It’s one of those rare occasions when appropriateness out ranks fashion. Yes it’s that age old dilemma ‘dressing for a wedding’. Many women find the whole processes extremely stressful and often costly but here are some top tips to make sure you don’t compromise your friendship with the bride or your sense of style!

DO’S AND DON’TS WHEN DRESSING FOR A WEDDING

• Don’t wear white: It’s the golden rule when dressing for a wedding but you’d be surprised how many people still fall at the first fence. The bride is the only person who should be wearing white or anything in the white family (ivory, cream, etc), it’s her day so let her have her moment; you’ll have your day too! 
• Do recycle, swap and share: If it’s good enough for Kate Middleton then it’s good enough for us. The Duchess has been known to re-wear outfits to weddings that she has previously worn to royal engagements; she was also spotted at a friend’s wedding wearing a dress she borrowed from her mum. Attending a wedding can be expensive so if you have a friend of family member that you can borrow from then by all means go ahead. Equally if you have something suitable hanging in your wardrobe don’t feel under pressure to buy something new, those days are long gone!
• Don’t wear black: Monochrome lovers (myself included) are probably recoiling in horror at this stage but hear me out. This rule is somewhat bendable, if you’re attending a very formal wedding (black tie) or a winter wedding then black is ok, but traditionally black is associated with funerals and is seen to be inappropriate for a day of celebration. If you’re a complete black-a-holic try something navy, it will look equally stunning and offers lots of the same qualities as black.
• Do accessorise: Accessories are a fantastic and often inexpensive way to revamp an old dress or outfit you have worn before. Add a belt, change your bag, shoes or jewellery or try pairing your outfit with a different hair style for fresh twist. If you are buying an outfit for a wedding bear this in mind for the future as a simple dress that can be transformed using accessories will serve as a great investment.
• Don’t be the girl everyone is talking about – for all the wrong reasons: When you’re choosing an outfit for a wedding remember, nothing too short, nothing too clingy and nothing sheer! Weddings are classy affairs save the mini’s for the nightclubs!
• Do stick to the dress code: Dress codes are seen by many as a thing of the past however it is still important to know the style and tone of the wedding. For example, lots of couple who have their weddings abroad request that male guests don't wear ties to create a more relaxed atmosphere. Watch out for any indicators that the couple may give and if you're unsure just ask.
• Don’t feel obliged to wear a hat or fascinator: Hat’s are not everyone’s cup of tea and that’s ok! Hair accessories are a great alternative, head bands, statement clips or a chic up style can work just as well. Amy Huberman wore her hair in a simple ponytail when she attended Gordon D’arcy and Aoife Cogan’s wedding recently, showing how a simple style can make just as much of a fashion statement. 

OTHER USEFUL TIPS

• Remember to check your hem length when you sit down, if you are attending the church ceremony you will have to stand, sit and even kneel in your outfit so be sure your dress can handle the challenge!
• Ensure you are confident in whatever you choose to wear, hopefully you’ll be dancing until the early hours of the morning so choose something that you can have fun in!
• Make sure your shoes are comfortable, it will be a long day and you will spend large portions of it on your feet so make sure you go for something you can wear with ease. Equally if you buy new shoes for the wedding, be sure to break them in before the big day.

So now you’re armed with all that useful information here are some fantastic stylish and appropriate dresses all of which come in under €100!

1.       River Island Navy Lace and Satin Dress: £45 (approximately €57)

Navy is a great option as it is figure flattering and works well on almost every skin tone. This dress is a perfect example of something that can be accessorised in lots of different way and could be reworked for a range of weddings. 

2.       Reiss Natasia Bias Cut Dress: € 85

Kate Middletons favourite label epitomises elegance and class, and this dress is no exception. This printed bias cut dress would be ideal for a wedding and is currently on sale reduced from €210 to €85

3.       Oasis Harley Floral Dress: € 81

Floral print is perfect for a spring or summer wedding and the blue base colour of this dress means it would also work well at an autumn ceremony. The photographic print makes a statement without being overpowering.

4.       Paloma Dress from Ruby Cotton.ie: €49.99

This pretty feminine silouhette will flatter lots of different shapes and sizes. This dress is available from Irish website Ruby Cotton.ie and is on sale reduced from 69.99 to 49.99. Ruby Cotton.ie offer next day delivery anywhere in Ireland which is fantastic if you are looking for a dress last minute!

5. Coast Bright Long Sleeve Dress (available from ASOS): €63.60

This stunning magenta dress by Coast offer a little more coverage for anyone who is conscious of their arms. The slash neckline and pencil cut is figure flattering and easy to wear. This dress is currently available from ASOS and is on sale reduced from €158.99 to €63.60.