Um, These Summer Wedding Guest Dresses Are A Total Closet Upgrade

three teenage girls 14 18 in formal dresses beside limo, low section
These Dresses Are Perfect For Any Summer WeddingCharles Gullung - Getty Images


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Is it just me, or is your refrigerator also covered in "Save The Date" invites right now? Whether you're the sister of the bride or a plus one for your girlfriend's colleague's beach nuptials, you probably have a few summer wedding plans this year. So, if you're suddenly stressed about what to wear, you’re not alone: Nothing can bring on anxiety like multiple destination weddings with differing dress codes. But not to worry, as a seasoned wedding attendee, I'm here to give you a few pointers.

Given that summer events are often outdoors, it's a must to consider your dress’ hemline, fabric, and sleeve length—although you can never go wrong with a midi dress. As for colors, playful shades are best for a summer wedding. Think: pastels or other bright hues. (Of course, make sure to avoid white.) And for Indian weddings, you'll want to avoid red—that's the color brides traditionally wear. Chinese weddings also don't allow for red and black.

Peek a few of the best summer wedding guest dresses here:

Going to a casual backyard wedding? You can opt for a satin slip dress for a chic (yet carefree) vibe. Heading a solemn church ceremony with a black tie reception afterwards? Amazon's got many floor-length options to choose from—all for under $150. And if you've got friends getting hitched at the beach, a floral bohemian maxi dress that flows with the wind is exactly the vibe you're going for.

Then, there's the matter of money. Let's face it: going to weddings is expensive—being a guest often involves a hotel stay, gift, and outfit. Fortunately, this list features affordable dresses, as well as some pricier classic (and versatile) pieces that can be worn for years to come.

See below for 25 of the best wedding guest dresses for every style, budget, wedding type, and dress code in 2023.

Kourtney Dress

Nothing says elegance more than a sophisticated floral dress you can dress up or down. Pair it with some diamonds studs or gold hoops and wear it to a nighttime beach wedding. Or wear it to a low-key garden affair with a pair of fun block-heeled shoes.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thereformation.com%2Fproducts%2Fkourtney-dress%2F1306182PPM.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Kourtney Dress</p><p>$248.00</p><p>Reformation</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Kourtney Dress

$248.00

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Halter Neck Floral Maxi Dress

This dress is perfect for a casual backyard wedding. (It's also available in 28 other patterns and shades, if flora's not your thing). With its halter neck and open back, it's hot weather-ready—no matter how much you plan on hitting the dance floor under the sun.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0824QBN88?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Halter Neck Floral Maxi Dress</p><p>$39.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Halter Neck Floral Maxi Dress

$39.99

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V-Neck Satin Dress

Everyone should own at least one floor-length gown, and this one is not only elegant, but totes rewearable. It doesn't look too much like a bridesmaid dress, so it can definitely be worn to a daytime or nighttime wedding, regardless of the wedding theme or dress code.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0963J57VN?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>V-Neck Satin Dress</p><p>$65.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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V-Neck Satin Dress

$65.99

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Asymmetric Satin Cocktail Dress

Chest and neck coverage doesn't always have to come in the form of a thick turtleneck. With a sleeveless asymmetric design, this high-neck gown is just as chic as it is trendy.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Felliatt-camo-asymmetric-satin-cocktail-dress%2F6109964&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Asymmetric Satin Cocktail Dress</p><p>$88.80</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Asymmetric Satin Cocktail Dress

$88.80

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Boho Floral Print Off-Shoulder Dress

Never been a boho-style girl? Well, maybe now's your chance to become one...at least as a plus one for your college roommate's sister's wedding. This gorgeous dress comes in 45 different colors and styles and at that price, you could own multiples for different occasions.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D9GVL3R?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Boho Floral Print Off-Shoulder Dress</p><p>$41.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Boho Floral Print Off-Shoulder Dress

$41.99

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Floral Maxi Wrap Dress

No one will know you got this chiffon dress on Amazon for less than $50. The slit makes it breathable when it's hot, and the floral print is perfect for a casual backyard wedding.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QMB11MX?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Floral Maxi Wrap Dress</p><p>$44.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Floral Maxi Wrap Dress

