The Prettiest Dress You Can Wear To Your Next Beach Wedding Is On This List

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Going to the beach is always a special occasion, but when you get to go with a bunch of your friends or family to dance, sip champagne, and celebrate love, it's even better. Yup, I'm talking about that beach wedding you got invited to this year.

Of course, you're thinking about all the fun you're going to have while celebrating your favorite newlyweds-to-be, but you may also be wondering what you're supposed to wear as a guest. The good news is that beach weddings tend to be more low-key, so you'll want to opt for more casual beach wedding guest dresses—think flowy, floral, maxi dresses and playful tropical-printed gowns. You'll also want to think about fabrics. Chances are, you may get sand in more than just your toes, and you'll want something lightweight like cotton, satin, or chiffon to keep you cool under the sun.

Of course, not all beach weddings are made equal. Some are small and casual, while others may be formal and indoors simply overlooking the water. No matter the type of ceremony, there's a beach wedding guest dress on this list for every style, budget, and wedding type.

And, since you're probably spending a lot on flights, hotels, and gifts, you'll be happy to hear that most of the dresses on this list are under $100. Read on for the 26 best beach wedding guest dresses of 2023.

Plunge Floral Maxi Dress

Consider this your do-it-all dress—wear it at night with your fave jewelry and some heels for a formal wedding or some bangles and sandals for a more casual vibe. It's so versatile that you could even pair it with a light denim jacket (or your bikini) for brunch the next day.

Sizes: S-2X

Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex

Length: Maxi

Ruffle Hem Flutter Dress

The ruffle sleeves and hemline give this a more playful vibe than your classic A-line dress, and even though it looks like there's a sleeve, it doesn't wrap around the armpit. Translation? You're guaranteed to be pit stain-free.

For under $40, thousands of reviewers say they can't believe how great the fabric feels despite the low cost.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Mini

Off-Shoulder High-Slit Dress

This dress doesn't just look great—reviewers love how comfy the stretchy fabric is, too. Just note that while a lot of items on Amazon can run small, this one runs true to size, so you'll want to order your regular fit.

Sizes: S-2X

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Length: Midi

One-Shoulder Bohemian Maxi Dress

This one's been dubbed the most comfortable option on our list for three reasons—the super airy fit, lightweight fabric, and stretch-fit waist. The best part is that it's so cute (and available in nine other pattern options) that nobody will ever know that you feel like you're in your fave nightgown.

Sizes: S-XL

Material: 97% polyester, 3% elastane

Length: Maxi

Lace Floral Dress

Ok, so maybe your friends are having a wedding that's more beach-adjacent than actually on the literal sand. For a more formal feel that still has a bit of a beachy vibe, this pink lacy floral dress is super versatile to dress up or down for a day or nighttime affair.

Sizes: S-XL

Material: 65% rayon, 35% polyester

Length: Mini

Off-Shoulder Maternity Maxi Dress

Life doesn't offer many opportunities to wear a lot of long, formal gowns, so if you have the chance, I say take it. This classic off-shoulder maxi dress with beautiful ruffle details works great as a bridesmaid gown, too.

Sizes: 4-16

Material: 95% polyester, 5% elastane

Length: Maxi

Tia Mesh Accent Sheath Minidress

Between the mesh puff sleeves and plunging neckline, this dress will keep you totally ventilated even if you're headed close to the equator. Sure, you may get this for the wedding you're going to, but don't be surprised if you catch yourself wearing this versatile dress on a fun night out.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Mini

Floral Print Ruffle Midi Dress

This dress has the cutest blue and white floral design. You can easily dress it up or down to match the occasion—with heels for a more formal look or cute sandals for a more casual look. Plus, the straps are adjustable for a customized fit.

Sizes: S-L

Material: 100% rayon

Length: Midi

Halter Backless Maxi Dress

Red polka dots aren't just a bikini thing anymore thanks to the classic beachy print on this belted maxi dress. It does come in several different prints and colors, but no matter what, you'll want to get a good strapless bra since the dress is backless (or, go au naturale).

A halter neck like this one is great for hot weather if you want neck/chest coverage without actually having to deal with sleeves, and the belted waist adds a nice level of customization depending on how tight you want it to be on your waist.

