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34 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses to Get You Through the Season in Style

Lightweight, breathable frocks, right this way

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summer wedding guest dresses
Dasha Burobina for PureWow

Summer is swiftly approaching, and with it comes the four—or is it five?—weddings you optimistically RSVP’d to back in winter. Some are black tie, most are cocktail casual and your cousin has opted for “beach party 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 silhouettes and materials (halters or strapless necklines, cotton and linen are your friends). And while one of your many spring wedding guest dresses could pass, an elegant gown designed for the warmest months can never hurt. But there’s no need to stress—we’ve got expert tips on the best wedding guest dress trends to look out for, plus what not to wear if you want to stay on the happy couple’s good side. Plus, we’ve tracked down the absolute best summer wedding guest dresses from brands and mega retailers, like Nordstrom, Reformation, Revolve, Zara, Lulus and more, to get you through the season from Memorial Day to Labor Day, no matter your budget, body type or dress code.

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Best Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress

1. Sachin & Babi Kayla Halter Gown

Sachin & Babi

From the satin tie at the neck to the defined, pleated waist and flowy skirt, there’s a lot to love about this Sachin & Babi halter gown. We’re taken by the elegance of this navy petal print, but there are 15 more shades available, so we bet you’ll find one that you like, whether it’s Ice Blue, Coral or Ebony Garden. “This dress was perfect for a black-tie optional wedding,” writes one Nordstrom customer. “Pretty, comfortable [and] it was easy to wear. My only issue was that the satin bow at the neck likes to slip and could leave you exposed, [but it’s] simple enough to pin it.” Hot tip: Double knot it to avoid any flashes.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 22W (regular and plus fits available)
  • Material: polyester

Best Summer Wedding Guest Shift Dress

2. Tuckernuck Poppy Stripe Marlowe Dress

Tuckernuck

Whoever said pink and red is reserved for Valentine’s Day clearly hasn’t seen with charming shift dress. Take it from Tuckernuck customer Libby S.: “This is as close to a perfect dress as you can get. I wore it the day after I got it, and I must have had half a dozen comments all day. Perfect fit, POCKETS [and] great for year-round wear. And the fabric is amazing. I won't even look at an outfit if I don't like the material. I love this dress and am so glad I got it.” What’s more, the playful dress is lined and machine-washable, so you can toss it in without the fear of ruining the basketweave fabric. However, some buyers say it’s not ideal for anyone with big boobs since the top tends to fit tight along the chest.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXXL
  • Material: polyester, spandex

Best Black-Tie Summer Wedding Guest Dress

3. Reformation Annabelle Silk Dress

Reformation

Just because the dress code says black tie doesn’t mean you have wear black. This stunning brown gown feels much lighter for the summer season but is every bit as formal and still within the same family (if neutrals are your forte). It’s a timeless silk number that’s sure to become your new go-to for events and weddings that you won’t mind wearing and re-wearing. While the straps aren’t adjustable and the hem is long, especially for petites, Reformation does offer free alterations. The front of the bust has a stunning cowl neckline that draws the eye towards your chest and, if you have small boobs, creates the appearance of a bigger chest.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12
  • Material: silk

Best Metallic Summer Wedding Guest Dress

4. Adrianna Papell Metallic Stencil Midi Dress

Adrianna Papell

This faux-wrap dress has all the benefits of a true wrap silhouette with none of the hassle of having to adjust it throughout the day. That said, the belt is adjustable and removable, so you can play around with different ways to knot it or swap it out altogether for something in a contrasting hue or a sturdier silver leather style. Speaking of silver, it’s those dainty metallic flowers throughout that really make this frock stand out, and make it easy to coordinate your jewelry, shoes and bag.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 4 to 16
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Plunge Summer Wedding Guest Dress

5. J.Crew Rosette Plunge Dress

J.Crew

“This dress is breezy and chic,” writes one J.Crew shopper. “The flower pin is removable, [and] the straps are adjustable enough where you could probably shift the deep plunge up a few inches to more of an empire waist (but why would you?!).” A dress that comes with a customizable plunge, is machine-washable and is made from 100 percent organic cotton…what more could a gal ask for? We love how vibrant and effervescent the pink hue is, and it’s a great option for anyone who wants a break from the floral mania. “Only thing missing are the typical J.Crew pockets,” she adds.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to 3X
  • Material: cotton

