This topic is especially timely for me since I'm matron of honor for my sister in two weeks, and also in my sister in law's wedding in April. I have lots of dresses in my closet, but I don't want to look like I'm going to work or like I'm (over)dressing for the reception.
Here are some Polyvore outfits that I assembled for the occasion:
Casual BBQ
When the wedding rehearsal is early in the evening and the dinner at a casual restaurant or someone's house, there's no need to get really dressed up. Dark denim trouser jeans and a dressy top and wedges is perfectly appropriate (in Texas anyway) as are a cotton dress and embellished sandals. You'll look like you put thought into the occasion but not overdressed.
Family Dinner
For events where the bride or/and groom's family is hosting the wedding party at a fairly nice restaurant, a non-revealing dress in a fun print will be appropriate and look nice in all of the wedding party photos that will start now and continue for the next 24 hours. Make sure there's no cleavage hanging out since these photos will be around forever and Grandma will be in attendance.
In all cases, comfortable shoes are a must since wedding rehearsals involve lots of standing around walking up and down an aisle. Now if you'll excuse me, I'll be searching for my own leopard print minidress.
