Everyone says “You’re 40 – you can wear what you want because you don’t care what people think anymore!” If that were true, you wouldn’t have found this video. Part of you still cares a bit what your friends and family think. You want something that’s true to you, true to your vision for your special day and at the same time – accepted by the ones you love and care about the most (within reason). Here’s my $0.02 on what to wear – and it expands beyond just the day-of gown.

SOCIETAL SHAME

People / society might try to make you feel ashamed. Like you should have a much smaller, more conservative party and attire, etc. just because you’re older or maybe this is your second or third marriage, you’ve got kids (or don’t yet, or may never).

This is your party and you’re likely paying for it so guess what? That means you get to do what you WANT.

Gown, a dress, pantsuit, extra sexy, super conservative.

Accentuates – consider your body / physiology

HOW DO YOU WANT TO FEEL? VIBE OF YOUR DAY. VENUE.

Elegant, bold, modern, contemporary chic (classic lines, real clean sharp look), romantic and lacey. The feel dictates the kind of gown you’re looking for. Fun and flirty? Subdued, elegant, stately? Delicate, dainty and simplistic? Gaudy, Gatsby, extra sparkles, extra glam? What’s your dream feeling? Because that’s going to help dictate the dream look for yourself and therefore where to look.

PLACES TO LOOK

Traditional bridal stores, high-end department stores, lower-end, Goodwill, consignment, online second hand bridal sites like stillwhite.com or wedzee.com – there’s a range just like there’s a…

CONSIDER YOUR VENUE

Are you outside? Inside? Is it a church, garden, beach, etc.

CONSIDER TIME OF YEAR

CONSIDER YOUR PHYSIOLOGY & BODY TYPE

Perimenopause / menopause is real. If you know you’re already prone to hot flashes and sweating, you don’t want to be spanxed up in a hot, stuffy, highly structured stiff dress – you’re going to want something that’s breathable, allows for good air flow, is easy-breezy, etc. HAIR!!

BE OPEN

You might have a look in mind of exactly how you want to look, but you might just surprise yourself – especially when some other opinions come in the room.

COLOR: CAN YOU WEAR WHITE?

HAIR: VEIL / HEADPIECE / FASCINATOR