Expert Survival Tip: What To Wear To A Wedding
Michelle Rothman, the creator of Ojas Jewelry Design, created Ojas as a means to unite love, beauty and nature through unique design. In Sanskrit, Ojas refers to the life force and the fluidity of life. All of Michelle’s jewelry is handcrafted in limited quantities to ensure a level of individuality and she especially loves working with brides to create unique jewelry for their wedding. Michelle shares with Survive Wedding Season her tips on what to wear to a wedding (all featured necklaces by Michelle Rothman/Ojas Jewelry Design):
There is a fine line between looking fabulous and overshadowing the bride and groom. For starters, this means not wearing white. It also means not being too casual or too formal. Remember, you are not the star attraction. Think “tasteful” and find a way to express yourself without offending the bride, groom or the other guests.
So now that we have eliminated that thrift shop find of white see-through sequence and lacy mini dress what do you wear? Start by reading the wedding invitation. If the invitation says black tie or informal attire then half the work is done for you. Also keep in mind the time of the wedding. An evening affair suggests knee length to tea length or a short cocktail dress. Dresses or gowns that are too short or too long - or those with plunging necklines - can draw the attention away from the true stars of the wedding.
If the invitation does not offer wardrobe clues consider the venue for the ceremony and the reception. An outdoor wedding usually suggests more casual attire, but do not let the outdoor setting go to your head. Blue jeans and a spaghetti-strapped top are rarely appropriate for any wedding. A summer or spring daytime or outdoor wedding is a great time to take out your deliciously fun floral dress. However, still be sure to avoid colors that are too loud or patterns that are too wild. A linen suit is a great choice for men.
The season of the wedding is the next thing you should consider. The first thing to do before making a fashion decision is to check the weather report. A ninety percent chance of rain means you might have to make some modifications. Generally, for fall or winter weddings, plan to wear a wool or fur wrap. The wrap will help keep you from freezing without hiding your beautiful dress. For spring and summer, I suggest light-weight fabrics. Nothing is more unsightly than sweating profusely through the ceremony and reception.
If you are still at a loss, find out what other guests are wearing. It does not hurt to ask the bride and groom how they would prefer their guests to dress. Think tasteful, and remember the true stars of the day are the bride and groom, not your outfit.
In Sanskrit, the word “Ojas” refers to the life force and the fluidity of life. I named my jewelry company after this word because I recognized that it is not as important how things look as the feelings they inspire within you. That is why choosing your wedding attire has much less to do with the mirror and much more to do with the joy of the day. What is the point of wearing stunning shoes if they prevent you from making it out on the dance floor? Every wedding is different and there are no absolutes, but I can assure you that the most important factor isn’t about choosing your party dress but rather it’s about bringing the joy of love and goodwill to your bride and groom. Relax and enjoy!
All photographs by Gus Cantavero Photography.
Related topics:
Expert Survival Tip: Resurrect Your Wardrobe & Find That Perfect Dress In Your Closet by Keisha McDonald
Expert Survival Tip: With These Shoes I Do Surviveby Alisann Blood
Expert Survival Tip: Get Involved In Designing Your Bridesmaid Jewelry by Amelia Lock
Wedding Guest Tip: Stay Away From The Pretty White Dress!
Wedding Guest Tip: Moms Are Wedding Guests Too
Wedding Guest Tip: Host A Clothing Swap, Rock A New Dress
Have a great wedding survival tip to share with the Survive Wedding Season community? Email your tips to solutions@surviveweddingseason.com.
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About the Author
Ojas Jewelry Design was created by Michelle Rothman. Rothman, a native of the West Indies, created Ojas as a means to unite love, beauty and nature through unique design. In Sanskrit, Ojas refers to the life force and the fluidity of life. The collection includes necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that utilize a combination of semi-precious stones, crystal, shell, glass, wood, bone, sterling silver and gold, all designed to enhance the power of expression that is within us. She draws inspiration from her West Indies homeland and travels throughout Europe and Asia. All her jewelry is handcrafted in limited quantities to ensure a level of individuality. She especially loves working with brides to create unique jewelry for their wedding. You can learn more at: http://www.ojasjewelrydesign.com/.
Tags: Fashion/Beauty, How To Survive Wedding Season, Men's Wedding Fashion, Wedding Blog, wedding fashion, Wedding Guest Etiquette
June 17th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Your jewelry is gorgeous. I especially enjoy your website and am ordering a few pieces for an August wedding for me and my girls that are elegant and sure to make our simple gowns glow. Can’t wait to see what you do next. You have a great talent.