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress for the Minimalist

6. Lioness 1999 Maxi Dress

Lioness

This Lioness dress is “So so so cute and classy,” says one Revolve customer. We can’t help but picture how exquisite it would look at a destination wedding on the beach. It’s partially lined, so you don’t have to worry about your underwear peeping through as the sun beats down on you, and it’s designed with a subtle ruching along the waist and hips, creating an extremely flattering shape. And, yes, this ‘90s-inspired minimalist dress is ultra-functional, too, thanks to the back slit that’ll let you easily walk, sit and boogie. We do wish the halter straps were adjustable (they aren’t), so some customers may have to get those taken in for a perfect fit.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Jersey Summer Wedding Guest Dress

7. H&M Draped Off-the-Shoulder Dress

H&M

If you’re in the mood for a dress that’s comfortable and full of romance, then look no further than this whimsical draped number in dusty pink from H&M. Made with a super soft stretch jersey, this fabric will drape effortlessly along your body’s natural shape. And the lined frocked is adorned with gathered seams and draping effects throughout, which will conceal any possible insecurities. If you’re anything like us, then you’re always looking for ways to frame your décolletage, so we’re simply obsessed with the off-the-shoulder moment that does just that.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Tropical Print Summer Wedding Guest Dress

8. Farm Rio Palermo Drop Waist Dress

Farm Rio

Forget slinky, minimal slip dresses and opt for something bold and more unforgettable like this stunner from Farm Rio. From the A-line fit and drop waist to the beaded straps and open back, no detail goes unnoticed. Let’s not pass over the darling red and beige tropical print that’ll look just lovely at a summer wedding

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress with Ruffles

9. Show Me Your Mumu Romance Ruffle Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

This lightweight stunner can be dressed up for more formal events, or down for more casual cocktails. And the material is breezy to keep you comfortable all night long. Plus, those ruffled tiers will look fabulous as you bust a move on the dance floor. “I was worried about the fit of this dress but was so surprised it hugs all the right places,” says Annie D., a 5-foot-7 Show Me Your Mumu reviewer who found the dress’s length to be just right with heels. “It has a natural hourglass shape complimented with a side zipper. The ruffles are so different and offer some help in hiding some midsection insecurities. All this to say…I’m OBSESSED with this dress.”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best High Neck Summer Wedding Guest Dress

10. Zara Floral Satin Effect Dress

Zara

Bright and airy, this lightweight sleeveless dress from Zara is a sweet option to wear for a summer wedding that calls for cocktail attire. It has a tailored waist that’s gathered along the side, creating the illusion of a defined waist while simultaneously concealing any insecurities, and the tops of the straps are intricately twisted for some extra flair. There’s even a tasteful slit that’s not only stunning but also makes it easy to walk and dance in. It’s the kind of dress people will lose it over once they found out it’s A) from Zara and B) $70.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: polyester

Best Maxi Summer Wedding Guest Dress

11. Rumer Illusion X Gown

Rumer

Wowzah, this silver gown looks like liquid on the body with its glossy finish. Made in Australia from a poly-rayon blend, the fabric boasts a soft finish and breathability that you’ll need if you’re going to an outdoor wedding under the beating sun. Whether you have small or big boobs, the top will fit flawlessly on your frame since the straps are fully adjustable (score!). One thing to note: Hand wash your dress with cold water, as rayon is known to shrink in hot water.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to L
  • Material: rayon, polyester

Best Cocktail Summer Wedding Guest Dress

12. ML Monique Lhuillier Madison Midi Cocktail Dress

ML Monique Lhuillier

This darling fit-and-flare midi dress will look exquisite at a garden reception. The V-neck and spaghetti straps afford some sex appeal without feeling distasteful or too revealing for a wedding, and the corset bodice creates definition at the waist. Rich in texture and color, we’re simply smitten with the impressionistic pattern, plissé detailing and flouncy effect. Plus, you can easily make this midi work for multiple dress codes with the help of either more casual accessories (like a straw clutch and simple sandals) or formal ones (like dangling statement earrings and strappy silver heels).

