A couple of weeks ago I was invited to a black tie optional wedding in Virginia. It’s one of the toughest dress code. Cocktail attire makes sense. You wear a cocktail dress… like this. But black tie optional? That can mean a gown or a fancy shorter dress depending on the location.
To be safe, I went with a simple gown, borrowed from BCBG. To make it a little more casual, I played with color by adding a matching clutch and contrasting necklace.
If you go long, avoid bling and opt for understated fabrics like jersey. The opposite applies if you go short. Look for fancier materials, like satin or sequins. And dress it up with statement jewelry and metallic heels. A high low hemline is also a great medium. And the same rules apply as for every wedding: no white!
Here are some options I found online:
1. BCBGMaxAzria, $328
2. Twobirds, $310 (wear it two ways!)
3. Maggy London, $148
4. Lauren by Ralph Lauren, $198
5. T by Tadashi, $158
6. JS Collections, $248
7. Vera Wang, $495
8. T by Tadashi, $138
Keep reading for detail shots on my black tie optional wedding look! (more…)
