Everybody loves a wedding — until it’s time to choose what to wear.
How formal is “formal”? How much do you dress up for an afternoon wedding? What do you wear to a destination wedding like the one taking place on the “Today” show this fall?
So many questions!
No worries — we have many answers for you right here in this special edition of our weekly fashion and beauty update.
Sunbelt chic If, like the guests at the “Today” show’s destination wedding this fall, you are attending nuptials in a warm-weather zone, bright-colored, bare and beautiful is the way to go! Because this kind of look can do double duty in your wardrobe, there’s a great opportunity to tap into your favorite trends of the season. Right now, solid colors are hot, hot, hot. Go for any shade of green (especially juicy apple green), the shimmering turquoise and azure blues of the sea and sky, or rich, ripe shades of fuchsia or red. Bare your shoulders with trendy strapless styles or spaghetti straps, then go for a modern knee-length or the edgy look of a fluttering asymmetrical hemline.
When traveling to a warm-weather destination wedding, choose a dress that is comfortable and wrinkle-free. Look for a touch of Lycra or a fabric such as matte jersey.
Don’t limit your search to the eveningwear racks. This season, even some daytime suits are likely to be bejeweled or trimmed with embroidery or fur. To dress up a solid-colored classic suit, add a fur collar or stole with a satin-tied ribbon — and voila! — you’re an instant trendsetter. (For more details, see “afternoon delight” item, below).
Trend Tip: This season, brooches are THE must-have accessory. Wear them traditionally — on the top right side of a gown — or more daringly, pinned on a waistband or in another unexpected place. The trendiest look? A cluster of three brooches (but don’t make them too matchy-matchy).
Trend Tip: Not a fur fan? No worries. There are plenty of lovely faux-fur variations. For the most versatility, opt for an abbreviated wrap that can also double over the collar of a coat.
Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more, you can visit her Web site, , which highlights style trends in America.
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