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 16
  • Material: polyester

Most Unique Summer Wedding Guest Dress

13. Lulus Thriving Poise Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress

Lulus

Florals? For *summer*? Groundbreaking. Jokes aside, we’re obsessed with the floral embroidery and appliqué on the tulle overlay of this maxi. It’s an ideal option to wear if you don’t want to wear a basic black dress. If you look closely, some of the flowers have a 3D effect at the edges, making this beauty all that more unique. Even better? There are long tulle straps that are completely adjustable, so you can tie it atop your shoulders and let the material drape gracefully down your arms or at the back of the dress and watch the strings sashay as you walk.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: nylon, polyester

Best Backless Summer Wedding Guest Dress

14. Mango Open-Back Dress

Mango

Sweet from the front, sexy from the back, this strappy column dress just screams party. It has a striking open back with a cowl design, which really accentuates the drama and draws the focus to your backside. The lightweight viscose emits a natural sheen that looks elevated and luxe, and it has an invisible zipper fastening that’ll make it a breeze to slip on and off. Note that the material doesn’t have much by way of stretch, so we suggest using your waist measurement to find your best fit.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 10
  • Material: viscose

Best Square-Neck Summer Wedding Guest Dress

15. Farm Rio Wonderful Bouquet Maxi Dress

Farm Rio

Farm Rio is one of our favorite places to pick up cool silhouettes in vibrant, original prints, and we expect this square-neck stunner is bound to be one of the brand’s top picks this summer. There is a cutout in back and the bust is meant to be fitted, but you can loosen or tighten it to your liking, thanks to the adjustable ties. Plus, the frock has an empire silhouette that flows freely just below the breasts, and the lightweight material has a decent amount of stretch and is highly breathable.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 10
  • Material: cotton, viscose

Best Asymmetrical Mini Summer Wedding Guest Dress

16. Abercrombie & Fitch All-Over Ruffle Mini Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Why yes, you can wear black to a summer wedding. The trick is to buy something in a lightweight material and/or flowy silhouette to avoid overheating. This Abercrombie and Fitch mini checks both boxes, with the added bonus of delicate ruffles to really amp up the summery vibes. “I LOVE this dress,” raves one Abercrombie & Fitch reviewer. “It’s just a little short on the one side even though I ordered a tall—I’m 5-foot-9 for reference. I love the ruffles and they flatter your body well!” Other customers find it runs shorts, too, so we recommend you double-check the size and length before purchasing.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XL (petite, regular and tall fits available)
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Linen Summer Wedding Guest Dress

17. Banana Republic Pauline Linen Midi Dress

Banana Republic

A linen frock will be your best friend when the summer sun is beating down on you. This billowy beauty from Banana Republic is incredibly chic and will keep you cool and sweat-free during the nuptials. It’s constructed with a trapeze-style fit, pleats at the shoulders and twists along the back, ensuring its movement. Basically, you can guarantee this won’t stick to your body at all. And while there’s no waist definition, it does have a spicy V-neck plunge that makes this more formal and flirtier. Not only is it fully lined, but it has pockets, too. (Perhaps it can store your powder sunscreen for quick touch-ups.)

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 10 (regular, tall and petite fits available)
  • Material: cotton, viscose

Best Wrap Summer Wedding Guest Dress

18. Reformation Winslow Dress

Reformation

This eco-friendly frock is one of our favorites for any basically summer event. The V-neckline is uber flattering for all chest sizes, as is the maxi length—which may need to be hemmed, per customer feedback—and the dress comes in more color options and prints as well. As for the fit, it’s fairly loose and relaxed at the bodice, sleeves and skirt, but it is designed to be fitted at the waist (and it comes with ties, so you can accentuate the wrap’s effect), so we suggest ordering based on your largest measurement to maximize comfort.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: viscose

Best Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress

19. o.p.t Fallen Dress

o.p.t

This lightweight frock is constructed of a non-stretch cotton fabric that has casual summer wedding written all over it. It features an empire waist with the daintiest of drawstrings that are cute as can be and entirely functional. Despite its lightweight feel and lax silhouette, all eyes will be glued to the sultry deep V-neck and voluminous sleeves. It’s a number you can wear again and again all season long

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: cotton

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress with Flutter Sleeves

20. BHLDN Leila Flutter-Sleeve Satin Gown

BHLDN

A fancy wedding calls for a long satin gown. Case in point: this stunner from Anthropologie’s BHLDN line. It comes in a ton of colors, including solid options, but we’re partial to this navy and pink floral motif that seems fitting for the summer season. If you don’t love to show off your arms, you’ll love that this gown has short flutter sleeves that offer some coverage. The streamlined cut coupled with the flowery print need no embellishment, but a simple necklace will look lovely if you want a little bling.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 26W (standard and plus fits available)
  • Material: polyester

