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Ah, summer! The time of year that many parts of the country are easing into warm temperatures, longer sunny days, and cool evenings. For these reasons, it’s no wonder that many choose to have their wedding during the summer months.
If you have been invited to a summer wedding, you are probably already scouring your favorite online boutiques and retailers in search of the perfect summer wedding guest dress. But, where do you begin? With so many choices for wedding guest dresses to choose from (Black tie? Cocktail? Formal? Beach? Boho?), we’ve done the hard work for you. These are a few of our favorite picks for summer wedding guest dresses—no matter what type of wedding it is!
What Type of Wedding Are You Attending?
When deciding on your wedding outfits, the first place to begin the dress search is to identify the type of summer wedding that it will be. While there are no hard and fast rules to the type of wedding you are attending (and the couple may specify that there is no dress code!), you can often find the answer to this question on the invitation itself. Weddings will vary in their level of formality, but a good rule of thumb is to always be overdressed, rather than underdressed. And, above all else, never forget the cardinal rule: never match the colors of the wedding.
Black Tie Wedding
Easily the most formal option, wedding guest dresses to a black tie event should be floor length. This often includes gowns, but elegant, long cocktail dresses can also be acceptable. Keep jewelry to a minimum—nothing loud or flashy—and the accessories understated. While these weddings are formal affairs, it is important when selecting a black tie wedding guest dress that your dress is not too formal. What does that mean? Simply put: Will you upstage the bride? If the answer is yes—or even a maybe—then the dress is best left on the hanger for another occasion.
Evening wedding
Most weddings that you will attend will fall into this category. Evening weddings (unless otherwise specified) are most often fancy affairs, although less formal than black tie weddings. This occasion calls for wedding outfits that are fun and festive, ranging from cocktail dresses to elegant attire. Cocktail dresses for wedding guests should be an appropriate length and, while a little sparkle is welcomed, avoid too much.
Afternoon Wedding
Often a much more casual setting than its evening counterpart, an afternoon wedding—especially in the summer—calls for lighter fabrics, colors, or relaxed fits. Dresses to wear to this style of wedding can be muted florals, light patterns, or pastel colors. If you are attending a beach wedding, you might opt for a wedding guest dress with a boho flair (such as lace or flowing layers) or a maxi dress that covers comfortable flat sandals.
Fall Wedding: 31 Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses To Wear In 2023
Not Sure What Style of Wedding You Will Be Attending?
Every bride and groom will have a different style for their wedding, so there is only one tried and true answer: Ask! If you are not sure what to wear, simply ask the couple about the style of wedding or the colors of the wedding party. This takes out any unnecessary stress or embarrassment on the wedding day!
Price Reference (average price):
$ | Under $50
$$ | $50-100
$$$ | $100-$200
$$$$| $200+
The Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses in 2023 (That Are Affordable, Too!)
Image: Lulus
Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
A midi wedding guest dress is always a versatile option to wear not just to an evening wedding, but for a date night or cocktail party.
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Mermaid Ruffle Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This elegant ruffled dress is the perfect length to be worn to a variety of weddings and still be a little bit flirty and a lot fun!
Image: Pink Lily
Floral Watercolor One Shoulder Dress
Pink Lily
Price: $
Another midi pick on this list, this dress is perfect for a beach wedding guest! The light colors perfectly match sandy beaches and palm trees, while the floral print is sexy, but fun.
Image: Amazon
Off The Shoulder Short Sleeve Pleated Long Dresses
PrettyGarden
Price: $
This dress is like two outfits in one! A seamless off the shoulder top pairs with a pleated floral skirt for an ultra-chic outfit for any summer wedding.
Tip: Wear a blazer as a jacket for a business casual look!
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Halter Neck Dress
Eliza J
Price: $$$
Floral patterns are a must if you are a wedding guest looking for a summer dress. This bright patterned dress also features a maxi length for a bit of coverage and would fit right in for an afternoon wedding or beach celebration!
Image: Amazon
Mockneck Satin Maxi Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
We could easily see this satin dress being perfect for a bridesmaid, not just a dress for a wedding guest. The pale green is the perfect shade for the warm summer months, and the mockneck is demure and appropriate for a variety of wedding styles. Plus, it’s under $50!
Image: Lulus
Blue Backless Lace Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
This simple yet sexy dress is covered in lace, making it anything but a boring wedding outfit.
