A City Wedding In Chicago

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

My Outfit

J.Crew Dress (old, this season's one shoulder style here) | Topshop Earrings (so many more colors here) | Sam Edelman Heels | Le Specs Sunglasses (old, similar here) | Miu Miu Bag

Better really (like, really) late than never, right? That's what I thought at least, so here are a few photos from last summer when we flew out to Chicago for a family wedding.

I was a bit nervous, as I'd be meeting quite a few of my husband's family members for the first time. And even more nervous because I hadn't yet chosen what to wear (or even brought a dress with me!).

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

When going back to the US, I always look forward to paying some of my favorite stores a visit. On the top of my list: Nordstrom, Madewell, and J.Crew. We flew in a couple days before the event, so I was banking on being able to stop by before the wedding and find my outfit. 

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

Fortunately, I was in luck! J.Crew's American stores almost always have better prices (and better sales) than their UK counterparts. I ended up finding two perfect dresses—both on sale, including this ruffled lace number. We were going to an evening wedding, so I thought the black lace was fitting and the one-shouldered ruffles added a festive touch.

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays
J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

Okay. Dress—check. Next up? I needed shoes! Being a Seattleite, I of course went straight for good 'ol Nordstrom. It began in Seattle as a shoe store and they still show their roots. Each store I've been in has a wonderful selection and the most helpful salespeople. 

I love Sam Edelman shoes (as I've mentioned here and here), so that's where I always start. I'd seen these chunky heels on other bloggers and needed to try them out for myself. I'm fairly tall and so tend to stray away from heels unless I really love them. These are the most comfortable ones I've owned. 

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

The thicker heel helps me not to fall on my face while walking (always important if you're trying not to embarrass yourself at a family wedding) and the padding made sure that cocktail hour wasn't too taxing (aside from the occasional forced conversation).

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays
J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

Okay. Shoes—check. After my mother-in-law so kindly treated me for a blow-dry, my husband and I got dressed and ready to go.

On the walk between our hotel and the wedding venue, we passed by The Chicago Board of Trade. I'd seen it earlier in the day and just loved the architecture (and knew I needed to take a few photos of my new outfit too). The late afternoon sun hitting the stone buildings made for the most stunning backdrop. 

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

Along with my new buys, I added a pair of shades, those tasseled earrings that were so in last year (are they still? Not so sure, but hey, I still like 'em) and my Miu Miu bag. When packing for the trip, I knew I'd make some new purchases, so I only brought along one purse to save precious space in my suitcase. I'm happy that this one just happened to go with my new outfit. 

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays
J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

Alright, onto the wedding! It was beautiful. The venue was a classically charming hotel and there was so much love in the room during the ceremony. It was followed by cocktails and champagne, plus meeting with relatives and family friend's of my husband. I can happily report that after a few minutes of mingling, my nerves went away (I'm sure the champagne helped). 

J.Crew one shoulder dress, Sam Edelman Heels, Topshop beaded earrings| A City Wedding in Chicago | Sundays and Somedays

I think with big family events, it's easy to be anxious—with what you'll say, if you'll remember names, what you'll discuss, or what you'll wear. Ultimately though, it's just a chance to connect with family and friends, old and new. (Though I'll happily add that this dress did get a few compliments. Thanks guys!).

Until next time,

- Brenda