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What to wear to a wedding in Seattle?

woman with question 

Dear Polite One,

I'm another of those living in Seattle who ends up confused and overdressed at almost every turn. Alas, I have a predicament.

I was just invited to a wedding reception scheduled to begin at 5:30pm on Friday. It is being held in a nice waterfront restaurant on the Locks, so it's an area where boats dock and sailors and yachters move in and out.

Because it is before 6, does the cocktail dress attire still apply? I don't know the hosts and am going as the guest of a local politician, so it feels crucial that I be completely appropriate for his sake (alright, and for my own ego).

Adding to the pressure, it is only our second date. I have a fitted black sleeveless dress, slightly below the knee with an empire waist and fuchsia stitched braiding around the edge of the scooped neckline, armholes, and bodice. I was thinking I could tie up a fuchsia cardigan over it to dress it down a little bit if I get there and it's more casual than I expected.

My other immediate thought is an almost ankle-length Karen Kane fuchsia/green/black floral print pencil skirt with a 3/4 sleeve black top and black heels. That's my multi-use "safe outfit" that I wear whenever I don't know what to do, and it usually works out alright.

Any thoughts? I'm always willing to hit the mall if I'm off track here.

My best, and thanks in advance for being wonderful,

California Transplant 15 Years Later

Dear California Transplant, 15 Years Later,

Dressing up in Seattle is difficult; I know. You just never know how others will dress. But, if it is any consolation, I receive many questions from women in Seattle worried about the same thing.

Second date?!? And he is a politician?!? No stress there. We women stress so much about our attire as it is without the added pressure of dating. Nevertheless, I think you are right on.  Great instincts.

Cocktail attire (dressed down) would be appropriate. Either outfit would work (I'm leaning toward the dress). Try on both and ask yourself which one makes you feel best. If you feel beautiful you will look beautiful. You will shine.

I am so jealous. I love Seattle (was just there). And to be invited to a function right on the waterfront is awesome. I'll be thinking of that all day!

Well, California Girl, have a wonderful time.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

More by The Polite One

Do I wear nylons with strappy sandals?

How to dress for outdoor formal attire in the heat of Houston?

May we wear shorts to a formal wedding in Kentucky?


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