What to wear for your weddings in summer

 Special Occasion Dress Gerri writes:I am the mother of the groom and the wedding will bein early August. I have no details since the bride has organizedthe wedding with her mom and her wedding planner. I do know that myhusband will be wearing a tuxedo. What should I wear? Marilyn writes:You are not the first mom of the groom left out ofthe loop. Take this as an opportunity to open lines ofcommunication with he bride and her family. Often a bride getscaught up in her planning and forgets important details. Let thebride know you are interested in her plans and want to fit in toher "picture" for the wedding. Ask her if she has selected a colour scheme? Will there bebridesmaids? What colour and style are they wearing? What is hermom wearing? How are they completing their outfits with style ofshoe, colour, hats, bags, etc? Ask her if she has any preferenceswhen it comes to your attire? If you ask specific questions, youwill get the information you need to decide on your outfit for thewedding. Often the question asked of the bride is, "What do youwant me to wear?" And if the bride does not know her future motherin law she will answer "anything that makes you happy." The result is rather than enjoying the latitude and freedom ofchoice that the bride has generously given her, the future motherin law feels left out and she does not have the necessaryinformation to do herself and this special occasion justice. Sodon't be shy -- ask. Once you know the plans for the wedding theselection of your outfit will be much easier. If you need furtheradvice feel free to ask me. Fran writes:What do you think I should wear to my granddaughter'swedding? Everyone is wearing long dresses in a shade of pink. Idon't own anything in pink. I don't want to invest in a pink longdress for one occasion. I own a black skirt, black beaded top,black onyx and gold earrings and necklace and black shoes and bag.What can I wear that will let me use what I own and limit myexpense? Marilyn writes:It is your granddaughter's wedding. If you cannotafford a new outfit, consider using your outfit and adding pinkdetails, such as a pink shawl and or pink pearl necklace andearrings. If you wish to use your black items consider investing ina pink top and adding your black accessories. Regardless of what you wear I am certain the family will be happyto have you with them. Benita writes:I am invited to a casual wedding. In fact, it will bean afternoon backyard barbecue. I have a long cotton floral sundress. Would this be over dressed? How should someone determinewheat to wear to an occasion? Marilyn writes:Deciding what to wear to any occasion starts withthe details in the invitation such as causal backyard barbecue,date and time of day are your parameters. If these details leaveyou with a question, simply call the person who invited you to theoccasion and ask. A cotton sun dress is equivalent to a casualpant, capri or knee length short outfit. Your dress sounds fine. Itis always better to dress up for an occasion rather than underdress. Remember, backyards are grass walking surfaces so make sure to wearshoes with a flat bottom or chunky heels.