Weddings are one of the most exciting events in the social calendar; they’re a time of joy and celebration, and a good excuse to get all dressed up. Now more than ever, wedding fashion is at the top of its game and has become a world of its own, with bridal fashion weeks, bridal magazines, and high-end designers all foraying into the realm of designing specifically for weddings.
But despite the fact that we are inundated with information when it comes to wedding fashion, it can sometimes be tough to make an outfit decision for these all-important events. Depending on things like weather, location, season, and even age, there’s a lot to be considered. Fashion can be tough for teenage girls especially, so we’ve put together an easy guide for those of you who are wondering what to wear to a wedding; as you finally depart from the ranks of kids’ fashion, but aren’t quite yet an adult, you can be left wondering where you stand.
How you choose to dress is down to you, and some of you may feel you still need some time to develop your own style, whereas some of you may already be ready to show off a developed fashion sense. But whichever it is, we are here to help you make that transition from tween to teen fashion and find what you love. From a range of dress styles and inspirations, to how to build a head-to-toe outfit, it’s all here so let’s get started.
DRESSES (3 options)
The main part of the outfit: the dress. Dresses are a classic and timeless staple in formalwear for women and what’s great about them is they’re just one piece, making them an easy item to both wear and style. Trousers and skirts can be trickier as you’ll have to think about matching different items and at important events it’s always handy to keep things as simple as possible.
Speaking of simplicity, this is one of the easiest ways to approach wedding dressing. Sometimes less is more and remember you should never upstage the bride, but this doesn’t mean you can’t still look sophisticated and stylish. A little black dress is the perfect way to wear this simple look; every girl should have one of these in her wardrobe as it never goes out of style and it can be dressed up or down depending on accessories. Something like this black party dress is both simple in its design but still wedding-appropriate and formal enough due to the jewel embellishments down the front. In one of these wedding outfits for teenage girl, you are sure to be the epitome of elegance.
However, if you’re looking for something jazzier there are still plenty of options. Something with some subtle sparkle or shimmer can demonstrate understated elegance and make you feel fabulous. Something like this pale blue and silver gown may do the trick; not for the faint-hearted, this piece features an exaggerated silhouette with puffed sleeves and a wide A-line skirt, and has pale blue metallic detail finished with bows on the sleeves. While there is a lot happening, the pale tone of the fabric ensures that it’s not too much. Designers like Elie Saab, famed for his feminine, elegant style, often have used these colour palettes to create beautiful, ethereal looks that are on-trend and always stylish.
Alternatively, you could choose a more modern look for your wedding outfit if you’re feeling less traditional. Colour blocking has been a hit on runways for countless years as it’s a bold, easy and fun way to make a statement and now’s your chance to give it a go.
A two-tone dress is a little more formal than the average party gown, but still perfect for weddings in the colder months or more formal settings. The smart ruffled white bodice contrasts against the gorgeous navy of the skirt, and the finishing touch is the jewels down the front which elevate the look to create an outfit that is wedding-ready. It also evokes the classic looks attributed to designers like Chanel and Armani which have long been associated with sophistication and elegance.
ACCESSORIES
Although dresses (or their alternatives) constitute the main part of an outfit, accessories undeniably finish it off, and without them it can feel boring or unpolished. Whether it’s shoes, bags or jewellery, the breadth of options means there’s something suited to every taste.
Firstly, shoes. If you’re planning on dancing the night away, or if your wedding is an all-day event, you want something comfortable yet still stylish. On the more relaxed side, you could opt for a simple embellished sandal (especially in warmer weather); if the wedding in question is abroad or takes place in a warmer environment, a delicate summer sandal will complement your outfit for a look that’s more pared back.
More formally, ballet pumps are always a great option. The classic shape, channelled by fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn, can be teamed with all sorts of different outfits since ballet pumps can elevate almost any ensemble. Having a few of pairs of these can take you from day to night, and casual to formal. In black, white or neutrals, you can team with any outfit, or alternatively you could pick an embellished or metallic pair for something more special.
If you’re going to a wedding, you might want to bring some things with you for the day ahead. As much practical as it is fashionable, a formal or evening bag is a must in any wedding wardrobe. Something like this pink clutch bag is the ideal shade to go with almost any outfit. The boxy shape is ultra-modern and the bumblebee embellishment is just the right amount of quirky and fun. Or, if pink isn’t for you, something like this black apple-shaped piece will work just as well – especially if teamed with a slightly bolder or more daring outfit. The apple shape is both chic and interesting, yet the black fabric can help balance any brighter colours.
Mini-bags are especially on-trend right now. Here’s Vogue’s round up of the best ones on offer.
Headbands are also a particularly trendy touch. Perhaps the biggest accessories trend of the past year, now is the time to jump on the bandwagon before they are cast aside and the next big thing arrives. A practical way to control hair that needs to stay in place all day, headbands are a statement that totally work in your favour. Embellished pieces inspired by the likes of Prada and Jennifer Behr are sure to turn heads and make your wedding wardrobe dazzle. Similarly, hair clips have also taken off, as a more understated approach to the glitzy headgear trend. Try this DC ivory jewelled butterfly hair clip for a touch of instant glamour that is slightly less imposing.
That concludes, then, our ultimate guide to wedding wardrobes for teens. No longer do you need to feel stuck in the middle of a transitional period, but you can flourish in your own right and what better way to show off your brilliant style and personality than with a fantastic wedding outfit.