Ila Asked:
I hope you are well, Taryn.
I need your advice. I have a wedding to attend in mid March in Scottsdale, Arizona, time: 6pm. And my problem is that I have no idea what to wear. First because it is March and second the time. Also, my friend from Monaco (her family Catholic/conservative) is getting married to a doctor in Arizona.
Please help! 
Ila
THE WIFE Answered:
The first and fore most rule of wedding dress etiquette is never wear any shade of white to a wedding. This color is exclusively reserved for the bride and her wedding party.
Knowing what to wear can be a bit confusing, So it’s always best to take hints from the invitation:
If the invitation reads “White Tie” This is the most formal for all wedding dress codes. It’s at the tip top of glitz and glamour, it’s best you find your most elegant Floor length ball gown, because this is the perfect occasion to wear it. Be sure to accessorize with beautiful jewels and a glamorous up do or other enchanting hairstyle. Men should be in a formal tuxedo with a cumberbund vest, white tie and shiny shoes.
If the invitation reads “Black Tie” then formal attire is required and usually means the wedding is an evening affair. Women do not necessarily have to be in floor length gowns, but should wearing a chic and classy cocktail dress or elegant separates with a small evening bag. Men should be in dapper tuxedos with a black bow tie and fancy shoes.
If the invitation says “Formal or Black Tie Optional.” This suggests something less formal than black tie. Women should be in a cocktail dresses or a suit. Men have the choice to wear a tuxedo or a formal suit and tie.
If the invitation says “Casual” This does not mean show up in jeans, shorts or a tank top. I would encourage to wear a nice button down or polo. Women are fine in a dress, skirt or sophisticated pants with a blouse.
If the invitation does not state what the appropriate attire is, then try to take hint from the season and hour of the wedding. A Spring/Summer wedding is perfect for pastel dresses with dressy sandals and for men lighter colored suits. While a Winter wedding calls for warmer clothes, the wedding site should provide a coat check for heavy coats.
Day weddings are more casual, stay away from long gowns, sequins and heavy beading. Opt instead for knee length dresse or skirts. Feel free to wear a ladies hat or bring sunglasses. If the wedding is on a beach, men are allowed to wear linen shirts and pants or khaki pants with leather sandals. Women are fine in sundresses with flats or sandals, be sure to bring a light cardigan or sweater wrap in case of chilly breezes.
Evening weddings and receptions generally call for cocktail or formal attire, knee length or longer gowns are acceptable as well as darker colors like black. Men should be in business attire.
Always Remember to respect the wishes of the bride and groom, as well as their religious rules. Some Church’s might require different protocol the others. And If you still are confused and don’t know, it is always best to ask someone in the bridal party. – THE WIFE
