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As spring rolls into summer, we still can't figure out when we'll need to bring a jacket. The one thing we do know for sure? It's wedding season. Once you RSVP to someone’s wedding invitation, there’s no denying that finding the perfect wedding guest dress can be mildly stress-inducing.
For day receptions such as backyard, garden, or beach weddings, opt for above-the-knee or midi-length dresses in airy fabrics like crisp cotton poplin, light chiffon, and even jersey if it’s a more casual event. co*cktail attire calls for more elevated materials such as crepe, silk, or lace (check out our guide to co*cktail dresses, as well). Knee-length, midi, or maxi silhouettes are a good rule of thumb for the evening.
Our Top Picks:
1
Best Floral Dress to Wear to a Wedding
ASOS Design Satin Midi Dress with Blouson Bodice
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2
Best Amazon Dress to Wear to a Wedding
PrettyGarden Long Satin Dress with Mock Neck
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3
Best Wrap Dress
Frances Valentine Lucille Wrap Dress Pink
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6
Best Off-the-Shoulder Dress
ASOS Design Fallen Shoulder Body-Conscious Midi Dress
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Invited to a fancy black-tie soiree? Make like a royal and go all out in an elegant floor-length gown. It's always better to overdress than be unprepared. And friendly reminder: wearing white is an absolute no. This also applies to any lighter shades that could be mistaken for white in different lighting, like cream, blush pink, or pale yellow.
As for shoes, pair these dresses with comfortable styles that will withstand hours of celebrating. And if you'll be on uneven terrain like grass, gravel, or sand, don't overlook strappy flat sandals, block heels, or pretty embellished flats.
Whether you prefer a floral midi, an off-the-shoulder number, or a design with sleeves for extra coverage, we have the best wedding guest dresses from reliable stores like Nordstrom, Reformation, and Anthropologie, as well as budget-friendly websites such as ASOS and Lulus. P.S. Many of these summer dresses can even be worn with white sneakers when wedding season is over.
1
Best Floral Dress to Wear to a Wedding
ASOS Design Satin Midi Dress with Blouson Bodice
1
Best Floral Dress to Wear to a Wedding
ASOS Design Satin Midi Dress with Blouson Bodice
Vintage florals strike a sweet note, but be sure to check out the open back, too. A blouson front makes this a great choice for anyone who doesn't want something too tight.
2
Best Amazon Dress to Wear to a Wedding
PrettyGarden Long Satin Dress with Mock Neck
2
Best Amazon Dress to Wear to a Wedding
PrettyGarden Long Satin Dress with Mock Neck
Now 12% Off
Get ready to hit the dance floor in this mock-neck satin dress with an elastic waist. Available in a plethora of colors, there's something for everyone.
3
Best Wrap Dress
Frances Valentine Lucille Wrap Dress Pink
3
Best Wrap Dress
Frances Valentine Lucille Wrap Dress Pink
Named after Lucille Ball, this vintage-inspired dress is great for those looking for more polish and coverage for formal occasions. It also comes in green and blue, all with high shine. Available in sizes XS - 3X.
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A covered belt accents this berry-hued pleated midi with a relaxed fit for effortless style that's easy to wear. Available in sizes 0 - 20.
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Talbots Halter Maxi Dress in Navy Metallic Floral
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Talbots Halter Maxi Dress in Navy Metallic Floral
This halter neck fit-and-flare blue floral maxi dress is ideal for dancing. Available in sizes 2 - 18.
6
Best Off-the-Shoulder Dress
ASOS Design Fallen Shoulder Body-Conscious Midi Dress
6
Best Off-the-Shoulder Dress
ASOS Design Fallen Shoulder Body-Conscious Midi Dress
Make a sculptural statement in this draped, off-the-shoulder dress with a gathered waist. The mid-length makes it suitable for co*cktail attire.
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7
Best Black Dress to Wear to a Wedding
Loft Keyhole Halter Midi Dress
This super-flattering, wear-anywhere little black dress is perfect for throwing on and looking good for any summer wedding. Plus: It's now 40 percent off with code MIX. Available in sizes XXS - XXL.
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Reformation Amiah Cutout Long Knit Dress
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Reformation Amiah Cutout Long Knit Dress
Lean into a black-tie dress code with this sleek brown midi dress from Reformation. Available in sizes XS - XL.
This ankle-length dress in textured jersey has a narrow cut at top with a twisted detail in the front for a draped effect, a halter neck with long, wide straps to tie at back of neck, and a low-cut back with an elasticized seam. Available in sizes XS - XXL.
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Cut in comfortable and unbelievably flattering jersey, this slinky one-shoulder number is all about the draping. It even has a built-in bodysuit.
11
Best Dress to Wear to a Beach Wedding
Lulus Chasing Sun Marigold Halter Midi Dress
11
Best Dress to Wear to a Beach Wedding
Lulus Chasing Sun Marigold Halter Midi Dress
With a sunny yellow crinkle-woven chiffon and ruched bodice, this lightweight midi is ideal for a beach wedding. Available in sizes XS - XL.
12
Chico's Blue and White Ikat Tiered Midi Dress
This flattering blue-and-white printed midi dress has sleeves for coverage but is lightweight enough for warmer occasions. Available in sizes 0 - 20/22.
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13
Lulus Gala Ready Blush Pink Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress
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Lulus Gala Ready Blush Pink Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Midi Dress
This pretty tiered midi comes in blush pink and lavender, and is available in sizes XS - XL.
One reviewer writes, "This dress is gorgeous! (It's) so comfortable to wear all day and night. The shoulders stay off the shoulder without riding up. (All the praise hands.)"
For more formal occasions, opt for a minimal slip dress. Like a blank canvas, the accessorizing options are endless. Available in five colors, sizes XXS - 3X, as well as petite and plus sizing.
15
Best Plus-Size Dress to Wear to a Formal Wedding
Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress ES
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Best Plus-Size Dress to Wear to a Formal Wedding
Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress ES
You'll want to wear Reformation's beautiful fitted bodice midi for all your warm-weather occasions. This version was designed specifically with plus sizing in mind. Available in sizes 0 - 24, as well as petite sizing.
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Abercrombie Satin Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress
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Abercrombie Satin Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress
This striking style is available in blue, pink, green, black, and navy, and runs in sizes XXS - XXL, as well as petite and tall lengths.
17
Best Lace Dress
ASTR the Label Sleeveless Lace Fit & Flare Midi Dress
This delicate lace dress is perfect wedding fare. With a V-neck and a semi-sheer A-line skirt, it's flattering for most body types. Available in sizes 00 -16.
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Abercrombie Satin Cowl-Back Slip Midi Dress
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Abercrombie Satin Cowl-Back Slip Midi Dress
Abercrombie is back—this time for adults, and we're here for it. This simple slip dress features a draped back detail. It can be dressed up for formal events or worn with a flat strappy sandal for more casual occasions. Available in sizes XXS - XL, as well as black, pink, and green.
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ASTR the Label Pleated Sateen Floral Blythe Dress
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ASTR the Label Pleated Sateen Floral Blythe Dress
ASTR's pretty pleated floral midi is light enough for a day wedding that rolls into nighttime drinks and dancing. Available in sizes XS - XL.
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Eloquii Elements Plus-Size Tiered Midi Dress with Tie
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Eloquii Elements Plus-Size Tiered Midi Dress with Tie
Accessorize this dreamy floral midi with espadrilles for a daytime ceremony. The soft puff sleeves provide arm coverage, while a self-tie belt accentuates the waist.
Sara Klausing
Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily. Follow her on Instagram.
