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Listen, we know where you shop for your wedding guest dresses, because we're right there with you. And we know the feeling of landing upon a look you love that you can totally see yourself rocking for your best friend's ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner — any of the weekend events, for that matter. But if said look causes you to pause, hovering over the "submit order" button because you just don't know if it may steal the bride's thunder, keep reading.
Of course, you've got the classic rule that everyone and her mother repeats on the regular: don't wear white to a wedding. But what about a white dress with flowers? And how about that pleated, halter-neck midi that falls somewhere in between pale yellow and cream? Could that one pass, or will it look too light in photos? When the invitation says black tie, and you know everyone will be going for eveningwear, how all out is too all out when it comes to exaggerated sleeves, voluminous skirts, and eccentric prints?
Ahead, we're breaking down the basics. No matter where you shop, there's something for you (the guest) and something that's better left for the bride. That doesn't mean you can't scoop up the number for yourself and pull it off at a different type of event if you really like it. But we advise you to be careful when it comes to these riskier designs and think twice before heading out the door.