27 Best Guest Dresses to Wear to Any Summer Wedding Celebration
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Wedding season is upon us, which means it's time to figure out where to buy your party-ready garments and accessories. While beautiful pastels and delicate floral patterns make for trendy spring wedding guest dresses, it's time to shift gears and find the best wedding guest dresses for summer celebrations. And as always, we're here to help.
No matter if you're dressing for a casual beach wedding, cocktail reception, or a more formal black-tie affair, we searched far and wide to find you the best summer wedding guest dresses of 2024, paying special attention to lightweight spaghetti strap slip dresses, colorful statement maxis, one-shoulder stunners, and more. We also made sure to keep in mind affordability (many of these dresses are under $50), fast shipping times for last-minute shopping, and, of course, quality and style.
Generally speaking, when shopping for a summer wedding guest dress — versus a fall wedding guest dress or winter wedding guest dress — you'll want to prioritize cool cuts and fabrics like cotton and rayon. That's not to say more modest silhouettes, dresses with sleeves, or polyester and silk dresses can't be worn during summer, though. It's simply a reminder to be mindful of your cut and materials when preparing for upcoming warm-weather nuptials. Doing so will help ensure you won't sweat through the ceremony or reception fun.
All in all, we did the hard work so that you can focus on finding a favorite among the very best. Have fun and congratulations to the happy couple!
Lady Corset Dress
The Show Me Your Mumu Lady Corset Dress features a fitted bodice, lace-up back, and tiered ruffle skirt complete with a high slit to show a little leg. The fan-favorite dress is sold in solids and prints alike, so even if you're not one for all the color you can still enjoy this stellar silhouette.
Shopper Review: "This is not a dress I would normally choose for my “straight as a board” top and “bootylicious” bottom, but it is perfect! The corset back and adjustable straps allow for total customization of the fit. I’m 5’8 and the dress is a good length WITH heels. Heels will be necessary! This is okay as I already planned to wear heeled shoes. The fabric is comfortable and moves nicely. It definitely reads wedding attire — I’m going to be a MOH in this dress. My bride loves it! I love it! Wins all around."
Colors: 7 | Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: Luxe Satin Polyester | Care Instructions: Not Advertised
Green-and-Blue Color Block Cutout Dress
Knit dresses are a popular pick for summer 2024 and this vibrant blue and green cutout number from Lulus is a gorgeous option. The fitted bodycon dress is made of a stretchy rayon-nylon blend, so it forms to your figure without being constricting.
Shopper Review: "This dress is so cute and comfortable. It runs a *little* large but I wouldn't size down as it is still fitting and very breathable. Can't wait to wear this to summer events!"
Colors: 1 | Sizes: S-L | Material: 78% Rayon, 22% Nylon | Care Instructions: Dry Clean Only
Summer Beach Maxi Dress
This high-neck halter maxi dress is one of the most popular wedding guest dresses on Amazon. Over 3,000 shoppers have dubbed the high-slit dress a must for summer.
Shopper Review: "This dress is gorgeous and has a beautiful swing. It also has a little stretch in the bust area that was perfect for my 36D in a size medium. Fits true to size, is comfortable, and looks more expensive than it cost."
Colors: 34 | Sizes: S-XXL | Material: 95%Polyester 5%Spandex | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Pink Jacquard Tilda Dress
If you have a cocktail or formal wedding coming up — or you simply like to get dressed up regardless of dress code — the Never Fully Dressed Pink Jacquard Tilda Dress is worth considering. The ruffle-sleeve maxi dress highlights curves in a beautiful way, shimmering with each and every step.
Editor Review: While Never Fully Dressed doesn't feature shopper reviews, I can attest to how stunning the inclusive brand's garments are. There's a reason why it's my number-one go-to for stocking my wardrobe. It's colorful, high-quality, and downright dopamine-inducing.
Colors: 4 | Sizes: 2-24 | Material: Viscose Lurex with a Polyester Lining | Care Instructions: 30 Degree Wash; Hang to Dry
Mermaid Slip Maxi Dress
There's something so romantic about a mermaid silhouette. This slip dress from Abercrombie & Fitch nails it with two printed options and a solid hot pink iteration — all perfect for summer 2024.
Shopper Review: "Really cute. Loose on [the] waist. Don’t get [it] if you have a tiny waist."
Colors: 3 | Sizes: XXS-XL; Petite, Regular, Tall | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash Cold; Tumble Dry Low; Warm Iron If Needed
Posse Floral Lace-Up Back Maxi Dress
You can't go wrong with a bright floral dress for a summer wedding. The Petal & Pup Posse Floral Lace-Up Back Maxi Dress is a popular pick for its cowl neck, flutter hem, and adjustable lace-up open back.
