing dress in red (or any other bright color for that matter) is not appropriate. If your dress, accessories and behavior are tasteful, there should be no issue with the color of the dress.

To address the second part of your question: yes to silver strappy heels. Your makeup and hair should be simple and sophisticated in colors that work for your complexion.

Here are three gorgeous red dresses to wear to a wedding or other dressy affair:

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Cutaway Crepe Dress $152 at nordstrom.com

Anne Klein Dress Stretch Satin Sheath Dress $178 at nordstrom.com

Maggy London Beaded Silk Chiffon Dress $158 at nordstrom.com

Q. Bare legs or hosiery at a black tie optional wedding? I’m wearing a simple black dress with a lovely shawl. Also, I have a beautiful pair of patent leather pumps with a peep toe but think maybe I should wear a closed toe shoe? Thanks for your advice.

A. Feel free to skip the hosiery for your black tie optional affair if you feel more comfortable. As for shoes, peep toes are also acceptable, just be sure to have an immaculate pedicure.

Q. I’m getting married in August and I’m going to have a Church Ceremony. My mom is basically MAKING ME wear closed toe shoes because according to her strappy sandals are inappropriate for a Church Ceremony. Is that true???? I really wanted to wear strappy sandals instead of big clunky shoes! I need help convincing my mom. She will listen to you!

A. Strappy sandals are acceptable for most modern church ceremonies. If you belong to an ultra conservative church, or just want to please your mother, you can wear a closed toe shoe for the ceremony and then switch to a more fashionable strappy shoe for the reception.

Q. I have a dilemma. I am going to a wedding in August and need something to wear! What is appropriate? The ceremony is on a Saturday at 1pm with the reception to follow…Help! Oh, just to let you know, I am 5’6” and a little chubby. Any suggestions?

A. Since there’s no indication of dress code, it’s always safer to dress up rather than dress down. For a summer daytime wedding, opt for a dress in a pretty color or print with a hemline ranging from a minidress to a maxidress. Here are some figure flattering suggestions:


1. Phoebe Couture Bead Chiffon Dress, $248 at nordstrom.com
2. Donna Ricco Sleeveless Double V-Neck Dress , $158 at nordstrom.com
3. Adrianna Papell Bead Chiffon Party Dress , $198 at nordstrom.com
4. Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Print Stretch Charmeuse Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
5. Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Gathered Matte Jersey Dress, $128 at nordstrom.com

Q. I am attending a Black Tie Wedding this weekend. I purchased a black halter style gown. My question is …Do I wear a necklace? What type of jewelry would go with the dress?

A. Generally, you should not wear a necklace with a halter style dress. Instead, go for dramatic earrings and a cuff bracelet or cocktail ring.