Celebrate the season with floral patterns
Reformation
“Spring represents joy and love,” Azazie chief marketing officer Ranu Coleman explains to Wedding Wire, adding that, “it’s all about florals and shades of red, pink, blue, purple, and green.” Shelley Brown of The Knot agrees: “There’s no better time than a spring wedding to sport a romantic floral dress. Go bold with vibrant, oversized blooms or more subtle with micro-prints in pastel colors—you can’t go wrong either way.” For inspiration, check out this short-sleeved floral midi from Reformation. It’s available in everything from bold patterns to aforementioned “micro-prints,” take your pick.
Consider your wallet and rent this season’s fits
Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway is one of the best clothing rental websites on the market. How does it work? Though the service allows you to experiment with one-time rentals — which allow you to keep your chosen items for up to 8 days — you can also sign up for monthly membership plans. All items arrive quickly, dry cleaned, or with back-up sizes in case something doesn’t fit. For instance, borrow this Vince black satin gown for a one-time fee of just $70, a fraction of the original $425 price tag. If you’re interested in trying out designer fashion but don’t have a red carpet budget, this is the platform for you.
Go bold with a color blocked dress
Windsor
According to Byrdie, color blocked fashion rose to mainstream popularity in the 1970s under the guidance of renowned designer Stephen Burrows. This fashion era — much like the abstract paintings of Piet Mondrian in the 1920s and ’30s — was all about pairing blocks of solid, bold colors. Why stick to one fabric shade when you can have many? Though 1st Dibs prices original Stephen Burrows designs in the thousands, his influence is also felt in everything from this bright pink and orange design from Windsor or Asos’ camel and lilac fit.
Stand out with creative cutouts
nobody’s child
First and foremost, look to the RSVP to see just how much skin the venue warrants. According to Brides, it’s usually best to steer clear of anything too revealing. While Byrdie recommends Abercrombie & Fitch’s sleek satin keyhole dress, Cosmopolitan ranks this Nobody’s Child black cutout midi as one of the best cutout dresses to buy in 2022. Alternatively, lace detail can be a beautiful, textured way to embellish peekaboo designs. Check out this elegant style from Asos or Meshki’s lace and satin maxi for inspiration.
Show off your figure in a bodycon midi
Reformation
According to The Knot, midi dresses are the perfect in-between length. As fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown tells the site, “This versatile silhouette gives you the best of both worlds: it’s flirtier than a traditional floor-length gown but more formal than a short dress.” Speaking of silhouettes, a bodycon midi — like this pistachio design from Reformation — will help yours stand out this spring wedding season. For a little extra flirtiness, choose a midi with a slit. Check out this Camila Coelho midi dress complete with button detailing and a hint of leg.
Power pose in a jumpsuit
Lulus
“No dress? No problem,” fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown tells The Knot. “A tailored jumpsuit is formal enough to work for even a black tie dress code, but comfortable enough to allow you to tear it up on the dance floor.” For starters, check out this structured sleeveless suit from Boohoo. Or, if you’re a “Fleabag” fanatic, Lulus sells a Phoebe Waller-Bridge-inspired jumpsuit for under $60. Pair with sparkling jewelry and heels for a formal effect or, if you anticipate grass or wood planked flooring, platform sandals.
You can’t go wrong with all black
Reformation
As Azazie chief marketing officer Ranu Coleman tells Wedding Wire, “Black can be worn to a formal wedding even if it’s during the spring.” Especially for late night venues black makes for the perfect base, and best of all, it doesn’t show sweat or sauce stains. If the invite calls for cocktail attire, accessorize your Coco Chanel-inspired little black dress (aka “LBD”) with jewelry, a clutch, and heels. If the RSVP categorizes the dress code as black or white tie, opt for a black floor length gown like this backless design from Reformation.
Silk can fit in with any dress code
Banana Republic
Silk is adaptable, says The Knot. Depending on the cut of the dress, it can be styled up or down to fit the formality requirements. For instance, go bold with this floral midi from ASTR The Label. It’s available in nine distinct shades from spring pastels to winter-worthy teal. Alternatively, pair this silk halter from Banana Republic with open-toed sandals for a breezy springtime look. Keep in mind, however — water and silk don’t mix well. As SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire, “Maybe more important in spring than any other season, it’s a great idea to keep monitoring the weather, especially considering most spring weddings include outdoor elements.” With this in mind, incorporate a stylish cover up into your fit or (at the very least) hope for a covered tent.
