What to wear to a wedding…

Wedding season is amongst us and believe me it is quite busy according to Linda Lacek master seamstress and private designer @ Anne Gregory in Mt. Lebanon, PA. “People are getting married and spending on the dress, but cutting costs-more women are going to Haute Couture Designs since there are no alteration charges-the dress is made to fit, Veils are plainer or not worn at all, Jewelry and Flowers are being used instead for the Hair. Shoe cost has also been a big expense in the past however, this current season women are going into stores and discounter websites like Zappos.com, and their saving $200 on a pair of Jimmy Choo’s and finding some good deals!”

So, Mrs. Lacek, what are the ladies doing with their wedding gowns after the big day now? “They are bringing them to me personally to get it cut down either for their family/friend to wear as a cocktail dress or one for themselves, this way the dress has versatility and can be worn again.”Now thats a cool idea!

Given our recent tough economic times weddings are everywhere and @ every type of venue. Check out the style of Venue’s where your next wedding may be held and hopefully this will help you decide on what to wear and what not to wear.

Country Club -Private Residence-Ballroom-Theaters/Performance Venues

Black Tie/After 5 Cocktail Wear: 

Ladies: Not business attire, not a sundress and NO oversized handbag with your entire toiletries and make up. Short dresses and evening seperates are acceptable here (Not for Black Tie Invite).

"Ladies should be wearing a dress-not pants" says Linda Lacek ”Sometimes people just don’t know what is appropriate anymore”.

Longer dresses are more luxurious and appreciated for a Black Tie Invite.

Guys: Khakis and Dress Slacks are a DON’T! Tuxedo (for Black Tie Invite) or Dark Suit & a conservative tie and white button down; a button-down of color is acceptable such as blue-BUT KEEP IT FORMAL and shine your shoes.

**In trendier cities like New York and Los Angeles Balck Tie may mean All Black-Shirt, Tie and Pants! See your invitation for details.

White Tie Affair:

Ladies: Long Gown

Guys: All white Tux/Suit with white vest and shirt and shoes too!

Outdoor Wedding: Park, Garden

Ladies:  Dress and simple shoes, a wrap for the church and can be taken off after dinner.

Guys: Sport coat to the church then take off for dinner reception

Destination Wedding

Afternoon:

Ladies: Summery dress

Guys: Shorts can be worn if on the beach,shirts should be in linen-or a lightweight cotton

Evening:

Ladies: Light weight dress w/shaw, pashmina or a light scarf. Leave the beading and rhinestones for the more Formal weddings.

Guys: Formal but light; linen suit is fine with loafers.

Restaurant

These tend to be very small usually for second marriages, family and or close friends, check the invitation to see what the restaurant recommended attire is.

Fire Hall/Social Hall

These weddings tend to accompany all classes. This is where it is OK to be casual, however don't wear:

• Jeans
• Shorts
• Sandals/Flip-Flops
• T-Shirt

 Have a great time at your upcoming wedding!

Happy Holidays Everyone! 

Dont' know what to wear for you holiday party and want to stay under a great budget? 

Check out these links and sites for great Holiday attire! 

Ladies:

Time Out NY

Marie Claire

Gentleman:

Esquire