The warm weather, the flowers in bloom—it’s no wonder so many couples decide to get married in the springtime. While those events that postponed from 2020 t0 2021 fill the calendar and new celebrations tiptoe back into your timeline, we’re looking forward to shopping for social events once again. Whether it’s an elegant garden party or an intimate black-tie affair, this is all the outfit inspiration you’ll need for every ceremony and reception on your radar.
When shopping, keep your various weddings in mind to maximize the looks you’ll get out of each piece; splurge on things like shoes, which will transition easily to next season’s wedding circuit. Here, our favorite ensembles to land you the title of best dressed guest on this spring’s (small) wedding circuit.
Destination Dreaming
We may not be able to travel at the moment, but a girl can dream. Get creative and use your would-be setting as inspiration for prints, silhouettes, and your look’s color palette. Take bold, tropical tones, prints, and embellishments to the next level with eclectic accessories.
Garden Party
You can’t go wrong with soft colors and romantic prints at celebrations that take place outdoors. Pastel blue feels right for outdoor, pre-summer parties; come July, you’ll likely want to sport your best brights. Opt for romantic silhouettes for a Secret Garden-inspired look; think puff sleeves, empire waists, and feminine details.
Beach by Night
Weddings will be almost entirely outdoors this spring, and you’ll likely find yourself getting invited to formal and black tie affairs—on the beach. Opt for a long dress with a graphic print, like this silk georgette embroidered beauty, and pair it with elegant add-ons that feel apropos for the evening, but could suit a daytime look as well.
Sunset Soirée
If you’re aiming for a look with this strong a point of view, channel the ’70s for a more free-spirited vibe, especially if femme florals and girly pastels aren’t your thing. Colorful prints feel right for warm weather, but velvet and unexpected extras all drive home a playful vibe that’s more sultry and statement than overly sweet.
À La Rose
For the modern romantic, lean in to rosy hues. Channel Victorian vibes, with an ample dose of girly glam. Complement rich textures, like this brocade corset dress, with luxe accessories, like these metallic, satin, and suede options. For midi hems, opt for a sexy pair of strappy or pointed-toe shoes that will elongate your legs—and strike the balance of elegance and edge.
Down-to-Earth Disco
We likely won’t be dancing until the wee hours in big groups come spring, but that doesn’t mean your look shouldn’t feel festive. Shiny metallics feel celebratory year round–not just on New Year’s Eve. Shimmering lame, chainmail-mesh, and crystal embellishments are inherently evening (and a little Studio 54) even without a hemline that grazes the floor.
Bring On the Black Tie
Level up a black gown with cutout details, crystal embellishments, and oversized sleeves. This is for the wedding guest who wants to own the spotlight, second to the bride of course. Punctuate the look with glamorous extras that aren’t too statement in size; dainty accessories will keep this look sleek and modern, rather than super-glam.
Coastal Cocktails
As per Pantone and the Spring 2021 collections, the color of the moment is a vibrant yellow, paired with neutral gray tones. Follow suit, but in your own way. Soft yellow gets a little more luxe when paired with pearlescent neutrals—they have a dreamy quality that evokes a bohemian whimsy, while still feeling sleek and sophisticated.
LDB Redux
You can’t go wrong with a LBD—but after months indoors, this isn’t the time to look, dress, or feel basic. Find a little black dress that feels of the moment, and undoubtedly you. Pair prints and girly details together, but avoid your accessories looking too matchy-matchy. Stay away from jewelry sets and shoes and bags from the same collection
Modern Metallics
Sparkle and shine doesn’t always have to feel overtly glam. For a city affair, or one at a modern, industrial, or gallery-type venue, consider a look with clean lines, but loads of shine. Glitz, glamour, and unique accessories in every shade of metallic feel instantly party-ready—but clean lines and shapes make an otherwise over-the-top look extra modern.
Sweet Suiting
Yes, you can wear a tux—but, rather than basic black, mix it up. Come the warm weather months, go bold. Channel the love in the air with bright shades of blush, but don’t let the styling of your head-to-toe look get too sweet. Ground the look with a kitten heel for a low-key, of-the-moment feel
