Venue. Pick a look for an outfit that is appropriate for the venue. Barns and ballgowns don’t always mix, ladies! Take into account the extravagance, modern edge, rustic vibe - whatever it may be - that your venue offers and use that energy to guide your dress choice.

Location. Take into account the time of year, weather, region, terrain. This all sounds very scientific for picking out a dress, but think of it this way:

• Wet, rainy climates are not great for fabrics like satin, silk or linen which can easily show water droplets.
• Linen isn’t the most appropriate for cool climates. You will want to opt for something a bit heavier and more luxe. 
• Heading north may call for rich colors and sleek lines while heading south may call for a brighter palette and soft, flowing fabrics. Let your destination play a role in your dress selection. 
• Stilettos are great, but not on lawns or rocky terrain. Think about where you will be walking and standing when selecting a shoe. 

Theme. Take into account the overall theme of your wedding. If you are hosting a party that sings french countryside, don’t pick a dress that screams disco. Stick to the style of the weekend and create some consistency between the decor and your look.

Your Actual Wedding Dress. The rehearsal dinner is an opportunity  to dress in contrast to your wedding dress that everyone will see you in the next day. For example, if your wedding dress is skin tight, try a more voluminous rehearsal dinner dress. If you were considering a mermaid gown but went with an a-line gown instead, opt for mermaid on the night of the rehearsal. When you look back, you will be glad that you didn’t wear the same type of dress two nights in a row.

Stand Out! Being the bride doesn’t mean you have to wear a white dress. Here are a few ideas on how you can stand out from the very start of your wedding weekend:

• Something Blue. A soft hue of blue is a great way to switch up your look. Go for a full-on blue dress or accessorize your traditional white look with a blue heel, jewelry or accessories.
• Metallic. Add some bling! Whether it’s a metallic dress or jumpsuit, bedazzled jacket or accent piece, a little bling can go a long way for making you stand out.
• Personalization. A jean or leather jacket adorned with your new last name. A hand painted hat. A hat adorned with florals similar to your bouquet. These are all unique ways to celebrate your big day through your look. 
• Skip the dress. Go for something more unique to your personal style! Go for a two-piece set, a jumpsuit, a blazer dress, a bridal pantsuit. There are so many options to choose from when you shop outside of the box.