Image: Amazon
Ruffles & Pleats Tiered Dress
Merokeety
Price: $
This lilac purple is one of the most popular colors of the year and we think it fits perfectly with this feminine, ruffled dress.
Image: Amazon
Lantern Sleeve Bow Dress
Dokotoo
Price: $
This short dress has all the romantic details: lantern sleeves, square neckline, and a beautiful bow tie on the back of the dress. This will be one that you reach for again and again.
Image: Amazon
Square Neck Split Midi Dress
Amazon
Price: $
A wedding guest dress? From Amazon? Yes! There are so many affordable options under $50 to be found if you know where to look. This versatile and classic dress is an excellent option if you want to show just a bit of skin during the hot summer nights!
Image: Petal & Pup
Persia Dress
Petal & Pup
Price: $$
If you’re a guest at a summer wedding set in the evening, this silky dress hugs in all the right places, with just enough shimmer to reflect the patio lights right back at you. With a variety of colors, you can choose the style that is right for you, but we love this warm gold tone!
Image: Amazon
Halter Neck Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Pretty Garden
Price: $
The summer is the time to play around with color. This bright orange is fun, festive, and the maxi tiered skirt length is perfect to wear with a variety of shoes—heels or flats, you choose! (Beach wedding? Go barefoot!)
Image: Nordstrom
Illusion Yoke Crepe Cocktail Dress
Maggy London
Price: $$$
There’s something about this dress that gives us vintage ‘50s vibes in the very best way! The mesh design and sweetheart neckline would pair exquisitely with your favorite bright red lipstick!
Image: Amazon
Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This floral wrap dress is a timeless and effortlessly stylish choice for any occasion. The wrap-around design complements any body type, making it a versatile choice, and the floral pattern add as touch of femininity and grace to the dress.
Image: Astr The Label
Yamila Eyelet Floral Dress
Astr The Label
Price: $$$
The bodice accent on the bust, along with the flowing skirt, adds just the right details to a perfect summer dress.
Image: Amazon
Swiss Dot Belted Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
While the bright, bold colors often take the spotlight as wedding guest dresses—especially during the summer—this pale apricot color is a gorgeous addition to your wardrobe that can be worn to a variety of other occasions, perfect for anyone on a budget and wanting to make the most of their closet!
Image: Nordstrom
Metallic Brocade Ballgown
Morgan & Co.
Price: $$$
While many of the dresses on our list are for casual, cocktail, or evening weddings, it doesn’t mean that black tie wedding aren’t still the events of the summer! This dress is an appropriate length for the formal wedding dress code, but the brocade is an intricate touch that makes this summer dress extra special.
Image: Nordstrom
Tie Back Puff Sleeve Dress
Astr The Label
Price: $$
The puff sleeves, combined with the tie back, take this dress from simply another dress for a casual or afternoon event, and upgrade it for any occasion!
Image: Nordstrom
Split Blouson Sleeve Gown
After Six
Price: $$$$
Simply an elegant option, this flowing gown will look great on anyone of any age. The light blueish gray hue also allows you to play around with a variety of jewelry and shoes. too!
Image: Lulus
Infinite Glory Pink Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
If you’re looking for an elegant wedding guest dress, look no further than this gorgeous pink maxi dress. The lines are clean and simple, with a long hem that makes it a great choice for evening weddings. Bring a light jacket or shawl for cooler summer nights!
Image: Amazon
Satin Keyhole Floral Dress
Fashionme
Price: $
This dress combines a few of our favorite trends—fun florals and a tiny sliver of skin. Plus, it’s under $50!
Image: Nordstrom
Deco Sequin Gown
Morgan & Co.
Price: $$$$
Why not use the summer as a time to play with both colors and patterns? This shimmering, multi-colored gown makes us think of a majestic butterfly and is sure to be the talk of the party (in the very best way).
Image: Amazon
Dark Floral Boho Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
If you’re looking for pure versatility in your closet, this dark floral dress can fit right in at a summer wedding and still be worn throughout the fall and winter for a variety of cute outfits!
Image: Lulus
Pink Ruffled Skater Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
If you’re not looking for a long dress for the wedding that you are attending, why not try this ruffled cocktail dress? The full sleeves are fun and flirty, but still formal enough for an evening wedding.
Image: Nordstrom
One-Shoulder Midi Dress
Dress the Population
Price: $$$
This midi dress screams elegant. If you received an invitation for a black tie wedding (or black tie optional), this summer formal dress is exactly what you need. Plus, this little black dress might become a closet staple for big events and fancy dinners to come.
