I do...(Best Dressed to the rescue)

If April showers bring May flowers and June weddings leave you dreading, have no fear a local solution is here. I love weddings: two people coming together, reconnecting with friends & family, contagious dancing, open bar… When the save the date arrives I am immediately excited about the location, time of year, guest list and venue. I start a mental mood board with ideas of what to wear and/or pack. However, when the actual invitation arrives, sometimes it takes some decoding to understand the creative ways attire is described and how to find the dress (or two piece/jumpsuit) to match.

I recently visited Best Dressed, a local shop in Southie owned by two sisters, Vicky & Nikoleta. I was immediately impressed by the organization of the dresses first by size (ahhh thank you a rack just for ME!), then by rental – clearly tagged dresses with the dates they are spoken for (so you don’t get your hopes up or feel like you are missing out). Vicky & Nikoleta could not be more welcoming or helpful (without being pushy). After a quick explanation of the store layout and rental process, you’re off to shop your very own rack (or two, because size is just a number and fit is most important). Vicky & Nikoleta offer onsite styling with jewelry for purchase and accessories too. Make your reservation (you get 5 glorious days with your new wear (up to 3 months in advance)), then simply pick up your rental and drop it off leaving the dry cleaning to them.

Beach Wedding
I’ll start here because I’ve been dreaming of beach weather. For me, it’s all about a good flow. The beach brings the sun, sea breeze and flirty attire. Think patterns, florals are in abundance as they usually are for spring and summer. Tiered dresses elevate your look and a light fabric will keep you light on your feet as you breeze across the dance floor or back and forth from the bar.

Intermix Rental $70

Yumi Kim Rental $65

Olivia Palermo x Chelsea Rental $60

Semi Formal
Just because Formal is on the invite doesn’t mean it’s a buttoned up affair. I love a shorter hemline (not mini), and lace or laser cut out detailing is a great option. Think classic silhouette with beautiful detailing.

Bardot Rental $55

Jarlo Rental $70

Wyatt Rental $70

Black Tie
Anything but ordinary. I love a good excuse to really dress up out of your ordinary. Let your dress do the talking or your accessories. For dresses, I like sleek silhouettes in jewel tones or classic colors. If you prefer to focus on accessories, invest in great earrings, clips or beaded accessories. Any of these accessories easily work back to a t-shirt and jeans.

Alice + Olivia Rental $100

Jay Godfrey Rental $80

Hair Clips $10+

Cocktail/Festive
No rules, or made for breaking rules. Playful details, wild prints and a mix of high/low hems are in keeping with the mood of this fun event. I love punched up color here, nothing too ordinary so its not mistaken for a casual look.

Jay Godfrey Rental $80