The 30 Best Places to Shop Wedding Guest Attire You'll Absolutely Love
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Brides / Alli Waataja
Everybody has that one go-to clothing brand, for special occasions, they know will never miss the mark. When wedding season rolls around though, multiple weddings can mean multiple looks, and it could be good to switch things up from the norm. While shopping for wedding-worthy looks can sometimes sound like a drag, think of it as an opportunity to open yourself up to new labels that you may have not tried otherwise.
To help you with your search, we’ve put together a list of the best retailers to shop for wedding guest attire. Some are brands you probably already know and love, while others may pique your interest for the very first time. And no matter your budget and style, we're sure there's something on this list for you.
Fashion stylist Elisabeth Kassab suggests looking for dresses on sites with a wide selection and “incredible shipping/return options.” That way you can feel free to peruse and try on items without worrying about getting stuck with a dress you don’t want. To this point, we've vetted all the online merchants on this list and noted their shipping and return policies so you can fill your wardrobe with the season's hottest wedding guest attire, and shop with confidence.
Lulus
Lulus is an affordable, trend-focused brand that is a treasure trove of special occasion dresses at an affordable price point. We love the variety of styles, silhouettes, and sizes (XXS-3X), so every guest can find something that speaks to their individual aesthetic. We’ve shopped the site for all kinds of events, and while it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, it helped us focus by offering filters for dress code, season, color, silhouette, and more. And when the design we had our eyes on was out of stock, the site suggested similar styles. Once we had our dress, we finished the look with a pair of shoes and clutch for a one and done shopping experience. Yes, the shoes are also affordable but high quality—we’ve had a pair of stilettos last us through all four years of college. Whether you’re looking for a casual dress or a gown for a black-tie wedding, Lulus has it all—at a budget buyer’s price point. Plus, they offer free shipping for purchases over $50 and free returns within 10 days of delivery.
Price Range: $15 to $299
Size range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Returns: 30 days; Free return within 10 days of delivery, $4.99 + $1.49 restocking fee per item after 10 days
ASTR The Label
ASTR The Label offers flirty, feminine, and fun wedding guest dresses that won’t break the bank. We love that there are so many gorgeous floral designs to choose from, perfect for spring and summer weddings. They also offer the ASTR Social Club, a tiered point system where you can earn 2 points for every dollar spent. Every 20 points is a $1 ASTR dollar back for you to spend on your next wedding guest dress. Most pieces are reasonably priced, ranging between $40 to $188 with free shipping over $75, and free returns.
Price Range: $15 to $299
Size range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free US shipping over $75 | Returns: Free returns within 28 days of your order ship date
Reformation
Known as one of the OG eco-friendly fashion brands, Reformation has made a name for itself within the millennial and Gen-Z communities. Their pieces are always one step ahead of the current trends—and are a staple brand for those looking for a chic, fashion-forward look. Plus, with their focus on sustainable practices, it’s a purchase you'll feel good about making. They’ll even pay you to send in Ref clothing you don’t wear anymore so they can use the fibers to make new clothes. We also love that they offer free shipping to all 50 states, and free returns within 30 days.
Price Range: $248 to $498
Size range: XS-3X | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free returns within 30 days of delivery date
Nordstrom
Nordstrom is a one-stop shop for all wedding guest attire. They carry a wide variety of brands in all price ranges, and with their quick shipment options, it’s a great choice if you’re in a pinch for time. They have a super generous free shipping and return policy; there’s no time limit for returns or exchanges, but will be handled on a “case by case” basis. In addition, their size ranges are inclusive from XXS-4XL, with petite and maternity options.
Price Range: $75 to $5,490
Size range: XXS-4X, plus Petite & Maternity | Shipping: Free for all 50 states & Puerto Rico | Returns: Free and no time limits for returns or exchanges.
