Molly Bloom knows style

Dear reader Laura left a comment asking for some advice. She posed such a good question that I replied in post-form.

Wedding dress codes are funny. Elegant semi-formal. Cocktail couture. Years ago I was invited to a wedding where guests were encouraged to wear Hawaiian shirts (I wore red leather pants and a polka dot top). Basically they all mean “Look good enough that we want to select pictures of you for our wedding album but not as good as the bride.” Dress codes are open to interpretation and personal style, so gussy up.

Since two dress codes are listed on Laura’s invitation, I think changing clothes is in order. The 9-hour time span between the start of the ceremony and the start of dinner is another indicator. For daytime, consider a little black dress (”formal attire, hats encouraged”) with a colorful wrap and a fun hat to offset any funeral/black doldrums vibe. For evening, fulfill the “formal with flair” portion of the dress code with the red dress. I think a knee-length dress should be fine for dinner, but I’ve never been to such an affair. At any rate, it sounds like quite a fete.

As for hosiery, if you’re willing to spend just a little more than average you have great options. One recent-ish style is the nude stocking with the rear seam. I love a rear seam, especially the nude stocking with a nude seam, or nude with a black or red seam. Cuban heel is another back seam style, but they’re tricky. I think you need mules or something to wear them. I haven’t worked them out with pumps.

I like fishnets, but they are a bit much for a Southern wedding. However, depending on your skin, you should check out flesh-tone fishnets. They are surprisingly flattering. One reason you want to pay a little more for stockings is the fit. You don’t want the ankles bagging or the knees losing shape. Cheap fishnets are legendary for such elephantine tendencies.

If you have money to spend, I love Wolford hosiery. And Macy’s has a fine hosiery department.

As for the hat, do it. Small handbags can be inexpensive and really round out an outfit. Sparkly pins work well with both little black dresses and as closures for wraps. May I suggest a garter flask?