Best Babydoll Summer Wedding Guest Dress

21. Bardot Lani Floral Mini Dress

Petal + Pup

The floral pattern on this dress coupled with the structured boning at the bust and the off-the shoulder puff sleeves make it look like a design straight from Bridgerton (just a smidge shorter). Plus, the color combination is absolutely adorable for spring. According to expert stylists at Shopbop, the bust fits snug and arm movement may be restricted, so if you like to dance with your hands in the air, then you might want to pass on this option. On the contrary, if you run hot, this fabric will be your new best friend, because it’s strikingly similar to linen and has a light, breezy quality about it.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 2 to 10
  • Material: ramie, cotton

Long-Sleeve MinBest Pleated Summer Wedding Guest Dressi

22. Abercrombie & Fitch Pleated Cutout Dress

Abercrombie & Fitch

Equal parts sexy and classic, this stunning maxi is begging to be taken for a twirl. The sultry V-neckline and cut-outs add some spice without exposing too much skin. If you have long legs, this dress may fit you more like a midi, so check the size chart if you’re looking for something floor length. One customer attests it’s especially ideal for women with big boobs. She says, “This dress is so flattering and comfortable. I got so many compliments on this dress as well. I’m a D size chest, but I still felt very supported in this dress and didn’t have too much cleavage showing.”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL (petite, regular and tall fits available)
  • Material: polyester

Best Bustier Summer Wedding Guest Dress

23. Lulus Floral Bustier Dress

Lulus

This tiered stunner is one of the best-selling wedding guest dresses at Lulus, with more than 100 rave reviews and multiple colors/patterns to choose from. “This dress is perfect for a wedding guest dress in spring!,” writes reviewer Katie P. “Fits perfectly and I love that the straps are adjustable to fit your bust. I got so many compliments on this dress, and it was so comfy to wear at the outdoor wedding I went to. 10/10 would recommend this dress to anyone!” It purportedly runs true to size, though some women with smaller busts found the top fit better if they opted for a strapless bra rather than going braless.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL
  • Material: polyester, spandex

Best Silk Summer Wedding Guest Dress

24. Veronica Beard Leia Dress

Veronica Beard

This silk stunner has an A-line silhouette so you can take comfort in the fact that this will be fitted yet flowy. And, yes, with that halter neckline, you can absolutely accommodate a strapless bra without fear of it peeping through on the side or at the back. It’s made from 100 percent silk that buyers say is thin, lightweight and high quality, plus they absolutely love how flowy and feminine it is. We can’t help but notice that its semi sheer handkerchief skirt is so on trend with this year’s sheer obsession.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 00 to 16
  • Material: silk

Customers’ Favorite Summer Wedding Guest Dress

25. Petal + Pup Rosetta Dress

Petal + Pup

This best-selling dress from Petal + Pup is made from a lightweight linen that’s breathable, soft and has just the right amount of stretch. The back of the bust is also smocked to better accommodate larger chests, but multiple reviews do say that this style runs large. So even shoppers with big boobs may find they need to go down one size for the best fit. “Absolutely love this dress,” says Petal + Pup customer Reagan P. “Bought it for a summer wedding and was worried about it being too sheer but it’s perfect. So breathable, too!”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: US 0 to 16
  • Material: cotton, linen

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress with Sleeves

26. Elliatt Astrid Dress

Elliatt

This gorgeous midi may have long sleeves, but the ruffled skirt and lightweight chiffon material both offer plenty of breathability to keep you cool and comfortable all night long. It is also bra-friendly with a mockneck bodice that’s refined and graceful. And the smocked waistband makes for such a comfy and stretchy fit that you’ll appreciate once you get to the dessert table. Just imagine how well the blouson sleeves and ruffled asymmetrical hem will look in photos.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 22W (regular and plus fits available)
  • Material: polyester

Best Abstract-Print Summer Wedding Guest Dress

27. Diarrablu Satu One-Shoulder Dress

Diarrablu

This breezy silhouette is so flattering and comfortable, but what really made us fall in love with this gown is the unique print. The dreamy print and ‘60s silhouette of this one-shoulder maxi has us dreaming of a trip to Palm Springs. All the brand’s designs are handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, and made using sustainable materials. Each item is also made to order to further help reduce waste. Some reviews suggest this dress runs a little large, but since it is designed for a flowing fit, we recommend using your bust measurements to determine your size. “This dress is absolutely stunning and exceeded my expectations” says reviewer Emma Joan. “The fabric drapes beautifully. I'm typically a size 28W and wasn't sure the 3X would fit, but it runs large and fits me well. So, I'd suggest sizing down if you're unsure.”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to 3XL
  • Material: polyester

