The age-old question resurfaces every wedding season: what is the appropriate attire for a wedding? White is resolutely off-limits while dark colors are subject to debate and making too big a statement risks upstaging the bride. It’s a tough brief to nail but rest assured, we’re here to help with selecting your designer wedding guest outfit. Our merchandising team has pulled together an expert selection of pieces that stick to the wedding code without compromising on personal style.

This romantic lace midi dress from Self-Portrait speaks to the moment, with intricate embroidered flower detailing finished in a light pink. While its first impression is ultra feminine, the off-the-shoulder design introduces just enough edge. For a simple statement that doesn’t bend under the weight of wedding guest rules, look to this Indria maxi dress from Proenza Schouler. Its striking blue is offset by a minimalist silhouette, punctuated by a chic flower appliqué and subtle draping.

Feel pretty in pink in these Bepointy sandals. Delicate straps and a peep-toe design are complimented by a leather bow and VLogo signature. Of course, a shoe so charming had to be the work of Valentino Garavani. For comfort without compromising on a sharp silhouette, these Prada kitten heels deliver an architectural feel thanks to their sleek cutaway detailing.

Is there anything more luxurious than a buttery velvet trouser suit? We’re yet to find it. This matching jacket and trousers from Nina Ricci exudes 70s energy, from its deep golden-brown hue to its shawl lapels and relaxed silhouette. If sharp Belgian design is more your thing, look to this blazer and trouser set from DRIES VAN NOTEN. A modern floral print refreshes a classic wedding motif, while the boxy cut offers a comfortable yet contemporary alternative to traditional occasionwear.

This textured wedding jacket from Dolce&Gabbana speaks to the house’s golden era. Mixing romance and subtle tailoring, it’s the perfect garden party piece and promises to take you from the ceremony to the reception with elegance. For a more polished take, this silver-toned jacquard jacket marries a structured silhouette with a Peter Pan collar, channelling refined 50s femininity. When in doubt, metallics always feel wedding-appropriate.

The typical wedding season is no more, with an increasing number of couples choosing to wed in the winter. Maybe you’ve had numerous invites and you want your wedding guest outfit to work across multiple weddings, or maybe you already have your tried and tested look and now you need to adapt. We asked womenswear merchandiser Judit Kovacs for her advice on winter wedding dressing. ‘For a winter wedding, elegance lies in thoughtful layering,’ she says. 

‘A lighter-fabric slip dress can be instantly elevated with a faux-fur shawl, wrap or cape for a glamorous winter feel, while an elegant knitted long dress offers a chic, effortless option that’s both stylish and season-appropriate.’

Related articles: If you like this, you might like 10 best Valentino Garavani heels | Best Prada bags | 5 Dolce&Gabbana dresses worth investing in

Olivia Woodhouse is an SEO copywriter at FARFETCH, where she optimizes on-site content and has helped relaunch the fashion blog as the Fashion Feed. With a background spanning fashion, lifestyle, tech and travel, she brings a versatile voice to every project.