Figuring out what to wear to wedding is one of the most fun – and most trying – parts of being a wedding guest. Sure you can take your cues from the invitation, but what does “black tie optional” or “festive attire” really mean? And what should you wear to a formal daytime summer wedding, or a destination wedding? Here are tips and ideas for what to wear to every type of summer wedding.

Daytime Wedding

If the wedding takes place in a church, mosque, or synagogue, and you are wearing a sleeveless dress, make sure you have a shawl or sweater to cover your shoulders. If you know that the wedding is going to be religiously conservative, skip the short skirt, too. You can wear heels to a daytime wedding (as long as it isn’t in the grass!), but you don’t have to. And you don’t have to break out your bejeweled ballet flats, either. Keep your hair and makeup simple. Nothing too flashy is the name of the game

• Daytime weddings call for color, so look for well-cut dresses in bright hues.
• Length should be at least to the knee or tea length.
• For shoes, stick with wedges so you don’t sink into the grass if you’re outdoors.
• A cross-body bag is perfect for cocktails — it’s hands free!

Destination wedding

• Look for a dress that packs well. This is crucial as you don’t want to show up with a gown that’s bent out of shape. Try lace, jersey or sequins/beading as they don’t wrinkle.
• The two big colors for the season are coral and turquoise.
• Consider a gold-lace dress: It packs up small and light and works perfectly with bold color accessories.

Formal wedding

For a wedding that requests “festive” attire, you wear basically what you might wear to a formal function. Cocktail dresses and shiny fabrics are in order. Jewelry is a matter of preference, but stay out of your cheap, trendy accessories drawer. Imagine what you might wear to a really nice night on the town. Get your hair done, paint your nails, and break out the red lipstick

Classic black is, well, classic. Save some money, too, as you can find some great deals! Just know the fit that looks best on you.

• If you want something that is going to last, look for jersey dresses as they are more durable through dry cleanings, pack well for weddings and give you a little more “wiggle” room to gain or lose a few pounds over the years.
• Antique jewelry is a great way to accessorize a basic black dress without breaking the bank.
• A classic black dress with jewel belt detail is timeless.
• A simple black clutch is all about keeping the look streamlined.
• Chandelier earrings pick up the sparkle on the belt detail and draw attention up to the asymmetrical halter neckline.