top of page
Search

The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Guest Dresses: Styles, Seasons, and Shopping Tips

Updated: Apr 26

Formal attire for a wedding typically means a suit and tie for men and a formal cocktail dress, evening gown, or dressy suit for women. It’s a step below black-tie, so tuxedos and full-length ballgowns aren’t required, but outfits should still feel polished, elegant, and elevated. Think dark suits, sophisticated dresses, stylish jumpsuits, and upscale accessories. When in doubt, it’s always better to dress slightly more formal than too casual for a wedding celebration.


Attending a wedding is a joyous occasion, and finding the perfect dress to celebrate with the happy couple is part of the fun. Whether you're searching for a black tie wedding guest dress, a breezy beach wedding guest dress, or something suitable for a semi formal wedding attire, this guide will help you navigate the myriad of options available. We'll explore styles for every season, discuss what to wear to a wedding, and highlight where to buy wedding guest dresses, including popular retailers like Nordstrom, Revolve, Anthropologie, Baltic Born, and Meshki.


Bridesmaids in pink and blue dresses hold bouquets, standing in line at an outdoor wedding, with blue doors and trees in the background.

Understanding Dress Codes: What to Wear to a Wedding


Before selecting your outfit, it's crucial to understand the wedding's dress code. Here's a breakdown:


  • Formal Wedding Guest Dresses: These are typically floor-length gowns or sophisticated cocktail dresses. Opt for luxurious fabrics like silk or satin.​


  • Semi Formal Wedding Attire: Think elegant midi dresses or dressy separates. This attire is less formal than black tie but still polished.​


  • Black Tie Wedding Guest Dress: This calls for full-length gowns, often in darker hues or rich jewel tones.​


  • Beach Wedding Guest Dresses: Lightweight fabrics, floral prints, and shorter hemlines are appropriate. Consider the beach setting and choose breathable materials.​


  • Fall Wedding Guest Dresses: Embrace autumnal colors like burgundy, mustard, and forest green. Long sleeves and heavier fabrics like velvet are ideal.​


  • Winter Wedding Guest Dresses: Opt for dresses in deep hues, with long sleeves or layered styles to keep warm.​


  • Summer Wedding Guest Dress: Light fabrics, bright colors, and sleeveless styles are perfect for warmer weather.​


Color Considerations: What Color to Wear to a Wedding


Choosing the right color is essential. While personal preference plays a role, some general guidelines include:


  • Avoid White: Can I wear white to a wedding? Traditionally, white is reserved for the bride, so it's best to steer clear.​


  • Bold and Bright: For summer weddings, vibrant colors like coral, turquoise, or fuchsia are popular.​


  • Muted Tones: Fall and winter weddings often feature dresses in burgundy, navy, or emerald.​


Where to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses


Finding the perfect dress is easier when you know where to look. Here are some top retailers:


  • Nordstrom: Offers a wide range of wedding guest dresses, from formal gowns to casual styles. Their selection includes options for all seasons and dress codes.​


  • Revolve Dresses: Known for trendy and contemporary styles, Revolve has a vast collection suitable for various wedding themes.​



  • Baltic Born Dresses: This brand provides elegant and affordable options, including plus size wedding guest dresses.​


  • Meshki Dresses: Meshki offers sleek and modern designs, ideal for black tie events or formal weddings.​


Tips for Choosing the Perfect Dress


  • Consider the Venue: A beach wedding calls for different attire than a formal ballroom event.​


  • Think About the Season: Fabric and color should align with the season. Light fabrics for summer, heavier ones for winter.


  • Fit and Comfort: Ensure the dress fits well and allows you to move comfortably throughout the event.​


  • Accessorize Appropriately: Choose accessories that complement your dress and the wedding's formality.​


Final Thoughts


Selecting the right wedding guest dress involves understanding the dress code, considering the season and venue, and choosing a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable. With numerous retailers offering a vast array of options, from Nordstrom to Meshki, you're sure to find the perfect dress for any wedding occasion.

🎉 Ready to Plan Your Wedding Without the Stress?


If you’re loving the tips and ready to ditch the overwhelm, don’t miss my FREE Wedding Planning 101 Masterclass:How to Start, Simplify, and Effortlessly Plan Your Dream Wedding


✨ Inside this free training, you’ll learn:


01 — The top 3 wedding planning mistakes (and how they’re secretly stressing you out)

02 — The secret to planning a wedding that wedding websites don’t want you to know

03 — My simple 4-step planning process to save time, reduce overwhelm, and break down your budget like a boss


🎓 Snag your seat now—it’s free, fun, and full of the stuff I wish I knew when I got started.👉 Join the Free Masterclass Here Let’s plan a wedding you’ll actually enjoy planning.


About the Author


This post was brought to you by Sarah Lizabeth—a wedding planner, educator, and storyteller on a mission to change the narrative of the wedding industry. With two decades of experience and a heart for service, Sarah is redefining what it means to plan a wedding by helping couples focus on what truly matters: connection, clarity, and a celebration that reflects their real love story.


 
 
 

Comments


Sarah Lizabeth stands on the right side of a soft pink gradient background, smiling warmly. She has long, wavy brunette hair and is wearing a black blouse with sheer polka dot sleeves, paired with jeans. She holds a white mug that reads “GIRL BOSS” in black lettering. The left side of the image is open, creating space for text or branding. The overall vibe is friendly, confident, and approachable—perfect for a modern entrepreneur or coach.

FREE WEDDING PLANNING TRAINING

WEDDING PLANNING 101

How to Start, Simplify, and Effortlessly Plan Your Dream Wedding

After 20 years of planning weddings, I’ve learned what truly works—and what just creates more stress. That’s why I’m giving away this FREE training. It’s the exact guidance I wish I had when I first started. Whether you're newly engaged or knee-deep in planning, I want to pass on everything I’ve learned so you don’t have to figure it out the hard way. This isn’t just a training—it’s a gift from one past bride (and planner) to another. Come see what I’ve created for you.

bottom of page