The imminent nuptials of two very famous Kate M’s has thrown direct light on the very distinctive sartorial styles this summer to wear to weddings. The officially royal celebration would demand a certain code of dress, and the best way to buy into this is through the minimalist luxe trend that was seen at Calvin Klein, Jil Sander, Stella McCartney, Chloe and Celine. Sharp, almost architectural tailoring hits a futuristic note, but by adding in a touch of vibrant colour blocking you can add a sense of fun to the look. Rock and Roll royalty at the other end of the spectrum for Kate Moss means you can embrace the joyous boho and 70’s trend that is so strong again for the summer. Channel Bianca Jagger for a more polished approach, or Ali McGraw in Love Story for a chic but charming look. Wide leg palazzo pants, silk blouses, Halston-esque dresses and floral layering can all be found at Dolce & Gabbana, DVF, Alexander McQueen, Marni , Roberto Cavalli and Dior. If you want to achieve a formal wedding look on a modest budget, look no further than the example of our future queen who chose Reiss for that all important photo call.
But what to wear for the most important lady of the day herself, the bride? Soft romantic dresses can be found at Alice Temperley, who cleverly designs based on a vintage vibe, allowing the bride to look relaxed on the big day despite the delicate lace, layers and floaty fabrics. If your wedding budget doesn’t stretch to the designer, the beautiful dresses in Monsoon have a very similar feel for a fraction of the cost. Amanda Wakeley opts for more dramatic clean lines, neat tailoring, and a sexier more glamorous look. I love this dress that is so simple, but gives such a dramatic silhouette. If your wedding is abroad, or you want a more current look, look no further than the exquisite dresses in Valentino. Beautifully boned and corseted underneath, they have an innocence that is very cute, without looking saccharine and the draped short dress in Prada would make a very elegant bride.
What’s going on under the dress is probably only a matter of great concern for the groom, but good quality lingerie that provides the relevant support but looks suitably ‘bridal’ is important as it is the foundation for what goes on top. Agent Provocateur have an adorable tongue in cheek gift set, as well as divine corsets, and matching knickers that would be the pride and joy of any self respecting burlesque dancer. La Perla have a beautiful set that would tick off your something blue, albeit a subtle powdery colour. LK Bennett is a no-brainer for the bridesmaids, with their bias cut chiffon dresses that suit almost any shape or size available in a rainbow of colours. I also spotted really cute necklaces in Annoushka which I think would make treasured bridesmaid gifts. Bonpoint provides the most adorable flower girl dress, and Le Creuset offers the cutest wedding present for the bride and groom who have everything, with their heart shaped dish in rose pink.