Toward
Toward is a first-of-its-kind luxury shopping platform for environmentally conscious clothing brands. They insist their partner brands guarantee fair working conditions throughout the supply chain, enact ethical treatment and transportation of animals, and cause minimal environmental harm. The brand sells a variety of pieces from Vivienne Westwood to Ganni and have a selection of dresses that will stun at any tropical, destination wedding! Note that they have a more restrictive shipping and return policy, and they do not ship to Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. Territories.
Price Range: $140 to $1,075
Size range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free express shipping on orders $250+ | Returns: 14 days. You must use their return label form. They will refund the purchase price plus tax but not shipping charges.
Dia & Co.
For contemporary, sophisticated cocktail attire and occasionwear, keep Dia & Co. on your radar. With sizes ranging from 0 to 36, the size-inclusive online retailer carries chic dresses that are flattering for all body types. We love that they offer a one-time style box curated by a stylist to help you on your aesthetic journey, and have a fun style quiz if you’re feeling stuck on what to wear, or want to figure out your perfect fit and style to flatter your body shape. Plus, there’s free shipping for orders over $75.
Price Range: $23 to $2,995
Size range: 0-36 | Shipping: Free for orders over $75 | Returns: Within 30 days of your order shipment date.
Revolve
Trendy squad, rise up! With hundreds of new drops every day, Revolve is always on the cusp of what’s new and trendy, especially in occasionwear. And with so much inventory, you can always find a gorgeous dress on sale. Kassab loves Revolve “because of their wide selection and incredible shipping/return options.”
The online retailer carries reasonably priced brands like Bardot and BCBGeneration, along with higher-end brands such as Retrofête and Sau Lee. They are also fairly size inclusive, with sizes from XXS to 4XL, and offer free shipping and returns.
Price Range: $13 to $4,250
Size range: XXS-4X | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free. They accept returns for a full refund within 60 days and exchanges within 90 days.
Tobi
Tobi is a fast-fashion retailer based in Los Angeles that carries stylish and affordable occasionwear dresses. Its West Coast influence can be seen through the brand's trend-focused and youthful designs that lean toward the sexier side. We love that they have so many categories to select from to really hone in on the vibe you’re looking for (which is great since there’s so many styles and it can get a bit overwhelming). There’s free shipping over $75 and free returns within 10 days of delivery.
Price Range: $17 to $177
Size range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free shipping over $75 | Returns: Free returns within 10 days
Eloquii
Eloquii is a size-inclusive brand for sizes 14-28 that carries fashionable options for every type of wedding. The company recently launched The Black Creatives Project (BCP), which empowers Black creatives and business people, influencers, and professionals. They also offer tons of amazing accessories at a super affordable price point, so this can act as your one stop shop for the full wedding day look.
Price Range: $90 to $180
Size range: 14-28 | Shipping: Based on the merchandise total of your shopping bag. Calculated and displayed at checkout. | Returns: $5 Deducted from the return. Returns for bridal by ELOQUII are accepted within 14 days; non-bridal returns are accepted within 30 days.
ASOS
ASOS is an online retailer from the UK that carries fashionable modern brands. Many of their dresses offer a modern edgy twist, and most come at a super affordable price point. They also have their own inclusive collection, with options for all body types including curve, petite, tall, and maternity and sizes ranging from 00-26. They offer free shipping over $50 and free returns within 28 days of delivery.
Price Range: $10 to $434
Size range: 00-26 | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery
Zara
For wearable trend-focused pieces, look no further than Zara. From relaxed shift dresses to bejeweled minis, Zara has options for every style imaginable at prices you’ll love. They offer accessories, shoes, and even beauty products to make Zara your one stop shop for all your wedding guest attire needs. Plus, there’s free shipping over $50.
Price Range: $16 to $260
Size range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free dropoff at any store or $3.95 USD when returned within 30 days of shipment date.
