Wedding: the stylish guest's guide

Do you have a huge color block? Can't find a piece to your liking in the imposed shade? As we told you with David in our Twitch live on wedding guest outfits ( which you can find the replay here ), the idea is not to feel uncomfortable or stressed about making a mistake. And it is also entirely possible to get around a color theme with subtlety.

For example: The wedding theme is “pistachio color,” but you REALLY can’t see it? Stay away from the total pistachio green look – forget the dress, jumpsuit, extravagant hat or coat.

Take the opposite approach with an outfit composed of neutral shades like beige and browns , and focus on a central piece that fits the theme: a blouse under a suit, a handbag, a scarf around the neck, well-cut pants...

THEMES RELATED TO ATMOSPHERES

Folk, vintage, minimalist, rock, chic, rustic… It gets a little complicated, but in truth, it’s not that complicated . So yes, sometimes, the bride and groom are not very precise in what they expect. If this is the case, simply don’t hesitate to ask them what they have in mind or if they have visuals of the atmosphere that will need to be stuck to.

Pinterest is also a great place to find outfit ideas based on themes - especially the ever-popular "boho chic" . The magic formula for sticking to this aesthetic? A long dress in soft or natural shades (nude, beige, pale pink, blush, brown, rust...), floral prints, and gold accessories. Bonus points for the feather hat or flower crown à la Lana Del Rey circa 2014.

When in doubt, regardless of the theme, opt for a basic outfit, such as a solid-color dress with a timeless design , and go all out with accessories. Is the theme retro? Mix it with a vintage-style bag, a scarf, and baby shoes. Did the bride and groom organize a rock party? Wear it with a perfecto. Is the atmosphere rustic? Get out your prettiest boater and a basket.

Above all, remember that this is a wedding, not Halloween or carnival . The idea here is not to dress up, but rather to be in harmony with the general atmosphere.

2 - THE COINS TO BET ON

You've checked the weather. You've researched the venue, the dress code and the possible theme. Now it's time to get down to business: the basis of your look . While men are quite limited in terms of options and will naturally turn to suits, women's wardrobes offer more freedom. But with too much choice, we sometimes end up getting lost. Here is the " holy trinity " of reliable pieces to bet on for a wedding .

THE DRESSES

When in doubt, don't complicate things and focus on the dress. For a wedding, it is to the women's wardrobe what the suit is to the men's wardrobe: an obvious, easy option that works every time .

In terms of materials, as we advised you in our guide to basics for women , avoid polyester as much as possible, which makes you sweat. Instead, opt for viscose , which is fluid and requires little maintenance, or cotton (extra points if it's organic). You can allow yourself a little elastane for comfort, but if possible no more than 5%. The best thing? Make it silk, of course!

When looking for the perfect dress, we also recommend that you focus on:

• lace, especially in detail on sleeves or a Peter Pan collar for a romantic touch
• satin materials, for a bright and festive look
• silk or cotton muslin, for an airy and light dress with a nice drape

And for the cut, it's up to you to choose between the three options available to you:

> MINI

The mini dress, aka the shortest of dresses, is totally wearable at a wedding as long as you are comfortable enough in this type of cut . Gone are the days when a dress well above the knee was considered inappropriate or vulgar (and that's a good thing). The main thing is to choose a dress with nice volumes and in a good quality material: a satin slip dress, a ruffled wrap mini dress...

A model that works every time? The ultra short version but with long sleeves . Here, a pretty dress in a fuchsia pink shade, with beautiful details (buttons, smocked balloon sleeves, etc.).

A word of caution: if a length well above the knee is ok, make sure that the wedding dress code allows it . If it is “Black Tie”, it calls for a rather formal outfit, with a long gala dress.

What shoes to wear with a very, very short dress? Heels are definitely not to be avoided: once again, it depends on how much you like to show off your legs. A pair of heeled sandals or strappy pumps are safe bets .

