Wedding Guest Attire: How to Dress to Impress

The invitation requests that you dress like a beach goddess. Or maybe it says "outdoor elegance is a must." Whatever the words, the message is clear: Brides are now calling the shots when it comes to guest dress and style. Case in point: Beyonce Knowles wanted her wedding to Jay-Z to be a complete white-out, while rockin' newlyweds Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simspon requested that their guests match their Victorian-goth-meets-Alice in Wonderland affair by "dressing dark."

So how can you be a good guest while still maintaining your own sense of style? We say don't ever attempt to compete with the bride. Keep it cocktail length, don't show too much skin, and avoid the color white unless it's requested. If you've been asked to keep it light, we say show off your summer tan with this strapless Lauren by Ralph Lauren layered silk organza dress ($280). Is basic black your wedding mantra? Avoid any potential funeral-looking fashion faux pas by keeping it simple and chic. We're totally loving the sexy effortlessness of this See by Chloe zip front tank dress ($470).

Still stuck on what to wear? Check out our great expert advice on everything from the appropriate guest wedding attire to what colors to avoid.