Wedding Wear That WORKS
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For many of us, the month of June means one thing: wedding season! With every RSVP comes the nagging question of what to wear. If you’re like me, you want to look drop-dead gorgeous at each one. After all, weddings are often mini-reunions where we mingle with people we haven’t seen in years. But if (also like me) you’re tired of buying beautiful dresses that just don’t work in your regular life, here’s a guide to help you find frocks that pull double duty—taking you from desk to dance floor.
Say “sayonara” to shine.
While a shimmery satin dress might be perfect for a wedding, it just won’t fly at work. Wear one to the office, and you risk looking like the “walk of shame” girl. We’ve all seen her—she’s the one sporting an evening gown and raccoon eyes while trying to hail a cab at noon. Some things just don’t translate well into day—and this is one of them. Instead, search for matte fabrics in summery, sorbet hues, like this Seaside Village Print Strappy Halter Dress by Plenty ($205).
Tip: Pair this dress with a shrunken cardigan to give it a less bare feel for work. Want to take it a step further? Button up the cardigan completely to create the illusion of separates.
Wrap it up.
If there’s a reason why Diane von Furstenberg is such an icon, it’s that her signature wrap dresses flatter almost everyone—and can take you from staff meeting to soiree in style. But avoid the basic knit: It’s just not special enough for a wedding (unless it’s an über-casual garden party). Instead, look for one in a more up-to-the-minute fabric, like eyelet. Try Diane von Furstenberg’s Eyelet Wrap Dress ($465).
Tip: To make a feminine fabric like eyelet seem sophisticated enough for the office, choose a classic, understated shoe like a ballet flat. The contrast will give it a modern, unfussy edge.
Let the sun shine in.
Whether or not a sundress is appropriate for the workplace comes down to how much skin (read décolletage) is on display. Choosing one with a less revealing neckline means it won’t mentally register as “sundress” to co-workers. Look for bold colors and graphic patterns like the au courant, oversize polka dots on Marc by Marc Jacobs Mairead Dot Lawn Dress ($298).
Tip: If your office is a bit more formal, adding a trendy, three-quarter-sleeve jacket will up the polish without sacrificing an ounce of hipness.
Something old.
For the most bang for your buck, look for a dress with vintage details. Vintage equals timeless, which means it’s not going to be over next season. But use restraint; avoid going vintage from head to toe, which can look costumey. Not a fan of oldies but goodies? Never mind, lots of designers get their inspiration from the past, so you can buy new and still get the vintage vibe with this Foley for Foley & Corinna Mock Neck Bib Dress ($366; shopbop.com).
Tip: Since vintage can equal girly, chose edgier, chunkier jewelry when adapting this look for work. If you want your boss to take you seriously, the last thing you need is to look like you’re dressed for a tea party!