Puffy sleeves bring the excitement
Free People
Puffy sleeves were big (literally) in the ’80s and have peaked in popularity yet again, per Cosmopolitan. Though this style might not be for everyone, it certainly makes a statement. If you’re looking for a subtle puff, check out this casual floral smock dress from Lulus. Pair with platform sandals for a warm outdoor wedding. For a more formal occasion, accessorize something like this Selkie puff dress from Free People with stilettos, glamorous earrings and a sleek hairstyle. Anticipating a little springtime chill? Volume in the shoulders shouldn’t mean sacrificing on sleeve length — find inspiration from Urban Outfitters’ long-sleeved floral dress.
You do you in a tailored suit
Banana Republic
Not everyone is a fan of dresses. As New Jersey wedding planner Alicia Mae tells Brides, “An essential tip is to know yourself as a guest. As the saying goes, ‘If you look great, you feel great!’” If that means forgoing a skirt in favor of pants, go for it! For a little pizzazz, check out this floral suit set from Banana Republic. Add some height with heels or, alternatively, a formal pair of loafers. To achieve a simple, yet elegant aesthetic, opt for a tailored black blazer like this piece from J. Crew and matching black dress pants.
Keep it casual in a chiffon midi
asos
According to Wedding Wire, spring ceremonies typically require a bit less formality, though it’s always best to look to your invitation for guidance. When in doubt, chiffon is the perfect semi formal spring fabric; it’s lightweight and sheer, making for the ideal breezy fit. For inspiration, look to this baby blue chiffon midi tea dress from Asos. It provides equal amounts of class and comfort, and you can dress it down with platform sandals or pair with strappy heels for fancier venues.
Use accessories to dress it up
Sofia Zhuravetc/Shutterstock
SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire that it’s important to understand the dress code before choosing your fit. “One great way to determine the dress code — without asking the couple — is to check out the location of the wedding,” she advises. If you’re in a pinch before a black tie occasion, dress up a semi formal look with accessories; think jeweled handbags, high heels, and sparkling earrings. Lands’ End notes that makeup like a red lip can also make a casual dress look more formal.
Don’t shy away from texture
Lulus
As fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown explains to The Knot, “Weddings are back and so are maximalist trends like ruffles,” adding that, “This romantic detail adds fashion-forward flair to even the most basic silhouette.” Though take care not to draw attention away from the bride. For instance, this light pink dress from Asos offers the perfect amount of ruffle and chiffon texture, ideal for a breezy outdoor venue. Alternatively, check out this tiered maxi from Lulus — pair with heels, and you’re all set for everything from semi formal to black tie.
Keep them guessing with asymmetrical cuts
Urban Outfitters
“With the weather warming up,” Lovely Bride founder Lanie List tells Brides, “it’s the perfect time to rock bright colors, modern cutouts, or unexpected details like a cowl neckline or an asymmetrical hem.” Speaking of asymmetrical hems, shop this cowl neck midi from Urban Outfitters. Alternatively, admire the elegant asymmetry in this Lulus one-shoulder dress. As advised by celebrity hairstylist Julien Farel, balance the one-shoulder neckline with a side swept pony or sleek, off center bun (via Byrdie).
Try out a two piece skirt set
asos
Matching sets quickly took over summer 2022. From loungewear to ’60s-inspired minis, two pieces are just as versatile as they are trendy. While Vogue recommends wearing a formal two piece to holiday parties, you can also opt for a matching top and breezy skirt this spring wedding season. Ideal for an outdoor ceremony, this green Asos set can be repurposed long after the “I-dos” are over. Simply re-wear the shirt and skirt separately to create a range of unique outfits (formal and informal).
How To Achieve The Perfect Breezy Look For A Spring Wedding
false/Shutterstock
By Sara Caskey/Dec. 15, 2022 1:16 pm EST
When planning your breezy spring wedding fits, it’s important to keep weather and location in mind. Depending on the venue, you may find yourself encountering fresh mud or, if the sun acts according to plan, a generous helping of seasonal colors. Start wedding season off right with a wardrobe that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and (perhaps most importantly) ready to dance — just remember, no white!