Best Halter Summer Wedding Guest Dress

28. SNDYS x Revolve Halter Maxi Dress

SNDYS

This gorgeous maxi has a buttoned halter neck and a stunning open back that hits just low enough to be flattering without scandalizing grandma. And it even comes in a more vibrant bright pink shade, if that’s more your style. According to reviews, this frock varies in sizing, and while a regular bra will show in back, sticky cups should fit seamlessly underneath for extra coverage at the bust.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: rayon, viscose

Best Cotton Summer Wedding Guest Dress

29. Boden May Cotton Midi Tea Dress

Boden

Fabulous for a casual dress code, this tiered midi comes with feminine cap sleeves and smocking at the back of the waist for added comfort and support. This sweet fit-and-flare silhouette is fully lined, made from 100 percent cotton and even has functional pockets. Best of all? You can wear your typical bra with it, too, despite the V-neck. “[It’s an] absolutely beautiful, flattering and comfortable dress,” writes one Boden reviewer. “[The] weight of the fabric is perfect for warm days, and it's versatile and can be dressed up or [worn as the] perfect day dress.”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: US 2 to 22 (petite, regular and long fits available)
  • Material: cotton

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress with a Slit

30. Sachin & Babi Strapless Side-Slit Maxi Dress

Sachin & Babi

This stunning gown is the ultimate wedding guest dress, in our opinion, because it can be worn in any season and dressed up or down to fit tons of different dress codes. A strapless column dress is a classic silhouette, but when done in a floral motif, it suddenly feels fresh and new. A slit in the skirt makes it easier to walk and dance without feeling constricted, and there is enough coverage up top to sport this beauty with a strapless bra. But don’t just take our word for it. “This dress is so pretty and flattering,” raves one Anthropologie customer. “I am so in love! It fits like a glove and the print is unique, beautiful and special. This style is bra-friendly, allowing for comfort that lasts all night for your event or occasion. [and] the slit is at the perfect height, letting you feel sexy but still giving coverage where you need!”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 16
  • Material: polyester

Best Draped Summer Wedding Guest Dress

31. Norma Kamali Diana Dress

Norma Kamali

This best-selling stunner is wildly comfortable and looks good on essentially every body type. There are also tons or colors (and some alternative styles) to choose from, so even if this delicate sea green isn’t quite up your alley, we bet there’s a different shade you’ll fall head over heels for. The stretchy material, combined with ruching all along the bodice, makes this dress super comfy and gives you a lot of room to adjust the length or shift how it lays on your frame. It also has a bodysuit built in to help smooth your silhouette further and make it easier to go bra-free if you like. Reviewer Kelly writes, “I wear this dress so often, I looooove it! So comfortable, butter soft, can boogie all night in it. The inner bodysuit is a little odd at first, but it keeps the dress from riding up, so it's crucial.”

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XL
  • Material: polyester, spandex

Best Summer Wedding Guest Dress with a High-Low Hem

32. Hutch Angel High-Low Dress

Hutch

This gown has a beautiful V-neckline that lends a sexy vibe without being too overt, and its lavender and green botanical print really stole our hearts. Couple that with the ruffled high-low hem, and you’ve got yourself a stunner of a wedding guest dress that’ll look great in photos and twirling on the dance floor. The spaghetti straps are adjustable, and there’s a concealed zip closure alongside the dress.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: 0 to 12
  • Material: polyester, elastane

Best Slip Summer Wedding Guest Dress

33. Show Me Your Mumu Verona Cowl Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

This simple slip comes in a ton of beautiful colors, and we’re honestly tempted to pick up two (or maybe even three) to rotate throughout the season. Some reviewers suggest it runs a little big, but almost all rave about how flattering the draped silhouette looks on multiple body types. Mary W., a reviewer who bought and wore this dress as a bridesmaid in her friend’s wedding, says, “I have more of a curvy body type with a lower belly pooch, so I was worried about this dress accentuating my ‘problem areas.’ I was also worried the dress would look like a potato sack (like other slip style dresses do), but this is such a flattering style. Gorgeous dress, very flattering! I’m actually excited to wear it again.” Add a sparkly belt and statement earrings for a black-tie affair, or opt for more colorful, casual accessories for cocktail dress codes.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XXS to 3X
  • Material: polyester

