What To Wear To A Spring Wedding & Other Events

Oh, sweet springtime! Now that the sun is shining a little bit brighter and the days are longer it feels like we can all begin to bloom once again. Even better, as the general state of things starts to look a bit sunnier, you may be feeling a sense of renewed normalcy and hopefulness, amongst other emotions. You might even find yourself back on the guest list of that previously postponed wedding. Fret not, for Hannah is here to offer styling tips to help prepare you for dressing elegantly at events now that the vaccine has been made publicly available.

The stunning new Batson River Brewery Portland location made for the perfect backdrop to showcase my top spring event outfit suggestions. Whether you’re wondering what to wear to a spring wedding or simply for an elevated girls’ night out/date night, I highly suggest making a trip to Andrea’s Bridal. Located in downtown Portland, they offer the best dress options in town; not only for weddings, but also for black-tie events such as prom, pageants, galas, and really any intimate event worthy of looking and feeling gorgeous. Currently, they are offering visits to their showroom by appointment only.

Now that you have the date marked in your calendar it’s time to decide what to wear. The fun part! What I tell my clients all the time and what I’ll tell you now is that you want to make the dress the statement and keep your accessories minimal. This season you should opt for a classic cocktail dress or a floor-length dress with whimsical details or a springtime color, such as a fun bright pink or a pretty pastel shade. Or if you’re feeling bold enough, as I often am, a velvet jumpsuit is not only a unique option, but it’s sure to turn heads. This one I’m wearing is from the Maine-raised dress designer Ashley Lauren. Speaking of, Andrea’s Bridal carries a wide range of her dresses, and if you do not see the style you specifically want they can arrange to get it for you.

When it comes to minimal accessories, that does not translate to low quality. Instead, just as I would suggest investing in high-quality clothing pieces for your wardrobe, you should equally prioritize jewelry. One of my favorite local Maine-based companies is Springers’ Jewelers. Conveniently located a few feet from Andrea’s Bridal on Congress Street, Springer’s is a 150-year old women-led jewelry company. To compliment both the fierce, bold, and soft feminine looks I, Tenessa, and Sarah are wearing, I accessorized our looks with layering-friendly pieces from the Dana Rebecca Designs, Tacori Jewelry, Tacori Bridal, and Hearts On Fire Bridal collections sold at Springer’s. Keep reading for individual styling details…

Casual Spring Wedding

Although I’d most definitely shy away from wearing a white dress to a wedding, I wanted to show what a silhouette of a classic cocktail dress is. What I like about this dress is that it’s not only length-appropriate, but its bedded details make it a more elevated choice. A plunging V-neckline most certainly calls for a drop necklace. Even better, you can layer delicate pieces to all at once make a statement, but also keep it minimal. I love how especially demure rose gold looks. Lastly, for a pop choose to wear colored heels or even an all-black pair for a more mod look.

Shop Sarah’s Look:

Ashley Lauren Cocktail Dress, Dana Rebecca Designs earrings, Tacori engagement ring setting and stacking ring, Faux Suede Caged Block Heels, Dana Rebecca Designs Bar Necklace, and Drop Necklace

Semi-Formal Spring Wedding

This floor-length style gown is ideal for almost any kind of wedding, but especially for a semi-formal one. The best part is it can be dressed down at a later time to get more wear out of it. Simply pair with a statement smoky eye and a nude lip for a fail-proof semi-formal look. You can also go for a more whimsical look with natural makeup and jewelry made of mixed metals. For instance, don’t be afraid to layer multiple necklace necklines and gold, rose gold, and silver pieces.

Shop Tenessa’s Look:

Bill Levkoff Chiffon Gown, Dana Rebecca Designs pearl studs, Ava Bea X stud earrings, Bar and Link Necklace, Heart Necklace, Pearl Ivy Drop Necklace, and Hearts on Fire x Hayley Paige Harley Wrap engagement ring setting

Formal Spring Wedding

Pull out all the stops—without upstaging the bride, of course! An off-the-shoulder velvet jumpsuit is all at once unexpected and also taps into a red carpet level glam. Oversized thin hoops and a dainty gold necklace pairs well with this look without taking it over the top.

Shop Hannah’s Look:

Ashley Lauren Jumpsuit, Guess Pumps, Springer’s Collection Large Oval Hoops, Hearts on Fire x Hayley Paige Behati Say It Your Way Engagement Ring Setting, Tacori The Ivy Lane Pave Open Air Ring, and Dana Rebecca Designs Diamond Bar Necklace

Even if you’re not attending a wedding or event this spring, these looks can just as easily be worn for drinks with the girls. After staying home for so long we owe it to ourselves to dress up and connect over delicious food and yummy drinks. If you haven’t already, you need to visit Batson River Brewery. They have arguably the best cocktails in Portland and a superb happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday through Friday. 10/10 would recommend the Pretty Bird cocktail!