$44.99

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Off-Shoulder Lace Maxi Dress

Made with lightweight lace overlapping a mini dress, this makes a great option for your next hot weather wedding. The slits on both sides show off your gorgeous legs, too.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08YN979VM?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Off-Shoulder Lace Maxi Dress </p><p>$51.98</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Off-Shoulder Lace Maxi Dress

$51.98

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Puff Sleeve Front Slit Midi Dress

IDK about you, but I love a good puffy-sleeved dress. This one, coming in two different colors, is adorable and can be made more formal if needed—just swap out flats for some heels and you'll be good to go.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7247181&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Puff Sleeve Front Slit Midi Dress</p><p>$89.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Puff Sleeve Front Slit Midi Dress

$89.00

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Tie-Back A-Line Dress

Classic, simple, and bound to be fit for many a celebratory occasion, this dress from Amazon is a must-have whether you're wearing it to weddings or not. Plus, its elastic waist makes it super comfy. The best part? The cute little tie back.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S4HBZ3X?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tie-Back A-Line Dress</p><p>$34.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Tie-Back A-Line Dress

$34.99

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Heavenly Hues Sage Brush Maxi Dress

This plunge-neck maxi dress is serving major Greek goddess vibes, and so will you when you wear it. The snug-fitting waist will help make sure you won't have any nip slips, but if you're still a bit nervous, it never hurts to keep some boob tape on hand.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lulus.com%2Fproducts%2Fheavenly-hues-sage-brush-maxi-dress%2F2025176.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Heavenly Hues Sage Brush Maxi Dress</p><p>$89.00</p><p>lulus.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Heavenly Hues Sage Brush Maxi Dress

$89.00

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Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress

I feel cool just looking at this dress. It's sophisticated and could definitely be worn for a cocktail or a more formal weddings—it's fierce and there's no doubt that you'll be one of the more ~stylish~ guests at any wedding where you rock this 'fit.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F6547573&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress</p><p>$199.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress

$199.00

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Catalina Fit & Flare Dress

Dresses with this cut will never go out of style—the A-line? The V-neck? It's not a want, but a need. Plus, if you don't like the bright orange, there are 11 other colors from which to choose.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F4937787&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Catalina Fit & Flare Dress</p><p>$182.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Catalina Fit & Flare Dress

$182.00

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Off-Shoulder Asymmetrical A-Line Dress

The asymmetrical hemline and off-shoulder neckline on this dress make it truly shocking that it's less than $50. Pair with a cardigan or blazer if the wedding venue has an indoor space, then sweat it out on the dance floor later.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N5LQOCP?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Off-Shoulder Asymmetrical A-Line Dress</p><p>$43.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Off-Shoulder Asymmetrical A-Line Dress

$43.99

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Tie-Back Cutout Chiffon Gown

Consider this the "business in the front, party in the back" of formalwear. The front presents a classic sweetheart neckline and slit, and the tie-back features a sexy little cutout.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fafter-six-tie-back-cutout-chiffon-gown%2F5923077&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Tie-Back Cutout Chiffon Gown </p><p>$200.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Tie-Back Cutout Chiffon Gown

$200.00

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Smocked Pleat Sleeveless Midi Dress

As yet another timeless design, you can't go wrong with a pleated midi dress. Coming in four different colors (orange, royal blue, and cobalt blue), you have options when it comes to picking your fave shade. You'll look bold in the best way.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F7279817&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Smocked Pleat Sleeveless Midi Dress</p><p>$98.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Smocked Pleat Sleeveless Midi Dress

$98.00

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Vivy Midi Dress

This gorgeous dress is the perfect pastel pink for a summer wedding, and I'd definitely hit "add to cart" if you have more informal weddings to attend this year. Garden or beach wedding? This is your pick.

