brown off shoulder dress The Short Sleeve Maxi - MATERIAL SPANDEX/POLYESTER PrettyLittleThing Women's Double Layer Slinky

Feature image by @stilemeraviglia Most photographs by Denton Taylor Want to get more articles from 40+style in your inbox, subscribe here

For a bag, you can either go with a black bag like I did here, or wear a woven clutch to add texture

I felt truly beautiful in my dress

Some brides said they made a mood board with silhouettes for their bridesmaids dresses

Darker blues, like navy or sapphire, really shine with neutral blacks (such as a black bow tie sash or faux fur wrap) and hints of gold

Classic Satin and Lace Black Ball Gown A timeless, structured black dress with lace appliqus and a regal full skirt for a sophisticated look