This year I only have two weddings on my calendar and both are in Europe a month apart. One fell during the Paris Olympics in France so I sadly couldn’t swing it but I am looking forward to making it to the wedding in the UK in late summer.

One of my most asked DMs of late has been whether I’d be sharing some wedding guest dress ideas for those of you with Spring and Summer weddings coming up. (Truly where is this year going!?) I always enjoy curating guidance on what to wear for wedding season. So, if you have weddings on your calendar later this Spring or this summer, today’s post should be a handy guide to inspire you for what to wear no matter the style or location of the weddings you may be attending.

Dresses for Wedding Guests

I personally always find searching for wedding guest dresses a little intimidating. It’s like swimsuit shopping – I just don’t love it. And the options often feel overwhelming and yet limited at the same time.

I have a few go-to retailers I usually check. They are who I sourced options for in order to curate this post. I personally was excited when I found this dress last summer featured in these photos because I knew it would become a go-to option for me for dressier occasions year-round. I like the crepe material, puff sleeve and longer length with a full skirt. I’m wearing a size M and it now comes in some other patterns/colors as well.

I decided to dress it up with simple accessories and a statement earring. The dress is a good price point and will definitely get a lot of wear. It also comes in some other colors and patterns if you’re not someone who loves to wear black!

Picking Out Wedding Guest Dresses

Picking out dresses as a wedding guest can be a little tricky as, personally, I want those I purchase to be able to work for other occasions, too! The below options are for those of you in the market for dresses to wear to weddings or other special summer soirees this season. Some of them may work for wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, welcome parties or cocktail parties you plan to attend this summer as well.

One thing I’ll say is that I think it is important to consider the wedding characteristics as you plan your ensemble. Are the bride and groom more laid back? Are the families hosting the wedding more formal? What’s the venue? Will you be spending anytime outdoors? Consider all these aspects before you purchase your dress (and corresponding shoes!) Know the dress code before you go and you can always shoot the bride and groom a text to confirm in case you’re unsure.

Without further delay, below you’ll find my picks in a variety of categories that’ll hopefully be helpful no matter what kind of wedding(s) is on your social calendar this year. Whether it is a black tie wedding or a casual wedding, you’ll find options in the below selects.

Multi-Purpose

Wear these dresses to a wedding and then re-style them for plenty of other events after. I have gotten so much wear out of certain dresses that I buy for weddings and I’m all about changing up my styling of my hair or accessories to make the dress work for other occasions. 

Beach Wedding

Have a beach wedding or a destination wedding this year? Here are some more laid back, casual dresses in floral prints and lightweight fabrics that are perfect for outdoor weddings taking place in warm weather.

Black Tie

Have a black tie wedding to go to this summer? I love a maxi dress in a beautiful fabric for a black tie event but also fabrics like lace or with a bit of shimmer are great options to amp up the fancy factor for a black tie wedding.

Under $300

On a budget? Look no further than these dresses that are all under $300. No matter your style – I found affordable options of maxi dresses, puff sleeve dresses, mini dresses and more.

Splurge Worthy

Want to go really all out? These dresses are splurge-worthy and you’ll love having them as a special occasion dress up moment. They have special details like shimmery fabrics and I personally always think a little black dress that makes you feel great is a worthwhile investment.

Let’s also not forget accessories for the dresses! Below are some favorite bags, jewelry and shoes to adorn and complete your look. 

Wedding Guest Accessories

Of course no wedding guest dress look is complete without some cute accessories. I found so many great options to keep you well outfitted all summer long as you attend weddings.

Sarah Flint remains one of my go-to brands for occasion shoes and you can use code SF-MEGHAN15 for 15% off your first purchase!

And here are a few more styles to consider shopping:

Shop the Edit

I would love to know – where do you shop for wedding guest dresses!?

And, as you prepare for wedding guest season, do not miss buying the best Commando Control Thong Underwear. Smooths everything out and really improves the look of dresses on! For strapless bras, I swear by this one. It’s been my go-to for nearly ten years! I own it in several colors and it is worth every penny.

You May Also Like:

• My Favorite and Most Worn Shoes + How I Take Care of Them.
• Things in My Closet I’ll Be Wearing this Spring.
• My Favorite Dresses & Skirts,

[Outfit above linked HERE]

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