Sizes: XS-4X

Material: 100% viscose

Length: Maxi

Spaghetti Scuba Midi Dress

It's no secret that fashion has a lot of catching up to do when it comes to size inclusivity, especially when it comes to formalwear. This scuba dress from Good American is made with the most buttery soft fabric and goes up to size 4x. Plus, it's super easy to dress up or down—I wouldn't blame you if you bought one in each of the three neutral shades it comes in.

Sizes: XS-4X

Material: 80% nylon, 20% elastane

Length: Midi

Maxi Floral Gown

The floral print, bright colors, and gorgeous fabric on this gown are practically begging to be on a beach. Considering the strappy back and plunge neck, you'll want to grab some boob tape if you have a larger bust.

Sizes: XXS-XL

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Maxi

Tiers To My Heart Mini Dress

Fashion lovers will find a lot to admire about this vibrant off-shoulder ruffled mini dress and with good reason. It's affordable, making it a great option if you have a budget. Throw on some of your favorite gold earrings, a matching clutch bag, heels, and you're good to go.

Sizes: XXS-XL

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Mini

Ruffle Bodycon Slit Dress

Made with a soft, stretchy, and breathable fabric, this sexy bodycon dress is great for your super fun friend's wedding that you know will involve a lot of partying and dancing. The ruffle detail adds a bold, elegant flare.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Length: Midi

Lace Chiffon High-Low Gown

The high-low trend isn't going anywhere, and thank goodness for that. The silhouette really puts a spotlight on your legs, and this elegant gown ups the style ante with a fabulously chic blend of breezy chiffon and lace, separated by a beautiful silk ribbon at the waist.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Midi/Maxi

Raz Lehenga

Your Indian friend is getting married, and while that's super exciting, you may be unsure of where to start with your lehenga (traditional Indian wedding guest garb) search. Sister-owned brand Sani makes this beautiful lehenga that's totally customizable to your size, desired sleeve length, and even what color you might like.

If you think this might be your last time wearing it, you can even snag one of the brand's designs from Rent The Runway.

Sizes: XS-3XL

Material: georgette, satin

Length: Maxi

Pleated Wide Leg Jumpsuit

Consider this the "you can have your cake and eat it, too" of jumpsuits. It has the elegant silhouette of a jumpsuit but the airy, breezy feel of a maxi dress (stand with your legs together and people may actually think you're wearing a dress). You'll love the sleeveless halter neck on an especially hot day, too.

Sizes: 0-8

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Maxi

Ombre Deep V-Neck Multi-Way Dress

I don't know about you, but the ombre colors alone on this one are giving me serious sunset beachy vibes. Dress it down with flip flops or pair it with some heels, a gold belt, and your fave jewels for a more formal look.

Sizes: S-2X

Material: chiffon

Length: Maxi

All About You Satin Midi Dress

Slip dresses are a true modern-day essential for minimalist fashion lovers. For the beach, throw on some strappy sandals and a light throw over in case it gets chilly in the evening. This festive blue color also makes it easy to wear in the winter over a turtleneck and booties.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 53% rayon, 47% viscose

Length: Midi

Cowl Neck Maxi Slip Dress

Maybe you want to experiment with something a bit less classic. Patterns are super in right now—paired with the elegant silk fabric, it gets a fun upgrade in this gorgeous dress that's super versatile, too.

Sizes: 8-18

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Maxi

Lulu Long Sleeve Metallic Mesh Dress

Hey, beach wedding guest dresses don't always have to be all about the cutouts and strappy necklines. For those wanting something more high-coverage, you'll appreciate that the sleeves and high neckline are totally mesh and breathable so you won't be sweltering while you cover up.

Sizes: 0-14

Material: 90% polyester, 10% spandex

Length: Maxi

Slim Off-The-Shoulder Puff-Sleeve Dress

If you're looking for a dress with a little bit of volume, look no further than this adorable yellow puff-sleeve dress. The bright yellow tone will keep you cool in the heat, and the style is super easy to dress up or down, depending on your needs.

Sizes: XXS-XL

Material: polyester, cotton

Length: Mini

Juliette Dress

Nothing screams European wedding like this cream-colored floral Juliette dress. The sweetheart neckline and high cut slit will keep you cool while you celebrate throughout the day. This dress is also strapless bra-friendly, so no need to worry about going without one.

Sizes: 0-12

Material: 100% viscose

Length: Midi

Arta Dress

If you want to avoid awkward tan lines on your arms from your dress, you'll love this strapless option from Reformation. The white and pink color is bright enough to avoid harsh sun rays throughout the ceremony. It's also available in five other colors just in case white isn't allowed.