Shopbop
The global online retailer Shopbop has made a name for itself amongst online fashion retailers for carrying over 1,000 of the top brands in fashion. With new pieces added daily, the site always has something unique to offer. Plus, they have a selection of accessories, shoes, beauty, and bags to top off your look that is to die for, and they offer free shipping and returns. They’re also Amazon Prime eligible, which makes it even more convenient.
Price Range: $20 to $3,075
Size range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: Free worldwide | Returns: Free within 15 days of delivery.
Alice & Olivia
There’s a reason this brand has been a favorite of celebs like Meghan Markle, Michelle Obama, Beyonce, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Gigi Hadid for years. Alice + Olivia has a range of cheeky, vintage-inspired, and whimsical dresses, jumpsuits, and two-piece sets for any type of wedding. Their dresses fall on the pricier side, but they are definitely investment pieces you’ll want to wear for years to come. You can also enjoy free shipping
Price Range: $140 to $2,995
Size range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Within 14 days of delivery. In person store returns or orders placed with ShopRunner are free. Mail in returns have a $15 restocking fee, which will be deducted from your refund.
Anthropologie
You're undoubtedly already familiar with this boho brand, best known for its airy fabrics and free-flowing silhouettes. But did you know that Anthropologie has a great selection of occasionwear? They feature notable brands like Bronx and Banco, Mac Duggal, AMUR, and Cynthia Rowley, and we love that you can shop by dress code and body type to make your search even easier. Plus, free shipping on orders over $50.
Price Range: $88 to $1,295
Size range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $50 | Returns: Within 30 days of the purchase date. Free in store and $5.95 on most mailed in returns.
Sachin & Babi
Sachin & Babi has a wide selection of structured, glam, and stylish gowns for black-tie or formal affairs. It’s a great brand if you’re looking for a more conservative, elegant gown that still has a modern touch. We love their attention to embellishment and tailoring, with high quality materials and design at the forefront. They are also size inclusive, offering size 0-20, and offer free returns within two weeks.
Price Range: $175 to $1,295
Size range: 0-20 | Shipping: Free on orders over $500 | Returns: Free within 14 days
Showpo
This Australian online fashion retailer has about 2,000 dresses on its website with over 100+ new styles dropping weekly. They offer both exclusive in-house designs and over 80 local and international brands including Lioness, WeWoreWhat, Runaway the Label, etc. Plus, most are priced under $100, so not only are the options fashion-forward but cost-efficient. You can return within 21 days for store credit or within a week for a refund, but it’ll cost you $14.95.
Price Range: $11 to $240
Size range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $100 | Returns: $14.95 Return within 7 days for a refund; return within 21 days for store credit
Amanda Uprichard
With bold, bright colors and classic silhouettes, Amanda Uprichard is a go-to brand for spring and summer occasion dresses. We love that they offer dresses for a variety of dress codes: like this one for a dressy casual affair, or this gorgeous silk number for a more formal event. With free shipping and returns, and lots of sub categories to make your search easier, this brand makes shopping with them a breeze.
Price Range: $194 to $356
Size range: S-XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 14 days of the original shipping date
Rent The Runway
If you have a full calendar of weddings this year, you may want to consider renting a dress (or two) from Rent The Runway. This online service allows you to lease designer clothing for one-time wear, a great option for those without extra closet space to spare. If you’ve never rented, here’s how it works: You’ll select a delivery date 1-2 days before you need the item and keep it for 4 or 8 days at a time. A free backup size is included in every order to ensure a proper fit! All shipping and returns are free. We especially love that reviewers can post photos in the dress so you can get an idea of how it may look on, and if you love a style - you can choose to purchase it at a discount.
Price Range: $15 to $335. Memberships start at $69
Size range: Varies depending on brand | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free for rentals (return date in your confirmation email), $5.95 for purchases within 7 days
Fame and Partners
You may have seen Fame and Partners at Saks Fifth Avenue or Shopbop, but did you know that it’s the first mass-produced, made-to-order label? This eco-conscious brand carries a range of stylish wedding guest dresses—and since each piece is made to order, they are helping to reduce waste during production. When you join Fame and Partners, you get $20 off your first made-to-order item. Their online site also has an outlet section where you can shop a selection of discounted evening wear!
