18 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Are Chic, Classy and Breezy

Lightweight, breathable frocks, right this way

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Paula Boudes for PureWow

The invites for all those upcoming summer weddings have been pouring in and you've got to map out your outfit options. Some are black tie affairs, most are cocktail casual and your cousin has opted for “beach chic,” whatever that means. And of course, there’s also the hot and humid weather to contend with, which has to be taken into consideration when choosing your silhouettes and materials (halters or strapless necklines, along with cotton and linen, are your friends). That means you're going to need a breezy dress (or four) that's lightweight, stylish and falls in line with the wedding dress code.

Not sure where to start? I've been paying close attention to this year's fashion and color trends, getting all the deets on what to wear for a season that feels impossible to dress for (and that's not factoring in occasion wear). From cobalt to baby blue, various shades of (something?) blue are getting their moment to shine. In terms of prints, polka dots unsurprisingly are still dominating. Following closely behind is fringe, from the runways in Milan to NYC subway stations, turning evening wear and dance floors into something even more fabulous. This may seem like a lot to follow, but there’s no need to stress.

I've tracked down 18 of the best summer wedding guest dresses (hitting many of the qualifications above) from some PureWow-favorite brands and retailers—including Nordstrom, Quince, Reformation, Revolve and Lulus—to get you through summer wedding season in style, no matter your budget, body type or dress code.

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Everyone's favorite speedy retailer Amazon has a handful of pretty occasion-ready frocks to choose from, including this romantic, floral-printed maxi. Designed with an elegant flowy skirt, this dress has a built-in corset, adjustable shoulder straps and the material reportedly feels very high-quality, according to satisfied customers. "The dress fits me beautifully, and I love how easy it is to adjust the size just by pulling the strings. It looks amazing and is perfect for special occasions. The length also matches my height very well—not too long or too short," writes one reviewer.

This cotton dress from Boden has wedding season written all over it. The delicate floral lace fabric and bright pink hue are an excellent pairing, making this dress worthy of any outdoor invite. It’s designed with a boned bodice, accented by sculpting princess seams, then flares down and out to a flowy maxi skirt. I also can’t forget to mention the hidden pockets in the skirt, which is always a plus in my book.

If I’m not eyeing Quince for affordable cashmere and designer lookalikes, I’m paying close attention to its formal wear. Featuring a high cowled neckline and crisscross shoulder straps that leave a little skin showing in the back, it’s no wonder why happy shoppers can’t stop gushing about this stretchy silk number: “I am so pleased with this dress. I purchased it for a fancy wedding, and am pleased that it is not only elegant and stylish, but also comfortable—something I will actually wear again and enjoy!” Even better? It’s machine-washable.

Be prepared for compliments to float your way all night long if you sport this flirty number to any special soirée this summer. The bust has a plunging V-neckline that flows down to a breezy pleated midi skirt, so it's the perfect option to wear during peak summer heat. The crisscross straps leave a risqué opening at the back, and customers can't get enough of its style, with one writing, "This dress is perfect for any summer occasion. I wore it to an outdoor wedding and it fit perfectly and flowed beautifully on the dance floor. 10/10 would recommend!"

If you're looking for a versatile dress you can take through a weekend full of wedding activities, this top-rated stunner from J.Crew is your gal. Boasting a shift silhouette, this mini dress is a bit more elevated made from a textured memory satin fabric adorned with a lotus flower print. It's complete with two side pockets, and is machine washable, so no hefty dry cleaning bill. All you're missing is the complementing accessories, like a pair of strappy heeled sandals and a statement clutch.

Incredibly chic, affordably priced *and* can be speedily delivered in two days? Say no more. If that wasn't enough to sway you, read what one Amazon reviewer had to say: "The light blue was exceptional choice for outside wedding beach wedding. Very comfortable, good quality and perfect length. Beautiful and received lots of compliments." One thing to be mindful of—the dress is hand-wash only.

Leave it to Anthropologie to have a wide range of seasonally appropriate dresses suitable for any occasion. Brown and polka dots are currently trending for different reasons, but they pair beautifully in this midi slip dress that can be styled up or down. This dress is also available in the prettiest floral-printed green stripe style giving major warm-weather-wedding vibes and comes in petite and plus-sizing.

If you haven't found a suitable ensemble for that fancy black tie invite on your calendar, don't fret. This elegant strapless gown is the sleek, sexy and very flattering, according to shoppers. "This might be a little dramatic, but this is single-handedly the most beautiful dress I’ve ever put on in my life," says one Revolve customer. "I’m typically a little skeptical of fitted pieces, but the fit of this dress is flattering and stunning in every way. Buy it. Just buy the dress!!!" Don't have to tell me twice.

PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida owns this beauty in black, and says the open, crisscross back makes her feel like a movie star. The slit at the front also offers some wiggle room when you're moving and grooving, and adds a sultry touch to this romantic design. Made with smooth polyester satin, the material will slide like butter against your skin. Just note that since it has a full-length skirt, shorter women may need to make alterations.

VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison names this versatile dress as her go-to. "The midi length and fitted waist makes it figure flattering and great for a variety of weddings (and bridal/baby showers and work events). It packs a punch but can be accessorized to feel fresh, so I get a lot of wear out of it." The casual-but-dressy nature is ideal for lowkey receptions, and that midi skirt is just begging to be twirled on a dance floor. It's also made from 100 percent cotton, has two discreet pockets and a pretty bow detail attached to the sash.

Picture this: an idyllic beach wedding, you in this light blue halterneck with a glass of champagne in hand and a whole night of dancing. This midi may be the cheapest option on this list, but it's far from boring. The crinkled jersey fabric makes it light enough for summer heat, not to mention the open back and the top's narrow cut. Pair it with similar raffia accessories like above, or if you're headed to something a bit more upscale, silver pieces will do just the trick.

Reformation has an unmatched selection of wedding guest dresses (in standard and plus-sizing), but this particular dress caught my eye for its elegant simplicity. Besides the glossy silk fabric and high neckline, the real standout detail from this dress is the crisscross straps leaving a seductive open back. The polka dot print above is very on-trend, but there's a range of hues and prints to choose from—including a pretty fuchsia and several floral patterns.

'Tis the season for comfortable linen pieces. This dressy frock from Zara is crafted from the breezy, beach-friendly fabric, but it's anything but basic. Not only is it fully lined (meaning: no worrying if your ensemble is see-through), it features an asymmetrical neckline and a gold appliqué on one of the shoulder straps for occasion-worthy pizzazz. 

I'm all for comfortable outfits you can look and feel your best in. This Amazon dress checks all those boxes and then some with its casual silhouette, stretchy knit fabric and midi skirt length. I'm obsessed with the numerous color options available, and have been completely sold on this dress's quality thanks to reviewers, with one raving, "I am absolutely in love with this sleeveless maxi dress! It's the perfect summer essential—the material is incredibly lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for hot weather. It has a gorgeous flowy fit that flatters without clinging, and the length is just right. A huge bonus is that it has pockets! You can easily dress it up with heels or keep it casual with sandals. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an effortlessly chic and comfortable dress!"

Petite gals on the hunt for a maxi dress suited for your stature, look no further. Several satisfied buyers (5'1" and up) have given this frock their stamps of approval, and a full five stars. "Absolutely STUNNING," writes one. It's fully lined and has a playful wrap waist detail. Can't forget the pièce de résistance, two asymmetrical straps descending into a tasteful plunging neckline.

Buyers are dubbing this one "the perfect wedding guest dress," and I can see  why. The pleated fabric, V-neckline and flowy midi skirt give it a soft romantic vibe, and it could even work as a bridesmaids dress. The smocked back adds some breathing room in the bust area and the straps are adjustable, so you can fit it to your liking.

Crafted from 100 percent cotton, this dress screams destination wedding in Italy overlooking the Amalfi Coast. It shows off a square neckline and a timeless A-line silhouette, plus comes in several other prints that feel reminiscent of blissful European getaways.

"I am so glad I ordered this dress. It fits like a glove, the fabric is quality and the fringe is gorgeous in person," writes a Tuckernuck shopper. Fringe is having a big moment this year, and this navy beauty is capturing lots of attention. The color is gorgeous, and the fringe's sparkle adds the right amount of shimmer to this otherwise simple midi. While it's perfect for the main event, it also has serious rehearsal dinner potential.

What to Consider When Shopping for Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

  • Steer clear of lengths and fits you tend to not like (no matter how hard you try). OK, this sounds self-explanatory, but if you hate halter dresses on yourself, don’t buy a halter dress. Your best friend might look great in it, but a strapless might be more your forte.
  • Sometimes, the practical choice is the best choice. In a perfect world, you’ll wear this dress more than once, so purchase a gown that’s comfortable and versatile. And don’t forget to pair it with some comfortable heels that won’t leave you with blisters after the reception.
  • Pay close attention to the material. As it begins to heat up, you’ll want to make sure you’re glancing at the fabric. Fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you cool and offer a bit of ventilation. Silk might not be the best option if you’re spending long bouts in the sun, but ideal for a wedding under the stars. The wedding’s location, time and dress code all play a part in what materials you’ll want to search for, but don’t forget to consider what works best for your body.

19 of the Best Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dresses to See You Through the Season in Style



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Courtney Mason

Editorial Assistant

  • Writes across several verticals including fashion, beauty, news and entertainment
  • Over three years of experience in the fashion industry
  • Studied Fashion Media with a minor in Visuals for Social Media at LIM College

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Stephanie Meraz

Contributing Editor, Commerce

  • Covers all things fashion and shopping
  • Boasts over 23 years of experience as an avid shopper, having secured a personal stylist at Limited Too at the age of four
  • Studied English literature, communications and creative writing at the University of San Diego, and completed the Columbia Publishing Course at Columbia University in New York

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