Fashion editor approved
I'm a sucker for a wedding, and I hate to admit it, but I always end up buying a new dress for the occasion, no matter how many times I tell myself that I can just re-wear an old dress with new accessories.
However, where I would normally do a bit of online shopping during my lunch break (you can't argue with the no queuing-straight-to-your-doorstep situation), this is one instance where I like to go in-store and actually try on the dress before buying.
Why? Because I usually leave it to the last minute as you never know what the weather is going to be like, and I don't want to have to return an online order. Secondly, the pics will be around forever, and you want to get it right (as vein as that sounds). If the outfit looks great in the harsh fitting room lighting, you're onto a winner.
Here a five high street stores that always get it right for me.
Zara
Best for: Everything. Whether you're after a sharp linen suit, a fashion-forward print dress or a simple shirt dress, Zara has it all, and you won't go over budget either. The store is also very user friendly and colour co-ordinated, so it couldn't be easier to build an entire outfit - which can be a bit dangerous.
Shop now: POLKA DOT DRESS for £35.99 from Zara
Topshop
Best for: Flirty floral dresses. If you're going to a destination wedding, no one does floaty floral dresses quite like Topshop. Look out for printed wrap dresses and off-the-shoulder boho numbers. It's also great if you need outfits for the rest of your stay, and they have a great linen selection at the moment, as well as cute sandals and basket bags. Editor tip: Save yourself the hassle and book into the personal shopper department at the Oxford Street store, as the stylists will on hand to help you find the outfit you're after.
Shop now: Floral Maxi Dress for £65 from Topshop
& Other Stories
Best for: Minimal shirt dresses and vintage-inspired dresses. Whether you're a minimalist or maximalist woman at heart, you'll usually find what you need at & Other Stories. Although it's a slightly higher price point than the other stores, its collection is slightly more curated and you're less likely to bump into another guest wearing the same outfit. I love the floral midi dresses, chic pinafores and fine jewellery. The delicate lingerie is also a great investment if you're wearing a sheer outfit. Editor tip: Look out for the & Other Stories House of Hackney collab for prints that will elevate your #ootd snaps.
Shop now: Floral Print Midi Dress for £110 from & Other Stories
H&M
Best for: Classic jumpsuits and lace dresses. Whilst perhaps not as fashion-forward as other brands, H&M is just perfect for those timeless classics. Its wedding shop at the moment is full of chic strapless jumpsuits and lace dresses. Check out their heels too.
Shop now: Lace dress for £59.99 from H&M
Mango
Best for: Accessories. There's a lot I'm loving at Mango at the moment, but their accessories are particularly on point, so much so that they sell out fast. I managed to get my hands on the clear beaded bag which will add a playful finishing touch to any outfit, and their shoe game is strong too. Look out for their sandals with sculptural heels.
