Wedding Bells

Well they’re not tolling for me yet, so calm down Moms. But when asked recently by an ex boyfriend if we were married yet Kevin asked if told him, “Almost.” “No,” I said. “There’d have to be a ring for me to tell him almost.” Our friends and family are certainly wearing out ye ole church bells though, so I wasn’t surprised when I got a question about what to wear to an upcoming wedding.

“Can you help me find something to wear to my brother's wedding? It's at 6:30 on Friday, Sept. 3rd. Wedding colors involve teal (and maybe something else, I can't remember). It's going to be a pretty fancy affair. What do you suggest?”

Background: Chrystal is a young, hip mom of two little girls.

I see you in a knee-length dress with straps. You'll be able to bend down and grab the kiddos without having to worry about your dress falling down, and they won't be stepping on the train of a long dress. Since it will be the beginning of September, the short length will also keep you cooler.

I see you staying in one of three color areas: a deep purple, a metallic - probably silver, or the classic LBD. Since the wedding's main color is teal you won't want to wear that so you don't look like a bridesmaid, but you want your dress to compliment the bridal party for the bajillion photos of the family. So red is definitely out.

And if some of these items are out of your price range (I know some are out of mine!), use them as inspiration! Places like Charmin' Charlie will have great one-time or special occasion pieces.

Dress 1: Purple Dress
I love the interest in the neckline of the dress. Your short hair will show off the neckline, and the detail under the bust will bring attention to the smallest part of your body. You have great arms and legs, so this will show them off! I went with a chandelier earring, no necklace and a blingin’ bracelet. With the interest in the neckline and the statement pieces in the rest of the jewelry, you can go without a necklace. A subtle gold clutch and either flats or pumps complete the look.

Dress 2: Silver Dress
This little number might take you out of your comfort zone a little. Don’t let the plunging neckline scare you, though. If you’re worried about coverage wear a lace cami underneath that will allow you to wear a supportive bra. The shoes act as the pop of color with a bow on the side for interest. Some simple, sparkly jewelry (studs, necklace, bracelet) lets the dress and the shoes shine. A textured clutch adds a different fabric to the mix. If feathers aren’t your thing, try ostrich.


Dress 3: LBD
You can’t go wrong with the classic LBD. I went with a simpler look here. Simple studs and a ruched purple clutch are also classic and elegant. Spice it up a little with a big, silver or studded cuff and a Carrie Bradshaw-inspired ruffle pump.