Finding a wedding guest dress you feel comfortable and look great in is no small feat. Add in the complexities of dressing for summer — hello, wrinkly fabrics and visible sweat marks — and you’ve got a major shopping project on your hands. The good news? Even if your calendar is already chock-full of save-the-dates through September, you don’t have to waste your weekend braving the fluorescent-lit dressing rooms at your local mall to find the perfect summer wedding guest dress.
Whether you’re shopping for a stylish plus-size cocktail dress for your cousin’s formal wedding, a trendy dress that won’t break the bank for your BFF’s casual backyard affair, or a slip dress that’s versatile enough for any wedding dress code, we’ve got you covered.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up the 24 best summer dresses on the market for everything from beach to black-tie weddings, spanning a wide range of sizes, styles, and price points. All you have left to do is pick out that perfect mani color, strap on your trusty pair of dancing shoes, and raise your glass to the happy couple.
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
Dress to impress for black-tie weddings. The formal dress code calls for cascading and column gowns in satin, silk, tulle, and lace fabrics. Feel free to dive into your red carpet dreams of rich gem tones, or opt for lighter, pastel-hued shades. No matter your vibe, there’s a range of summer wedding guest dresses perfect for your upcoming formal affairs.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Twila Dress, $, available at
Mango Asymmetrical Bow Neck Dress
Black-tie attire doesn’t necessarily require black dresses, so don’t be afraid to step out in a vibrant color, like an on-trend citron zest gown.
Shop Mango
Mango Asymmetrical Bow Neck Dress, $, available at
Eloquii Strappy Paillette Column Dress
Summer nights call for shimmering dresses. Go subtle with dainty sparkles or make a statement with large sequins, as seen here.
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Strappy Paillette Column Dress, $, available at
Skims Summer Mesh Deep Plunge Long Dress
Yes, Skims has wedding guest dress options, like this black maxi dress with a halter neckline that can be adjusted for different party looks.
Shop Skims
Skims Summer Mesh Deep Plunge Long Dress, $, available at
Staud Cadence Dress
An ombre print is another easy way to implement color without going for an out-of-the-box pattern.
Shop Staud
Staud Ombre Cadence Dress, $, available at
Lulus Glitter Sleeveless Tulle Maxi Dress
According to our shopping data, this dress is a reader-favorite wedding guest style, so take their lead and glimmer in it at your next formal wedding.
Shop Lulus
Lulus Glitter Sleeveless Tulle Maxi Dress, $, available at
Cocktail Wedding Guest Dresses
Get ready to dance all night long, cool drink in hand, while wearing a sleek, tried-and-true cocktail dress. Pick a midi-length style with eye-catching details, like a one-shoulder neckline, textured overlay, or side cutouts. Or opt for a maxi dress with elevated bustier-style tops or thigh-high slits.
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress, $, available at
Free People Freya Maxi Dress
Yes, cocktail dresses can be floor-length, and our eyes are on this silky, tiered Free People dress.
Shop Free People
Free People Freya Maxi Dress, $, available at
Norma Kamali x Revolve Diana Gown
This particular cocktail dress has been an R29 reader-favorite style for a while, and we understand why. The ruched fabric, one-shoulder neckline, asymmetric hemline, and sweet periwinkle hue make a winning summer dress formula.
Shop Revolve
Norma Kamali x Revolve Diana Gown, $, available at
PrettyLittleThing Plus Underwire Draped Midi Dress
Yet another reader-approved style, this sleek plus-size ‘fit would make for an excellent wedding cocktail dress.
Shop PrettyLittleThing
PrettyLittleThing Plus Underwire Draped Midi Dress, $, available at
Petal & Pup Vienna Strapless Midi Dress
Look like a literal summer rose in this frilly and dainty berry-pink strapless dress.
Shop Petal & Pup
Petal & Pup Vienna Strapless Midi Dress, $, available at
Pari Passu Floral Long Sleeve Poplin Shirtdress
If your upcoming cocktail-attire wedding is being held during the daytime, consider opting for an elevated shirt dress in a neutral floral print.
Shop Nordstrom
pari passu Floral Long Sleeve Poplin Shirtdress, $, available at
Casual Wedding Guest Dresses
The styling opportunities are endless when it comes to a casual wedding. You can opt for a mini, midi, or maxi dress in a simple one-tone shade with subtle touches, or you can choose a cheerful pattern. The perk with these wedding guest dress designs is that you can actually wear them to plenty of other events, too.
Shop Anthropologie
Anthropologie The Katerina Button-Front Dress, $, available at
L’Agence Jodie Silk Slip Dress
A slip dress can easily be dressed up or down, so it’s one of the most versatile wedding guest dress styles. But for more casual affairs, you can pick playful prints, like florals and butterflies.
Shop L’Agence
L’Agence Jodie Silk Slip Dress, $, available at
Banana Republic Cici Poplin Mini Dress
A backyard wedding calls for a mini dress, and we’re all about this purple pleated style.
