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You can wear black to a wedding if you do it right. Big if.

You're gonna need to brighten it up with white or ivory. As in, a pashmina or jacket and pearls.

Black and white is a classic combo and looks especially fresh at springtime weddings. A navy sheath or grey sheath would work just as well, but most people seem to have a black dress hanging around the closet. Also, I'm a fan of white jewelry - that would be diamonds and pearls. Perrrrfect for a wedding. The key is that you never want to upstage the bride, the mother-of-the-bride or the mother-of-the-groom. So keep your outfit sharp and fabulous, but make sure you're not competing in the flash department.

One more point - no black shoes if you're wearing a black dress. Go with a nude shoe.

I've been carrying pashminas for eons and will continue to do so because they travel well, keep your arms covered and provide that dash of style to an otherwise flat outfit. But no airport pashminas (unless you're in a pinch). Here's my favorite one. I like the blend of cashmere and silk. Style Vault Insiders, I've added several more options at different price points inside the April Style Notes.

It seems I hardly wear my black pants anymore, until I need them in an emergency. Like to dress up for an event when I don't have a new dress.

Put on your fanciest black pants. Mine have a bit of sheen in them because they're satin. And I love an ankle pant in this situation because I can wear my fancy shoes.

Here's where you'll really make up for not having a new dress or outfit: a sparkly or fancy top. The fancier the better (just not outdated), and don't worry, it'll work because it's not competing with the pants.

We're still sticking with the white jewelry theme - pearls and diamonds. Pile them on - my southern grandmother taught me when you don't have the right outfit, just wear loads of jewelry. Costume is 100% fine.

Notice I'm still wearing nude heels. They are quite embellished. I love wearing neutrals with fancy accessories. (Just added to April Style Notes: a curvy embellished top.)

Here's your desperate I really have nothing to wear outfit. With this one you really need to fancy it up with jewelry and makeup and hair.

A few absolute rules: 1. Pop your collar. 2. Cuff your sleeves. 3. Wear tons of jewelry. 4. Wear more makeup than you typically would.

I'm wearing about half my jewelry. But because it's mostly neutral sparkles, it just all works. You know what else would be cool? One bright necklace or pair of earrings. Wish I'd thought of that. Like a big pink gumball necklace or colorful dangling earrings.

No. White. Dresses. Please give the bride your gift of respect and honor by letting her shine in white.