If you're facing a jam-packed summer of weddings, with a social calendar that practically calls for 27 dresses (almost), you might want to start thinking about wedding guest dresses. Frankly, the sooner, the better. Because from engagement announcement to save-the-dates to wedding celebrations in far-flung locations that require at least two days of annual leave to fully enjoy the poolside soiree beforehand and the barbecue after, it will prove stressful to organise all of your outfits at the final hour. Fret not, though, because we've got you covered on all the guest dresses to add to your wardrobe. (And don't forget, if you've got a bunch of friends who are similarly preoccupied with sourcing enough wedding guest dresses to cover all eventualities - countryside wedding, beach wedding, church wedding, forest wedding - it might prove useful to pool your resources. Five wardrobes are better than one, after all).
Choosing what style of dress to wear, of course, depends on the location or time of year of the wedding you're attending. Once you've factored in any requirements (i.e. a dress that will look good with a coat thrown over the top for the walk from the church to the coach to the stately home), as well as style preferences (long, short, puffy, slinky, sleeves, no sleeves), that's when the fun begins.
If you've already been searching through countless pages of wedding guest outfits, we recommend looking to tried-and-tested brands that are known for their dresses like Reformation, Rixo and Self-Portrait, whose collection of mini, midi, and maxi dresses are perfect for all occasions, especially weddings. With occasionwear such a focus year in, year out on the high street, you'll also find that your favourite shops for off-duty dresses - like M&S, Nobody's Child, Whistles and Zara wedding guest dresses - have plenty to offer. Not forgetting Mango wedding guest dresses also had a major moment on TikTok last year.
You also might be looking to shop a maternity wedding guest dress to look and feel your best so don't forget to check out our handy guide to find a dress that will make you feel comfortable on the inside and out.
Wedding guest dress shopping can feel overwhelming, with endless options flooding the high street. Countless brands, each offering a dizzying array of styles, make it almost impossible to choose 'the one.' Add to that the challenges of online shopping - from sizing discrepancies (where a UK8 in one brand might be a UK12 in another) to the elusive task of gauging fabric quality - and it’s no wonder finding the perfect dress can feel like a marathon. That's where we come in.
How we tested the best wedding guest dresses
We've tried and tested the best-selling wedding guest dresses from some of the most popular and trusted brands out there. We looked at everything - from quality and versatility to all-day comfort - so you don’t have to. To make sure we were truly recommending the best, out team tried these dresses on different body types and heights, and even wore them to a range of occasions, from garden weddings to black-tie receptions.
What we found? These dresses work. Whether you're after something timeless or a little more playful, there's something here for everyone. Think flattering cuts, breathable fabrics, and silhouettes that move with you - not against you. From ditsy florals to classic polka dots, and with colours spanning the full rainbow, these are dresses you’ll actually want to wear again and again.
Keep scrolling to see my our picks, each one selected with real-life wear in mind and guaranteed to earn a place in your event wardrobe.
Shop: The Best Wedding Guest Dresses
Short wedding guest dress
www.nobodyschild.com
I have six weddings to attend this summer, one of which calls for 'colour' in the dress code. As someone who struggles to wear anything other than black, brown and navy, I knew this would be a challenge - then I found Nobody's Childs range of vibrant wedding guest options. The balloon-sleeve style felt like something I hadn't seen before, and I was immediately taken by the vibrant green hue. It was comfortable, cinching at the waist, and the a-line skit was very flattering on my legs. Safe to say, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Flattering waist-fitting design
- Square back design sits above bra lie
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Sustainably made
Cons
- Can crease quite easily
| Size range | UK4-UK18 |
| Neckline | Round neck |
| Dress length | Mini |
Black tie wedding guest dress
www.ratandboa.com
Wearing black to a wedding is sometimes frowned upon, but you can definitely get away with it at a black tie event. Rat & Boa's selection of brilliant wedding guest options makes choosing impossible, but the black ruffled Selena style immediately caught my eye. It's flattering, delicate and a compliment machine. Word of warning - if you're under 5"4, this will definitely need hemming. For Black Tie dress codes, make sure to accessorise appropriately - gold or silver heels, a statement necklace or earrings, and the perfect clutch. To beat the evening chill, drape a blazer or silk scarf over your shoulders.
Pros
- Universally flattering design
- Lightweight chiffon keeps you cool and comfortable
- Adjustable straps to tweak to your liking
- Versatile enough to be worn to a variety of events
Cons
- Comes up quite long - not suitable for petite frames
- Dry clean only
| Size range | XXS-XXL |
| Neck line | Scoop |
| Dress length | Maxi |
Midi wedding guest dress
www.nobodyschild.com
I wore the this balloon dress Nobody’s Child to a spring wedding, and it struck the right balance between pretty and polished. The v neckline and soft balloon sleeves gave it a romantic edge, while the midi length kept it classic. Easy to wear, flattering, and didn’t need much styling - just heels and a clutch.
Pros
- The neckline and defined waist create a flattering silhouette
- Balloon sleeves add interest without being over the top
- Available in petite
- Works for weddings, garden parties, or even dressed down with flats
Cons
- The fabric can wrinkle after sitting down
- You may need a strapless or stick-on bra
| Size range | UK4-UK18 |
| Neck line | V-neck |
| Dress length | midi |
Summer wedding guest dress
www.anthropologie.com
I can't dream up a better summer wedding guest style if I tried. The Novie halter neck exudes understated elegance with minimal effort. The halter neckline and open back added a modern edge, while the bias-cut skirt skimmed the body in a flattering way. It felt light and breathable, ideal for warm-weather occasions.