Best Polka Dot Summer Wedding Guest Dress

34. Aqua Rhinestone Strap Satin Maxi Dress

Aqua

If an all-black dress feels too heavy for summer, try a navy-and-white polka-dot print instead, like this standout number from Aqua. “I blame it on Jennifer Lawrence,” says Stephanie Meraz, associate fashion commerce editor for PureWow. “After her breathtaking ensemble at the Oscars that now lives rent free in my mind, I have a newfound obsession with polka dots, and I’m loving how this one skims the body, yet has bit of definition at the waist. What made Lawrence’s look so memorable was her careful choice of accessories, so I’m loving how this Aqua number incorporates rhinestone straps that look especially beautiful at the back. In other words, I don’t have to worry about jewelry.” Opt for an evening clutch and strappy sandals for your own red carpet-worthy moment.

Fast Facts

  • Size Range: XS to XXL
  • Material: polyester

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Top Summer Wedding Guest Trends for 2024?

Maximalist Prints. A true standout from the other trend predictions on this list, vibrant colors and bold prints are expected to thrive this summer. But proceed with caution—the last thing you want is to draw too much attention to yourself and potentially upstage the happy couple. “If you’re on the hunt for a vibrantly-hued wedding guest dress this summer, I recommend opting for clementine orange,” advises Reese. “The saturated, juicy orange will give your look (and your mood!) a boost that’s perfect for celebrating the happy couple on the reception dance floor! The best part? This shade is flattering across a wide variety of skin tones.”
Solid Hues. “Solid colors are a major go-to this season, whether it’s a bright pink or a baby blue pastel,” says Loizou. If a maximalist print isn’t really your vibe, but you’re sick and tired of your same old LBD, opt for a single cheery hue instead. “Sticking to one color allows more room to have fun and get creative with accessories,” Loizou explains. To shake things up, try adding a contrasting clutch or some vibrant earrings.
Timeless Classics. “Last summer, we saw a 21 percent increase in requests for wedding-specific looks from clients,” says Reese. And that trend is only continuing as we head into summer ’24, “with requests for items that can be worn again and again for other weddings and more formal occasions.” Folks want dresses that aren’t necessarily tied to a hot trend, or even a specific season, preferring classic black or navy satin midis over Barbiecore-inspired pink cutouts. “Having a staple wedding guest dress that can be paired with items you already have in your rotation will ensure you always have an option that you feel comfortable reaching for again in the future.”
Florals and Small Blooms. Floral prints will always be a hot option for spring and summer, and according to Reese, those with a navy or black background, in addition to smaller scale blooms, are the way to go in 2024. “Small floral patterns are more neutral than many expect,” she explains, “which adds to their versatility.” If you do want to go lighter, Loizou suggests sticking with those smaller scale florals and leaning into baby pink or summery shades of green. “Opt for scattered prints in light greens or pale pinks to add a romantic touch to your look.”

What Should You Avoid When Shopping for Wedding Guest Dress in 2024?

We’ll state the obvious first: Don’t wear white. This includes shades of ivory, cream and champagne hues, too. “Even certain pastels (like very light yellow and pink) can be colors to avoid if they pull too close to white in-person or in photographs,” advises Reese. “If you’re going for a patterned option, it’s also a safe bet to stay away from a dress with a white-based background as well.”

Lastly, Loizou stresses what we’re calling the Goldilocks rule. “Extravagant dresses, headpieces and trains are all a no-go, but you should also avoid being too casual,” she says. Stick with frocks that hit right in the middle like satin midis, one-shoulder styles, jewel and earth tones, etc.

Where to Buy Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

There are obviously tons of places to pick up wedding guest dresses online, and while we love having a bounty of options, it can start to feel overwhelming incredibly quickly. The best place to start is by scrolling through our top picks above, all of which were cherry-picked by PureWow’s Fashion Editor, Abby Hepworth, and Shopping Editor, Stephanie Meraz, with special attention paid to those pieces with breathable silhouettes, lightweight materials and summer-ready colors and prints that won’t upstage the happy couple. That said, if you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, we suggest checking out Anthropologie for dresses that feel incredibly special with a range of price points, ASOS and Amazon for more affordable styles to fit any budget or Nordstrom for classic silhouettes you can wear for years to come.


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Associate Fashion Commerce Editor

Stephanie is a natural savant in the fashion, beauty, and dating & relationships beats. She graduated with a bachelor of arts at the University of San Diego, where she majored...

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Editor

Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on...

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.