Flats are also a good option, especially for those who like a more discreet look or comfort above all else. Opt for a pair of derbies, oxfords, flat sandals, leather loafers or slingbacks.

> MIDI

It's the ideal length and not a headache. The one that suits everyone, tall and short. The midi dress is the one that comes below the knees. Neither too long nor too short, it is flattering for all body types . We especially like it as a wrap or a crossover, to wear with heels to lengthen the silhouette.

> MAXI

The long dress is the one to turn to if you want to combine comfort and elegance, without taking a big risk .

Maxi length has a bad reputation: it is often accused of being “squeezing”, of not suiting women who are too short… but think again! The unflattering model for the figure is the one without a real cut that will “blur” the body and give an unharmonious appearance.

A dress with an empire cut or a marked waist (by a belt, a smock or a bow) elongates the silhouette - even more so if worn with high heels and tied hair. Below, the "Jasen" model from the Reformation brand, with or without prints, available in a wide range of sizes, from 32 to 56.

WHERE TO FIND THE PERFECT PIECE?

Some big fast-fashion brands, like ASOS, have a section dedicated to bridesmaid and wedding guest dresses. Let's be honest: in terms of design, there are some very pretty pieces - and the fairly low prices quickly make you want to buy. However, since the country of manufacture is rarely indicated on the product sheets, we suspect that the dresses in question were not made in ideal conditions. And in terms of composition, polyester is the majority. In short, the items offered are often of very poor quality, and may not last over time. When in doubt, read the labels!

We therefore recommend that you turn to brands that are part of a sustainable and more transparent approach, by offering good quality items, such as Soi Paris, Balzac, Knowledge Cotton Apparel, Sezane, Reformation, Thinking Mu, Realisation Par, Make My Lemonade, Needle and Thread, etc. If your budget is too tight, consider the second-hand option, by turning to your local thrift stores, or Vinted to rummage online.

COMBINATIONS

The jumpsuit at a wedding is a yes, and a thousand times yes. More practical than a dress (because it won't reveal your buttocks in the wind or if you fall after one glass too many champagnes), more original than pants, it is elegant and easy to accessorize.

To choose it, take into account the volume. The jumpsuit must be fitted at the waist (you can add a belt to structure the whole) but not too tight at the hips and thighs, at the risk of unbalancing the silhouette and being very uncomfortable. Conversely, a model that is too oversized will tend to give an unsightly look, especially if worn with flat shoes.

> COMBISHORT VERSION

This is the jumpsuit to adopt for weddings where it will be very, very hot. It is best worn with flat shoes (loafers, derbies, sandals) or low heels, such as sandals with thick square heels of about 3-4 centimeters. We do not recommend tight-fitting models, which are neither elegant nor comfortable.

Instead, choose a cut with a little more width in the shorts , which is more elegant and will give you more freedom in your movements. Avoid synthetic materials and go for linen, which is very chic, or cotton.

> PANTS VERSION

Just like the long dress, the jumpsuit is the option that best combines comfort and elegance . The models that we recommend? Those that are fitted at the bust and flared at the bottom, the straight versions with carrot pants (be careful to choose a length that does not cut the calf), the bustiers or the asymmetrical cuts...

For a wedding, avoid models that are too "beachy" : those with a cord around the neck, a "harem pants" cut, a material that is too light and thin, a jungle print or too summery...

Where to buy a wedding jumpsuit? We recommend you look at Project Cece, Parisienne et alors, Les Récupérables, 17h10, Septem, Make My Lemonade...

TAILORS AND SUITS

The suit is far from being reserved only for men. In fact, more and more brands are expanding their offer to offer suits to women - some, like Salut Beauté, even make it a specialty.

To avoid the risk of looking like you're going to the office, have fun by choosing a fun color (but one that suits you) , mix the plain suit with a printed blouse or enhance it with a vintage patterned scarf... Basically, take the opposite approach to the very codified men's suit!

