DOOpt for lighter fabrics (linen, organdy, chiffon) in spring and summer; heavier fabrics (velvet, brocade, heavy satin) for fall and winter.
Wear a non-white dress.
Wear strappy silver or gold metallic heels, or a pair with crystal or embellishments.
Try on your dress with undergarments.
Wear a nude body slip as close to your skin tone as possible if your dress is nearly sheer: Lingerie on Lex has great options.
Let your dress dictate the formality (or lack thereof) of the wedding party’s attire.
Coordinate the color of your bouquet with the groomsmen’s ties, cummerbunds, or pocket squares.
Choose bridesmaid’s dresses to match the color of your sash or bouquet ribbon.
Treat your mom and the mother of the groom to Champagne lunch and then take them shopping so they are more open to your suggestions. No middle-aged décolleté!
Tell the parents of the bride and groom the formality and colors of the wedding-party clothing so they can coordinate.
DON’TIgnore your body shape. Wear a short dress at a church or synagogue ceremony.
Wear a big, poufy gown if you are petite. Create a long line with a column or A-line style.
Wear a long, formal or beaded gown with train at an outdoor ceremony.
Drive yourself crazy matching your shoes to your dress. Ditch the dyeables; this is your wedding, not junior prom.
Do white stockings with your dress … unless you are having a “Working Girl”–themed wedding.
Allow the mothers of the bride and groom to wear the same exact color as the bridesmaid dresses; a little variation goes a long way.
Be scared to wear a slightly tinted wedding gown (champagne, gray, or blush are all trendy yet tasteful options).
Forget to ask your officiant if bare shoulders are acceptable at your place of worship. If not, do a wrap or shawl.