Y’all, my big brother got married last month, and I got my very first sister out of the deal! Even though it rained literally all day and night, their outdoor ceremony at The Cypress Grove Estate House was absolutely stunning, and I completely balled my eyes out. Seeing everyone I love in one place made me miss Florida (and temperatures above freezing) quite a bit. Fortunately, even with all the rain and mud, Catherine was there to work her magic, and I should have some photos to share with y’all soon!

Anyways, the dress code was semi-formal, and their colors were navy and peach, so this navy cross wrap Bardot dress fit in perfectly with their outdoor garden theme. Its chic, off-shoulder bodice is the definition of elegant, and I love that the fabric is thick with just the right amount of stretch. I also love that it can be styled with a wrap or shawl to keep warm in colder weather. If you’re attending a formal garden party or wedding in the future, I can’t recommend this gem highly enough. It comes in navy, black, pink, and red and is shockingly well made, especially considering its $34 price tag. If you’re looking for a cute navy cocktail dress for upcoming functions or holiday parties– or if you just need help figuring out what to wear to a garden party wedding, keep reading for full outfit details! 

Also, flights out of Columbia are pricey, so I tried to save as much money on my wardrobe as possible. I decided to try these budget-friendly black block heel sandals, and they rock! They look and feel just like Sam Edelman but for a quarter of the cost. They weathered the mud and rain like champs, too!

Shop the Look: Cross Wrap Bardot Dress | Black Block Heel Sandals | Black Lace Clutch | Crystal Statement Earrings (old from J.Crew Factory; similar style linked)
 

 
If you’ve got an upcoming garden parties or weddings in the future, keep this versatile gem in mind! It also comes in classic black and a vibrant red, so it’d be perfect for Valentine’s or holiday parties, too. As always, if you’ve got any questions about fit or quality, please let me know! I’m happy to help! Also, I know spring is right around the corner, so if you need more affordable spring wedding guest dress ideas, click here. Happy shopping!

Photography by Catherine Rhodes. Thank you, Helmi’s Gardens, for letting us shoot in your incredible greenhouse!