Stylist Joe Zee's Expert Tips on the Modern Wedding Wardrobe

Photo: Donato Sardella (Getty Images/WireImage)

Stylist, author, and host of the upcoming show, The Fab Life, Joe Zee knows what's up when it comes to elevating a wedding wardrobe. Here, the man who recently styled 10 LGBT Chinese couples at Beverly Center before their big day gives you some essential guidelines to bring your wedding attire to the next level.

GROOMS

Statement Tuxedo (or Suit)

"A groom is no longer forced into a rental tux. Guys have style and they want to come through on the big day by selecting a suit or tux that suits them best. Think colored jackets mixed with a solid pant, or a patterned shirt under a darker jacket mixed with a different pant. It's all about the mix and match. It's not just about the traditional suit or tux anymore. Color, fabrics and even surprising elements like graphic prints are popular. "

The Right Accessories

"While your tuxedo or suit can be alternative, think about how your accessories should also have a pop! These can include the pocket square that pops, and surprise linings of suit jackets in creative patterns and colors that reveal itself when you open it up to take out the ring. If you're not daring enough, then do it with your socks."

Tie or No Tie?

"The right neckwear is important to the groom, and I love the bow tie right now. But that can mean lots of variations including a skinny one, a patterned one, a colored one or even a different fabric/textured one. Have fun with the bow tie and in this case, maybe match it to your partner's."

The Right Shoes

"It isn't just about that black dressy shoe --though that still works-- you can now also opt for sneakers instead of formal shoes, a colored shoe, or a patterned shoe. In one case, I dressed a groom in spiked loafers. Make the shoes your signature."

BRIDES

Virgin vs Vixen

"Brides can go either way either virgin or vixen, with designers showing modest looks with long sleeves and high necks. On the other side of the spectrum you have daring, barely-there looks with low, low backs and plunging v-necklines."

Forget the White

"While white and princess is the traditional route, today's brides (especially the young and hip) are opting for other options. Pink has been the go-to color lately, but we are also seeing brides get married in blush, lavender, peach, red, and even black."

Silhouette

"We all know about the traditional wedding dress but trends today include newer shapes, such as the column dress, the one-shoulder gown, or even a short and flirty dress. Think more red carpet than traditional wedding."

The Right Foot Forward

Shoes are very important to the wedding-day look. Brides are going for statement heels that can be sparkling or colorful. But think comfort: You don't want your feet hurting after the first hour. Flats are becoming an option too, but keep it dressy."

Multiple Gowns

"Multiple dresses are now the standard. Brides are buying two gowns, one for the ceremony and formal portraits and another for the reception."

Bridesmaids

"Bridesmaids can wear whatever they like -- within reason, of course. These days, brides are rarely forcing their six besties into the same dress, but letting each girl choose a style that she's comfortable with: neckline, silhouette, and color. Usually the bride will dictate a range of colors, formality, and fabric."