Where to find the women's suit of your dreams? Look at vintage stores, you can find tons of them at very low prices (you will however need to budget a little to have it adjusted by a tailor). For new items, we mentioned Salut Beauté above, but we also recommend Admise Paris, Sézane, Maison 123, La Jaquette, Gérard Darel, 17h10... And otherwise, why not try a men's suit? At BonneGueule, there are some really pretty ones...

3 - THE RIGHT ACCESSORIES

THE BAG

The best bag for a wedding is one that is small enough not to get in your way, but practical enough to hold the survival kit for the day : phone to take souvenir photos, lipstick for makeup touch-ups, tissues in case of big emotion, bandages in case of blisters on your feet... not forgetting a little extra space to slip in the bag of sweets. Well yes.

> THE SMALL SHOULDER BAG

This is the easy model, which leaves your hands free and does not interfere with dancing. Practical and chic, it is our number 1 choice . If you are unsure about the color, go for camel or nude. Black is an option, but we do not recommend it if your outfit is pastel. In any case, match the color of the metal to that of your jewelry.

A word of caution: If you're wearing a strapless or very thin dress, the metal chains can hurt as they rub against your collarbone, especially in the summer.

> THE POUCH / THE MINAUDIÈRE

The bag for those who are content with little: you can usually only fit your keys and a tube of lipstick in it, which means you have to keep your phone in your hand. The small clutch and minaudières are tiny, and absolutely not practical since you have to hold them in your hand or tuck them under your arm. But how elegant they are!

> THE BASKET

The basket is to be adopted if you want a bohemian, romantic, rustic, retro and/or summery look. It can also add a touch of simplicity to a more loaded and formal look. On the other hand, it is to be avoided in case of risk of rain .

The brands Soamé Paris, Petite Mendigote, Camalya and Maradji offer very elegant ones.

SHOES

> HEELS

Before choosing your pair of shoes, find out about the locations where the ceremony, reception and party will take place ( see first point covered in this guide ).

If the majority (or even all) of the event is on a beach, avoid stiletto heels that are likely to sink into the sand , as well as closed-toe, hard-to-remove shoes that will be very uncomfortable if sand gets inside. Instead, opt for a pair of flat sandals, or chunky-heeled mules that are easy to slip on and off if needed.

Are you as comfortable in very high heels as an acrobat on stilts? No sand or cobblestone paths in sight? It's time to have fun and pull out your most vertiginous pairs . As for the height of the heel and its thickness, it's up to you to see what makes you most comfortable and what you can walk in. Also consider the fact that a platform helps to reduce the height felt on the foot - a tip to adopt from 10 centimeters for thick heels, and 8 for the thinnest.

Once again, follow the advice noted in our guide to women's basics : the thinner and higher the heel, the more difficult it will be to practice. It will also be easier for you to walk with a closed pair or with an ankle strap (ankle boots, salomé, babies, etc.) than with an open pair, which requires more experience (heeled mules, pumps, stilettos, etc.).

And above all, it is not recommended to buy a pair of heels in which you cannot move - especially for a wedding where you will be standing a lot, and where you will be required to dance! And to avoid finding yourself with the arch of your foot on fire after midnight, you can always cheat and slip a pair of flats into your bag. Come on, this stays between us.

> FLAT

Loafers, derbies, open sandals, ballerinas, slingbacks... Heels don't have a monopoly on wedding looks , and for reasons of comfort, we understand only too well those who prefer to swap them for a pair of flat shoes!

To choose your pair correctly, simply check that:

• the front of your foot does not touch the end of the shoe. Your big toe should be able to move slightly.
• your foot should be kept in width, with slight pressure on the sides.
• your arch should be well supported.

Brands to turn to: Meermin, Jules & Jenn, Anaki Paris, Minuit sur terre, Un Si Beau Pas, By Far, Repetto, Orban's, Jonak, Bobbies, M. Moustache...

HEADWEAR

Hats, headbands... it's time to let loose!

