As spring and summer wedding seasons approach, so do those inevitable bridal showers. Dressing for a bridal shower in the summer is pretty straightforward – put on a pretty dress, curl your hair, and wear pearls. For the showers that happen in March and April (usually for weddings in May and June), bridal shower dressing proves to be a little more difficult. Its cold and probably most of your wardrobe consists of black and grey, which are just not bridal friendly colors.

So, what NOT to wear?

No Black - I know, its easy. It matches. Its slimming. But, for a joyous occasion such as a bridal shower, black feels a bit dark and gloomy. Wear some color – even  just cream can work. Plus, there will be pictures taken and typically black doesn’t photograph well (unless you are Angelina Jolie). If you feel most comfortable in black, add a colorful necklace or scarf so that there is color near your face.

No Jeans – There are definitely dressy jeans that would be appropriate but since this is someone’s special party, switch your jeans for slacks or a full skirt. You can wear jeans anytime (and most people do) so embrace your “ladies who lunch” look (tea sandwiches anyone?) and wear white wool pants and a silk blouse for a pretty and sophisticated look.

No Uggs – It might be March and there might still be snow on the ground but show your friend respect and wear shoes that her grandmother (and yours) would approve of. Wear kitten heel pumps or mary janes to upgrade your casual style.

No Minis – Most likely the bridal shower that you are attending is during daylight and for that reason alone, keep the minis at home.  If you do feel like your skirt is a bit too short, add a pair of leggings and opt for cute flats instead of sky-high stilettos.

So what TO wear?

Pretty Blouse - Choose a ladylike style  in a pretty spring color like pink, purple, yellow, or even cream. Trina Turk, Nanette Lepore, and Lela Rose all make wonderful ladylike blouses.

Flirty Skirt - Choose an a-line or full skirt for a comfortable, classy look.

Comfortable Pumps - Choose a small heel for the most sophisticated look in a neutral color, like nude or camel.

Accessories - Indulge your inner Gossip Girl and add a silk headband to your outfit. You will look instantly more pulled together and who doesn’t want to feel like that?