Q. I never know what to wear to weddings. Long dress, short dress, whatever. Can you give me a

Q. I never know what to wear to weddings. Long dress, short dress, whatever. Can you give me a guide?

A. Better yet, here’s a guide from a real weddings expert — Diane Forden, editor-in-chief of Bridal Guide magazine.

For morning weddings, choose understated outfits. Keep fabrics light, dresses knee-length, jewelry discreet and handbags small.

For afternoon affairs, aim for festive but refined — and dressier than work attire. Sleeveless dresses are fashionably chic, especially when paired with open-toe shoes, bangles and metallic or print clutches. Or choose flutter, cap or longer sleeves to hide saggy upper arms.

Destination weddings call for sundresses in exotic or floral prints, beaded thongs or metallic flats, and silky fringed shawls to ward off cool ocean breezes.

For evening weddings, dress to impress with a chic cocktail dress or sophisticated floor-length gown in a pretty color or black, but not ivory or white. Add special jewelry.

Q. Why do single people have such bad taste? Could that be the reason they’re single? I occasionally attend singles mixers, and am amazed at the unappealing and tasteless outfits people wear. Men come in outfits so rumpled and smelly, I’m sure they’re right out of the dirty-clothes basket. Some obviously think wearing gaudy jewelry is dressing for success. Others haven’t a clue about color coordination. As for the women, two observations: Just because you have cleavage, you don’t need to flaunt it. And just because clothing comes in that size, doesn’t mean you should wear it.

A. Let’s not lump all singles in the same bad-taste basket. Your taste, after all, is impeccable.

Perhaps you could propose to the organizers of the mixers that they include a note on “suggested attire” in their next newsletter, or schedule a dress-for-success workshop for one of their events.

McClatchy Newspapers