Best-Dressed Guest: What to Wear to a Summer Wedding
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Summer wedding season has just begun, which means many of us are organizing travel plans, purchasing gifts for the newlyweds and planning our outfit for the upcoming celebrations. I’ve recently been shopping for a semi-formal dress that I can wear to a wedding in July. After my online shopping search, I’m sharing some of my favorite wedding guest dress finds that are perfect for summer. Most of the dresses are around $200, but there are also some more affordable pieces in the mix. Along with my wedding guest dress picks, I’ve also put together a few different outfit ideas with shoes and accessories to complete your summer wedding look.
Although you’ll find mostly classic, neutral pieces in my closet, I love to try colorful, trendier items for formal occasions. For the reader who wants to get the most wear out of their wedding guest dress, I’ve also added some timeless dresses in black and neutral colors to the list.
If you’re not attending any weddings this summer, I hope you’ll take inspiration from the post for other (semi-)formal summer events whether it’s a gala, charity event, or cocktail party. Many of these dresses are casual enough that you can dress them down for everyday wear too.
50+ Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Floral Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Floral dresses are a quintessential choice for summer weddings, exuding charm and femininity. Choose from delicate pastel prints, vibrant tropical patterns, or romantic rose motifs. Opt for flowy maxi dresses for a touch of elegance, or knee-length options for a more casual affair. Pair your floral dress with strappy sandals, wedges, or block heels to complete the look. Enhance the romantic vibe with minimal jewelry and a soft updo hairstyle.
Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
For a more relaxed or outdoor wedding, casual dresses strike the perfect balance between style and comfort. Look for breezy fabrics like cotton, linen, or chambray. Choose simple yet flattering silhouettes such as A-line, shift, or wrap dresses. Experiment with playful prints, vibrant colors, or bohemian-inspired designs. Accessorize with comfortable flats, espadrilles, or sandals, and add a pop of personality with statement accessories like colorful earrings or a woven belt.
Beach Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Beach weddings call for lightweight and flowy dresses that capture the easy-breezy vibe of the seaside. Choose airy fabrics like chiffon, cotton, or linen blends. Look for maxi dresses with open backs, halter necklines, or side slits for added allure. Opt for soft colors like ivory, sky blue, or coral to complement the beach backdrop. Complete your ensemble with strappy sandals, flat espadrilles, or even barefoot elegance. Don't forget your sunhat, sunglasses, and a light shawl or cover-up for added versatility.
Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
For formal summer weddings, elegant and refined dresses are a must. Opt for floor-length gowns in luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet. Choose classic silhouettes that flatter your figure, such as A-line, mermaid, or sheath styles. Experiment with bold colors, metallic finishes, or sophisticated embellishments for a touch of glamour. Pair your formal dress with elegant heels, statement jewelry, and an evening clutch for a truly glamorous look.
Wedding Dress Code Tips
Wedding invitations often come with a dress code, indicating the desired level of formality for the event. While these dress codes may seem confusing or restrictive at first, they actually provide helpful guidance to ensure that you are appropriately attired for the occasion. Below are the most common wedding dress codes as well as tips to help you navigate each one.
Casual
A casual wedding dress code allows for a relaxed and comfortable attire while still maintaining a sense of occasion. Opt for a chic sundress, a flowy maxi dress, or a skirt paired with a stylish top. Choose lightweight fabrics and playful prints to capture the laid-back vibe.
Cocktail or Semi-Formal
Cocktail or semi-formal dress codes call for a polished and sophisticated ensemble. Try a knee-length or midi dresses in elegant fabrics like silk, chiffon, or lace. Play with bold colors, subtle prints, or embellishments to create a stylish statement. Pair your dress with heels and accessorize with statement jewelry for a refined touch.
Formal or Black Tie Optional
A formal or black tie optional dress code indicates a more upscale affair. Wear a long gown, a formal cocktail dress, or a chic pantsuit. Choose luxurious fabrics and elegant silhouettes, and accessorize with statement jewelry and a stylish clutch to complete the ensemble.
Black Tie
A black tie dress code denotes an elegant and formal affair. Choose a floor-length gown in a formal fabric like satin, velvet, or chiffon. Opt for classic silhouettes and glamorous details, such as beading, sequins, or intricate draping. Complete your look with elegant heels, a sophisticated clutch, and statement accessories.
Beach or Destination Wedding
Beach or destination weddings often call for a more relaxed and breezy dress code. Try a flowy sundress or a maxi dress in breathable fabrics like cotton or chiffon. Opt for vibrant colors, tropical prints, or bohemian-inspired designs. Pair your outfit with comfortable sandals or wedges, and don't forget your sunhat and sunglasses for added style and sun protection.
What are you wearing to your next summer wedding? Let me know in the comments below.
