kate spade's summer wedding style guide
what to wear to a summer wedding? it all depends on the dress code...
the casual wedding
shorts and a tee are off the list but all summer dresses—minis, midis, maxis, a classic a-line or sheath dress —are fair game with the right accessories, of course. for outdoor weddings, we love a flowy, fluid dress of the short sleeve or strapless dress variety. it will help you keep cool and comfortable through the ceremony and on the dance floor. solid dresses can have just as much impact as printed ones. we’re really loving neutrals punctuated with brights, like warm caramel and hibiscus pink or nearly nude with juicy orange. and when it comes to timeless prints, a couple of our go-tos are graphic stripes and whimsical florals —you simply can’t go wrong. since casual means any dress goes, your finishing touches should be extra considered. statement earrings dress up everything and pretty understated pieces like a delicate pendant or cuff can quietly tie it all together. choose your shoes wisely, too (read: stilettos are no match for a lawn party). chunky platforms are fancy and casual and comfortable and feminine flats can elevate an everyday mini dress.
the fancy formal wedding
the words formal and black tie can be intimidating, but really, the possibilities are still endless. and most importantly, you can absolutely create a look that is true to your sense of style. if the wedding takes place during the day, it’s best to keep the colours light or bright and the fabric lightweight and airy. if you’re attending an evening ceremony, it’s appropriate to wear darker colours like a black or navy dress. these also make for an ideal base to layer with statement jewellery like a collar necklace or dangly earrings. for something with more texture or personality, a lace dress or a jewel-toned floral print is eye-catching and won’t require a lot of jewellery. avoid shorter lengths and consider a floor-length or cocktail dress that comes to the knee or mid-calf. leaving a little to the imagination is just as sexy as a little black dress. try something with a side slit or open back if you’d like to show a little bit of skin (and stay cool in the heat.) accessorize with strappy heels or flats and complete your look with an elegant clutch or pretty chain wallet. (a crossbody won't do for formal affairs). it’s pretty hard to overdress for a formal event, so go all out. how often do you really get to dress up?
the beach wedding
receiving an invite to a beach or destination wedding is always exciting…until you check the weather app and realize there will be a high of 37° and 100% humidity. a breezy linen or cotton dress, or a silky skirt skirt paired with a dressy top are smart and sophisticated ways to beat the heat. minis, midis and maxis are all appropriate lengths, and sleeveless or strapless silhouettes are good for keeping cool. for a solid look, stick with dresses in pastels or brights. beach weddings are also an opportunity to try playful prints, so feel free to wear anything from a classic floral to something as unique as a parrot pattern. if you’re wearing a simpler dress, experiment with statement earrings to add a bold touch; but try and stick with delicate necklaces and bracelets to avoid the risk of unusual tan lines. chances are, you’ll be spending time on sand. stay comfortable in flats or strappy sandals, and if you must wear heels, wedges will be your safest bet. if the sun is really strong, it’s completely appropriate to throw on a sophisticated straw sunhat. but the number one must-have accessory on our list: sunscreen. (because a sunburn is never stylish.)
