Franklin Dean
Wedding season is in full swing by May, and choosing what to wear can be a challenge. While weddings are less prescriptive than they used to be, there are still some rules to follow. It's important to remember that weddings are a sacred occasion, so modesty is key. Avoid white, and colours that are very light, as these can photograph as white. It's also best to avoid colours that match the wedding party. If the wedding is formal, a long dress is a good choice, but a sophisticated cocktail dress can work for less formal events. For daytime weddings, a pretty floral dress or pastel maxi dress are perfect, while for the afternoon and evening, a lace cocktail dress or colourful beaded dress are a great option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Spring |
| Colours | Pastel, purple, orchid pink, lavender, cobalt blue, mauve, bright |
| Style | Floral, lace, beaded, off-the-shoulder, maxi, midi, long, cocktail, jumpsuit |
| Footwear | Nude pumps, sleek wedges, strappy sandal heels, block heels |
| Accessories | Shawl, sweater, cape, coat |
| Occasion | Daytime, afternoon, evening, formal, semi-formal, casual, black tie, beach |
| Venue | Church, coastal, summery, tropical, outdoor |
| Body type | Curvy, "mom bod" |
| Practicality | Packs well, comfortable |
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What You'll Learn
- Dress codes: formal, semi-formal, casual, black-tie, and white-tie
- Spring colours and styles: pastels, florals, lace, and brights
- Appropriate footwear: nude pumps, sleek wedges, and block heels
- Dress rental: Rent the Runway and other online fashion rental companies
- Venue and time of day: religious settings, outdoor weddings, and daytime vs. evening events
Dress codes: formal, semi-formal, casual, black-tie, and white-tie
For a May wedding, a floral dress, a pastel maxi dress, or a lace cocktail dress are all good options for a daytime wedding. For an afternoon or evening wedding, a colourful or beaded cocktail dress or a bright colour or pastel gown would be perfect.
Now, here is a breakdown of dress codes:
Formal
Formal attire is reserved for formal events, such as weddings, proms, formal dinners, and theatre. It is more formal than business attire, with floor-length gowns, fancy cocktail dresses, or dressy pantsuits being appropriate for women. Men typically wear tuxedos or dark suits with a white shirt and a conservative tie.
Semi-formal
Semi-formal attire is more formal than office wear but less formal than a formal event. It is typically chosen for weddings, offering a stylish and approachable option. For women, semi-formal attire can range from cocktail dresses to dressy separates, accessorised with statement jewellery and heels. Men usually wear a dark suit in navy, charcoal, or grey, paired with a dress shirt, a coordinating tie, and dress shoes.
Casual
Casual attire is informal, comfortable, clean, and professional. It is versatile and popular for a wide range of social occasions, allowing for effortless and stylish dressing. For women, a summer sundress or a floral mini dress with wedges or sandals is appropriate. Men can wear dress pants or khakis with a collared shirt and the option to add a tie or sports jacket.
Black-tie
Black-tie attire is slightly less formal than white tie but more formal than business attire. It is the most common formal dress code for events. Men typically wear tuxedos, while women wear floor-length gowns, fancy cocktail dresses, or dressy pantsuits.
White-tie
White-tie attire, also known as "full evening dress", is the most formal dress code, indicating that guests are of high social standing. It typically includes a black dress coat (tailcoat) and matching trousers with a single stripe of satin.
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Spring colours and styles: pastels, florals, lace, and brights
May is a great time to experiment with spring colours and styles. If you're attending a May wedding, you can opt for a floral dress, a pastel maxi dress, or a lace cocktail dress for a daytime wedding. For an afternoon or evening wedding, a lace or beaded cocktail dress in spring colours is a good choice. Formal May weddings call for bright colour gowns or pastels.
Florals are a great choice for May weddings, especially if you're looking for something on the more casual side. A floral midi dress or a lavender maxi dress with floral prints is a perfect choice for a spring wedding. You can also opt for a bright floral maxi dress for a more formal event. If you're looking for something more unique, a cobalt blue lace cocktail dress is a great choice for early spring weddings.
Pastels are also a popular choice for May weddings. You can opt for a pastel suit or a pastel gown, depending on your style and the dress code. A pastel midi dress or a lavender maxi dress are also great options. If you're looking for something more unique, a purple orchid pink off-the-shoulder midi dress is a classic choice for a May wedding.
Lace is a timeless choice for any wedding, and it's especially perfect for a spring wedding. A lace midi dress or a lace cocktail dress are both elegant options. If you're looking for something more unique, a purple lace flounce sheath dress is a stunning choice.
Bright colours are also a fun choice for a May wedding. You can opt for a bright colour gown or a bright cocktail dress, depending on the dress code and your personal style. A bright floral maxi dress or a bright lace dress are also great options to celebrate the spring season.
Remember, it's important to feel confident in your attire and to dress according to the location and time of day. You can also experiment with different styles, such as jumpsuits or pantsuits, to find an option that suits your personal style and makes you feel great.
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Appropriate footwear: nude pumps, sleek wedges, and block heels
For a May wedding, you can never go wrong with a floral dress, a pastel maxi dress, or a lace cocktail dress for a daytime wedding. For the afternoon and evening, a lace or beaded cocktail dress in spring colors is a perfect choice. Now, let's talk about the appropriate footwear to complement these outfits.
Nude pumps are a versatile and elegant option for a May wedding. They offer a sophisticated and refined look that will complement any dress style. From soft beige to blush tones, nude pumps provide a neutral base that will elongate your legs and create a subtle, understated glamour. Nude pumps with cushioned support will ensure comfort throughout the day, allowing you to move effortlessly from the ceremony to the dance floor.
