30 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses For Every Style And Setting In 2023
You hear that? Those are wedding bells in the not-so-distant future and it's so exciting to hear them again.
After many brides and grooms put their weddings on hold during the height of the pandemic over the last three years, it seems like wedding season is back once again — new variants permitting, of course.
Plus, a summer wedding could mean an outdoor occasion, perfect for a socially distanced affair and breezy, beautiful dresses and decor, or an indoor soirée with twinkle lights and a dance floor.
If you're not one of the lucky few who have their outfits already pre-determined, you'll need to start looking for the perfect dress to wear to the reception that makes you look and feel amazing — while not upstaging the bride, of course.
From long flowy dresses to shorter stylish sundresses, here are our favorite outfits for wedding season 2023.
1. ASOS Design Wrap Front Tie Back Midi Dress, $27, original price: $55 © Provided by New York Post ASOSThat's a wrap — this is your dream dress.
From ASOS, this mint green dress is a cute yet simple way to stun at any wedding, with an adorable bow detail on the back for some added flair. The front has a classic V-neck, easily dressed up with a sparkling necklace or a pair of dangling earrings. The dress ranges in size from 0 to 12 and can be tied tighter or looser from the back.
ASOS 2. Baltic Born Holly Satin Maxi Dress, $41, original price: $72 © Provided by New York Post Baltic BornFor a long-sleeve look, check out this stunning number from Baltic Born. We love the satin finish that looks super luxe, without a crazy price tag. Get one in all three colors to wear to all the weddings you have lined up.
Baltic Born 3. Windsor Londyn Formal High Slit Convertible Dress, $50 © Provided by New York Post WindsorLong sleeves when you want them and a halter when you don't. This dress really can do both, and in a stunning silky fabric that is perfect for weddings. Wear it with sleeves for a more modest and warmer look in the evening, or draped in a halter top with a deep V for a sexy look.
Windsor 4. Abercrombie Satin Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress, $150 © Provided by New York Post AbercrombieThis flowing silky dress is a showstopper for any summer wedding, coming in a bouquet of bright colors. It is part of Abercrombie and Fitch's new Best Dressed Guest Collection, which is an online exclusive selection of wedding attire for both him and her.
abercrombie 5. Adrianna Papell Long Sleeve Crepe Dress, $139 © Provided by New York Post Adrianna PapellWhy should only the groomsmen get to wear the tuxedos? Dress up your look with this tuxedo-inspired dress from designer Adrianna Papell. It adds a bit of a masculine edge to your look, allowing you to wear it as a dress or over tights for colder weather ceremonies.
Adrianna Papell 6. Free People Solid Serendipity Jumpsuit, $198 © Provided by New York Post Free PeopleSold at Free People, this jumpsuit is perfect for dancing at the reception, as your legs are free to kick and twirl. Pair with a jacket during the colder months and strappy sandals for when it gets warm.
Free People 7. Lulu's Garden Meandering Blush Floral Print Maxi Dress, $94, original price: $99 © Provided by New York Post Lulu'sLeave the bouquet to the bride, these flowers are all you need.
Lulu's has a plethora of wedding guest dresses, but this one is one of our favorites. The rose pattern is timeless and matches any hair color and choice of shoe. The billowing fabric will look great for an outdoor wedding, just bear in mind the high slit up the leg when the wind blows. It comes in the pictured pink color as well as a purple pattern with different flowers but the same silhouette.
lulu's 8. Superdown Erika Deep V Jersey Maxi, $88 © Provided by New York Post REVOLVEThe light blue, creme or red dress is sold on Revolve, made by superdown. We recommend checking out quickly, as sizes are selling out fast. We didn't expect any less, as the flattering waistline and flirty above-the-knee slit make for a stunning wedding guest every time.
Revolve 9. Reformation Juliet Dress, $248 © Provided by New York Post ReformationThe bride may be marrying her Romeo, but you can look as beautiful as Juliet in this emerald green frock.
Sold at Reformation, the Juliet dress is a classic and a bestseller on the site. The jewel-tone dress is one of our favorites, but it also comes in a wide variety of other colors and patterns including red, ivory and black as well as floral and animal print.
