What To Wear When You are an Over 40 Bride and the Wedding is Causal ?
Hi Deborah,
I’ve got dressing my age (52) down. I’m a pretty good dresser, not frumpy, thanks to my teenage daughter. And, no, I don’t dress like I’m 16! My problem is that I am getting married this summer in a 10-acre backyard in a rural setting in Texas.
Most guests will be wearing blue jeans. It’s going to be simple and fun. What do I wear? I don’t want to look like Ellie Mae Clampett wearing a dress made by Cousin Pearl, nor do I want to look like the girls from Hootersville.
I am 5’10”, wear between a 6 and an 8, small chested, Norwegian heritage, pale skin, and blonde and silvery hair. It’s not bleached! What can I wear just to look memorably pretty? Thanks, Lin
Hi, Lin,
You are tall and slim too, lucky you! You can probably pull off a sleeveless style, which is perfect for an outdoor wedding during a hot Texan summer! Shopping for styles can be challenging, as you’ll see a lot of fussy, frilly junior dresses with big bows and high hems.
Stick to simple lines, lighter, flowy fabrics (nothing too heavy or satin-like), and V-necks to draw attention up to your face. Also, steer clear of anything too heavily beaded or embellished, or anything too short. The knee should be the highest point your skirt should reach.
As for color, you still want to consider yourself “The Bride” in pictures and to your guests. After all, you’re still a bride – you can allow yourself to go a little glam and stand out in the crowd!
Therefore, go for a lighter color. I know that once you reach a certain age, wearing white to your wedding can be considered passé (sometimes even taboo). But if you’re a traditionalist at heart, why not go for ivory or white?
If you’re hesitant to go with white, then opt for a light blue or green. (With your skin, stay away from pale pinks and beiges — they could wash you out!) A soft pattern would also be nice, as it has a more casual feel.
Solid colors are pretty too, as long as you spice them up by adding some flowers or an embellished comb to your hair.
Try The Cotton Bride (www.thecottonbride.com). Especially since it’s Texas. And will probably be hot. The other thing you can do, oddly enough, is look for modest wedding gowns. They have short sleeves and can be very simple. I’m guessing you might like that. Or, as another option, think Sharon Stone. Wear a white t-shirt, and a white long skirt, with a wide sash.
Oh, and fancy cowboy boots, right:)?
Hi LPC,
Thanks for the excellent suggestions! We agree with you!