Sleek wedges are another stylish choice for May nuptials. Wedges have evolved to become a sophisticated statement for wedding footwear, offering both style and comfort. For a glamorous modern wedding, opt for sleek, sophisticated wedges in elegant materials like lace or satin, adorned with dreamy details such as rhinestones or pearl embellishments. If your wedding has a beachy or boho theme, wedges can be an excellent choice, with casual espadrilles or metallic styles adding a touch of sparkle to your look.
Block heels provide stability and comfort, making them an excellent choice for a May wedding. They offer a chic alternative to traditional stiletto heels, providing a more substantial base for outdoor weddings or uneven terrain. Whether you opt for a closed-toe or open-toe style, block heels in neutral tones or pastel shades will complement your spring dress or floral maxi elegantly.
When selecting your footwear, consider the venue and theme of the wedding. Beach weddings or garden ceremonies may call for more casual footwear choices, while formal events could inspire you to opt for sleek, sophisticated styles. Ultimately, the most important factor is your comfort, so choose a pair of shoes that will allow you to dance the night away and create lasting memories.
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Dress rental: Rent the Runway and other online fashion rental companies
If you're attending a May wedding, you might be wondering what kind of dress to wear. Floral dresses, pastel maxi dresses, lace cocktail dresses, and bright-coloured gowns are all popular choices for May weddings. If you're attending a formal May wedding, a pastel or bright-coloured gown is a perfect choice. For daytime weddings, a pretty floral dress or a pastel maxi dress will do. For afternoon and evening weddings, a lace cocktail dress or a colourful cocktail dress is a good option.
If you're looking for a dress to rent for a May wedding, there are several online fashion rental companies to choose from. Rent the Runway is one popular option, offering both monthly subscriptions and one-time rentals. With Rent the Runway, you can choose between attire deliveries every week or every month, or you can opt for a one-time rental for a four- or eight-day period. This service gives you access to designer pieces at a fraction of the cost of buying them. For example, an on-trend LBD by Rabanne that retails for $1,500 can be rented for just $35 for four days. In addition to being a more affordable option, renting is also a more sustainable solution to the single-wear issue that often comes with wedding attire.
Another option for dress rental is Nuuly, which offers items from brands like Urban Outfitters and Free People. With Nuuly, you can rent any six items for $98 per month, and you have the option to buy, return, or renew your subscription at the end of the billing cycle. Nuuly also offers plenty of plus and petite size options, as well as maternity sizes.
Armoire is another clothing rental company to consider, and if you're specifically looking for accessories to go with your rented dress, Vivrelle offers subscription plans for renting handbags and designer jewellery.
When choosing a dress to wear to a May wedding, it's important to keep in mind the level of formality of the event, as well as any specific dress codes or themes. It's also respectful to consider the venue and nature of the ceremony, especially if it's a religious occasion, and bring a shawl or sweater to cover up if needed.
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Venue and time of day: religious settings, outdoor weddings, and daytime vs. evening events
When deciding what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the venue and time of day. Here are some tips for choosing an appropriate outfit for a May wedding, taking into account different settings and times of day:
Religious Settings
If the wedding includes a church ceremony, it is respectful to ensure your outfit adheres to the religious setting. Opt for more modest attire by covering your shoulders and avoiding hats during the ceremony. You can bring a shawl or scarf to drape over your shoulders if needed. Remember to be mindful of the religious customs and choose an outfit that is respectful and appropriate for the setting.
Outdoor Weddings
For an outdoor wedding, particularly in the evening, consider wearing a coat or cape to keep warm. Choose sensible footwear that won't sink into the ground, such as block heels or wedges. If the wedding is during the day and the weather is expected to be warm, opt for breathable fabrics and comfortable clothing. A flowy floral dress or a jumpsuit in cheerful colours or spring patterns is a great choice for a daytime outdoor wedding. Don't forget to bring a sunhat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun!
Daytime vs. Evening Events
The time of day plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate attire for a May wedding. For daytime weddings, opt for lighter and more relaxed outfits. Floral prints, pastel colours, and flowy skirts or dresses are perfect for the spring and summer vibes of May. If the wedding is more casual, you can wear a nice sundress, a skirt and blouse, or even a jumpsuit. Just remember to avoid anything too revealing, as you don't want to distract from the bride.
For evening weddings, you can opt for more elegant and sophisticated attire. Consider a long-sleeved cocktail dress, a maxi dress, or a bright-coloured gown. If the wedding is more formal, floor-length gowns or elegant pantsuits are suitable. Remember to pay attention to the dress code, if provided, and don't be afraid to accessorise your outfit with jewellery, scarves, or a chic coat to elevate your look!
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Frequently asked questions
May is the start of the wedding season, so it's a great time to wear something fun and colourful. A floral dress is always a good choice, or you could try a pastel maxi dress or a lace cocktail dress for a daytime wedding.
If the wedding is formal, a long dress is a good option. You could try a gown in a bright colour or pastel shade, or a floor-length dress in a sumptuous fabric like silk or organza.
It's best to avoid wearing white to a wedding, and it's also a good idea to stay away from colours that match the wedding party. Lighter colours like pale blue can also photograph as white, so it's best to avoid these too.
Yes, you don't have to wear a dress to a wedding. Jumpsuits are a fun alternative, or you could try a pantsuit.
