by Kim Wadsworth
Engaged couples are getting creative with their dress codes, and that is a good thing. But the terminology can be confusing: “Dressy casual,” “beach formal,” “creative cocktail” and “black tie optional” can put guests into a sartorial tailspin.
As styles change, so too does the rulebook for what to wear. Luckily there are plenty of clues to guide people through any event.
The venue location, time of day and season are your first cues. A daytime beach ceremony in summer, for example, means an airy dress with wedge or flat sandals (hat for shade is optional) for her, and a pressed shirt, belted trouser and optional blazer for him.
styling by Kim Wadsworth
Springtime garden weddings invite floral prints on brightly colored frocks with a square-heel shoe (stilettos tend to aerate the lawn). For him, adding a tie looks sharp and finished.
But remember, the time makes a difference. Ceremonies before 6 p.m. call for cocktail attire for her and a dark formal suit and tie for him. Weddings from 6 on are considered black-tie and require a tuxedo for him and a floor-length gown or dressy cocktail dress for her.
If the invitation states “black tie optional,” a tuxedo or dark suit is appropriate for him; an evening gown or dramatic embellished dress works for her.
Still feeling style-challenged? Reach out and ask the bride about colors, styles and vibe of the day. When in doubt, always dress up. And ladies, never wear all white.
styling by Kim Wadsworth
Sport coat, $595, by TailoRed. Trousers, $295, from 6 East by Ballin. Chambray shirt, $145, by Ledbury. Necktie, $155, by Seaward & Stearn. Belt, $97.50, by Martin Dingman. Pocket square, $65, by Robert Jensen. Socks, $29.50, by Pantherella. Shoes, $195, Seaton by H.S. Trask. All from The Quality Shops. Coral print dress, $125, by EsQualo. Gold hoops, $28, and petal necklace, $125. Embroidered shawl, $81.50, by Frank Lyman. Straw clutch, $61, by Vilagallo. Floral sandal, $199.50, by Cecelia. All from Dressology.
Black and white dress, $695, by Chiara Boni. Jacket, $695, by Suprema. Pearl sandal, $495, by Stuart Weitzman. Blister pearl lariat, $395, by Mela. Pearl earrings, $98, by SuzyT. All from Frances Kahn. Evening gown with statement jewel collar, $365, by Cameron Blake. Sheer jacket, $174, by Lyman. Shapewear, $71, by Body Hush. Metallic clutch, $110, Sondra Roberts. Pewter earrings, $52. Sandals, $155, by Pelle Moda. All from Dressology.
DRESSOLOGY
Hilltop East, 1556 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach. 757.428.0900.
FRANCES KAHN
Hilltop East, 1544 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach. 757.491.5000.
6229-B River Road
Richmond. 804.288.5246.
THE QUALITY SHOPS
Hilltop East, 1544 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach. 757.428.8615.
The Palace Shops, 306 W. 21st St.
Norfolk. 757.627.6073.