Celebrate the season with floral patterns
Reformation
“Spring represents joy and love,” Azazie chief marketing officer Ranu Coleman explains to Wedding Wire, adding that, “it’s all about florals and shades of red, pink, blue, purple, and green.” Shelley Brown of The Knot agrees: “There’s no better time than a spring wedding to sport a romantic floral dress. Go bold with vibrant, oversized blooms or more subtle with micro-prints in pastel colors—you can’t go wrong either way.” For inspiration, check out this short-sleeved floral midi from Reformation. It’s available in everything from bold patterns to aforementioned “micro-prints,” take your pick.
Consider your wallet and rent this season’s fits
Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway is one of the best clothing rental websites on the market. How does it work? Though the service allows you to experiment with one-time rentals — which allow you to keep your chosen items for up to 8 days — you can also sign up for monthly membership plans. All items arrive quickly, dry cleaned, or with back-up sizes in case something doesn’t fit. For instance, borrow this Vince black satin gown for a one-time fee of just $70, a fraction of the original $425 price tag. If you’re interested in trying out designer fashion but don’t have a red carpet budget, this is the platform for you.
Go bold with a color blocked dress
Windsor
According to Byrdie, color blocked fashion rose to mainstream popularity in the 1970s under the guidance of renowned designer Stephen Burrows. This fashion era — much like the abstract paintings of Piet Mondrian in the 1920s and ’30s — was all about pairing blocks of solid, bold colors. Why stick to one fabric shade when you can have many? Though 1st Dibs prices original Stephen Burrows designs in the thousands, his influence is also felt in everything from this bright pink and orange design from Windsor or Asos’ camel and lilac fit.
Stand out with creative cutouts
nobody’s child
First and foremost, look to the RSVP to see just how much skin the venue warrants. According to Brides, it’s usually best to steer clear of anything too revealing. While Byrdie recommends Abercrombie & Fitch’s sleek satin keyhole dress, Cosmopolitan ranks this Nobody’s Child black cutout midi as one of the best cutout dresses to buy in 2022. Alternatively, lace detail can be a beautiful, textured way to embellish peekaboo designs. Check out this elegant style from Asos or Meshki’s lace and satin maxi for inspiration.
Show off your figure in a bodycon midi
According to The Knot, midi dresses are the perfect in-between length. As fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown tells the site, “This versatile silhouette gives you the best of both worlds: it’s flirtier than a traditional floor-length gown but more formal than a short dress.” Speaking of silhouettes, a bodycon midi — like this pistachio design from Reformation — will help yours stand out this spring wedding season. For a little extra flirtiness, choose a midi with a slit. Check out this Camila Coelho midi dress complete with button detailing and a hint of leg.
Power pose in a jumpsuit
Lulus
“No dress? No problem,” fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown tells The Knot. “A tailored jumpsuit is formal enough to work for even a black tie dress code, but comfortable enough to allow you to tear it up on the dance floor.” For starters, check out this structured sleeveless suit from Boohoo. Or, if you’re a “Fleabag” fanatic, Lulus sells a Phoebe Waller-Bridge-inspired jumpsuit for under $60. Pair with sparkling jewelry and heels for a formal effect or, if you anticipate grass or wood planked flooring, platform sandals.
You can’t go wrong with all black
As Azazie chief marketing officer Ranu Coleman tells Wedding Wire, “Black can be worn to a formal wedding even if it’s during the spring.” Especially for late night venues black makes for the perfect base, and best of all, it doesn’t show sweat or sauce stains. If the invite calls for cocktail attire, accessorize your Coco Chanel-inspired little black dress (aka “LBD”) with jewelry, a clutch, and heels. If the RSVP categorizes the dress code as black or white tie, opt for a black floor length gown like this backless design from Reformation.
