Wedding: the stylish guest's guide

Do you have a huge color block? Can't find a piece you like in the required color? As we told you with David in our Twitch live on wedding guest outfits ( the replay of which you can find here ) the idea is not to make you feel uncomfortable or stressed at all. the idea of ​​committing a deviation. And it is also entirely possible to subtly circumvent a colorful theme.

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

Take the opposite approach with an outfit made up of neutral shades like beige and brown , and focus on a central piece that responds to the theme: a blouse under a suit, a handbag, a scarf around your neck, well-cut pants. ..

THEMES RELATED TO ATMOSPHERES

Folk, vintage, minimalist, rock, chic, country... It gets a little complicated, but in truth, it's not that complicated . So yes, sometimes the bride and groom are not very specific 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 any visuals of the atmosphere that should be adhered to.

Pinterest is also a very practical source for finding look ideas based on themes - especially the very popular "bohemian 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 point for the hat with a feather or the 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-colored dress with a timeless design , and go all out on the accessories. Is the theme retro? Mix it with a vintage-shaped bag, a scarf and babies. Did the bride and groom throw a rock party? Wear it with a perfecto. Is the atmosphere rural? Take out your prettiest boater and a basket.

Above all, remember that it's 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 checked the weather. You have found out about the location, the dress code and the possible theme. Now it’s time to get down to business: the foundation of your look . If men are quite limited in terms of options and will naturally turn to suits, the women's wardrobe offers more freedom. But by having too many choices, we sometimes end up getting lost. Here is the “ holy trinity ” of reliable pieces to bet on for a wedding .

DRESSES

When in doubt, don't complicate things and go for 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, and one that works every time .

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

During your quest for the ideal dress, we also recommend that you focus on:

• lace, especially in detail on the 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 completely wearable to a wedding as long as you are quite comfortable in this type of cut . Long gone are the days when a dress well above the knee was considered inappropriate or vulgar (and that's good). The main thing is to choose a dress with nice volumes and in good quality material: a satin slip dress, a mini wrap dress with ruffles...

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

Point of vigilance: if the length well above the knee is ok, make sure that the wedding dress code allows it . If this one 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 absolutely 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 .

The flat is also a good option, especially for those who like a little more discreet looks or comfort above all. Turn to a pair of derbies, oxfords, flat sandals, leather moccasins or slingbacks.

> MIDI

It’s the ideal length and no hassle. The one that suits everyone, big and small. The midi dress is the one that hits below the knees. Neither too long nor too short, it is flattering for all body types . We especially like it as a wrap or wrap, to wear with heels to slim the silhouette.

> MAX

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

The maxi length suffers from a bad reputation: it is often accused of “packing”, of not fitting women who are too short… but think again! The model that is unflattering for the silhouette is the one without a real cut which will “blur” the body and give an unharmonious appearance.

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

WHERE TO FIND THE PERFECT PIECE?

Some major fast-fashion brands, such as ASOS, have a section dedicated to bridesmaid and guest dresses for a wedding. We'll be honest: in terms of design, there are some very pretty pieces - and the fairly low prices quickly make you want to buy them. However, as the country of manufacture is rarely indicated on the product sheets, we suspect that the dresses in question were not manufactured 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 instead 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, Realization By, Make My Lemonade, Needle and Thread, ... If your budget is too tight, consider the second-hand option, by turning to your local thrift stores, or Vinted to hunt online.

COMBINATIONS

The combination at a wedding is yes, and a thousand times yes. More practical than a dress (because it does not risk revealing your buttocks in the event of wind or a fall after one too many glasses of champagne), 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 (a belt can be added to structure the whole thing) but not too tight at the hips and thighs, as this risks unbalancing the silhouette and being very uncomfortable. Conversely, a model that is too oversized will tend to look unsightly, especially if worn with flat shoes.

> COMBISHORT VERSION

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

Instead, choose a cut with a little fullness in the shorts , more elegant, and which will leave you freer in your movements. Avoid synthetic materials and head for very chic linen or cotton with your eyes closed.

> TROUSERS VERSION

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

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

Where to buy a jumpsuit for a wedding? We recommend that you look at Project Cece, Parisienne and then, Les Récupérables, 5:10 p.m., Septem, Make My Lemonade...

TAILORS AND SUITS

The suit is far from being reserved only for men. Moreover, more and more brands are expanding their offering to offer suits to women - some, like Salut Beauté, are even making 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 scarf patterned... Basically, take the opposite approach to the very codified masculine costume!