Price Range: $129 to $799
Size range: Made to order items are built for your measurements. | Shipping: Free | Returns: Within 30 days. Made to Order: They charge a Zero Waste Fee. Refund less a 25% fee of the order subtotal. Ready to Wear: Refund less than 10% fee of the order subtotal.
Zelie for She
Zelie for She is a BIPOC-owned brand based in Los Angeles that specializes in fashion-forward, uniquely designed plus-size clothing. Their dress and sets selection runs from 1X to 3X, and is perfect for any style of wedding but especially for individuals with their own unique sense of fashion expression. Each design runs for a limited time making whatever you buy that much more special. They are also reasonably priced, with most looks around the $100 to $150 mark.
Price Range: $44 to $279
Size range: 1X-3X | Shipping: Free on orders $150+ | Returns: No refunds. Exchange or store credit within 10 days from delivery.
Net-a-Porter
Net-a-Porter is a one-stop shop for all things designer, especially occasionwear. From red-carpet-worthy gowns to mini sundresses, the online retail giant has a look for any style of wedding you may be attending with an expertly curated assortment of gorgeous styles, straight off the runways. They also have an incredible assortment of shoes and accessories, from top brands, to finish off your glamorous look. We appreciate their easy free shipping (over $150) and returns policy so you can shop without worry.
Price Range: $68 to $21,000
Size range: Depends on designer. | Shipping: Free on orders $150+ | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery.
Moda Operandi
Moda Operandi has curated an unbeatable collection of emerging and veteran designers. From edgy, unconventional dresses to sophisticated designer gowns, there is a bit of everything on Moda Operandi. The price ranges from $59 to a whopping $119,000 for a single gown, which shows their incredibly diverse assortment of brands and styles. They also provide several categories and subcategories to make shopping simple and to the point.
Price Range: $59 to $119,000
Size range: 0-20 | Shipping: Shipping cost starts at $10. | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery.
11 Honoré
Size-inclusive online retailer, 11 Honoré, is the sister site for Dia & Co. It specializes in designer clothing flattering for all body types. In addition to carrying brands like Ganni and Diane Von Furstenburg, 11 Honoré created their own collection featuring fashion-forward occasionwear dresses. They offer generous free shipping over $75 and free returns within 30 days of your order’s shipment date.
Price Range: $63 to $3,000
Size range: 10-30 | Shipping: Free for orders over $75 | Returns: Within 30 days of your order shipment date.
Sleeper
Luxury sleepwear brand Sleeper has ventured into new territory with its versatile dress collection. Their easy-to-wear linen dresses are a great option for an outdoor summer wedding, and their beautiful slip dresses are super versatile for a variety of dress codes and venues. Plus, many of their dresses are bump-friendly, so mothers-to-be take note. Do note they have a more restrictive shipping and return policy, with $15 shipping under $350 and return cost at the buyer’s responsibility.
Price Range: $175 to $500
Size range: XS-3XL | Shipping: Standard shipping cost is $15 and all orders over $350 will ship for free anywhere in the world. | Returns: Within 14 days of receiving your order at your own expense.
The Outnet
Imagine a place where you can buy brands like Valentino, Stella Mccartney, and Zimmermann for half off. Sounds too good to be true? Online retailer, The Outnet—sister site to Net-a-Porter—makes this dream a reality. If you’re searching for a designer dress for a black-tie wedding without a ridiculous price tag, The Outnet is your best bet. They feature tons of subcategories to hone in on your desired style and look. Plus, they have free shipping on orders over $100 and free returns. It’s like this site just wants to save you money.
Price Range: $28 to $6,400
Size range: 00-16 | Shipping: Free on orders over $100 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery.
