Before that, although brides did wear white when they could afford it, even the wealthiest and most royal among them also wore gold, or blue, or, if they were not rich or royal, whatever color their best dress happened to be ( A Natural History of the Wedding Dress )
For a casual afternoon outfit, wear your white maxi dress with flat sandals, a straw tote bag, and a straw hat
If your outfit is elegant, well-fitted, and made of high-quality fabric without casual elements, it is likely appropriate for a formal wedding.
Cream embroidered detail
Deep and vivid without being distracting, jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and deep amethyst are formal, flattering, and appropriate for most black-tie wedding ceremonies and receptions