Reformation 10. Kay Unger Davina Maxi Romper, $308 © Provided by New York Post NordstromBusiness in the front, party in the back. This dress really does both, as from the back it looks like your typical maxi dress, but turn around and show off your legs in the pants that are attached underneath for the coolest jumpsuit we've seen in 2023.
Nordstrom 11. Romwe Women's Cute Tie Back Ruffle Strap Dress, $36 © Provided by New York Post AmazonAdd some color to your wedding guest wardrobe. This option is sold on Amazon and comes in a variety of shades to choose from, with over 30 to be exact. It has a fun back, too, with a ruffle sleeve coming to a tie in the back.
Amazon 12. Petal & Pup Rosetta Dress, $84 © Provided by New York Post Petal and PupFor all things flowing and fabulous, head to Petal & Pup. They have a whole section for wedding guests, ranging from long dresses like this one, to short dresses and jumpsuits, too.
Petal and pup 13. Love, Bonito Jayke Ruffle Tiered Midaxi Dress, $49, original price: $54 © Provided by New York Post Love, BonitoThis one has love right in the name. Celebrate love with this ruffled dress from Love, Bonito, now in lilac, yellow, white and sage green that look amazing in the summertime. The brand also has a whole page for weddings, should you want to shop around first.
Love, Bonito 14. Ivy City Co. Antoinette Dress, $88, original price: $138 © Provided by New York Post Ivy City Co.Modest has never looked so good. If you are in the market for some stunning yet modest wedding guest dresses, head to Ivy City Co. They have a plethora on their page, and they also have a special section for bridal, for your bridesmaids and even your flower girls.
Ivy City Co. 15. Kate Spade Floral Bud Brocade Dress, $448 © Provided by New York Post Kate SpadeBring the flowers to the party with this amazing pale pink dress from Kate Spade. It is one of their curated picks for wedding guests, among a whole page of options with shoes, bags and accessories too.
Kate Spade 16. Show Me Your Mumu Eden Midi Dress, $148 © Provided by New York Post Show Me Your MumuShow us your best wedding look. This is a great option from Show Me Your Mumu, with a simplistic cut and eight colors to choose from so you can stay on theme. The shop has a whole section for guests, where you can easily sort by dress code or length, making the whole process a breeze.
Show me your mumu 17. Something Navy Silky Halter Cutout Gown, $227, original price: $325 © Provided by New York Post Something NavyForget something blue, bring Something Navy to the next wedding you attend. This jumpsuit is the perfect way to combine summer fun with a bright color with an elegant silk fabric. It also has pockets and an adjustable tie around the waist for an added touch of sophistication and fun.
Something Navy 18. Express Floral Print Square Neck Tiered Poplin Maxi Dress, $65, original price: $128 © Provided by New York Post ExpressExpress has a whole section just for the well-dressed wedding guest. We picked this one, though, for its effortless look and ease of wear. A romper is always fun at weddings, too, allowing you to dance and spin without any fear of a fashion faux pas.
Express 19. Cider Satin Watercolor Cowl Neck Midi Dress, $28 © Provided by New York Post CiderSlip into something silky this wedding season.
For $28 you really can't go wrong, especially now that slip dresses are so in style. We love this one from Cider, but if you prefer a pop of color, head to their wedding guest page and take your pick.
Cider 20. Madewell Ruffled One-Shoulder Midi Dress, $158 © Provided by New York Post MadewellGo a bit more casual for a day-time wedding with this cotton dress.
Sold at Madewell, the lace dress comes in both standard and plus sizes, in a black off the shoulder look as well as in olive and in white for non-wedding activities this summer.
Madewell 21. Mariabella Mini Dress, $52, original price: $70 © Provided by New York Post ShowpoThis party dress is perfect for summer weddings, looking amazing spinning on the dance floor. The tulle dress also comes in black and light pink, but we love this hot pink shade.
Showpo 22. Seraphine Sky Blue Maternity & Nursing Dress with Neckline Tie, $269 © Provided by New York Post SeraphineMother's to be deserve to look stunning at weddings, too. This maternity dress is also great for those that are nursing, as the top unties to breastfeed with ease.
