Finding the Perfect Guest Wedding Dress
Source: brides.com
Where to buy a guest wedding dress – Finding the perfect guest wedding dress can be a fun yet challenging task. For a summer wedding, consider the elegance and comfort of a maxi dress; you might find a stunning selection if you check out this collection of wedding guest maxi dresses for summer. Ultimately, the best place to buy a guest wedding dress depends on your personal style and budget, whether it’s a department store, a boutique, or an online retailer.
Choosing the right attire for a wedding as a guest can be a surprisingly complex task. This guide will help you navigate the process of finding a guest wedding dress, from online shopping to local boutiques, budgeting, and selecting the perfect style for your body type and the wedding’s formality.
Online Retailers for Guest Wedding Dresses
Source: brides.com
Online retailers offer a vast selection of guest wedding dresses, often at competitive prices. However, it’s crucial to compare return policies and shipping options before making a purchase. Below is a comparison of three major online retailers.
| Retailer | Price Range | Shipping Cost | Return Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASOS | $50 – $300 | Varies by location, often free over a certain amount | Typically 28 days, may vary depending on sale items |
| Nordstrom | $100 – $500+ | Varies by location and shipping method, often free for Nordstrom cardholders | Typically 30 days, with some exceptions for sale items |
| Revolve | $150 – $800+ | Varies by location and shipping method | Typically 30 days, may vary depending on the brand and item |
These retailers typically offer a wide variety of dress styles. Necklines range from classic round necks and V-necks to more modern halter necks and off-the-shoulder styles. Sleeve lengths vary from sleeveless to long sleeves, including popular three-quarter and flutter sleeves. Silhouettes include A-line, fit-and-flare, sheath, and empire waist dresses.
For a black-tie wedding, a floor-length gown in a luxurious fabric like silk or velvet, perhaps with subtle embellishments like beading or sequins, would be appropriate. Nordstrom might offer a sophisticated velvet A-line gown with a V-neck and long sleeves. For a casual beach wedding, a flowy maxi dress in a lightweight fabric like cotton or linen, with a simple silhouette and minimal embellishments, would be ideal.
ASOS frequently features such styles. A semi-formal wedding might call for a midi dress in a patterned fabric like floral print or a sophisticated solid color, perhaps with a modest neckline and sleeves. Revolve offers many chic midi dress options.
Local Boutiques and Department Stores, Where to buy a guest wedding dress
Purchasing a guest wedding dress from a local boutique or a department store offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. Local boutiques provide personalized service and alterations, while department stores often have a wider selection and more competitive pricing.
| Store Type | Price Range | Selection Variety | Personal Styling Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Boutique | Varies greatly, can be higher | Generally smaller, more curated selection | Often includes consultations, alterations, and styling advice |
| Department Store | Wide range, generally more affordable options | Larger selection, more variety in styles and brands | Limited personal styling, alterations may be available but often outsourced |
Local boutiques often offer alterations, including hemming, taking in seams, and adjusting straps. They might also provide styling advice, helping you choose accessories to complement your dress. For example, a boutique might suggest specific jewelry or shoes to enhance your look based on the wedding’s style and your dress.
Budgeting and Dress Selection
Creating a realistic budget is crucial to avoid overspending. Consider the following expense categories:
- Dress price
- Alterations
- Accessories (shoes, jewelry, handbag)
- Shipping costs (if applicable)
Several factors influence the price of a guest wedding dress, including fabric (silk is more expensive than polyester), embellishments (beading and embroidery increase cost), designer brand (established designers command higher prices), and retailer (boutiques tend to be more expensive than department stores).
When selecting a dress, prioritize the following criteria:
- Budget
- Wedding venue and dress code
- Personal style
- Comfort
- Wedding venue and dress code
Dress Styles and Appropriateness
Wedding guest attire etiquette varies depending on the wedding’s style and location. Understanding these nuances ensures you dress appropriately and respectfully.
Dresses considered inappropriate for a wedding guest generally include those that are white (or shades too close to white), overly revealing (showing too much skin), or overly casual (jeans, t-shirts, etc.). Beach weddings generally call for lighter, more casual attire than formal church weddings. Religious weddings often have stricter dress codes.
A-line dresses are universally flattering, while empire waist dresses accentuate the waistline and are comfortable for various body types. Choosing accessories that complement the dress and the overall wedding style is important. For instance, a simple clutch and elegant heels would be appropriate for a formal wedding, whereas sandals and a straw bag might suit a beach wedding.
Post-Purchase Considerations
After purchasing your dress, alterations might be necessary to ensure a perfect fit. Common alterations include hemming, taking in the waist or bust, and adjusting straps. The cost varies depending on the extent of the alterations.
Proper care is essential to maintain your dress’s condition. Before the wedding, spot-clean any stains and follow the care instructions on the garment label. After the wedding, have the dress professionally cleaned and stored in a garment bag to protect it from damage.
Choosing the right accessories completes the look. Consider the wedding’s style and dress code when selecting shoes, jewelry, and a handbag. For instance, sparkly jewelry might complement a simple dress for a formal wedding, while delicate jewelry might be more suitable for a casual affair. Matching the shoe color and style to the dress and overall look is crucial.
Commonly Asked Questions: Where To Buy A Guest Wedding Dress
Can I wear a dress I already own to a wedding?
Yes, provided it adheres to the wedding’s dress code and isn’t overly casual or inappropriate (e.g., white, overly revealing).
What if the dress doesn’t fit perfectly?
Many tailors offer alterations; factor this cost into your budget. Online retailers often have detailed size charts; careful measurement is crucial.
How far in advance should I buy my dress?
Ideally, purchase your dress at least a couple of months before the wedding to allow for alterations and shipping time, if applicable.
What accessories should I avoid?
Avoid anything that might overshadow the bride, such as excessively flashy jewelry or a very similar dress style.