It’s officially wedding season…traditionally speaking.

Along with the inevitable question ahead: “What do I wear?”

If you’re like me, you’ve already attended some this year with a few more to go and since social media and group pictures are constantly swirling around, re-wears are not really an option. So let’s consider a couple of important factors on their big day: venue and dress code. This may mean a beach, resort or more formal affair; attire may be black tie, formal or completely casual. So what is on the wedding style menu this season? Let me decipher the pending dress codes a bit and let you pick from there. Side note: unless white is requested it’s a no-go!

Black tie? Think: evening on the red carpet. An elegant gown paired with your stunning accessories and heels will do just fine.

Formal to me usually means a floor-length dress or cocktail-length in a timeless hue. It’s best to keep the fit sleek and non-distracting.

Casual does not mean denim, but rather outdoors. Therefore, a light and romantic colored dress or floral print with a classic wedge would be a perfect match here.

I am sharing 5 of my favorite trends I like to shop and rent wedding guest dresses from. Oh definitely, renting is amazing (cost-effective) for this type of occasion and you do not have to worry about re-wears.

FLORALS

Weddings are so romantic; a celebration of love, family and friends! I love pretty floral dresses. Think: floral floor length dresses with ruffles, as pictured from Amur. Amur is one of my favorite brands lately (click here) because their brand is both luxurious and sustainably made. Check them out because you are bound to find something you love.

BOWS

I’ve always envisioned having an oversized bow on my wedding dress which is why I love wearing them now. Do take note, it’s a wedding so you should not overshadow the bride with Chanel haute couture. But a tasteful bow, as pictured here from Alexia Maria, should do the trick. It’s romantic. It’s feminine.

EMBROIDERY

Monique Lhuillier just released the most beautiful collection of dresses with intricate embroidery. Her designs show an appreciation for luxury that can be whimsical and playful “a celebration of excess.” I especially adore her Ready to Wear line because it’s affordable and fun. Her dresses have become a statement piece in my wardrobe and are always worth keeping for that next special occasion.

RENTALS

Gasp, sounds dirty? Except it’s amazing. Rent the Runway has a dress for every type of dress code. It carries some of my favorite contemporary designers like Marchesa and Jill Stuart along with their latest styles! A total win in my book.

But what if you want to take things up a notch? (Because you’ve been invited to a Royal Wedding or you just feel like wearing something special). Armarium is a luxury on loan service, similar to Rent the Runway, except they carry the most coveted and rare runway pieces. Think: Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Johanna Ortiz, etc. I joined the Armi tribe last year and haven’t looked back.

VINTAGE

Reuse, recycle, re-buy designer. I cannot stress this enough, vintage is where it’s at if you’re looking for a dress no one will have! I mean, sort of. The likelihood of someone wearing the same vintage Pucci dress to that south of France wedding is rare. Don’t be afraid to shop for vintage on The Real Real, eBay and Etsy. Sure, the dress won’t fit perfectly but spending that extra $20 to get it tailored to fit your body will make it worth it once everyone asks, “where did you find that dress?” and your answer is, “let me tell you story behind it… it’s vintage.”

Xo, Stephanie

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Dress: (c/o) Amur 

Earrings: Jennifer Behr

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