Shopper Review: "So gorgeous!! The tie-back hugs the waist so perfectly and the color is so vibrant but doesn’t wash out my complexion. It’s the perfect dress I’m in love!"
Colors: 1 | Sizes: XS-XL | Material: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex | Care Instructions: Hand Wash; Dry Flat
Pink Beach Forest Lenzing™ Ecovero™ Viscose Maxi Dress
No brand is better suited for a summer beach wedding or tropical destination wedding than Farm Rio. The brand's Pink Beach Forest Lenzing Ecovero Viscose Maxi Dress features a plunging cutout neckline with exaggerated shoulders and a zip-up back for a tailored-yet-laid back appeal.
Shopper Review: Farm Rio doesn't feature shopper reviews but the brand's sustainably-made garments are renowned for being high-quality and even more gorgeous in person.
Colors: 1 | Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 100% Viscose | Care Instructions: Machine Wash Gentle; Line Dry
Collection Tiered Ruffle Dress in Chiffon
Bring the dancing lady emoji to life with this show-stopping strapless red-tiered ruffle dress. The soon-to-launch gown is currently available for pre-order and is bound to sell out.
Shopper Review: As a soon-to-launch silhouette, this dress doesn't yet have any reviews. That said, the brand's Collection garments tend to be among the top-rated.
Colors: 3 | Sizes: 00-24 | Material: 100% Viscose | Care Instructions: Dry Clean Only
Puffy Short-Sleeve Square Neck Midi Dress
Overall, summer weddings tend to be more colorful and casual, unless the dress code explicitly states otherwise. That said, if you're looking for a comfortable wedding guest dress that looks undeniably chic, reach for the PRETTYGARDEN Puffy Short Sleeve, Square-Neck Smocked Dress. It's sold in every color of the sun, so you really can't go wrong.
Shopper Review: "I bought this dress to wear for Easter. It came in and was perfect. The fit was perfect. The material is not see-through at all. It is so soft. The sleeves poofed exactly how they should. The dress made me feel like a modern-day Cinderella."
Colors: 37 | Sizes: S-XXL | Material: 80% Polyester, 20% Cotton | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Orange Fresh Macaws Midi Dress
Here we have another gorgeous Farm Rio dress fit for a summer wedding. The half-sleeve maxi dress features a smocked waist and plunging neckline paired with a bold print that can be dressed up or down for casual, garden, and beach weddings.
Shopper Review: As a reminder, Farm Rio doesn't have shopper reviews. The brand does, however, add whimsical touches to its garments that have become a beloved characteristic of the brand. On this dress, it's a beaded waist tie.
Colors: 1 | Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 100% Cotton | Care Instructions: Machine Wash Gentle; Hang to Dry
Women's Off-The-Shoulder Ruched Bodycon Dress
Looking for a bodycon dress for an upcoming cocktail or formal summer wedding? The PRETTYGARDEN Off-the-Shoulder Ruched Bodycon Midi Dress is an especially striking option. It hugs curves with a neckline that shows off the clavicle and hemline that grazes the calves. Best of all, it's sold in every color of the rainbow.
Shopper Review: "This dress was so worth the buy! The material is so soft, it's form-fitted but stretches great; I danced all night with no issues! It’s not see-through but does show underwear lines. The top has a silicone-like strip alone the seam to hold it up in place, as well as a semi-built in bra. Definitely not super supportive in the chest area but I’m small enough that it was okay. The dress was elegant, formal yet classy, and comfortable!"
Colors: 20 | Sizes: S-XL | Material: 90% Polyamide, 10% Elastane | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Rose Floral Tie Strap Tiered Midi Dress
How cute are the whimsical tie straps on this cutout, tiered A-line dress? They make for a summer wedding guest dress that works as well for casual gatherings as cocktail dress codes.
Shopper Review: "The most beautiful dress ever. I'm wearing it for my rehearsal dinner and cannot wait. The fit of the dress makes me feel so beautiful and finding dresses that are flattering is sometimes a challenge."
Colors: 1 | Sizes: XS-XL | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Hand Wash; Dry Flat
Women's Summer Wrap Maxi Dress
Wrap dresses are ideal for anyone who wants a versatile dress to accompany them through various stages and sizes of life. The PRETTYGARDEN Women's Summer Wrap Maxi Dress is one of the most popular wrap dresses on Amazon thanks to its extensive color selection and flowy, lightweight design.
Shopper Review: "I purchased this dress to wear to my nephew’s wedding and it did not disappoint! The fit and length were absolutely perfect! It hung right below my ankles in the back and a little above the ankle in the front. The fabric is so nice and flowing. I packed this dress in my suitcase and it traveled so well that I didn’t even need to steam it! Honestly, I am in love with this beautiful dress and plan on purchasing another!"
