Wardrobe 911 ®

A Reader Asks:

I am getting married soon, just a simple one for now, so it will be a civil one only with a judge.  I don’t have any idea of what I can wear — can I wear a wedding dress or a suit?

Wardrobe 911’s Style Prescription:

Seeing as Nick and I got married here in San Francisco’s beautiful City Hall a few years ago, a suit or dress would be appropriate but it depends on you own personal style.  We saw many brides that wore all different colors of dresses - all short, not traditional bridal gowns.  There were even brides that got married in their little black dresses!

Although color and style is your choice, I would recommend going with an ivory, beige or some lighter color.  Even though you are having a civil wedding, it is an extremely important and wonderful day in your life.  You want to feel special and you want to feel like a bride.  The focus is more about you and him on this day not a big whoop-ti-do wedding and all the details that are involved.  It is (in my opinion) the best way to get married!

Because you have chosen not to have the traditional ceremony right yet, a traditional gown would be overkill.  I would stick to a short dress (at the knee), a blouse + skirt combo, or a skirt suit.  Suits can be almost too “businessey” so make sure it has some feminine or soft details. Wear some cute peep toes that you can pair later with other things in your wardrobe — these Maylie’s by Enzo Angiolini are perfect.  Don’t forget a fantastic drop necklace - my fav is anything by Melissa Joy Manning.

You want to feel utterly beautiful so pick something that makes you smile.  Enjoy your day!!