There will be times when finding a suitable and exciting wedding guest outfit can feel Everest-level challenging. A look that complements the venue, mood, bride and the many itinerary-related obstacles that get thrown one's way is difficult enough, but when you've also got an ever-changing diary and event dates shifting faster than you can say "Pass me the Prosecco," things get even harder. Last-minute weddings are springing up all over the place, and invitees need to be prepared.
What I want to tell you is this: You've got this. No, literally—you've already got the clothes for this. Whether you've got 24 hours or 24 days to prep, odds are your wardrobe already contains a handful of tried-and-tested wedding guest outfit options you can lean on. And it's not like this year has provided many opportunities for other people to see your best clothes, so there's even more reason to shop from your own closet and feel inspired all over again. I've had a long, hard think about those classic combinations that work for all kinds of weddings—city or countryside, abroad or down the local pub—and a few stood out. So if you haven't already dabbled in renting your latest wedding guest ensemble or snapped up a gorgeous dress, I'd suggest having a root around to see if any of these four last-minute wedding guest outfits are hiding in plain sight. Oh, and I've added shopping options just in case because you never know when the mood might strike.
1. STATEMENT CO-ORDS
Style Notes: Pajamas have been trending for about four or five years now, so it's very likely you'll have a fancy pair lurking somewhere. Add earrings, heels, some makeup, and you'll be far, far away from bedtime attire!
Style Notes: Perhaps you already own a matching set that is more tailored and formfitting. In that case, they're great for weddings too. I like the addition of a chain belt and mismatched accessories for extra pizzazz (and less pressure to be perfectly matched).
2. COLOUR-MATCH DRESS AND HEELS
Style Notes: Tale as old as time: Cute floral dress + heels that highlight a hue in said dress = win!
Style Notes: You don't have to go for a printed dress, though. A plain style with tonal shoes will look chic and understated.
3. NICE TOP, NICE SKIRT
Style Notes: Co-ords extend to skirt-and-top combinations, too. And although these examples here are matchy-matchy, you could easily wear a fancy skirt with a more casual top and jewellery. This tiered one would look very Jenna Lyons with a white T-shirt.
Style Notes: You'll get extra formalwear brownie points if you can add a little satin into the mix—that fabric just says party.
4. SLIP DRESS + SANDALS
Style Notes: There's something so elegant and subtle about slip dresses, and they do look great with very minimal styling.
Style Notes: If you want to add personality, try wearing unusual heels and carrying a quirky bag.
Next up, our 2021 bridal report.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
These 30 Pretty Gowns Are Just Begging to Be Worn to a Fall WeddingPrepare to be the best dressed guest.
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
