[bocamora]

I am 19 years old and I was invited to a wedding. My boyfriend recieved the invitation addressed to both of us in the mail a few weeks ago for a wedding in June. I have yet to ask him what time of day it is being held. I know that the wedding is outside. I am a friend/ coworker of the groom and I casually know the bride. I have been to two weddings in my life. One I was a flower girl at a young age and the second was my cousin's wedding. To her wedding I wore a black silk cocktail dress with a light blue blue ribbon around the upper hip waist area. I loved the dress although I felt over dressed. I am very unsure about what to wear to the wedding. I do not want to be too casual or too formal. Strapless, halter, suit jacket, or skirt and shirt? Heels, open toe, close toes, sandals, flats??? ?? Help me please - What is the proper attire and color for a guest to an outdoor wedding?
??? ??

I have attached a picture of the dress. Is this too formal or too casual?

[Etiquette Now]

Dear Wants to Get it Right,

It is impossible to know. You need to know the time of day and the location. Ask the groom how formal the wedding is. This will help you.

Best wishes,

[bocamora]

The wedding is on a farm. The ceremony is at 5:30 pm and the outdoor reception follows immediately. I asked the groom what to wear and he said a dress. Of course that does not help me much but black I assume. Is black an acceptable color to wear to a wedding? Are open toe high heels appropriate?

[Etiquette Now]

Yes, black and open toed shoes are fine.

I would think that a step down from the typical cocktail dress would be fine--like a more casual little black dress.