8 Dos and Don'ts for Summer Weddings

Wedding season has officially begun, and whether you've been invited to
10 weddings or one, you're still going to need to put together an outfit.
Things are a little trickier when you're not part of the bridal party because
you'll need to shop around for a dress, match a pair of shoes and maybe
even color-coordinate if you're going with a date. There are a few rules you
need to follow when picking out a wedding outfit.

1. Never, ever wear white to a wedding. It's the bride's perfect day, and
wearing the same color as her, or even resembling her dress in anyway, is
enough for her to think you're trying to steal her thunder. Instead, try for a
more fun and fresh summer color. Floral colors, such as coral or mint are
good starts.

2. Make sure to read over the invitation. It might give you a clue to the
dress code. Usually, the dress code isn't too fancy. White tie attire is rare
during the summer months. When in doubt, stick to a mid-length cocktail
dress. if you're really nervous, call up one of the bridesmaids or even the
bride.

3. Summer weddings oftentimes are outdoors. Take that in consideration
when you're deciding how to do your hair. If you know that it will probably
be windy, stick to an up-do. Similarly, if the weather will be hot and muggy,
leaving your hair down on your back to stick probably isn't a smart choice.

4. If you plan on attending a religious wedding ceremony, make sure to
bring something to cover your shoulders. Even if it's 100 degrees out, you
don't want to be the only person baring herself immodestly. Either bring a
wrap or shawl, and remember, you only have to wear it at the ceremony.

5. Stick to light makeup for a summer wedding. While we're big fans of the
smoky eye, it's not suitable for a summer wedding. Heavy makeup can also
run or give you pimples if the weather is hot. Opt for waterproof mascara, a
light shadow and lip gloss.

6. Don't stress about wearing the same color as the bridesmaids. It's
difficult enough to pick out your ideal dress, let alone having to worry about
the entire bridal party. If you're that worried about it, make sure to wear a
few bold pieces of jewelry, something the bridesmaids probably won't be
doing.

7. When it comes to fabrics, cotton and linen will keep you cooler. Even
though that tighter silk dress will showcases your curves, sweating
through the dress would be a messy disaster. Summer weddings also have
a lot of dancing, something a cotton dress is better suited for.

8. Go wild with your shoes. Summer weddings allow for tons of different
kinds of shoes. Summer wedged platforms, strappy sandals or the
traditional pumps can all be worn. Just make sure to match the shoes with
the dress, and rock them with confidence. One word of advice: if the
wedding is outdoors, think about wearing flats. You don't want to sink through the ground.

A. Evans is a writer and editor for FitandFabLiving. Sign up for free newsletters to receive all the latest health, beauty and fitness tips delivered straight to your inbox!