Image: Lulus
Smocked Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
Looking for a casual wedding guest dress for an upcoming afternoon wedding? This sweet floral maxi dress is flowy, with puff sleeves for a feminine edge. The best part about this dress is that it can be dressed up or down, paired with a hat for a boho touch, or worn with sandals to a beach wedding. Even better, it would make a perfect brunch outfit for summer.
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Cutout Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
We love any affordable find that makes you say: “You found that on Amazon?!” Yes, we did! This cutout dress is just the right amount of sexy, while still being a great option for a cocktail or evening wedding event. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, all for under $50. We’ll take two!
Image: Anthropologie
Raya Colorblock Maxi Dress
Anthropologie
Price: $$
This dress might be the epitome of casual beach wedding attire. It has everything that you could want—tiered color blocking, thin straps, and a flowing maxi skirt that lets you withstand the hot humid temps of summer. We can feel the sand between our toes already!
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Boho Maxi Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This mod-inspired floral print is one of our favorite color combinations and a pairing worthy of a summer wedding. Not only is it incredibly affordable (another under $50 find!), but it comes in a variety of colors to suit your personality.
Image: Nordstrom
Halter Floral Chiffon Dress
Vince Camuto
Price: $$$
This belted floral dress is yet another bright, sunny floral for a summer wedding. Whether you are headed to an afternoon affair or cocktail evening, this fun print with be a fitting wedding guest dress.
Image: Amazon
Sleeveless Floral Ruffle Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
This ruffled midi length dress would look great at a summer wedding, but also just as fitting for a date night or summer afternoon adventure with the girls.
Image: Nordstrom
High/Low Cocktail Dress
Alfred Sung
Price: $$$$
A simple design that is wonderfully classic, Alfred Sung is a designer that is known for his beautiful, yet understated dresses. We love the high/low hem, with a modest neckline, perfect for showing off your favorite diamond earrings with an updo.
Image: & Other Stories
Off-Shoulder Ruffled Mini Dress
& Other Stories
Price: $$$
& Other Stories is one of our favorite boutiques for sustainable fashion. Their mission is to create fashion staples that go beyond a single season. We love this fiery red dress not just for weddings, but also a date night or a girls’ night out.
Image: Amazon
Off Shoulder Wrap Ruched Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
Weddings are all about romance, and this dress gives plenty of it! We love the rich emerald green—another color that transitions well into fall and winter events.
Image: Reformation
Winslow Dress
Reformation
Price: $$$$
A sustainable brand on our list, this dress from Reformation is what “cottage core” dreams are made of. Reminiscent of Bridgerton, it’s a wrap dress that belongs in a summer garden. It could even be a great choice as a bridesmaid dress!
Image: Hello Molly
Taking It Back Lilac Dress
Hello Molly
Price: $$
Lilac (or Pantone’s digital lavender) is one of the most popular colors of the year, and it’s a perfect choice for a summer wedding guest dress. The delicate straps and the side slit make us swoon!
Image: Sézane
Solana Dress
Sézane
Price: $$$
A beautiful dress that you can wear all year long, we are in love with the long sleeves and flared skirt. Plus, as another sustainable brand, Sézane donates 10% of their global sales to help provide education and equal opportunities to children in need throughout the world.
Image: Amazon
Image: Nordstrom
Elisa Floral Sequin Embroidered Cocktail Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
There’s not many dresses on this list that are more intricate and beautifully delicate as this dress. This is the ideal dress if you have multiple summer weddings on your schedule—while spendy, this beautiful dress is perfect for the season.
Image: Amazon
Sleeveless Satin Maxi Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
Another dress that we love for its versatility, this long maxi dress has a tie at the waist and a silky satin finish that you’ll want to wear just about everywhere.
Image: Show Me Your Mumu
Garden Glow Set
Show Me Your Mumu
Price: $$$$
While we wouldn’t normally suggest a crop top and skirt as a wedding guest dress choice, you know the bride and groom’s wedding style best. If they are planned on having a laidback p-a-r-t-y at a tropical beach or destination locale, this bright and colorful skirt and crop top combo should be in your packed bag. Sandals and bright colored earrings make it even more fun!
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Pleated Maxi Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
There’s something about florals that we will never turn down, but this pale pink pattern is romantic—just like a wedding should be!
Image: Lulus
Magenta Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
Want to make an impression? This bold, bright pink mini dress is going to do just that.
