Going to a summer wedding? (Or going to four, as the case may be for Yale University Press’s Paper Doll?)

I have always loved dressing up. When I was four, I used to rotate outfits several times a day because I was so delighted with my wardrobe. I also worried that my clothing would feel left out if I didn’t give each item equal wear—further evidence of my intense connection with my clothes. I would put together loud and creative getups, depending on my mood and the event I was dressing for: tea party or playing school, for example. Now, as an adult, I like to fantasize about the eye-catching ensembles I would create from the Yale ARTbooks’ “closet.”

I will be attending not one or two but four summer weddings this year; so, in the spirit of nuptial bliss and endless fashion possibilities, I have assembled a truly magnificent–and memorable–ensemble to wear to a summer wedding.

Roberto Capucci: Bocciolo (Bud) Dress, 2009 (reproduction of 1956 original), silk taffeta (N.331) Photography by Claudia Primangeli / L.e C. Service High Style: Lafarge (French) Parasol, 1890-99 Black and white silk chiffon; wood; metal; marble; enamel Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Gifford B. Pinchot, 1961 (2009.300.2497) 100 Shoes: Dance Shoes Palter DeLiso Inc., American, 1927-75, manufacturer Leather, silk, rhinestones, 1951 Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Tony DeMarco, 1962 (2009.300.3830a, b) Artistic Luxury: Sautoir, 1895-1900. Gold, carnelian, chalcedony; 1.78 cm. Collection of Neil Lane. Alexander McQueen: Dress, Widows of Culloden, autumn/winter 2006-7 Cream silk and lace with resin antlers

1. To start: a bold statement with this incredible, vibrant Roberto Capucci dress.

2. I’ve got to be able to dance, and these jewel-studded vintage heels are both stylish and practical.
3. For the outdoor wedding I’m attending, I’ll be sure to go equipped with this beautiful parasol– I’ll just have keep it closed during the ceremony, so I don’t obstruct anyone’s view of the bride and groom.

4. And lastly, to tie it all together, this exquisite Fabergé gemstone necklace.
5. My only concern would be upstaging the bride . . . unless she’s wearing this.

Yours in dress,

Do you have a wardrobe challenge for Paper Doll? If so, let her know in the comments section, and she may coordinate a personal ensemble just for you!