Wedding season is here - so I've found the best wedding guest dresses available right now
Prepare to be on the best-dressed guest list
Summer is here which means so is wedding season, making now the perfect time to shop for some stylish wedding guest dresses. Luckily there are plenty of joyful dresses up to the job this season, from sophisticated floral dresses to vibrant coloured and minimalist styles.
While winter wedding dress codes can feel restrictive, for spring and summer, you can throw the rule book out of the window.
The location will dictate your choice somewhat. For example, heat is a big factor for destination weddings, so you'll want to prioritise styles that will keep you cool. I'm personally a big fan of silk slip dresses or oversized linen or crepe styles, which Australian fashion brands particularly excel at.
For church weddings, especially in the UK, you'll want to cover up a little bit more, but you can keep things interesting by choosing a dress with voluminous shoulders or statement sleeves. I also love the cut-out trend for something subtly sexy and chic. Opt for a design that has a keyhole detail at the waist - Christopher Esber and Aje are great for this.
It's safe to say prints will never go out of fashion, especially where weddings are concerned, whether you're into stripes, tropical prints or polka dots. If you aren't keen but still want to make a statement, then bright hues are also a massive lure this season, from hot pinks to acid greens.
Black tie weddings call for a midi or maxi-length dress for maximum elegance. If you're on a budget, head to sustainable brands like Omnes or Nobody's Child, or if you're looking to invest in a designer brand Taller Marmo is having a moment right now, as is Tove. Self Portrait is also a failsafe go-to.
We've scoured the web to bring you the very best wedding guest dresses we could find, taking into account varying budgets and price points. Keep scrolling to shop the best wedding guest dresses for spring and summer.
Shop the best wedding guest dresses:
Short sleeve wedding guest dresses:
Spanish brand Maksu holds simple yet elevated ready-to-wear pieces that are effortlessly comfortable and stylish. Made from the utmost high quality, you can't go wrong with any of their chic pieces.
Made from soft linen, this dress will look great whether you're heading to a local or destination wedding.
As a brand, Omnes is known for its sustainable practices. This dress in particular is made from recycled satin, which has been certified by the Global Recycle Standard.
Made from cotton poplin, the Nova dress features a beautiful square neck with pleated detailing that contrasts with its billowing short sleeves. Perfect for any daytime wedding.
Floral wedding guest dresses:
With a unique ruffled silhouette and muted colourway, this floral-printed dress is timeless enough to last through wedding seasons for years to come.
This floral dress is perfect for day weddings. With a classic cut and a flattering open back, it can be worn for years to come.
This silhouette is definitely for those that want a unique dress with an added touch of classic floral wedding guest motifs.
Long sleeves wedding guest dresses:
Réalisation Par's dresses are a favourite amongst the fashion set. This chic, slightly sheer dress will certainly be one of the most comfortable wedding guest dresses you'll ever wear.
For those looking for a show-stopping option, opt for this Mango option with a chic open back for some extra glamour.
This classic gown with a mid-leg slit is the perfect elegant choice that would look incredible paired with sleek black heels.
Featuring a sophisticated floral print, pair this dress with red accessories to accentuate the rose pattern.
Mini wedding guest dresses:
Staud is a great high-street brand for modern yet classic dress styles. This is just one example of the many iterations they have online.
With an intricate lace pattern and pretty pink tone, this dress is sure to wow for any occasion.
Sequins are always a great way to elevate a classic mini dress, as proven by Ganni in this classic, sophisticated style.
This floral mini dress works perfectly for a daytime wedding, just add a sleek pair of sandal heels and you're good to go.
Sleeveless wedding guest dresses:
Now this is what we call a standout dress. The dark pink hue will make a statement, while the gold-tone cut-out ring adds an extra touch.
The sister-owned brand has a strong reputation for reimagining classic vintage silhouettes and this backless maxi dress is no different. Made of 100% silk and coming in a buttery rich colour, we simply cannot fault it.
Beloved by editors and influencers alike, Peppermayo is certainly a classic brand when it comes to occasionwear. This drop-waist dress can easily be dressed up with metallic accessories for the perfect wedding guest dress.
This polka dot ruched dress is a favourite amongst the MC office. Featuring a flattering silhouette and detachable straps for extra comfort.
Destination wedding guest dresses:
Mirae is the ultimate cool-girl brand for those looking for quintessential Parisian party brand. This super fun dress will keep you chic and breezy all throughout your occasion regardless of the destination.
This Farm Rio raffia dress is the perfect destination wedding dress. Pair with colourful lace up heels and a mini clutch for a total showstopping look.
This dress is the dress to galavant around St. Tropez with sunnies and matching heeled sandals for the classic destination wedding.
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Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.
She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.
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