What to Wear to a Summer Wedding: Dressing the Part

Finding A Dress for Every Type of Wedding
Filed Under > Dressing the Part

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In the thick of wedding season, and with a few special events on the books, I recently found myself at a loss for a go-to source for what to wear to all of these upcoming occasions.  And as someone who loves a good excuse to dress up, anything short of extraordinary would never do.  With visions of flowy gowns, fluted hems and beaded detailing, I swear I think the wardrobe gods must have heard me when wondering what to wear to a summer wedding.  My prayers were answered as the BHLDN team reached out about their new collection, giving me beautiful inspiration for my social calendar. 

As you may know, since its launch in 2011, BHLDN has offered more than bridal gowns; the brand has an assortment of dresses perfect for bridesmaids, wedding guests and special occasions. And just last spring, the brand expanded their wedding guest and event collection even further, which now includes top names such as Jenny Yoo, Needle & Threat, Nicole Miller and Watters, as well as a a few pieces that are entirely BHLDN-exclusive. 

So with an upcoming beach wedding in mind, I scheduled a private appointment at our Atlanta boutique, where I received a full 60-minutes with a dedicated stylist that helped me with sizing advice and recommendations on styles and accessories.  You don’t typically need to make an appointment to try on bridesmaids or event dresses, but you absolutely can if you’re looking for additional guidance on look you’re going for.  

The styling appointment was truly a refreshing run to the dressing room; I received personalized attention and tips that gave me options I never would have imagined on my own. While I chose the stunning Inesse Dress as shown above, I was especially smitten with the detailing on the Marina Dress and the Anessa Dress—how amazing would these be at a garden wedding?—and the Nevena Dress for a black-tie affair. 

I shared my favorite picks via Instagram Stories and was blown away by everyone’s helpful comments and engagement!  I received a lot of comments from you all about not wearing white or neutrals to a wedding in risk of offending the bride, and I must say I’ve always agreed with that stance.  While the dress I chose at the end of the day, pictured above, shows more white than it is, I was confident in the fact that it’s a truly floral dress.  I wasn’t worried about offending the bride, as I know her well.  I think everyone should take that into consideration when they’re selecting a dress that could be seen as similar to a wedding gown; know the bride and if she wouldn’t be comfortable with it, then don’t wear it! 

While you can see the one I decided on, I’m sharing the rest of my top picks below, along with tips for specific weddings they’d be perfect for. And I must say: the little white number was a HUGE hit with all of you, and again I must clarify that this would be best for the bride at the rehearsal dinner or even an elopement!  It was the #1 choice from everyone via IG Stories; it got the most votes but caused the most controversy. I actually almost bought this for date night; it’s just so good on other levels!

Dreaming of a donning a BHLDN dress for a wedding or event this summer? I’d love to know which styles you’re eyeing!  Truly, MKR

P.S.
Booking an appointment with a stylist is easy for whatever you’re dressing for, and it’s even possible to have all of your maids try on at the same time, too.  Simply go to the STORES pages on bhldn.com and select your location, clicking either “Bridal Appointments” or “Bridesmaid Appointments.” 

SHOP THE STORY  / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE


  

Ginger Convertible Maxi Dress

BHLDN, $310

Shop Now >

For a Cocktail (of Even Black-Tie) Wedding
This super comfortable elegant jersey dress can be worn a whopping number of fifteen different ways, from strapless to halter and criss-crossed in tons of colors.  Its versatility and universally flattering fits make it a top choice for bridesmaids, too.  I especially loved the olive green for a fall or winter wedding!

Another beautiful option is HERE

Nevena Dress

BHLDN, $340

Shop Now >

For a Black Tie Wedding
You’ll have to see this one up close to truly appreciate the amazing level of detail; the allover beading is truly breathtaking.  This form-fitting, long-sleeve dress is sure to make a statement at any black-tie affair.  My favorite part?  It has a back slit for fuss-free dancing all night long. 

Another beautiful option is HERE (a girl can dream!). 

Inesse Dress

BHLDN, $285

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For a Beach or Destination Wedding
Another stunning option that comes in numerous colors, this Jenny Woo number was my top choice after my fitting. It’s a wonderfully flowy dress in a gorgeous watercolor print that’s classic and feminine.  The blouson top with v-back and airy chiffon material complimented my figure and felt amazing from the second I tried it on. 

Another beautiful option is HERE

Anessa Dress

BHLDN, $200

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For a Garden or Day Wedding
I especially love to wear little detailed dresses like this one for a garden or daytime affair. The allover embroidery over the silk organza material make it an elevated option that’s sure to turn heads.

Another beautiful option is HERE

Jenny Dress

BHLDN, $340

Shop Now >

For the Bride; an Elopement, Vegas or Fancy Courthouse Wedding
While this dress has a modest neckline, its fitted bodice, tuplic skirt and flare sleeves give it a flirty fun vibe. And yet, at the same time, this simple yet sophisticated dress is the perfect option for a courthouse wedding. A great versatile number for a slew of events! 

Another beautiful option is HERE

ADDITIONAL CREDITS:

Photography, Haley Sheffield for Waiting on Martha | This post is in collaboration with BHLDN, a brand we love and adore.  All opinions are 100% our own. 

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