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 small budget to have it adjusted at a tailor). In nine, we mentioned Salut Beauté above, but we also recommend Admise Paris, Sézane, Maison 123, La Jaquette, Gérard Darel, 5:10 p.m.... And if not, why not try the 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 the way, but practical enough to hold the survival kit for the day : phone for taking souvenir photos, lipstick for makeup touch-ups, tissues in case of great emotion, bandages in case of blisters on the feet... without forgetting a little extra space to slip in the bag of sweets. Yeah.

> THE SMALL CROSSBODY BAG

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

Small warning: if you wear a strapless or very thin dress, the metal chains can hurt by rubbing against the collarbone, especially in summer.

> THE POCHETTE / THE MINAUDIÈRE

The bag for those who are content with little: you can generally only fit your keys and a tube of lipstick, which means you have to keep your phone in your hand. The little pouch and the clutches are tiny, and absolutely not practical since you have to hold them in your hand or stuck under your arm. But how elegant it is!

> THE BASKET

The basket is to be adopted if you want a bohemian, romantic, country, retro and/or summer look. It can also add a touch of simplicity to a more busy and formal look. On the other hand, it should be avoided if there is a risk of rain .

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

THE SHOES

> HEELS

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

If the majority (or even the entirety) of the event takes place on a beach, avoid stiletto heels which risk sinking into the sand , but also closed pairs that are difficult to remove, which will be very uncomfortable if sand slips inside. Instead, opt for a pair of flat sandals, or mules with a thick heel, which are easy to put on and take off if necessary.

Are you as comfortable on very high heels as an acrobat on stilts? No sand or paved paths in sight? It's time to have fun and take out your most dizzying pairs . 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 with. Also think about the fact that a platform helps reduce the height felt on the foot - a tip to adopt from 10 centimeters for thick heels, and 8 for thinner ones.

Once again, follow the advice noted in our guide to basics for women : 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, Salome shoes, Mary Janes, 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 that you cannot move around in - especially for a wedding where you are often standing and dancing! 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, it stays between us.

> FLAT

Moccasins, derbies, open sandals, ballerinas, slingbacks... Heels do not 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 toe of the shoe. Your big toe should be able to move slightly.
• your foot should be kept width-wise, with light 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. Mustache...

HEADWEAR

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

To carefully choose what will adorn your head, there is a very simple rule to avoid mistakes in taste: your headgear must counterbalance the rest of your outfit . If it is sober, dare to wear an imposing, colorful, wide-brimmed hat... 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.

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

SCARVES

Tied in the hair, around the neck or as a decoration on the handle of a handbag, the scarf is a far too underrated accessory . While it can be "too dressy" in everyday life, a wedding is the ideal occasion to wear it. Moreover, it can be a faithful ally to add a touch of color to your outfit, in order to fit 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, attach it with a few discreet bun clips) . And we obviously prefer it in silk rather than polyester!

4 - FALSE-STEP TO AVOID (OR TO CIRCUMSTANCE)

THE WHITE

White is the bride's color, that's all. You wouldn't dare take the risk of being confused with 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 notable appearance in a long, very flattering white dress, which made the front page of the celebrity press...

Do you absolutely want to wear a very pale, neutral shade? Rather than white, turn to alternatives like beige or pearl gray . Avoid cream or champagne shades, which are 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 clutch and black strappy pumps:

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

Another solution if you absolutely want to wear white: cover it with patterns . Instead, look at this dress from the Reformation brand. If the base of the dress is creamy white, the fact that it is lined with a very vintage blue floral pattern distracts from its initial shade.

BLACK

Black is chic, but a bit austere. Especially in the context of a ceremony, where it is still very much associated with mourning. 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 authorized: a pretty pair of heels, a belt to structure a dress, a pretty bag, a clutch, sunglasses...

Just like the white dress which looks 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 the too severe dimension of black . Gold jewelry and red heeled sandals add a touch of cool to the ensemble.

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

UNCOMFORTABLE OUTFIT

Do you know how long a marriage lasts? A WHOLE day and night . Often, it starts in the morning with the town hall, then follows the religious or secular ceremonies, the reception, the meal, the big party, and then the after-party...

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

We therefore say NO to:

• dresses that are too short or tight that you can't sit in
• 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 cause you to trip

THE FINAL WORD

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