Rixo
If you’re not already familiar with the UK brand, Rixo, you’re in for a treat. This emerging label has a variety of wedding guest-appropriate maxi dresses, featuring vintage-inspired silhouettes, bold prints, and bright hues. This is a shop for the color-obsessed - perfect for summer and spring wedding looks. We love that their sizing is inclusive, ranging from 6-24, and that they have a whole bridal section for bridesmaids, mother in law, and other wedding event looks. Note that because it’s an overseas brand, shipping will cost $18 and returns will be at your own expense!
Price Range: $135 to $675
Size range: 6-24 | Shipping: $18 to the US | Returns: At your own expense within 14 days.
& Other Stories
With collections designed in Paris, Stockholm, and Los Angeles, & Other Stories caters to various styles, from relaxed sundresses to luxe-looking slip dresses. Their dress selection is very wearable and sure to be closet staples. Prices are reasonable, ranging from under $60 to around $500. With accessories, shoes, and bags available, you can shop the entire look. They also offer super generous free shipping and returns, making shopping worry-proof.
Price Range: $60 to $500
Size range: 0-12 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days.
Sandy Liang
Sandy Liang’s unique, one-of-a-kind dresses guarantee that you'll never get caught twinning with anyone this wedding season. From satin, cut-out mini dresses to dramatic tulle midis, this brand is for the guest who isn’t afraid to take fashion risks. We love that they also have a bridal section including veils, and offer accessories including handbags, jewelry, and hair pieces to complete the look. Do note that shipping is $10 and they do not offer refunds, only exchanges at your return shipping expense.
Price Range: $185 to $1,700
Size range: XSS-L | Shipping: $10 domestic shipping. Free on orders over $300 | Returns: No refunds. Exchanges within 14 days of purchase are at the customer’s expense.
Zimmermann
This Australian line is known for its boho-chic, ultra-feminine, super sophisticated dresses. If you're planning on attending a beach wedding, this is one brand you don't want to miss. With clever color combinations, powerful prints, and smart detailing, there’s a reason this brand is beloved by celebs and influencers. Note that they do not have a drop down menu for sorting price points, but they offer easy subcategory options for dress codes, time of day, color, size, and length. Also, free returns within 15 days!
Price Range: $500 to $3750
Size range: S-L / 0-4 | Shipping: $10. Free on orders over $500 | Returns: Free within 15 days.
Needle & Thread
Femininity and elegance are at the core of each Needle & Thread dress. The British brand has a stunning collection of embellished, sophisticated evening gowns that are perfect for a formal or black-tie wedding. We love that they have a whole wedding section for wedding guests, mother of the bride, flower girls, and bridesmaids. They also make shopping simple with subcategories like length, color, size, etc. Note that shipping and returns will be around $10 each.
Price Range: $350 to $930
Size range: 0-20 | Shipping: $9.95 for orders under $350 | Returns: $10 within 14 days of delivery.
Cult Gaia
Cult Gaia is on trend at the moment, and for good reason. Their styles are absolutely to die for with interesting silhouettes, cool cut outs, and premium fabrics. Each piece looks like wearable art, and with show-stopping accessories to pair with it, you’ll definitely be turning heads at the wedding. To start, we definitely recommend the iconic Mara dress and pair with this clutch. Shipping is free on orders over $150 and free returns within 7 days.
Price Range: $275 to $3,000
Size range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $150 | Returns: Free within 7 days
Mac Duggal
The Mac Duggal Design House is known for its signature luxe fabrics, intricate hand-beading, and feminine designs that create gorgeous statement outfits for wedding guests. From red carpet worthy gowns to relaxed flirty pieces, there’s something for every size, shape, and preference at Mac Duggal. Gwyneth Paltrow, Carrie Underwood, Vanessa Hudgens, Kylie Jenner, Eva Longoria, and Khloé Kardashian are just a few of the many celebs who have worn these looks. Shipping is free, but returns will cost you $12 within two weeks of shipment.
