Bobbie Thomas TODAY Style Editor

Upon opening a wedding invitation, it’s not unusual for party panic to set in, and for the anxiety-filled "What do I wear?" question to be the one that pops into your mind. After all, this is a very special day in the lives of the bride and groom — and it's important to celebrate the occasion in style. Bobbie Thomas, TODAY style editor and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, offers advice on everything from deciphering the dress codes to considering frocks from your friends’ closets. 

Don’t be afraid to bargain, borrow or trade
Your first stop should be your own closet. Adding accents may be all you need to update an old favorite. No luck? Then remember, a woman makes the dress. Ask a girlfriend to borrow, trade or even buy a special-occasion dress she may have worn in the past. Chances are it's been collecting dust in the back of her closet, and she'll be happy to recoup some of the original cost while you score a deal. Just be sure to add your own twist with accessories — and attitude. If you’re still searching, don't forget about discount department stores. Bridesmaids dress retailers are also a hidden resource for guests. And last but not least, it's important to keep the option of alterations in mind, as a small change can make a dramatic difference.

Now, for help deciphering the invitation’s dress code:

JS Collections

Formal black-tie:
First things first — this will almost always be an evening event, often involving a religious or spiritual ceremony with family and friends. It's important to consider the tone and taste of the bride and groom while exploring your options. But be sure to keep it classic and opt for sophistication rather than sexy, as this is not the time to experiment with trends. While most of us yearn to be carefree in the heat, it's easy to add polish to your look with softly structured silhouettes and luxe fabric. Although floor-length is appropriate, you don't have to wear a heavy gown. If you do decide to go long, look for something fluid and goddesslike.

Department stores offer a wide range of styles and price points, and many of their Web sites have special shopping sections to help you navigate. Nordstrom.com's "Dress Shop" presents options by category from Guest to Mother-of-the-Bride.

What you saw on TODAY for this look: Soroya wearing JS Collections Laser Cut Dress with Matching Shawl, $186, Nordstrom.com; Galica sandals, $99, NinaShoes.com

J.Crew

Black-tie optional:
This is also an evening affair, but you are free to have a little fun with extra elements. Be creative, embrace your personality, and turn something simple into something special. Whether you choose to wear something you own, or invest in a modern basic that you can wear again, bold accessories will transform your ensemble. A statement necklace, colorful clutch or fun shoes are not the ordinary purchase, but maybe this special occasion is just the opportunity to add something new to your treasure chest. JCrew.com offers a large variety of frocks in chic simple styles and colors, just waiting for you to accent them your way.

What you saw on TODAY for this look: Jenny wearing silk taffeta Lorelei dress, $215, JCrew.com; Kenneth Jay Lane's large enamel flower ring, $88, (877) 953-5264

Express

Informal:
A delightful daytime gathering, this affair often takes place in a whimsical setting such as a garden, beautiful backyard, picture-perfect patio or lakeside terrace. Don't be afraid to add to the landscape of your surroundings in a floral frock. After all, there's never been a better time to be invited to a garden-party wedding — flowers are blooming everywhere in fashion, from sweet prairie styles to abstract water prints. Fabrics for this affair should be light and breathable, especially in the hot summer months. You can be casual chic in cotton, and very stylish in separates.

What you saw on TODAY for this look: Jasmine wearing Simply Vera by Vera Wang for Kohls skirt, $58, jacket, $88, Kohls.com; sleeveless ruffle blouse, $49, expressfashion.com; shoes from DSW.com

Butter By Nadia

Destination:
From a water-themed wedding on a cruise-ship deck to a tropical beach or even a European getaway, a destination wedding is all about easy, loose, effortless elegance. While a simple sundress will work, you may also consider investing in a convertible dress. The versatility of a multi-wrap dress will be a great investment when you consider cost-per-wear. Wrinkle resistant and perfect for travel, it can be worn more than 10 different ways, and styled with different accessories to go from day to evening and suit any number of situations. Rather than slipping into strappy stilettos, consider pairing this dress with flats or a wedge for comfort. After all, you may end up walking to the locale or standing in the sand during a beach-bound ceremony. 

What you saw on TODAY for this look: Daniella wearing Butter by Nadia signature satin wrap convertible dress, $270, ButterbyNadia.com; Kolhapuris sandals, $25, Indomix.com

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