<p><a href="https://www.shoprahi.com/collections/dresses/products/vivy-midi-dress" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Vivy Midi Dress</p><p>$122.00</p><p>shoprahi.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Vivy Midi Dress

$122.00

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Sheer Lace Long Sleeve Dress

It's totally fair for comfort to be your priority, and this lacy dress proves you can be totally comfy without sacrificing style. It's basically like wearing a nightgown out in public. Plus: the low drop back is a great detail, too.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F6437521&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Sheer Lace Long Sleeve Dress</p><p>$48.97</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Sheer Lace Long Sleeve Dress

$48.97

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Arianna Dress

Created by first generation Indian-American designer Megha Rao, there's no doubt that this dress is absolutely gorgeous. If you totally wanna rock the minidress vibe at your next wedding, this is a stunning option.

<p><a href="https://www.holichicbymegha.com/collections/runway-dresses/products/komal-short-dress" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Arianna Dress</p><p>$145.00</p><p>holichicbymegha.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Arianna Dress

$145.00

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A-Line Sleeveless Maternity Dress

Got a baby on the way but still want to look stylish? You'll look gorgeous in this cute, fun dress. It also comes in burgundy, in case pink isn't your thing.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPCHP9DJ?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>A-Line Sleeveless Maternity Dress</p><p>$44.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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A-Line Sleeveless Maternity Dress

$44.99

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Darleen V-Neck Embroidered Mesh Dress

This dress is technically a midi, but it's also mini, showing a peek of skin in the trendiest way. While it's a bit pricier, it's an A-line cut, which means it'll always be in style.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2F5501423&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Darleen V-Neck Embroidered Mesh Dress</p><p>$278.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Darleen V-Neck Embroidered Mesh Dress

$278.00

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Pleated Tiered Chiffon Dress

The airy sleeves and chiffon fabric make this the most breathable dress on this list—perfect for weddings on humid days. What really elevates this dress to fancy status is those fabulously elegant tiered pleats.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QDLZ28C?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pleated Tiered Chiffon Dress</p><p>$37.60</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Pleated Tiered Chiffon Dress

$37.60

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Banarsi Lehenga

So it's not exactly a dress, but if you have plans to go to a wedding hosted by your South Asian friend, you'll love the opportunity to wear this lehenga made with traditional banarsi silk fabric. Chances are, you may not wear this one more than once, which is why Preserve was founded—it's a rental site featuring well-priced options from designers all over the world.

Pro tip: Indian brides traditionally wear red, so it's best to avoid wearing that color.

<p><a href="https://preserve.rent/collections/ceremony/products/banarasi-silk-lehenga-set" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Banarsi Lehenga</p><p>$150.00</p><p>Preserve</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Banarsi Lehenga

$150.00

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Beaded Mesh Column Gown

I love a good Gatsby-themed wedding, but even if it doesn't have a vintage theme, this beaded column dress is totally timeless. It comes in five cool, neutral colors.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nordstrom.com%2Fs%2Fpisarro-nights-beaded-mesh-column-gown-regular-plus%2F4908976&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.womenshealthmag.com%2Flife%2Fg36173394%2Fsummer-wedding-guest-dresses%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Beaded Mesh Column Gown </p><p>$201.00</p><p>nordstrom.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Beaded Mesh Column Gown

$201.00

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Halter Neck Chiffon Jumpsuit

At first glance, it's a dress. Look a bit closer, and you'll see this is actually a wide-leg jumpsuit. Pair it with some heels and rings for an upscale vibe. Or simply wear sandals and bangles for a casual wedding.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0967R3G7W?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Halter Neck Chiffon Jumpsuit</p><p>$39.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Halter Neck Chiffon Jumpsuit

$39.99

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Ribbed Midi Sweater Dress

A little midi dress action? Yes, please. This dress looks comfy AF and is definitely the move if you have a less formal wedding to go to, like in someone's backyard. There's no doubt you'll stand out in this mustard color, though.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B7DPJ8M5?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C2140.g.36173394%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0" class="link ">Shop Now</a></p><p>Ribbed Midi Sweater Dress</p><p>$32.99</p><p>amazon.com</p><span class="copyright">Courtesy</span>

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Ribbed Midi Sweater Dress

$32.99

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