kate middleton gold dress Middleton's dress: Jenny Packham Goldfinger sequin gown Kate Middleton Dazzles in Glittering

The secret is avoiding anything too harsh is even more important if you are an older woman

Ians needed some additional padding, and mine needed to be taken in at the waist but we are essentially the same dress size

Safe color choices: Classic black (always appropriate) Navy and midnight blue Deep jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, burgundy) Rich earth tones (chocolate, forest green, plum) Metallics (gold, bronze, champagne) Sophisticated pastels in formal fabrics Colors to approach carefully: White, ivory, or cream (too close to bridal) Extremely bright neons Colors that match the bridal party exactly Pattern guidelines: Subtle prints in formal fabrics work well Avoid loud, casual patterns Keep graphics or novelty prints for other occasions Sophisticated florals or geometric designs can be elegant When selecting colors for semi formal wedding guest dresses, consider the season and venue alongside your personal preferences

George and Amal Clooney Make a Stylish Entrance in Venice The couple will make their first public appearance at the Venice Film Festival