Shop Banana Republic
Banana Republic Cici Poplin Mini Dress, $, available at
Massimo Dutti Linen Blend Halter Dress
Casual summer parties also call for breezy linen dresses. You’ll feel cool and comfortable while looking chic in this number.
Shop Zara
Massimo Dutti Linen Blend Halter Dress, $, available at
Quince 100% Washable Silk Slip Dress
We can’t help but recommend this Quince bestseller because of its effortlessly elegant silhouette and (thankfully) washable material.
Shop Quince
Quince 100% Washable Silk Slip Dress, $, available at
Madewell Empire-Waist Tiered Maxi Dress in Stripe
And depending on just how casual a wedding is, you can get away with pops of white. A pattern, like a subtle strip, is a great option.
Shop Madewell
Madewell Empire-Waist Tiered Maxi Dress in Stripe, $, available at
Beach Wedding Guest Dresses
Embrace your whimsical side for summer beach weddings. Slide into sandals, espadrilles, or wedges and feel airy and cool in a vibrant-colored or tropical-patterned frock, especially for destination weddings. Lightweight maxis or midis with a flowing skirt not only look dramatic in the summer breeze, but they can also protect you from — ahem — wardrobe malfunctions.
Shop Rent The Runway
Rent The Runway Emmett Pleated Gown, $, available at
LoveShackFancy Suniva Silk Charmeuse Slip Dress
Swish along the seaside in a drapey silk slip dress that doesn’t cling too tight to the body, like this LoveShackFancy style in the brand’s signature florals.
Shop LoveShackFancy
LoveShackFancy Suniva Silk Charmeuse Slip Dress, $, available at
Farm Rio Fresh Macaws Midi Dress
Whether the ceremony takes place in Cape Code or Hawaii, don’t be afraid to go bold in a patterned dress for seaside nuptials.
Shop Farm Rio
Farm Rio Fresh Macaws Midi Dress, $, available at
H&M Ramie Bandeau Dress
While H&M’s Studio Resort collection is nearly sold out, the Summer 2024 collection is filled with elegant, airy dresses to choose from. This bandeau style with a dramatic bow-tied back has caught our eye.
Shop H&M
H&M Ramie Bandeau Dress, $, available at
Show Me Your Mumu Stella Smocked Dress
While airy, voluminous dresses are prime for beach weddings, smocked bodycon dresses are equally summer-y, especially when they’re worn in cheery colors.
Shop Show Me Your Mumu
Show Me Your Mumu Stella Smocked Dress, $, available at
Sézane Aphrodite Dress
Likewise, a fitted summer knit dress is a great option. Look out for details like plunging necklines and frilly sleeves for a whimsical touch.
Shop Sézane
Sézane Summer Aphrodite Dress, $, available at
Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
Dress to impress for black-tie weddings. The formal affair calls for cascading gowns in satin, tulle, and silk fabrics. Feel free to dive into your red carpet dreams of rich gem tones, or opt for lighter, pastel-hued shades. No matter your vibe, there’s a range of summer wedding guest dresses perfect for your upcoming formal affairs.
Shop Lulus
Lulus Spellbinding Beauty Navy Glitter Sleeveless Tulle Maxi, $, available at
BCBG Max Azaria Kiana One Shoulder Gown
This elegant blue gown not only boasts a showstopping color, but also its side cutout gives some unexpected ooh la la vibes.
Shop BCBG MAX AZARIA
BCBG MAX AZARIA Kiana One Shoulder Gown, $, available at
Asos Edition Satin Off-the-Shoulder Drape Wrap Maxi Dress
This pinkish taupe hue is the perfect modern neutral. It’ll look great with both demure and over-the-top accessories.
Shop Asos
ASOS EDITION Satin Off-the-Shoulder Drape Wrap Maxi Dress, $, available at
Birdy Grey Mia Convertible Satin Dress
Two dresses for the price of one, this terracotta number from Birdy Grey can be worn on the shoulder or off.
Shop Birdy Grey
Birdy Grey Mia Convertible Dress Curve, $, available at
L’Idée Renaissance Sleeveless Pleated Gown
Elegant with a hint of ’70s style, this emerald-hued number gives serious Studio 54 vibes.
Shop Saks Fifth Avenue
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L’IDEE Renaissance Sleeveless Pleated Gown, $, available at
Reformation Frankie Silk Dress Es
Available in two patterns and this stunning solid blue hue — in sizes 14 to 24 — this Reformation dress is bound to turn heads at any occasion.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Frankie Silk Dress Es, $, available at
Cocktail Wedding Guest Dresses
Get ready to dance all night long, cool drink in hand, while wearing a sleek cocktail dress. Pick a midi-length style with eye-catching details, like a one-shoulder neckline, puffy sleeves, or a frilly skirt for a bit more summer pizzazz. Cocktail dresses are tried-and-true and will have you looking perfectly on theme no matter what.
Shop Nordstrom
ELLIATT Cassini One-Shoulder Dress, $, available at
& Other Stories Babydoll Tied Sleeve Detail Dress
Hot weather doesn’t stand a chance against this flowy number with its seriously on-trend puff sleeves.
