And so the annual chorus of 'what-thehell-am-I-going-to-wear' begins. Each wedding carries with it its own set of dos and don'ts on the what-to-wear front and the best way to decipher that is to start with your relationship to the bride. So she's your best friend from home and knows exactly what you've worn to every wedding for the last two years? Better buy something brand new, colourful and expensive for the occasion so that she knows that you know how much of a big deal it is. And if it's your new boyfriend's college buddy's wedding, and you want to make an impression but haven't a bean?

So borrow something fabulous from a fashionista friend and nobody will know any better.

It's all very well to take the best advice and find a fail-safe outfit that will see you through the season . . . a flattering dress that you can accessorise with a variety of cropped swing jackets and shoes or one of those very tempting newseason embellished coats will do the trick . . . but the reality of course is a whole different story.

Because even if you do find the most perfect dress or coat possible, unless you've done your homework in advance you will still be in doubt what you are wearing up until the very moment you trip up the church steps making sure that nobody else has spotted the same headpiece, bag or shoes.

Moral of the story? Read the signs before you buy the outfit and you will be a much happier camper on the day.