Sizes: 0-12

Material: 100% viscose

Length: Midi

Asymmetric Ruffled Dress

If you're not afraid to lean into bold and bright colors, consider this fun ruffled dress from Mango. The short design and cotton-blend fabric will keep you from getting all sweaty on the beach. And, the asymmetry is sure to give you that unique look you're aiming for.

Sizes: 2-10

Material: 82% cotton, 15% polyamide, 3% elastane

Length: Mini

Satin Cross Back Midi Dress

Sometimes less is more, and that's no different when it comes to beach wedding dresses. This simple lime green cross-back satin dress has the lightweight feel you need for a long day on the beach. It's fitted but still allows for comfortable movement.

Sizes: 2-12

Material: 100% polyester

Length: Midi

Satin Halter Maxi Dress

If you want a satin dress with a more elegant vibe to it, you'll love this halter maxi dress. The light feel of the satin along with the open back will have you feeling classy and comfortable the whole time.

Sizes: 2-14

Material: 96% polyester, 4% elastane

Length: Maxi

How The Team Chose The Best Wedding Guest Dresses

For the past few months, Women's Health editors, including our editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert and senior commerce editor Neha Tandon, have been researching the best beach wedding guest dresses to buy online. WH consulted a stylist, and also vetted thousands of expert reviews to find the very best options available online.

What should I look for in a beach wedding dress?

Like any special occasion outfit, there are a few things you'll have to think over before going through with a purchase. Here are some frequently overlooked qualities to keep in mind while you shop:

Stick to light colors.

ICYDK, darker colors absorb heat, which will make you feel hotter during the festivities. Instead, pick a dress with light colors to keep you cool and reflect the harsh sun rays, says celebrity stylist Nina Vargas. But if you must have that little black dress, you should def go for it.

Plan out your silhouette and undergarments.

For some people, going braless is simply not comfortable. So if you do wear a bra, it'll be another layer to wear in the heat. You'll also want something that won't interfere with the look you're going for. To make things easier, Vargas suggests finding a dress with a built-in bra for support.

And while sticky bras are often raved about for formal events, they won't hold up as well in the heat. "A big thing that people love is sticky bras, but if you're going to sweat, that sticky bra isn't going to stick for too long," says Vargas.

Choose embellishments wisely.

Embellishments on a dress can be stunning, but anything that can heat up in the sun is worth second-guessing. "People tend to forget that anything metal that's directly on the skin is only going to get hotter," says Vargas. "So [embellishments] can burn into your skin."

Think about your tan lines.

Some people couldn't care less about their tan lines, while others can't stand the thought of getting multiple shades from the sun. If the latter sounds like you, think about what features you want on your dress and how that might affect your tan lines.

Which fabrics are best for a beach wedding?

When it comes to fabrics, the more lightweight, the better. "You want to make sure that the fabrics that you're picking are not going to weigh you down, cause more heat, or [restrict] movement. You want to have that fluidity," says Vargas. She recommends opting for organza, linen, chiffon, lace, or a cotton-based material.

What kind of dresses should you wear to a beach wedding?

When it comes to length and styles, the possibilities are endless. The main goal is to lean toward designs that are fluid and flowy.

Remember, walking on the sand isn't always easy, so you'll need something that moves with you. "What's suggested for the beach or anything of that nature is to make sure [your clothes are] going to give you the movement to walk alongside the wind and waves," explains Vargas.

What kind of shoes should you wear to a beach wedding?

While stilettos can be cute, sinking into the sand with them is not. For comfort, Vargas recommends flat sandals or low-block heels. "You are going into the sand, so you want to avoid anything that could pierce through and make you sink in," says Vargas.

Is there anything you shouldn’t wear to a beach wedding?

There are a lot of ways you can go with a beach wedding dress, but there are also a few things to avoid.

For starters, the same concept for colors applies to layers. Too many layers can lead to a lot of unwanted sweating and overheating. So it's important to think through everything from your undergarments to anything you might wear over your dress.

Finally, consider what type of dress will make you most comfortable long-term. For example, something that's too form-fitting won't ventilate you the way a dress that's more flowy will. "If it doesn't have that movement to it, it's just going to create more tension and friction, which can lead to other problems throughout the day," says Vargas.

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