What to Wear to a Black-Tie Wedding

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Although evening gowns are standard fare for black tie weddings, you can get away with a formal cocktail dress (of the longer variety) or even an elegant suit. You can wear a gown in any silhouette you like. Go all out with a trumpet or ball gown or keep it simple with a dressy sheath. Whatever style you choose, make sure you're able to walk in it. 

Am I Required to Wear a Gown?

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When you wear a floor-length dress, the goal is to have the hem graze the ground. If the hem falls higher, it will look like the dress isn't fitted properly. If the dress is longer, you'll risk stepping on the fabric and tripping.

Am I Required to Wear a Gown?

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You can only wear a cocktail dress if it's very formal. It can fall above the knee, but it shouldn't get much shorter than that for a black-tie wedding. For this occasion, it's not recommended to show too much skin. Rather, keep the hemline modest and keep any cleavage to a minimum. Steer clear of anything that looks like you're going to a club. Instead, opt for sophisticated cocktail dresses made from rich fabric and fine details.

If I Wear a Cocktail Dress, How Should I Style It?

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All colors are fair game except white, off-white, or anything else that's even close to white. Apart from that, the only color you might want to avoid is the color the bridesmaids are wearing, as you might end up looking like a wannabe 'maid if you accidentally wear the same color.

What Colors Are Appropriate for a Black-Tie Wedding?

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Other than that, you're good to go. Often, people think black is a no-go for weddings, but that's simply not the case. A floor-length black gown or a fancy little black dress are elegant, classy options that are perfectly appropriate. Red is another color that gets called into question for wedding attire, but wearing red is acceptable so long as it doesn't call attention away from the bride.

What Colors Are Appropriate for a Black-Tie Wedding?

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For weddings of all dress codes, jewel tones are excellent options (especially for fall weddings) and pastel hues are lovely for summer weddings.

What Colors Are Appropriate for a Black-Tie Wedding?

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Short answer? Yes. If you're questioning whether or not your outfit is too formal, you need only ask yourself one simple question: Are you going to upstage the bride? If there's even a chance, wear something else. This isn't the time for head-to-toe crystals, body-baring cutout gowns, or anything remotely bridal. If for any reason you're on the fence about whether your dress is appropriate, run it by the bride or a bridesmaid.

Is It Possible to Look Too Fancy?

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Dramatic, ground-grazing couture doesn't really make sense for a morning ceremony—in fact, it's considered bad form to wear evening gowns when it's not, in fact, the evening ... which can make planning your attire for a black-tie wedding in the morning or early afternoon a bit tricky. For these occasions, wear a formal tea-length dress, an elegant suit (with a skirt or trousers), or a cocktail dress.

Is It Possible to Look Too Fancy?

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Black tie attire is costly, no doubt about it, and while you might be able to find a great deal, shopping around will take you time. If a new ballgown isn't in your budget, we have two ideas. First, ask around. Chances are you have a friend with a dress you can wear just hanging in their closet that they'll gladly let you borrow. Second, there's Rent the Runway, which is truly a budget fashionista's best friend. 

How Can I Look Fab Without Spending Too Much?

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You can choose from a huge selection of designer gowns (think Diane Von Furstenberg, Zac Posen, Tory Burch, and the like) and rent them for a fraction of the cost. Rent the Runway will even let you choose a second size in the same dress, so you're likely to find the perfect fit even without trying it on.

How Can I Look Fab Without Spending Too Much?

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This is your chance to go all out. Stick with chignons, up-dos, or angelic cascading curls that will compliment your elegant attire. Choose one feature to really play up, like eyes or lips. Try a smokey eye with a nude lip or angelically highlighted cheeks with a red lip.

How Should I Do My Hair and Makeup?

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