Seraphine 23. Resa Anna Slip, $178 © Provided by New York Post ResaSlip into something sexy this season. The sage green slip dress comes in an inclusive size range and a rage of colors, including a wild zebra pattern and some floral options, too.
Resa 24. White Fox Full Of Charm Midi Dress Hot Pink Floral, $60 © Provided by New York Post White FoxCut out all the boring dresses and go with this fun one instead. The one shoulder gown hits right above the ankle, showing off your strappy heels.
White Fox 25. Trink Turk Eye Popping Dress, $505, original price: $598 © Provided by New York Post Trink TurkGet excited for wedding season with this bright and cheery dress. The off the shoulder look is elevated, while the fun print and color makes it perfect for summer.
Trink Turk 26. Cleobella Madeline Mini Dress, $182, original price: $228 © Provided by New York Post CleobellaThis one screams "flower power!" The floral dress is a great bet for any outdoor or warm weather weddings, made of 100% organic cotton to keep you looking and feeling easy and breezy.
Cleobella 27. Francesca's Claudia Floral Organza Babydoll Dress, $53, original price: $76 © Provided by New York Post Francesca'sIf the theme is tea party chic or floral fancy, this dress is a perfect fit. The baby doll style is flattering on most everyone, and the price tag is also a huge plus, now on sale.
Francesca's 28. Talbots Fit and Flare Dress, $169 © Provided by New York Post TalbotsThis could easily be your "something blue" this wedding season. The sophisticated dress is great for all ages, hitting right at the calf to show off your summer shoes and with a flattering neckline and tie at the waist.
Talbots 29. Express Floral V-Neck Pleated Cross Back Maxi Dress, $89 © Provided by New York Post ExpressWe're pleased to see pleats this season. This pleated maxi dress checks all our boxes for the perfect wedding guest dress, as it is fun, floral and flattering on most everyone.
Express 30. For Love and Lemons James Maxi Dress, $468 © Provided by New York Post For Love and LemonsIf you want to be a blushing bridesmaid or wedding guest, this is your chance. The whimsical brand carries plenty of lace and details, but we also love the simplicity of this silky dress with a fun exaggerated train.
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20 Affordable Wedding Guest Dresses That Look So Luxurious
20 Wedding Guest Dresses That Look Like LuxuryEdward Berthelot - Getty Images
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Stylish and affordable wedding guest dresses might seem hard to come by, but options abound for all tastes, venues, and dress codes. Before diving into the sea of high-street options (which can easily overwhelm), stylist Elise Sandvik says to start the shopping process by considering the location and season. "A wedding at the beach might require different dress and accessory choices than one in the city, and this information will help decide what kind of fabric quality, silhouette, and color or print will be the most appropriate choice," she tells BAZAAR.
Another tip: stay authentic to your style and consider longevity with an affordable wedding guest dress. Although a super specific look or trend feels easier to buy on impulse at a lower price point, the stylist says, "[a dress] that you can see yourself in, get a lot of wear out of, and that can be styled in multiple ways," is best.
Of course, "affordable" is subjective. Sandvik points to several brands offering quality at various prices to start your search. "Mango, Tiger Mist, and Princess Polly are alternatives to popular stores like Zara and H&M," she says—all great choices to lessen the risk of showing up in the same dress as other guests. For a little bit more, the stylist recommends Norma Kamali and & Other Stories for a wide range of colors and sizes. Then at Rotate Birger Christensen, "the brand puts a twist on many of the classic dress shapes and makes them playful," she adds.
Even when your dress is the focus, accessories are a great way to elevate the effect. "A great way to accessorize an affordable dress is to pair it with beautiful jewelry, shoes, and a handbag," Sandvik elaborates. "A pop of color on the shoes and handbag always gives life to an outfit."
From simple and classic to directional and bold, scroll to discover the 20 best affordable wedding guest dresses, including Sandvik-approved picks and styles with rave shopper reviews.
Story continues
Satin Camisole Dress"This blue satin dress from Mango has beautiful details and would look stunning with minimalistic accessories," says Sandvik.
