- White tie (men) = Over-the-top, full-length, glamour and jewels (women)
- Morning suit (men) = A day dress, plus a coat or jacket (women)
- Black tie (men) = A pretty party look - not full length (women)
- Lounge suit (men) = A day dress or smart trouser suit.
- Smart casual (e.g. chinos & blazer for men) = Trousers or white jeans (not faded or ripped) or maybe a patterned skirt with a white shirt.
- Mother of the Bride: Long-line coats and dresses are a stylish alternative to skirt suits. They also look great worn separately, so are good value for money.
- Wedding Guest: Nude tones and metallics are perfect for summer weddings. They are understated and chic without overshadowing the bride.
- Summer Party: team bright, punchy colours with classic neutral pieces for a look that is modern and adaptable for lots of special occasions.
More Top Tips
- The Hat Dilemma: Most of us don't wear them often, so don't know what suits us. At very formal occasions the crown of the head must be covered. Or try a fascinator - best to go with a hairband style with some artificial flowers or sparkle (feathers have been sadly overdone). If going for a hat, choose a wide-brimmed pink straw hat (which will cast a flattering glow on the skin and suits everyone) with a neutral coloured dress.
- Invest in the right underwear - formal occasions tend to involve photographs. Take your outfit with you when you shop for underwear.
- Special occasion shoes. For comfort, a heel no higher than 3 inches, that is block shaped to give more support. Court shoes are classic but a strap over the instep will help keep your foot in place. Make full use of gel pads and insoles to cushion your feet ( M&S does tights with extra padding). Flatter shoes are coming into fashion, so consider cystal-embellished sandals or white summer brogues. Or wear smart ballet pumps or have a fold-up pair in your bag.
- Nude tights look best. (Black tights, especially opaques, are unsightly with summery formal outfits.)
- Toes - if you show your toes, you can't wear tights. You should also have a recent pedicure and unchipped polish.
- Miracle dresses (e.g. with control panels) can help you look your best and needn't be expensive.
- Bare arms? Consider a shrug as an alternative to a pashmina.
- Handbag? A small clutch to hold just the basics looks better. Pick one with a strap, otherwise you won't be able to eat and drink while you hold it.
- Get a blow dry. Even if you are brilliant at doing your hair, it's hard to get the back right - and that's what other people see most often.
- Avoid all black. It looks out of place at summer weddings and christenings. If your wardrobe is full of black, add lots of white. Monochrome is still allowed.
- On very formal occasions, consider a matching dress and coat.
Feature in Good Housekeeping, June 2014
