DEAR ABBY: I am going to an evening wedding in a few weeks, and I have a question about proper attire.
My mother always told me not to wear white or black to a wedding, but that was 45 years ago. I have seen both at many weddings in the past 20 years.
After a long search for a dress to wear, I found a stunning black dress with a large, bold, red flower painted across the front and back. It fit and I bought it. Friends have agreed that because of the print, it is OK for this evening wedding, but I keep hearing my mother's voice. What is your opinion? -- VOICE FROM THE PAST
DEAR VOICE: Your mother's fashion advice may have been appropriate 45 years ago, but in the ensuing decades, the rules have relaxed. While I would not advise anyone to wear white to a wedding -- unless specifically instructed to do so -- it is now acceptable to wear black. Enjoy the dress. It sounds lovely.