Colors: 36 | Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Pleated Chiffon Maxi Dress
For a more modest summer wedding guest dress option, check out this pleated high-neck maxi dress from Banana Republic. It's lightweight, lined, and flows nicely. Just keep in mind that it does have a peek-a-boo at the back but it's low enough that you should still be able to wear a bra without it showing.
Shopper Review: "I love the fit, and how it looks from [the] front. It is a perfect fit. It slips right on and is comfortable."
Colors: 2 | Sizes: 0-18 | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash Gentle; Hang to Dry
RELATED: The Best Places to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses
Square Neck Cocktail Dress
The ANRABESS Square Neck Shoulder Tie Ruffle Split Cocktail Midi Dress is a nearly exact dupe of the Show Me Your Mumu Claire Midi Dress but for almost a quarter of the price. It's sold in 21 colors, so you may very well want to buy more than one.
Shopper Review: "I've found a winner with this summer dress! The soft, high-quality fabric and adjustable straps make it perfect for accommodating different body types, while the elastic back ensures a comfortable fit. The bow details add a lovely feminine touch! Experimenting with different bras for the square neckline will help me find the perfect match. I can not wait to enjoy wearing my new dress! I am a curvy 5'7 girl who weighs 230, the XL is perfect on me!"
Colors: 21 | Sizes: S-XL | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Somerset Maxi Dress: Eyelet Edition
Anthropologie's Somerset Maxi Dress is a cult-favorite style with seasonal options to accommodate any wedding, all year round. For summer, check out the Eyelet Edition dress, which features daintily-detailed short sleeves, as well as an artfully cutout tiered skirt.
Shopper Review: "I love the Somerset, both long and short, but I think this is my favorite one so far! It is better than the pictures. The detail is beautiful! This one is not as heavy as some of the other ones. The only thing I hate about the Somerset style is the hook to close the front- I wish they would just sew it!!"
Colors: 2 | Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: Cotton-Rayon Blend | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Hang to Dry
Floral One-Shoulder Maxi Dress
We love a one-shoulder dress for summer and this elastic-waist, draped version is a beautiful option for plus-sized women. The tropical dress features an ankle-grazing hem, high slit, and pockets— what's not to love?!
Editor Review: This Chelsea28 dress just hit Nordstrom's shelves so it has yet to receive any reviews. The pretty print, flattering draped sleeve, and the fact that it has pockets make it worthwhile in our book.
Colors: 1 | Sizes: 1X-4X | Material: 85% Rayon, 15% Nylon | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Line Dry
Water's Edge Hydrangea Organza Palmerston Dress
If you prefer long-sleeve dresses but don't want to feel hot at the summer wedding you're attending, check out the cult-favorite Tuckernuck Water's Edge Hydrangea Organza Palmerston Dress. The transparent sleeves will ensure you're covered but cool.
Shopper Review: "Bought the blue hydrangea dress for a June wedding, and I absolutely love it! It drapes beautifully, hugging me in a flattering way. Not stiff or scratchy at all. The lining is a soft baby blue that peeks through the organza."
Colors: 7 | Sizes: XXS-XXXL | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Tumble Dry Low
Sleeveless Spaghetti Strap Satin Wedding Guest Party Dress
Satin slip dresses are a classic for spring and summer weddings. The Tsher Sleeveless Spaghetti Strap Sating Wedding Guest Party Dress is a fabulous pick both for its price and draped yet form-fitting design.
Shopper Review: "I wore this dress to my daughter's wedding, I had the pleasure of walking her down the [aisle]. It fit her color scheme perfectly. The length was perfect on me, and the slit in the front/side was very cute/sexy which also helped make it manageable to move and sit in. The wedding was in early July ‘23 and it was hot 102’ though everyone was sweating, I was surprisingly comfortable in my dress."
Colors: 19 | Sizes: XS-XL | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only
RELATED: Best Summer Dresses on Amazon All Under $50
Women's Spaghetti Strap Satin Midi Dress
Heading to a garden party? Consider the Fashionme Women's Spaghetti Strap Satin Midi Dress. The silky dress features an under-bust cutout and medium slit for a flirty silhouette that can be dressed up or down.
Shopper Review: "I haven’t had much luck with buying clothes from Amazon except for some leggings and tank tops for the gym. I was really quite pleasantly surprised at how flattering this dress was on me! Love the satin-like feel of the material which makes it flowy and the slit above the knee is very hot! Also, it’s a great plus that the straps are adjustable and the tie knot at the chest as well."