Sizes: 2-8
Colors: Blue
Material: 100% polyester
Shop Now
Satin Camisole Dress
$80.00
mango.Com
shop.Mango.ComThe Seraphina Nap DressA delicately smocked midi dress you can wear to a range of venues, from vineyards and farms to gardens and woodlands.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: Multicolored floral print
Material: 100% cotton
Shop Now
The Seraphina Nap Dress
$225.00
hillhousehome.Com
hillhousehome.ComAlissa Maxi Dress"I am in love with the olive green color and the shape of this dress from Princess Polly," says Sandvik. "I would pair it with skin-neutral two-strap sandals and gold jewelry."
Sizes: 0-20
Colors: Green
Material: 95% polyester 5% elastane
What reviewers are saying: "Omggg this dress is so beautiful! I got a size US16, it did fit a little big, I would have gotten the US14 for a better fit, but the material is soft and nice on the skin, I love the color. I am 5'2 so it was a bit long on me too."
Shop Now
Alissa Maxi Dress
$34.00
princesspolly.Com
us.Princesspolly.ComMini Landry DressWe love this lovely number for a daytime wedding. Pair it with simple heeled sandals and a darling mini bag.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Red, White, Black
Material: Body: 98% cotton, 2% spandex; Lining: 100% cotton
Shop Now
Mini Landry Dress
$295.00
staud.Clothing
staud.ClothingSequin Asymmetric Knit Dress Limited EditionPicture this shimmering number glowing at an outdoor wedding in Marrakesh. C'est chic!
Sizes: S-L
Colors: Green
Material: Body: 70% viscose, 30% polyamide; Lining: 89% polyester, 11% elastane
Shop Now
Sequin Asymmetric Knit Dress Limited Edition
$129.00
zara.Com
zara.ComMaple Camel Slip Maxi DressProof that neutrals can be bold with heels or flat sandals. This flowing silhouette is definitely destination wedding material.
Sizes: 2-12
Colors: Black and tan print
Material: Body: 100% viscose; Lining: 100% rayon
Shop Now
Maple Camel Slip Maxi Dress
$190.00
dissh.Com
dissh.ComSlim Strapless Ruched DressSimple yet striking, this strapless number is a versatile style you can wear to various venues and with accessories of all kinds.
Sizes: XXS Petite-3X
Colors: Blue, Yellow, Black
Material: Viscose, linen, cotton, elastane
Shop Now
Slim Strapless Ruched Dress
$170.00
anthropologie.Com
anthropologie.ComSlim-Fit Bias Cut Midi Dress"A gorgeous lilac-colored dress would be a great choice for any wedding, and I would pair it with neutral or white accessories," says Sandvik.
Sizes: 0-12
Colors: Lilac, Black
Material: Acetate 68%, rayon 32%
Shop Now
Slim-Fit Bias Cut Midi Dress
$139.00
stories.Com
stories.ComLene Pink Maxi DressGive your best Barbie wedding guest in this asymmetrical linen midi. It's just sexy enough and gorgeous in a tropical locale.
Sizes: 2-12
Colors: Pink, Blue, Orange, Green, White
Material: 70% rayon 30% linen
What reviewers are saying: "This dress fits so well and is the perfect statement dress for an event or summer night out. Love the cut out details!"
Shop Now
Lene Pink Maxi Dress
$85.00
beginningboutique.Com
beginningboutique.ComAsymmetric-Hem Slip DressThis watercolor dress is a beautiful print alternative to florals.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: Lime green watercolor
Material: 100% rayon
Shop Now
Asymmetric-Hem Slip Dress
$65.00
hm.Com
hm.ComOrange Asymmetrical Maxi DressA cut-out wedding guest dress has a time and place—a beachy destination most certainly being one of them.
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: Orange
Material: 60% cotton 40% viscose
Shop Now
Orange Asymmetrical Maxi Dress
$235.00
farmrio.Com
farmrio.ComMcKenna DressSandvik tells BAZAAR, "A romantic style dress is always a good idea for a wedding, and this pink one from Tiger Mist would pair amazingly with some white strappy sandals and a mini clutch."