Silk can fit in with any dress code
Banana Republic
Silk is adaptable, says The Knot. Depending on the cut of the dress, it can be styled up or down to fit the formality requirements. For instance, go bold with this floral midi from ASTR The Label. It’s available in nine distinct shades from spring pastels to winter-worthy teal. Alternatively, pair this silk halter from Banana Republic with open-toed sandals for a breezy springtime look. Keep in mind, however — water and silk don’t mix well. As SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire, “Maybe more important in spring than any other season, it’s a great idea to keep monitoring the weather, especially considering most spring weddings include outdoor elements.” With this in mind, incorporate a stylish cover up into your fit or (at the very least) hope for a covered tent.
Puffy sleeves bring the excitement
Free People
Puffy sleeves were big (literally) in the ’80s and have peaked in popularity yet again, per Cosmopolitan. Though this style might not be for everyone, it certainly makes a statement. If you’re looking for a subtle puff, check out this casual floral smock dress from Lulus. Pair with platform sandals for a warm outdoor wedding. For a more formal occasion, accessorize something like this Selkie puff dress from Free People with stilettos, glamorous earrings and a sleek hairstyle. Anticipating a little springtime chill? Volume in the shoulders shouldn’t mean sacrificing on sleeve length — find inspiration from Urban Outfitters’ long-sleeved floral dress.
You do you in a tailored suit
Not everyone is a fan of dresses. As New Jersey wedding planner Alicia Mae tells Brides, “An essential tip is to know yourself as a guest. As the saying goes, ‘If you look great, you feel great!’” If that means forgoing a skirt in favor of pants, go for it! For a little pizzazz, check out this floral suit set from Banana Republic. Add some height with heels or, alternatively, a formal pair of loafers. To achieve a simple, yet elegant aesthetic, opt for a tailored black blazer like this piece from J. Crew and matching black dress pants.
Keep it casual in a chiffon midi
asos
According to Wedding Wire, spring ceremonies typically require a bit less formality, though it’s always best to look to your invitation for guidance. When in doubt, chiffon is the perfect semi formal spring fabric; it’s lightweight and sheer, making for the ideal breezy fit. For inspiration, look to this baby blue chiffon midi tea dress from Asos. It provides equal amounts of class and comfort, and you can dress it down with platform sandals or pair with strappy heels for fancier venues.
Use accessories to dress it up
Sofia Zhuravetc/Shutterstock
SuitShop co-founder Jeanne Foley explains to Wedding Wire that it’s important to understand the dress code before choosing your fit. “One great way to determine the dress code — without asking the couple — is to check out the location of the wedding,” she advises. If you’re in a pinch before a black tie occasion, dress up a semi formal look with accessories; think jeweled handbags, high heels, and sparkling earrings. Lands’ End notes that makeup like a red lip can also make a casual dress look more formal.
Don’t shy away from texture
As fashion and beauty editor Shelley Brown explains to The Knot, “Weddings are back and so are maximalist trends like ruffles,” adding that, “This romantic detail adds fashion-forward flair to even the most basic silhouette.” Though take care not to draw attention away from the bride. For instance, this light pink dress from Asos offers the perfect amount of ruffle and chiffon texture, ideal for a breezy outdoor venue. Alternatively, check out this tiered maxi from Lulus — pair with heels, and you’re all set for everything from semi formal to black tie.
Keep them guessing with asymmetrical cuts
Urban Outfitters
“With the weather warming up,” Lovely Bride founder Lanie List tells Brides, “it’s the perfect time to rock bright colors, modern cutouts, or unexpected details like a cowl neckline or an asymmetrical hem.” Speaking of asymmetrical hems, shop this cowl neck midi from Urban Outfitters. Alternatively, admire the elegant asymmetry in this Lulus one-shoulder dress. As advised by celebrity hairstylist Julien Farel, balance the one-shoulder neckline with a side swept pony or sleek, off center bun (via Byrdie).
Try out a two piece skirt set
Matching sets quickly took over summer 2022. From loungewear to ’60s-inspired minis, two pieces are just as versatile as they are trendy. While Vogue recommends wearing a formal two piece to holiday parties, you can also opt for a matching top and breezy skirt this spring wedding season. Ideal for an outdoor ceremony, this green Asos set can be repurposed long after the “I-dos” are over. Simply re-wear the shirt and skirt separately to create a range of unique outfits (formal and informal).