What to wear to rehearsal dinner and wedding in Sonoma, CA?

Question

I'm traveling to Sonoma, CA with my boyfriend to attend a rehearsal dinner and a wedding for one of his long-time friends. I do not know anyone other than my boyfriend, so the only clothing suggestions I was given have come from him, or one of his "buddies." Based upon what I've been told, do you think my choices are appropriate?

Rehearsal dinner: Outdoor dinner at a vineyard, around 4:00 or 5:00. Guys will be wearing khaki slacks/shorts and a button-up shirt or polo (with sweaters and/or fleece jackets for after sunset). I'm considering two options for myself: 1. a black chiffon tube top (I think it's dressy--it's banded at the chest and at the waist, and the chiffon kind of billows out a bit), with a pair of deep red, wide dress pants (the color is more of a very dark burgundy), with black strappy sandals (with a 2" heel) and a black sweater jacket. I like this option because I'll be comfortable and it's neither casual nor super-formal.

or, 2. this dress (http://www3.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=50434&CatID=59150&GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=1408c88&attrtype=&attrvalue=&CmCatId=50434|50444|59150) and brown sandals (with a 2" heel)

Wedding: Outside, at a ranch in Sonoma. Wedding is at 3:00. Reception immediately follows. Male guests will be wearing summer suits, with or without tie, jacket optional. I'm considering either: 1. the dress I mentioned above (if I don't wear it to the rehearsal, obviously),

or 2. your basic "little black dress"--strapless, mid-calf-- and black strappy sandals, and a grey cardigan for later in the evening.

I think I would FEEL more comfortable wearing my 1. suggestion for both events, but I don't want to be underdressed either. What do you think?

Answer 1

I dislike the idea of the "tube top" I do not considering them classy enough for a winery rehearsal dinner.

I would go with the black dress, but again with the strapless.. I still feel the same with strapless as I do with tube tops.  

Answer 2

i live in the area and i'll give you this advice, it starts to cool down around 3:30 4pm, it gets pretty wendy too so make sure that whatever you wear you have to bring a sweater because you never really know when the temperature is going to drop.

but don't wear black to a wedding

good luck

Answer 3

I would suggest that you wear dresses for both functions, because you are more likely to be treated like a lady.  

The strapless black dress for the wedding is too risque in my opinion - would be more suitable for a cocktail party.  A brightly coloured print or solid bolero type jacked worn over the black strapless number would make it more appropriate for the wedding.