Colors: 16 | Sizes: XS-3X | Material: Polyester | Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only
Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress
This one-shoulder midi dress is classy and flirty all at once. The solid-colored dress is tailored but not overly form-fitting, making it a bit more modest overall.
Shopper Review: "This dress is stunning. It fits true to size and accentuates all the right places. I also love that it has built-in cups and I don't have to worry about wearing a bra!"
Colors: 13 | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Material: 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex | Care Instructions: Dry Clean or Machine Wash; Line Dry
Women's Sleeveless Lace Floral Elegant Cocktail Dress
A little black dress is a versatile garment that can be worn to summer weddings or any other occasion throughout the year. This lacy, peek-a-boo bodycon dress is both flirty and somewhat modest with its covered chest and knee-length hem. Of course, if you prefer color, there are plenty of other options to choose from.
Shopper Review: "THIS is THE dress! It’s just beautiful!!! Great quality and it’s also very soft and comfortable! The zipper is very nicely stitched into the dress so it’s invisible and the seams lay flat. I have bought several dresses over the past few months for my upcoming honeymoon — and this dress is better than some of the $400 dresses I’ve tried! It is rare when you find something at a reasonable price that fits well and is also nice quality."
Colors: 18 | Sizes: S-XL | Material: 65% Rayon, 35% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Line Dry
Freya Tulle Plissé Ruffle Gown
How stunning is this transparent tiered ruffle dress? The cobalt tulle silhouette works beautifully for cocktail and formal weddings and can be accessorized to look even dressier.
Editor Review: This dress just launched as part of Hutch's summer collection and has yet to earn any reviews. That said, the brand's silhouettes sell out fast, so snag it while you can. Nordstrom has a great return policy in the event it doesn't work out.
Colors: 1 | Sizes: 00-22 | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Dry Clean or Hand Wash; Lay Flat to Dry
Women's Plus-Size Satin Spaghetti Strap Wrap Dress
If you love the idea of a classic silky cowl-neck slip dress but often find that they don't fit your figure, size up to a plus-size iteration. This one by Floerns is beloved by thousands of Amazon shoppers for its stretchy, draped nature and impressive color offering.
Shopper Review: "I’m a bigger girl and currently between sizes so after meticulously reading reviews, I settled on this dress. It was enough given the current situation and I needed it to get to me FAST. I went a size bigger than I normally would out of safety and fear this last-minute dress wouldn’t fit me. Boy oh boy not only did Amazon slay but this dress SLAYED. This arrived two days before the wedding thanks to Prime and it fit like a glove, even with some wiggle room to chow down on wedding cake! I felt hot and confident."
Colors: 44 | Sizes: XS-5X | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only
Hadly Smocked Maxi Dress
The Lilly Pulitzer Hadly Smocked Maxi Dress is a versatile summer dress that can work for casual, garden, and cocktail parties alike depending on how it's accessorized. The lace-like dress is sold in navy, white, and pink — take your pick!
Shopper Review: "I bought this in navy last year and was so excited to see pink and white this year. I bought both. I love the solid colors Lilly is making. I have so many Lilly prints that I find myself buying more solids now. (But I still love the prints too!). The dress fits true to size. The straps are not loose. The dress has pockets! It has just the right amount of swing but is still flattering to the figure. The length is not too long."
Colors: 3 | Sizes: XXS-XL | Material: 100% Polyester | Care Instructions: Machine Wash Cold; Hang to Dry
Women's Catalina Solid Sleeveless Fit & Flare Midi Dress
If you like shorter dress silhouettes, check out the Dress the Population Catalina Solid Sleeveless Fit & Flare Dress. The knee-length dress is sold in nearly every color of the rainbow and can easily be dressed up or down. Oh, and did we mention it has pockets?
Shopper Review: "Originally meant for my rehearsal dinner, this dress got upgraded to wedding dress when [the] ceremony got downgraded to a front yard pandemic affair. There was an audible whispered ripple in the audience of “it has pockets” when I pulled out my vows. Comfortable, cool, and flattering. Also was thrilled to discover machine washable."
Colors: 16 | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Material: 97% Polyester, 3% Spandex | Care Instructions: Machine Wash; Line Dry
Sally Bow Midi Dress
This breezy one-shoulder tiered ruffle-hem dress is fit for the fashionista. It's sold in solids and prints and features not only a statement-making bow accent but pockets too.
Shopper Review: "I was struggling to find a dress for an upcoming wedding that could accommodate my growing (30+ week) bump. This dress is perfect!"
Colors: 4 | Sizes: XXS-3X | Material: Polyester | Care Instructions: Dry Clean Only
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