To choose the right item to wear on your head, there is a very simple rule to avoid making mistakes in taste: your headgear should balance out the rest of your outfit . If it is sober, dare to wear an imposing, colorful hat with a wide brim... Conversely, if you have opted for a dress with volumes, ruffles and/or prints, turn to something more discreet, like a headband whose color will match the garment.

Want a timeless and elegant look? A felt wide-brimmed hat is your best friend . Is the wedding taking place in the countryside? Opt for a straw boater. Want a little originality (or a touch of that famous “bohemian chic”)? Try a fedora. Finally, a cloche hat will guarantee you a retro style.

THE SCARVES

Tied in the hair, around the neck or as a decoration on the handle of a handbag, the scarf is a much underrated accessory . If it can be "too dressy" in everyday life, a wedding is the ideal occasion to wear one. Moreover, it can be a faithful ally to add a touch of color to your outfit, in order to enter into a theme.

For the size and shape (some are square, others long and rectangular), it all depends on the use you want to make of it. The first format will be ideal to be tied around the neck, the second to dress the hair (if it slips, tie it with a few discreet bun clips) . And we obviously prefer it in silk rather than polyester!

4 - MISTAKES TO AVOID (OR TO AVOID)

THE WHITE

White is the bride's colour, period. You wouldn't dare risk being mistaken for the star of the day, would you ? Remember the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011, when the latter's sister Pippa made a remarkable and eye-catching appearance in a very flattering long white dress, which made headlines in the tabloids...

Do you absolutely want to wear a very pale and neutral shade? Instead of white, turn to alternatives like beige or pearl gray . Avoid cream or champagne shades, too close to white, and which some brides choose for their own dress.

An elegant example of a pearl gray suit worn with a Louis Vuitton minaudière and black strappy pumps:

Another example, this time with beige. A structured mini-dress, with drawn shoulder pads and a drape at the front of the skirt, for a rock side:

Another solution if you absolutely must wear white: have it covered in patterns . Take a look at this dress from the Reformation brand. While the base of the dress is cream white, the fact that it is covered in a very vintage blue floral pattern distracts from its initial shade.

THE BLACK

Black is chic, but a bit austere. Especially in the context of a ceremony, where it is still very much associated with mourning. So preferably, say no to the little black dress (unless the dress code of the theme requires it, for example if it is “Black Tie”).

On the other hand, black accessories are totally allowed: a nice pair of heels, a belt to structure a dress, a nice bag, a clutch, sunglasses...

Just like the white dress that goes better if it is covered in patterns , you can however choose to wear a black dress if it is patterned. Bonus point if its cut is modern and airy. Below, a black Zapa dress covered in large white polka dots. Its romantic and elegant cut, as well as its fun print, break up the too severe dimension of black . The gold jewelry and the red heeled sandals add a touch of cool to the whole.

Black can also be an option in a solid version for a possible second outfit to pull out in the evening. You know, when the sun has set and it's time to set the dance floor on fire with the best Britney Spears hits.

UNCOMFORTABLE OUTFITS

Do you know how long a wedding lasts? A WHOLE day and night . Often, it starts in the morning with the town hall, then the religious or secular ceremonies follow, the wine of honor, the meal, the big party, and then the after-party…

No one wants to spend nearly 24 hours straight in a dress that's too tight and heels that are too small and will leave your feet covered in blisters. You deserve better than that, really .

So we say NO to:

• dresses that are too short or tight and you can't sit down in them
• heels so high you can't walk in them
• stilettos that hurt your feet and will eventually give you blisters
• jumpsuits or dresses that are too long and could make you trip

THE FINAL WORD

You now have all the keys to finding the ideal outfit for the next wedding you've been invited to . And for even more inspiration, take a look at this video, where David and I, Nawal, present 6 guest looks. 3 for men, three for women, with pieces that are easy to make your own, and that you can easily find in your own wardrobe.