Summer is wedding time! Whether you are the mother of the bride or groom or a privileged guest it’s important to find a dress that is appropriate to the occasion and that you feel good wearing!!
Some questions to steer you in your search:
- Location: Is the venue formal or relaxed? Is it indoors or outside?
- Time: Is it daytime or nighttime? The old rule: no black tie before 6pm. Check the invitation because the rules are always in flux these days!
- Color: When it comes to colors, traditionally, white, black or red are no no’s. Opt for soft or bold shades of pink, green, yellow or blue. Think print too. Florals and polka dots will capture the joyful tone of the occasion.
From casual to black-tie optional, dress codes are wide ranging and open to interpretation. Because the rules are in flux these days and long dresses are worn during the day and shorter dresses acceptable at night we’ve combined all lengths and focused on designers/retailers that are proven experts in special occasion dresses.
Note: Dresses tend to sell fast online! So if you see something you like, you may want to grab it. At the time of writing, all the dresses below were available and we apologize if any are no longer available when you have a look! If you find something you like that isn’t available, you may want to check out what else that same designer has to offer.
Tuckernuck is a great source and they present a whole look from dress to shoes to bags. Their Feather Dress in bright yellow or hot pink with feathered sleeve cuffs adds a fun and festive feel to create a party-ready style. Bonus: this is a no-spanx-required dress! This dress also comes in a short version in light blue that’s very pretty! Navy is always a safe and chic choice and this Navy Halter Dress brings on the ruffles and drama! The swing shape mini dress is a mod choice and we love the bow tie-back dress!
Lela Rose is a go to option for a more formal event. This classic fit and flare with ruffled roses is flattering and the color is very cheerful. Similarly, the tangerine color is very en vogue and this one would brighten up any event. This Sheath Dress w/ Gold Details is a gorgeous option with a flattering drape front in a cool and calm color.
Diane Von Furstenberg is the master of the dress to flatter the female figure. This Diane Von Furstenberg Rouched Midi with ruched details and front self-tie is a very flattering fit. This longer dress has a high neck featuring keyhole detail and elegant twists, and a cinched waist that leads to a full skirt.
Saloni is another designer who always delivers for an event. The Isa Ruffled Silk Georgette Teardrop Print Dress with gently puffed sleeves and a ruffled, flamenco-style skirt adds volume and drama to the sleek profile of this midi dress, finished in a delicate teardrop printed silk georgette.
Staud Organza Floor Length Dress $495: Crafted of semi-sheer organza, Staud’s Calluna floor-length dress is decorated with a painterly floral print and pleated flounce hem.
La Double J: Jo loves this brand and feels great any time she wears it!! This dress would be great, as would this one or this one!
Bernadette: Gorgeous dresses. This one shoulder dress with bow in a bold floral is a winner.
Mac Duggal has very ethereal romantic dresses at a great price point. This one with a striking high neck, evened out with a chic high-low hem and ends in tiered ruffles. This long one would be great for a very formal nighttime event.
LK Bennett, a British based company favored by Kate Middleton, can do no wrong with a romantic midi dress! This tiered midi-dress with a sashed waist is perfect. This one is another great option and polka dots are definitely on trend this season.
Super Special:
FabList tries to represent a variety of price points and for this very special occasion we are shooting the wad on the following designers who are the creme de la creme for the wedding scene.
Oscar de la Renta: The master of elegant dressing, any of Oscar’s dresses will be outstanding and last a lifetime. The hollyhock dress below on the right is just right!
Carolina Herrera: The epitome of grace. Perfection in short or long and perfect for any occasion. The gown below is a classic with its pleated corset and A-line silhouette to flatter every figure.
Erdem: Erdem makes amazing, timeless dresses and gowns, the one below with glittering sequins and sprinkled with little red bouquets. It’s made from crepe de chine that’s elegantly gathered at the waist before falling to a floor-pooling hem.
Purses
Gold Rayne Pleated Frame Clutch: The Gold Rayne Pleated Frame Clutch is a perfect bag for when you just need to bring a few essentials along. Featuring a removable twisted gold chain crossbody strap, frame closure, and a signature bow detail, you’ll want to grab this accessory every time you go out on the town.
Black Charley Hotfix Bag: High-quality satin in a gathered design, it features a magnetic closure and luxurious hotfix embellishment. Its detachable short handle and long shoulder chain mean it’s the perfect combination of practicality and glamour.
Cult Gaia Rhinestone Bag: Sparkle and shine with this rhinestone covered bag.
Bottega Knot Clasp Purse: A classic bag to last a lifetime!
Shoes
Loeffler Randall Bow Sandal: a strappy bow and block heel will keep you comfy all night long.
Broderie Sandal: Eyelet embroidery and a woven block heel underscore the warm-weather appeal of this go-to sandal.
Valentino Rockstud Slide: A classic. Signature pyramid studs spike the slender straps of a striking slide sandal grounded by a chunky block heel.
Miss Jane Sandal: A minimalist silhouette balances the bold, architectural heel of this lambskin-leather sandal grounded by that iconic Louboutin-red sole.
Mary Jane Slingback: Prada reimagines the classic patent-leather mary jane by adding modern elements like a slingback strap and a low block heel to stoke drama.
Gold Wedges: A wedge is perfect for a long event. With a gold mirror upper and wedge, these are perfect for weddings, cocktail parties, and elevated events.
