These Dresses Will Upstage Every Guest At Your Next Wedding
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Is it just me, or is your refrigerator also covered in "Save The Date" invites right now? No matter what role you're playing in the wedding, odds are you're probably thinking a lot about what dress you'll wear. Nothing can bring on anxiety like multiple destination weddings (beaches, please!) with differing dress codes. But not to worry, as seasoned wedding attendees, the Women's Health team has you covered with stylish, classy options.
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 floral wedding guest 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 maybe black. 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.
See below for the 30 best wedding guest dresses for every style, budget, wedding type, and dress code in 2023, per an expert's tips. This list features affordable summer dresses, as well as some pricier classic (and versatile) pieces that can be worn for years to come.
Kourtney Dress
Nothing says elegance more than a sophisticated floral dress you can dress up or down. Pair it with some diamond 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.
Dress Code: Garden
Sizes: 0–12
Colors: 5
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.
Dress Code: Backyard
Sizes: S–XL
Colors: 28
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.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 2–26
Colors: 44
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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XS–XL
Colors: 7
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.
Dress Code: Garden
Sizes: XS–4X
Colors: 48
Floral Maxi Wrap Dress
No one will know you got this chiffon dress on Amazon for less than $100. The slit makes it breathable when it's hot, and the floral print is perfect for a casual backyard wedding.
Dress Code: Casual
Sizes: S–XL
Colors: 32
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.
Dress Code: Beach
Sizes: S–2X
Colors: 30
Puff-Sleeve Floral Cotton Midi Dress
IDK about you, but I love a good puffy-sleeved dress. This one is adorable and can be made more formal if needed—just swap out flats for some heels, throw on a few elegant accessories, and you'll be good to go.
Dress Code: Garden
Sizes: XS–L
Colors: 1
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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XS–2X
Colors: 20
Heavenly Hues Red 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 you 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.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: XS–XL
Colors: 17
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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XXS–2X
Colors: 16
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 it with a cardigan or blazer if the wedding venue has an indoor space, and then sweat it out on the dance floor later.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XS–2X
Colors: 19
Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress
Don't you feel cool just looking at this dress? It's sophisticated and could definitely be worn to a cocktail party or a more formal wedding. 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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: 4–16
Colors: 3
Cutout Drape Halter Cocktail Dress
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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: 2-14
Colors: 1
Print Pleated Halter Neck Midi Dress
You can't go wrong with a pleated midi dress. This stunning floral patterned pink dress will provide just the right amount of vibrancy for the summer. Plus, the halter neckline gives it a truly timeless feel.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: 0-18
Colors: 1
Vivy Midi Dress
This gorgeous dress is the perfect pastel pink for a summer wedding. You should definitely hit "add to cart" if you have any less formal weddings to attend this year. Garden or beach wedding? This is your pick.
Dress Code: Casual
Sizes: XS–XL
Colors: 1
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.
Dress Code: Garden
Sizes: XXS–XL
Colors: 2
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.
Dress Code: Casual
Sizes: XS–XL
Colors: 1
A-Line Sleeveless Maternity Dress
Got a baby on the way, and want to be comfy while still looking good? You'll look gorgeous in this cute, flowy dress. It's stretchy to accommodate your growing body and also comes in burgundy, in case pink isn't your thing.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 4–16
Colors: 2
Pleated Cap Sleeve Satin Midi Gown
If you're on the hunt for a vibrant dress with eye-catching texture, try this satin pleated dress. It has a belted waistline and a plunged neckline for the perfect cocktail affair look.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: 0-16
Colors: 2
Casette Silk Dress
The fabric of your 'fit can make or break the look you're going for. That's why the silk material on this dress takes the floral design to the next level of elegance. The hints of gold and pink contrast from the base of light blue beautifully.
Dress Code: Garden
Sizes: 0-12
Colors: 6
Ronda Silk Dress
Sometimes less is more. If you're not a fan of designs on your dresses, consider this Ronda Silk Dress from Reformation. Its off-the-shoulder features make for a stunning black tie option.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 0-12
Colors: 3
Cutout Ruffle Tiered Gown
If you don't mind making the whole room shimmer, swing big with this gold ruffled dress. Besides, why play it safe when you can go all out? Right?
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 0-16
Colors: 2
Sequin Plunge Neck Gown
FYI, sequin dresses are still very much in. This bright coral plunge-neck gown is designed in a staple color for summer days. Throw on your favorite matching accessories and call it a day.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 2-8
Colors: 1
Darleen V-Neck Embroidered Mesh Dress
This dress is technically a midi, but it's underlining is a mini, using sheer fabric to show 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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XXS–2X
Colors: 7
Pleated Tiered Chiffon Dress
The airy sleeves and chiffon fabric on this number 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.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Sizes: XS–XL
Colors: 41
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.
Dress Code: Indian wedding/Black tie
Sizes: XS–5X
Colors: 1
Beaded Mesh Column Gown
There's something thrilling about a good Gatsby-themed wedding, but even if the event doesn't call for vintage vibes, this beaded column dress is totally timeless. It comes in five cool, neutral colors.
Dress Code: Black tie
Sizes: 2–16
Colors: 2
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.
Dress Code: Casual
Sizes: S–XL
Colors: 18
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.
Dress Code: Casual
Sizes: S–2X
Colors: 14
How Our Team Chose The Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Women’s Health editors, including editorial assistants Sabrina Talbert and Addison Aloian, and senior commerce editor Neha Tandon, researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated dresses. Our team consulted stylist Nina Vargas and narrowed down the 30 best summer wedding guest dresses for a wide range of needs and preferences.
Where To Buy Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
With so many options on the market, you're probably wondering where's the best place to buy your wedding guest dress. Fortunately, there are a few key retailers worth checking out.
You can try department stores like "Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, or Macy's that offer dresses in all different styles and price points, all the way to online retailers such as ASOS, Revolve, and Rent The Runway with a wide range of designer offerings," says Nina Vargas, a stylist and celebrity business strategist. Boutique stores specializing exclusively in guest wear like Intimissimi or Reformation are also great options, adds Vargas.
Before you start shopping, consider how fast you need the items shipped or whether or not there's a high risk for returns, as this may help you narrow down your options. You can also make the process easier by checking for sections on a retailer's website that cater specifically to weddings.
Summer Wedding Guest Trends In 2023
If you like to stay up to date with trends, odds are you want that to shine through on the day of the wedding. "Puff sleeves have quickly [grown] in popularity. Look out for dresses with dramatic sleeves to add drama and sophistication," says Vargas.
You may also see a rise in '90s-inspired slip dresses, bold prints, and vibrant hues. "Slip dresses make great summer wedding guest attire that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the event or wedding guest attire needs," she explains. As for accessories, expect to see oversized hoops and blocky or strappy heels and sandals.
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