Image: Amazon
Flutter Sleeve Lace Tie Dress
Merokeety
Price: $
This A-line floral dress has a delicate lace design that is so fitting for summer weddings (or use it sooner if you are a spring wedding guest!), but the tie-back makes such swoon. Keep this dress handy in your closet for your summer date night.
Image: Nordstrom
Nicole Sweetheart Cocktail Dress
Dress the Population
Price: $$$
This is yet another formal summer dress that is absolutely striking. Simple, yet incredibly elegant, this midi length dress is ideal for an evening wedding or big soirée and can be worn for fancy events all year long.
Image: Lulus
Floral Tie-Strap Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
One thing that we always look for in summer wedding guest dresses is flowing fabric that keeps us cool in the bright sun, but with plenty of style! This tie strap dress also has bustier-style seaming and a high slit that feels feminine, without being too revealing.
Image: Anthropologie
The Somerset Mini Dress
Somerset Collection by Anthropologie
Price: $$$
This bright green and pink dress is a pop of color if you’re heading to a beach wedding this summer or if you want to bring tropical vibes to an afternoon party.
Image: Amazon
High-Low Evening Gown
PrettyGarden
Price: $
This is a great example of a formal dress that can transition with your through the seasons. A rich maroon works perfect for a fall wedding, and it has pockets, too!
Image: Nordstrom
Metallic Floral Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress
Vince Camuto
Price: $$$
Brocade is another fabric that is have a moment in the spotlight. We think that it looks great as a gold, structured dress that provides shimmer without being overpowering.
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Lace Illusion Mesh Cocktail Dress
Aidan Mattox By Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$$
Stunning. Elegant. Classic. These are the adjectives to describe this chic wedding guest dress. Not only that, but this is a timeless piece that is worth every penny.
Image: Amazon
Satin Cowl Neck Bodycon Dress
PrettyGarden
Price: $
Look for an ultra-versatile dress that is also incredibly affordable? This deep navy satin dress is fitting for a formal event such as a wedding, but can be worn on repeat to work functions, date nights, or even dressed down with a cardigan and sneakers. The outfit ideas are endless!
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Print Long Sleeve Dress
Astr The Label
Price: $$
You don’t often see long sleeve wedding guest dresses for summer, but this floral option might make you change your mind. If you are attending a wedding in the evening, the long sleeves will be perfect for cooler nights, especially if it is a late summer invitation. Even better, this color palette fits right in as a great fall or winter wedding guest dress as well!
Image: Lulus
Burnout Floral Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
We love a bright pop of color for summer, and this halter maxi dress has it (or choose the dark wine color for a perfect fall wedding guest dress)! The burnout floral style is a unique twist on the summery florals that you often see, but the A-line silhouette is flattering on a wide range of body types!
Image: Amazon
Crossover Halter Neck Retro Dress
Zesica
Price: $$
We absolutely love the retro vibes of this floral dress. With a peekaboo detail, this halter dress is a great option for a casual event that you can also wear all summer long.
Image: Show Me Your Mumu
Eden Midi Dress
Show Me Your Mumu
Price: $$$
Sometimes the simplest dress can also be the most stunning! This flamingo pink is aptly named as a gorgeous bright pink that embodies all of those summer feelings. Plus, we think this is another dress silhouette that can look incredible on anyone!
Image: Nordstrom
Matelassé Floral Jacquard Column Gown
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$$
Have you ever wanted to look like you just stepped out of a Victorian novel or a famous painting? While bright and bold colors often rule the summer palette, the romantic and muted floral design of this dress is an absolute showstopper for a formal summer wedding (and spring, too!).
Image: Show Me Your Mumu
Reese Ruffle Dress
Show Me Your Mumu
Price: $$$
Another boutique that we absolutely adore, Show Me Your Mumu makes incredible clothing for all sizes. This bright floral dress comes in sizes ranging from XS-3X.
Image: Naked Cashmere
Cayman Sleeveless Cashmere Dress
NakedCashmere
Price: $$$$
This dress is elegance wrapped up in one versatile package! Wear it alone to a wedding or with a blazer for an office-appropriate outfit idea.
Image: Amazon
Halter Neck Pleated Dress
Prettygarden
Price: $
This is another dress on our list that we think would be right at home as a bridesmaid dress, too. The irregular hem and cutout detailing makes this dress unique, but we love the sky blue hem for the summer months.