Price Range: $180 to $1,800
Size range: 0-30 | Shipping: Free | Returns: $12 within 14 days of shipment date.
Matches Fashion
Featuring 650+ established and innovative designers like Zimmermann, Valentino, Self-Portrait, Halpern, and Ganni, this luxury global shopping experience is unbeatable with tons of variety both in price point and style. You can choose to shop online or via their easy-to-use app. The UK marketplace delivers to over 176 countries and offers 24/7 advice through their fashion-concierge team MyStylist to help you with any queries. Note that shipping is free over $300 with free returns, and Customs Duty is pre-paid with no additional charges on delivery.
Price Range: $36 to $23,000
Size range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free for orders over $300| Returns: Free
Birdie Grey
Though Birdy Grey is known as a hub for bridesmaids dresses, they also offer a great selection of wedding guest dresses and accessories that are elegant, classy, and super affordable. In fact, all dresses are under $100. Choose from a wide variety of colors and fabrics, and even get free swatches to ensure you’ll love the color and texture. Shipping rates vary, and returns will cost you a $10 restocking fee, but exchanges are totally free.
Price Range: $30 to $100
Size range: XS-3XL | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on the items in your cart, shipping speed, and the destination.| Returns: 45 days to return eligible items. $10 restocking fee for each item returned at a returns bar, with an additional $2 processing fee for items returned by mail. Exchanges are free.
FWRD
The sister site to REVOLVE, FWRD has an incredible roster of top designers and elite brands both veteran and up and coming. Their products are hand selected by a team of experts, and they will also include authenticity cards and dust bags if the designer supplied it for them. With prices ranging from under $50 to over $11,000, there’s definitely a wide variety of styles and brands to choose from! Plus, they have a super easy free shipping and return policy.
Price Range: $42 to $11,000
Size range: 0-16 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days.
Alamour The Label
The ultra-romantic, sensual, and elegant gowns at Australian label Alamour are perfect for black tie and formal affairs. With bold colors, feminine silhouettes, beautiful draping, delicate lace, and intricate sequin embellishments, Alamour The Label is for the guest that wants to feel sexy and sophisticated. We love that they offer such a wide variety of pieces at a range of price points - they feel and look more expensive than they are! They also have a sample sale section for discounted gems (some even go for $20), and free shipping over $167 USD.
Price Range: $20 to $1,200
Size range: XXS-5XL | Shipping: Free over $250.00 AUD ($167 USD) | Returns: Free within 30 days.
Modatrova
If you never want to roll up wearing the same dress as another guest, Modatrova is your new fashion BFF. With an incredible eye for unique, distinctive, and smart emerging brands, each piece is carefully curated to ensure you are always the best dressed guest. Each piece is shipped directly from their brand partners, so shipping info varies - just check out the item description for shipping details.
Price Range: $86 to $2,100
Size range: Varies by brand. Typically XS-XL | Shipping:Varies by brand/item. Refer to item description for accurate info. | Returns: Within 7 days of receipt. To initiate, email orders@modatrova.com with order number in the subject line.
A.L.C.
A.L.C. makes incredible dresses that are considered classics with a modern twist. With gorgeous fabrics, smart detailing, and flattering construction, everyone looks good in an A.L.C. dress. We love that you can find a variety of styles from dressy casual to formal gowns, and even check out their dressy suit section for a more androgynous wedding guest look. Plus, you get free shipping over $200.
Price Range: $200 to $1000
Size range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free over $200 | Returns: $10 restocking fee within 30 days of receipt.
Wolf & Badger
Wolf & Badger is a B Corp-certified global marketplace for more than 2,000 independent brands specializing in sustainably and ethically produced products. Not only are they size and budget inclusive, they make browsing simple and easy with lots of categories to select from. We especially love that there’s a sustainability section, which includes several subcategories such as “Organic,” “Low Impact,” “Non-toxic Dyes,” and “Happy worker,” so eco-minded shoppers can easily find garments that align with their ethical standards. There’s also free shipping over $250 and free returns within two weeks.
