So it’s been a bit longer than I’d like since my previous post, but it’s because I was gone for the weekend at my cousin’s wedding in Florida. It was a beautiful service held in a family friend’s backyard. A beautiful lake view, delicious food and dancing are a killer combination when lubricated with Mint Juleps…I know that now.

The Weekend Wedding has always been tough for me, speaking as a habitual over-packer. My girlfriend and I left LA early Friday morning and were due to return Sunday night, a very brief trip. Yet, I knew that between a rehearsal dinner, the wedding itself and a Sunday brunch, I needed to have semi-dressy options for each day. I was glad the wedding was outdoors in Florida because I knew that it would allow me a slightly more casual attire. But, as I’m sure you could guess, I’m a staunch believer in the “I’d rather be overdressed than under-dressed” philosophy. So, with that being said, here are my tips for The Weekend Wedding:

1) The Jetsetter

Tee: Hanes Comfort Soft, Jacket: H&M, Pants: Zara, Shoes: Bass

Personally, I like to stay slightly dressy on flights, typically I would at least wear jeans but I only brought these pants from Zara as well as the pants I wore to the wedding so as to remain lightly packed. This outfit was comfortable, functional and still just dressy enough to look nice. I don’t mind sweats in public, especially now with all the slim-fit sweats out there, but I prefer to dress the part of a first-class passenger (even though I’ve never been one).
The shoulder bag I’m carrying is everything I packed (HUGE for me). It housed all my clothes, my book, my notebook and my camera. It’s such a nice feeling to have everything you need in one small bag. The shoes I’m wearing are the only pair I brought with me, which I ended up regretting a bit at the hotel. I’d recommend throwing in some comfortable flip-flops. I always like to bring a jacket with me on flights so I don’t wuss out and end up spending $12 on a 3-foot long blanket.

2) The First Impression

Sweater: Armani (Goodwill, score!), Pants: Zara, Shoes: Bass

For a rehearsal dinner, I feel it’s important you don’t overdress because the last thing you want to do is distract attention from the bride and groom. I’m wearing those same pants I flew in on with the same shoes. The sweater buttons all the way down and has a collar so it’s warm, comfortable and looks good without overdoing it. Also, this will likely be the outfit you first see all of the people you haven’t seen in awhile, so take that into consideration while packing.

3) The Comfortable Gentleman

Shirt: H&M, Tie: Vintage, Vest: Gap, Pants: H&M, Shoes: Bass

Any wedding day is a long day, not only for the bride and groom but for the attendees as well. I cannot stress how important it is that you plan ahead with clothes that not only look nice but are fully functional to sit for long periods of time as well as dance in. In warmer climates, losing the jacket for a vest and tie is totally acceptable (unless otherwise stated). It’s hard to tell, but my pants are linen and incredibly comfortable. They were great for dancing and still looked very nice during the daytime. Try not to wear colors that are too bright, even in a tie, because it’s so important to remember that while you want to look nice, this day isn’t about you, it’s about the bride and groom.

Myself & the Girlfrannnnn

Apparently Mom found it funnier than I

4) The Detoxifier

Shirt: Gap, You should know the rest by now

After a long day and night of partying with family and friends, getting on an airplane for six hours will sound like just about the worst thing ever, so dress comfortably. This outfit works for Sunday brunch and is still great for “lounging” in your middle seat. No one wants to feel even more restricted than they already are on a flight, so grab that baggy shirt you normally only wear around the house. I’m a huge fan of linen as often as possible and think that every man should have at least 2-3 linen shirts in his closet. This one is way bigger than I would normally ever wear a button down, but it’s perfect for an occasion such as this.

Overall, don’t be afraid to leave a bunch of stuff out of your suitcase that seems like you can’t live without. One pair of pants for 2-3 days is fine if you don’t plan on sweating in them. Bring two pairs of socks and underwear per day, your basic toiletries, a good book and notebook (high altitude = great ideas) and you’re all set!

Less IS more!