Shop & Other Stories
& Other Stories Babydoll Tied Sleeve Detail Dress, $, available at
Norma Kamali x Revolve Diana Gown
With stylish ruching and a dramatic one-shoulder design, this Norma Kamali x Revolve gown will have all eyes on you.
Shop Revolve
Norma Kamali x Revolve Diana Gown, $, available at
Embellished Bandeau Column Midi Dress
Just a hint of sparkle at the top of this Karen Millen gown means you can leave those oversized accessories at home.
Shop Karen Millen
Karen Millen Embellished Bandeau Column Midi Dress, $, available at
Eloquii Tiered Puff Sleeve Dress
Light, flowy, and perfectly sunny, this Eloquii dress just screams “summer.”
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Tiered Puff Sleeve Dress, $, available at
River Island Lime Green Fringe Mini Bodycon Dress
Dramatic fringe and a bright color are sure to make this River Island number a summer staple.
Shop River Island
River Island Lime Green Fringe Mini Bodycon Dress, $, available at
Casual Wedding Guest Dresses
The styling opportunities are endless when it comes to a casual wedding. You can opt for a mini, midi, or maxi dress in a simple one-tone shade with subtle touches, or you can choose a cheerful pattern. The perk with these wedding guest dress designs is that you can actually wear them to plenty of other events, too.
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Lace-Up Back Slip Midi Dress, $, available at
UO Theodora Poplin Mini Dress
Comfy and bright, this popular Urban Outfitters dress looks just as good with a denim jacket as it does on its own.
Shop Urban Outfitters
Urban Outffiters Theodora Poplin Mini Dress, $, available at
BTFBM Ruffle Cap Sleeve Belted Maxi Dress
At only $45.99, this BTFBM number is as elegant as it is budget-friendly.
Shop Amazon
BTFBM Ruffle Cap Sleeve Belted Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon
Saloni Neelam Dress
This colorful dress has some unexpected and stylish details, like cutouts on the waist and puff sleeves.
Shop Shopbop
Saloni Neelam Dress, $, available at
Love by Design Athen Plunging V-Neck Maxi Dress
Live your Angelina Jolie moment with this v-neck dress that has a dramatic slit.
Shop Nordstrom Rack
Love by Design Athen Plunging V-Neck Maxi Dress, $, available at
Madewell Ruffled One-Shoulder Midi Dress
This midi dress has stylish and unexpected details, like a belted waist and a ruffle on one shoulder.
Shop Madewell
Madewell Ruffled One-Shoulder Midi Dress, $, available at
HBEYYTO V Neck Swiss Dot Sundress
A Swiss-dot sundress can go from a park picnic to a casual wedding with little more than a change of accessories.
Shop Amazon
HBEYYTO V Neck Swiss Dot Sundress, $, available at Amazon
Beach Wedding Guest Dresses
Embrace your whimsical side for summer beach weddings. Slide into sandals, wedges, or espadrilles and feel airy and cool in a tropical-colored frock. Lightweight maxis or midis with a flowing skirt not only look dramatic in the summer breeze, but they can also protect you from — ahem — wardrobe malfunctions.
Shop Farm Rio
Farm Rio Yellow Sleeveless Maxi Dress, $, available at
Ghost London Grace Dark Green Satin Midi Dress
Silky, light, and fluttery, this Ghost London dress has “summer” written all over it.
Shop Ghost London
Ghost London Grace Dark Green Satin Midi Dress, $, available at
Anthropologie The Lorelei Ruched-Bodice Midi Dress
Floral details and spaghetti straps make this Anthropologie midi dress the perfect beach wedding look.
Shop Anthropologie
Anthropologie The Lorelei Ruched-Bodice Midi Dress, $, available at
Free People On My Level Maxi Dress
The hottest days don’t stand a chance against this flowy number from Free People.
Shop Free People
Free People On My Level Maxi Dress, $, available at
Pinup Fashion Off The Shoulder Maxi Dress with Pockets
The only thing better than a comfy maxi dress? One with pockets, of course.
Shop Amazon
Pinup Fashion Off The Shoulder Maxi Dress with Pockets, $, available at Amazon
SheBird The Emma Satin Dress With Built-In Bra
No patience for a bra in hot weather? No problem! This one from SheBird has one built right in.
Shop SheBird
Shebird The Emma Satin Dress with Built-in Bra, $, available at
Staud Ombré Floral Tie-Strap Gown
Embrace your inner fairy princess with this stunning ombré number with comfy adjustable tie straps.
Shop Saks Fifth Avenue
Staud Ombré Floral Tie-Strap Gown, $, available at
Birdy Grey Shiny Satin Mia Convertible Dress
Shop Birdy Grey
Birdy Grey Shiny Satin Mia Convertible Dress, $, available at
Bloomchic Abstract Textured Shirred Pocket Dress
Shop Bloomchic
Bloomchic Abstract Textured Shirred Pocket Dress, $, available at
PQ Swim Gelato Shea Long Dress
Shop PQ Swim
PQ Swim Gelato Shea Long Dress, $, available at
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