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: Pink
Material: 95% polyester 5% elastane
What reviewers are saying: "Beautiful quality, [the] shape of the dress is highly complimenting of figure, color is exact to what it looks like in the photos!"
Shop Now
McKenna Dress
$75.00
tigermist.Com
tigermist.ComDiana Ruched One-Shoulder Gown"This body-hugging dress from Norma Kamali is a lovely choice for a summer wedding," suggests Sandvik. "Play it safe with neutral accessories or go all out with a pop of color like green or blue on the shoes."
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: Powder Blue, Mountain Green, Red, Rose, Blonde, Blush, Blood Orange, Gemini Green, Papaya, Ivory, Plum, Dark Blue, Lemon, Powder Purple
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
What reviewers are saying: "The most wonderful dress I have ever owned! I have multiple colors and I wear them to weddings, with sneakers casual and to most events. I recommend and is one of the best purchases I have made in a long time."
Shop Now
Diana Ruched One-Shoulder Gown
$215.00
saksfifthavenue.Com
saksfifthavenue.ComMarianne DressCharming and romantic, this gathered bodice dress highlights the waist in an effortlessly elegant manner.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: Green
Material: 100% organic cotton
Shop Now
Marianne Dress
$198.00
shopdoen.Com
shopdoen.ComNightwood DressNod to the aughts in this luminous halter dress cut from drapey lightweight Japanese satin. Even better, it has a pretty open back.
Sizes: 2XS-XL
Colors: Pink, Black, Birch
Material: 100% polyester
What reviewers are saying: "Love the dress! Love the back! If you want it to hang in the back like how it does on the model you would need to size up. I'm normally a small in dresses but I have hips so I could definitely fit into a medium but I wanted it to be form fitting and it is. Very flattering."
Shop Now
Nightwood Dress
$118.00
aritzia.Com
aritzia.ComPrinted V-Neck Maxi Dress"This floor-length floral dress is perfect for garden weddings," Sandvik recommends. "If you'll be walking on grass, pair it with flat sandals for ultimate comfort so you can dance all night."
Sizes: 2-12
Colors: Multicolored floral print
Material: Body: 3% elastane, 47% polyester, 50% recycled polyester; Lining: 100% polyester
Shop Now
Printed V-Neck Maxi Dress
$245.00
mytheresa.Com
mytheresa.ComAlways Fits Plissé-Pleated Midi-DressA wrap-around tie-waist detail enhances the wow factor of this plissé-pleated midi dress.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: Blue
Material: 100% polyester
What reviewers are saying: "Super sexy very flattering! Love the cut and style. The material is lightweight and skims over the surface of your body, making it super nice and easy to wear! I'm curvy and a bigger person, and don't often wear revealing dresses or show midriff. However, I felt nicely covered in this dress and confident the way the cropped section shows off the waistline. The length made this dress elegant and grown sexy!"
Shop Now
Always Fits Plissé-Pleated Midi-Dress
$159.00
saksfifthavenue.Com
saksfifthavenue.ComMaui Mini DressFor a high summer wedding, opt for this luxe linen mini. It's playful yet elevated and plenty breathable in the heat.
Sizes: XS-3X
Colors: Green
Material: 100% linen
Shop Now
Maui Mini Dress
$350.00
mie.Ng
mie.NgSenna DressThis high-neck gown is giving us all the fluidity and whimsy.
Sizes: 0-24
Colors: Pink floral, Navy
Material: 100% viscose
Shop Now
Senna Dress
$348.00
thereformation.Com
thereformation.ComLottie DressCotton can, indeed, be elevated and captivating. Case in point: This multi-wear silhouette with a tiered skirt and ruffle sleeves you can style on or off the shoulder with spaghetti straps.
Sizes: XS-3X
Colors: Burgundy
Material: 100% cotton
Shop Now
Lottie Dress
$395.00
lalignenyc.Com
lalignenyc.ComWhy trust Harper's BAZAAR?For more than 150 years, Harper's BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what's new and what's next in fashion by working with the world's leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
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Make A Style Statement With 10 Best Wedding Guest Dresses Under $100
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