Pros
- The halter neck and A-line cut create a flattering, timeless shape
- Versatile - easy to dress up with heels or down with sandals
- Lightweight and eco-conscious fabric
Cons
- Some may find the sizing runs slightly small, especially around the bust
| Size range | UK6-UK16 |
| Neck line | Wrap halter neckline |
| Dress length | Maxi |
Floral wedding guest dress
www.anthropologie.com
Colourful wedding guest dress
shop.mango.com
One shoulder wedding guest dress
shop.mango.com
Asymmetrical wedding guest dress
shop.mango.com
Casual wedding guest dress
shop.mango.com
Halter neck wedding guest dress
www.abercrombie.com
Strapless wedding guest dress
www.anthropologie.com
Polka dot wedding guest dress
www.abercrombie.com
Bubble hem wedding guest dress
www.abercrombie.com
Petite wedding guest dress
www.whistles.com
www.whistles.com
This daisy-printed sleeveless dress will definitely win the battle of the florals on the dance floor.
www.arket.com
Grey might seem like an unusual shade to choose for a wedding celebration but like black, navy and even beige, it can be a seriously chic option. Arket's relaxed bandeau could easily be dressed up with a collar necklace or a statement bag.
www.riverisland.com
Take note: single flower stems have taken over wallpaper-style ditsy prints as the floral dress style for 2024. River Island's take in bodycon mesh, available in blue or pink, is the fashion girlie's dream for wedding guest season.
www.nobodyschild.com
Nobody's Child's watercolour-print dress is this season's move on from florals. With full sleeves and a midaxi hemline, it'll be comfortable to wear all day, all night for your next wedding.
www.reiss.com
Reiss' wedding guest dress is made from a body-hugging viscose jersey, which ruches at the hips. Its coral shade will cheer up any grey skylines in photos, while its halter-neck is trending this summer.
Best Polka Dot Wedding Guest Dress
rixorixolondon.com
This navy and white dress from Rixo may not be an obvious choice, but combined with polka dots, this is a chic option for a city wedding. The print offsets the white, meaning you won't be regarded as some sort of thunder-stealer, and you can add colour to your accessories.
Best Silk Wedding Guest Dress
Reformationwww.thereformation.com
A muted take on a floral dress for Reformation, the silky fabric gives a perfectly luxurious feel. Wear it on its own for summer weddings, or add an oversized blazer when it's cooler.
What Colour Should I Wear To A Wedding?
Unless you're specifically requested to don an ivory frock (it happens! J-Lo did it), we're saying avoid wearing white to a wedding at all costs. This is a chance to try out a little colour, opt for a print, and maybe even stray away from black, although you can definitely wear black to a wedding if you wish.
What Length Of Dress Should I Wear To A Wedding?
We love a midi length as they're super easy to wear, no fuss and ideal for swishing around a dance floor. An easy breezy maxi dress makes an ideal wedding guest for when temperatures are on the hotter side. Just throw on with a pair of sandals and some statement earrings, and you've got an elegant outfit in seconds. For those who love a mini dress, these can make the perfect wedding guest dress, too. It's about wearing what you feel most comfortable in.
Whether you're after something classic, something bold and bright or a stand-out print, you name it, we've got the most stylish wedding guest outfit options. And you really will want to wear them again and again - no matter the weather.
How To Accessorise Your Wedding Guest Dress
Again, when it comes to the finishing touches, wedding guest dressing is all about making a subtle statement. Even if you've opted for a pastel dress or suit, you can make your outfit pop with brightly-coloured accessories. Statement earrings are, of course, an easy and brilliant way to jazz up any outfit.
As for shoes, they can be bold, but stick to classic styles like low heels so can wear them all day long, or a black heel so you'll know they'll go with the rest of your wardrobe.
When it comes to winter weddings, the same rules apply, but make sure to add a sleek blazer (don't shy away from wool blazers, just make sure to choose a poppy colour) and, if it's super cold out, a heeled boot works wonders for warmth but doesn't compromise on style.
Wedding guest dress FAQS
What is the best colour dress for a wedding guest?
While there are no hard and fast rules, pastels, jewel tones, and elegant prints are always a safe choice. Think sage green, navy, or a soft blush for a flattering, wedding-appropriate look.
What colour should you not wear to a wedding?
Avoid white, ivory, or anything too bridal-looking - it’s the bride’s moment. Also skip anything neon or overly loud unless the dress code says otherwise.
What dresses should you not wear to a wedding?
Steer clear of anything too short, sheer, or overly attention-grabbing. Basically, if you’d wear it to a club, it’s probably not wedding guest-friendly.
What do you wear over a wedding dress when it's cold?
A cropped faux fur jacket, sleek wool coat, or elegant wrap will keep you warm without hiding your look. Just keep it polished and event-appropriate.
What is an appropriate wedding guest dress?
A midi or maxi in a soft fabric with a flattering cut is ideal. Think elegant, comfortable, and respectful of the dress code.
What accessories should you pair with your wedding guest dress?
Opt for statement earrings or a sleek clutch to elevate your look, and finish with strappy heels or elegant flats. Keep it polished but never overdone.
Can wedding guests wear jumpsuits or pantsuits?
Absolutely- just make sure the fabric and fit feel occasion-ready. A tailored jumpsuit or silk pantsuit can be just as chic (and comfortable) as a dress.
Julia Harvey is Shopping Editor for Grazia UK and has been for the past two and a half years, overseeing and editing all things shopping for the title from trend pages, gift guides and the best things to buy now in both print and online. Having previously worked at other women's magazines, Elle UK, Glamour and British Vogue, Julia has gained over eight years of experience within the fashion industry, graduating from Nottingham Trent University with a First Class degree in Fashion Communication and Promotion.