Price Range: $200 to $1000
Size range: XXS-5XL | Shipping: Free over $250 | Returns: Free within 14 days of receipt.
Tuckernuck
Inspired by an island off the coast of Nantucket, Tuckernuck is a versatile marketplace with a sporty, classic, and preppy feel. With both in-house designs and curated pieces from hundreds of other designers like Farm Rio, Rhode, and Ciao Lucia, Tuckernuck sells a wide variety of pieces from casual dresses to vacation-style wear to formal gowns at a range of price points. We love that they’re size inclusive, have a generous free shipping and free return policy, and offer a fun boutique-style shopping experience.
Price Range: $50 to $3000
Size range: 0-40; XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery.
Elisabeth Kassab is a fashion stylist and founder of STYLISTCHECK. She is a personal shopper specializing in brand campaigns and capsule wardrobes.
What to Look For in Wedding Guest Attire
Dress Code
“I’d definitely pay attention to the invitation to see if the dress code says black tie or not,” says Kassab. “You don’t want to show up wearing a cocktail dress to a black tie wedding.” Here’s a breakdown of four of the most popular dress codes, to make it easier for you:
Black Tie: Black tie means formal attire. Think gowns, floor-length dresses, and nothing too revealing. “If you are attending a black tie wedding this spring/summer, I would go for a floor length dress in the nudes, browns, and pastel family,” Kassab suggests.
Cocktail: Cocktail means semi-formal attire that is stylish and sophisticated without being overly extravagant. You can wear a knee-length or slightly shorter dress, and even a jumpsuit that can be dressed up with accessories, shoes, and elegant handbags.
Beach/Destination Wedding: This dress code is typically more relaxed and casual due to the nature of the location. You can go for any reasonable length of dress in light, flowy fabrics (linen is a popular choice for super hot and humid climates!), and pair it with dressy sandals or wedges to complete the look.
Dressy Casual: Dressy Casual dress code is the most relaxed of the wedding dress codes, so you can be comfy but you’ll still want to look presentable. Think a casual dress or skirt and nice top, accompanied by dressy ballet flats or kitten heels.
Shipping and Return Policies:
“Make sure you order from somewhere that has great shipping and returns! That way if your options don’t work, you’re not stuck with the dress,” says Kassab.
Season
Pay attention to the season when shopping for your wedding guest dress (both in color choice and fabrics). For fall and winter, think rustic autumnal colors like browns, burnt orange, burgundy, and deep greens. Go for a thicker material like velvet, brocade, thick silks and satins, or vegan leather.
For summer/spring, “it’s always nice to see some color and have fun with your wedding looks in the warmer months,” says Kassab. You can opt for bright, vibrant colors like pinks, purples, and blues and go for breathable and flowy fabrics like linen, chiffon, lace, silk, and cotton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear the same dress to more than one wedding?
Yes! “I think if you get a classic style and color, such as this one from Norma Kamali, you can definitely wear it to multiple weddings. There are so many different ways to style a dress like this that it can look totally different depending on the accessories,” says Kassab.
What styles/colors should I avoid as a wedding guest?
“Avoid wearing white.This also goes for colors that can be mistaken for white like a light beige, nude, or silver,” says Kassab.
How much should I spend on a wedding guest dress?
How much you should spend depends on your budget and comfort level. Wedding guest dresses can range from around $50 to thousands of dollars, depending on brand, materials, construction, and embellishments.
“If it’s something more simple and timeless you could get multiple wears out of, I would definitely invest more. But if it’s a bold color or printed piece that you know you will only wear once, don’t bother breaking the bank on this one,” Kassab explains.
Why Trust Brides
Chelsea Frank has been a lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on a number of topics, from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. She’s also an anxious soon-to-be bride, on the hunt for the perfect dress.
