Expert Advice for this time of Year - Style Edition

We are wrapping up the series on great ideas for weddings and Mother's Day

Click here if you missed the Kitchen Edition

Click here if you missed the Home Edition

Today I am pleased to welcome Kimberly Wright

Kimberly has a unique sense of style.  She always looks so put together and because she has extensive experience in putting on weddings I thought she would be perfect for this blog series.

Remember you may want to shop for some of these items as gifts.....or for yourself.

First up Kim recommends we all own a fun summer jumpsuit

Chambray Jumpsuit

This one is under $50 and in a full range of sizes.  This one would certainly be appropriate for outdoor graduations, wedding showers and good old hanging out with the girls.

This next one could be perfect for an afternoon wedding or shower

Maxi Dress

Kim calls these a no brainer for taller girls.  They are easy to wear for many types of events.  If mom is petite, look for petite maxis (below 5’5) because a regular length dress will be too long. This season look for v-neck and wrap styles, which are universally flattering.

Check out this next flattering find for under $15

Floral Maxi

Get this.....it is from Wal Mart.  Make sure and check it out.

Kim also highly recommends a great pair of white pants

Wide leg pant

Mom’s closet needs a pair of white cropped wide-leg pants.  

*Can be dressed up with a blazer, cardigan or blouse.

*Wear them with a T-shirt and sandals or a cute colorful sneaker.  

I totally agree, Kim, nothing is more versatile in our summer wardrobe than a good pair of white pants.

Last but not least a summer denim jacket.  The fall/winter one is too heavy.  Everyone needs a lightweight denim jacket to add to your jumpsuit, maxi, or white pants. 

This is a great item to wear over sleeveless tops when going to the movies, dinner, or  an evening outdoor event.  

White (of course), blue, or black denim

She recommends this great white one

White Denim Jacket

Or Black

Black Denim Jacket

Now in addition to finding these great things for us.  Kim gave the following tips for selecting wedding attire:

Wedding guest attire varies depending on time of day, location, and theme of wedding.  When in doubt, ask the bride but please don’t bother her with questions about your outfit the week of her wedding. 

Wedding Category 1 - Casual 

Keep it cool in a dress that you’ll want to wear again and again. For a warm spring and summer casual wedding, opt to wear a short dress.  I get cold very quickly, so I like to wear sleeves.  Long bell sleeves and an off-the shoulder neckline is a perfect spring combination that’s fashionable but not overdressed.  A simple maxi dress with pretty accessories is another great look and very comfortable.  This style wedding would usually be a daytime event.  Heels not necessary but skip the flip flops.

Wedding Category 2 - Semi-formal

Semi-formal attire is the most difficult dress code.  Where’s the line between casual and formal?  Think about the fabric as much as the style.  You can choose formal fabrics like silk, satin, tulle, chiffon for a semi-formal wedding.  The dress can be a normal dress length or tea length.  A semi-formal dress would have more detail and/or more bold accessories (rhinestone belt, lace, high low hemline, etc.).  This would be a late afternoon to evening wedding.

Wedding Category 3 - Formal

If the term Black tie is used, a long gown is a must but doesn’t have to be black. A formal wedding means bring your A-game.  First, choose a silhouette that works best with your body.  The empire silhouette is great for camouflaging the tummy area.  It has a raised waistline which sits just below the bust from which the rest of the dress flows down.  A ball gown is the true “princess” dress.  It has a fitted bodice and a full skirt.  Great for most body types but can be too much dress on a petite frame.  The A-line dress is slightly more flowy than a ball gown.  A-lines have a fitted bodice through the waist and flows towards the ground resembling an uppercase “A”. This style is ideal for all body types.  Next there is the trumpet/fit and flare style.  This is a great style for someone with a small waist.  Think hourglass figures and petites.  If you have curves, the mermaid is right for you.  It’s sleek and fitted. 

For a spring formal wedding, select soft metallics, pops of bold color, and even subtle prints.  Don’t forget to have plenty of glitz, sparkle, and glam in the fabric and/or accessories.

Category 4 - Destination

Is the ceremony at the beach?  Wear warm weather appropriate attire.  A floral print with a high low hem or a two-piece dress would feel and look great.  Leave the heels behind and wear a pair of cute sandals to avoid sinking in the sand.

Now here are a few things not to wear to a wedding out of respect for the ceremony and the couple:

1. Don’t wear white, off white, a neutral yes but not white

2. Save your sweats for the gym.  It’s better to be overdressed than under dressed

3. Barn wedding yes but leave your denim at home

4.If you want to wear pants, don’t go casual

Please RSVP, don’t bring additional guests, be on time, keep your cellphone photography until after the ceremony, and enjoy the special day.

Great tips, Kim.  Thanks so much for sharing with us today.

I hope you all enjoyed this series.  A big thanks to our three special guests who really gave us a lot of goodies,

Hope you have a wonderful weekend! See  you back here on Monday!!!