Image: Quince
Washable Silk Tiered Maxi Dress
Quince
Price: $$$
Why yes we did say washable silk! Quince is one of our favorite clothing brands for affordable, sustainable clothing. This maxi dress is another versatile option that can be dressed up for a casual or afternoon wedding or dressed down with sneakers!
Image: Astr The Label
Lively Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Astr The Label
Price: $$$
What can we say? We’re a sucker for gorgeous summer prints! This dress screams summer with a bright and bold pattern, billowy sleeves, and a front tie that is unique all at the same time.
Image: Nordstrom
Lainey Body-Con Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$
Don’t keep that LBD in your closet until the cooler months come around! Summer is still the perfect time to pull out a black dress, especially when headed to an evening summer wedding. The longer length of this figure-hugging dress makes for the most flattering cut!
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Puff Sleeve Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
Affordable? Check. Versatile? Check? Perfect for summer? Double check. While this dress may be more casual than many on the rest of this list, that doesn’t mean that it can’t be right at home at a casual summer wedding. Plus, the pale yellow is oh-so-reminiscent of the summer sun.
Image: Pink Lily
It All Begins With Love Maxi Dress
Pink Lily
Price: $
While this light blue maxi dress could feel at home for a beach wedding, we think it could also be a great fit for any brides looking for bridesmaids dresses, too!
Image: Nordstrom
Audrey A-Line Dress
City Chic
Price: $$$
Who said that dark florals can’t be worn on a dress to a summer wedding? This lilac floral dress has an A-line cut and pleated skirt that flatters a variety of body shapes. We think that this would be a great option for an afternoon wedding that goes long into the evening!
Image: Lulus
Sleeveless Tiered Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
This tiered dress is absolutely chic perfection with its wide straps and V-neckline. A long enough midi dress to be worn to a black tie wedding, this elegant wedding outfit is another that you will reach for in your closet long after summer is over.
Image: Pink Lily
Satin One Shoulder Midi Dress
pink Lily
Price: $
If you are looking for a sassy wedding guest dress, this one shoulder stunner makes an impression! If you know that you are going to a wedding that is going to be one big party, this satin dress will fit right in as you dance the night away.
Image: Amazon
Square Neck Smocked Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
Casual summer afternoon wedding? This dress is relaxed enough for a laidback affair, but with the right pair of strappy sandals and summer accessories, this dress is ready for date night!
Image: Anthropologie
Sweetheart Midi Dress
Anthropologie
Price: $$$
While this LBD might be a bit of a splurge, the scalloped neckline and chic buttons will make this dress a staple in any capsule wardrobe.
Don’t Forget The Accessories
Accessories for a summer wedding can be fun and fresh, such as statement earrings or gold hoops. As with all wedding outfits, the key to styling accessories with your summer dress is to accent the dress without overpowering it. If your dress has an interesting neckline, don’t clutter it with a large necklace. If you are planning to wear your hair in an updo, that would be the perfect time to have a dramatic pair of earrings. Regardless of what you choose, have fun with it and select a style that you can wear even after you take your wedding guest dress off!
Shop Earrings
A drop earring or a simple diamond stud can be all the bling that you need.
Shop Bracelets
Keep the bracelets understated if you have a bright or beaded dress.
Shop Necklaces
Dainty drop necklaces or small diamonds are a great option to add a touch of accessory without taking away from the dress.
Shop Hair Accessories
Hair accessories—such as these studded bobby pins—can be an unexpected twist on standard accessories.
Don’t Neglect Your Feet
The shoes are often one of the most overlooked parts of your wedding guest outfit until it’s too late. When selecting your footwear, pay close attention to the wedding invitation. If you will be attending a beach wedding, flat, comfortable sandals will be your best bet. If you are attending an outdoor wedding, avoid wearing high, skinny heels as they will sink into the grass as you are walking to your seat.
If you plan to be dancing the night away, we all know how uncomfortable heels can be for long periods of time. Consider heels with a chunkier block heel or even a pair of embellished flats to change into when the dance floor begins to fill! Being prepared will help you make the most of your night, but still keep your outfit chic!
Sandals for a Beach Wedding
Choose lightweight and flat sandals that can allow you to walk freely and dust off the sand when you’re done!
Comfortable Heels
To keep dancing with your shoes on all night, try choose a lower shoe or one with a block heel to provide more support and comfort.
Elegant Flats
If heels aren’t your thing or you are wearing a dress that won’t show your feet, switch it up with a pair of elegant mules, either with or without straps.
Fashion
Ashley Rollins
Lifestyle
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