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How to be a beautiful wedding guest
Looking good at a best friend's wedding is all about getting the balance right. The key is to look smart and stylish without overshadowing the bride. Fortunately this summer we have the SATC movie (don't worry we won't spoil the ending) and Coleen's wedding to offer some priceless style guidance
Rule number 1: Be prepared
Don't leave finding a wedding outfit to the last minute. Do your research, using magazines and the internet as a starting point. Check out Matchesfashion.com and Net-a-porter.com for gorgeous head-to-toe designer fashion. For fabulously priced frocks and accessories, click on Oasis-stores.com or Coast-stores.com. If buying online, be sure to allow enough time for delivery (and return) of goods.
On the high street, don't just stick to the usual suspects, set aside a day (and get there early before the crowds) to investigate new boutiques and some of the larger department stores, you may be pleasantly surprised.
Rule number 2: Ask the experts
Think about using a personal shopper it'll be just like having your very own stylist! Topshop's style advisor service offers a 'truly hassle-free experience,' you even get to jump the queues and use the VIP fitting rooms.
John Lewis has trained fashion advisors - so, while they're trawling the shop floor for that perfect little ensemble, you can nip upstairs and sort out the wedding gift! And Debenhams' personal shoppers will help 'guide you through the trends' and co-ordinate outfits for the whole wedding entourage.
Remember the personal shopper/style advisor sees all the latest collections as soon as they hit the store. They're trained to offer expert guidance, and see a wide range of women, of all shapes and sizes, every week. So they know what's what. Their service is free and there's no obligation to buy.
Rule number 3: Get it right
Wear something that shows you're taking the occasion seriously. As Christian Dior once said, 'It is very bad to be overdressed, but very impolite and wrong to be underdressed.' The idea is to look like you, but like the very best version of you. So play it smart. Both guest and clothes should be on their best behaviour.
Always follow the dress code. Bride-to-be Harriet Margolies found a gorgeous floor-length purple Amanda Wakeley dress and then sensibly informed guests not to wear 'either purple or floor-length dresses' on the wedding invite. 'I'm not going to be wearing a traditional white dress so we decided to tell people,' she says 'I found something really special, and we just wanted to save everybody from embarrassment.' Respect the bride.
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