76 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses For Any Age Or Budget
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Ah, summer! The time of year that many parts of the country are easing into warm temperatures, longer sunny days, and cool evenings. For these reasons, it’s no wonder that many choose to have their wedding during the summer months.
If you have been invited to a summer wedding, you are probably already scouring your favorite online boutiques and retailers in search of the perfect summer wedding guest dress. But, where do you begin? With so many choices for wedding guest dresses to choose from (Black tie? Cocktail? Formal? Beach? Boho?), we’ve done the hard work for you. These are a few of our favorite picks for summer wedding guest dresses—no matter what type of wedding it is!
What Type of Wedding Are You Attending?
When deciding on your wedding outfits, the first place to begin the dress search is to identify the type of summer wedding that it will be. While there are no hard and fast rules to the type of wedding you are attending (and the couple may specify that there is no dress code!), you can often find the answer to this question on the invitation itself. Weddings will vary in their level of formality, but a good rule of thumb is to always be overdressed, rather than underdressed. And, above all else, never forget the cardinal rule: never match the colors of the wedding.
Black Tie Wedding
Easily the most formal option, wedding guest dresses to a black tie event should be floor length. This often includes gowns, but elegant, long cocktail dresses can also be acceptable. Keep jewelry to a minimum—nothing loud or flashy—and the accessories understated. While these weddings are formal affairs, it is important when selecting a black tie wedding guest dress that your dress is not too formal. What does that mean? Simply put: Will you upstage the bride? If the answer is yes—or even a maybe—then the dress is best left on the hanger for another occasion.
Evening wedding
Most weddings that you will attend will fall into this category. Evening weddings (unless otherwise specified) are most often fancy affairs, although less formal than black tie weddings. This occasion calls for wedding outfits that are fun and festive, ranging from cocktail dresses to elegant attire. Cocktail dresses for wedding guests should be an appropriate length and, while a little sparkle is welcomed, avoid too much.
Afternoon Wedding
Often a much more casual setting than its evening counterpart, an afternoon wedding—especially in the summer—calls for lighter fabrics, colors, or relaxed fits. Dresses to wear to this style of wedding can be muted florals, light patterns, or pastel colors. If you are attending a beach wedding, you might opt for a wedding guest dress with a boho flair (such as lace or flowing layers) or a maxi dress that covers comfortable flat sandals.
Not Sure What Style of Wedding You Will Be Attending?
Every bride and groom will have a different style for their wedding, so there is only one tried and true answer: Ask! If you are not sure what to wear, simply ask the couple about the style of wedding or the colors of the wedding party. This takes out any unnecessary stress or embarrassment on the wedding day!
Price Reference (average price):
$ | Under $50
$$ | $50-100
$$$ | $100-$200
$$$$ | $200+
The Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses (That Are Affordable, Too!)
Image: Lulus
Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
A midi wedding guest dress is always a versatile option to wear not just to an evening wedding, but for a date night or cocktail party.
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Mermaid Ruffle Dress
Whoinshop
Price: $$
This elegant ruffled dress is the perfect length to be worn to a variety of weddings and still be a little bit flirty and a lot fun!
Image: Nordstrom Rack
Floral Chiffon Sheath Dress
Maggy London
Price: $$
Another midi pick on this list, this dress defines summertime! The high neckline is flattering to your shoulders and the asymmetrical hem lets you show off your favorite heels. Bonus: It’s under $100.
Image: Amazon
Off The Shoulder Tiered Dress
ETCYY
Price: $
We love a tiered dress, and this is the perfect option for a beach wedding when worn with sandals or an afternoon wedding with heels or wedges!
Image: ASTR The Label
Emese Floral Maxi Dress
ASTR The Label
Price: $$$
Floral patterns are a must if you are a wedding guest looking for a summer dress. This romantic floral sleeve dress also features a longer length for a bit of coverage and would fit right in for an afternoon wedding or beach celebration!
Image: Nordstrom
Mockneck Satin Maxi Dress
Petal & Pup
Price: $$
We could easily see this satin dress being perfect for a bridesmaid, not just a dress for a wedding guest. The deep teal is the perfect shade for the warm summer months, and the mockneck is demure and appropriate for a variety of wedding styles. Plus, it’s under $100!
Image: Lulus
Blue Backless Lace Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
This simple yet sexy dress is covered in lace, making it anything but a boring wedding outfit.
Image: Amazon
Ruffled & Tiered Dress
PrettyGarden
Price: $
This lilac purple is one of the most popular colors of the year and we think it fits perfectly with this feminine, ruffled dress.
Image: Amazon
Lantern Sleeve Bow Dress
Dokotoo
Price: $
This short dress has all the romantic details: lantern sleeves, square neckline, and a beautiful bow tie on the back of the dress. This will be one that you reach for again and again.
Image: Amazon
Square Neck Split Midi Dress
T1FE 1SFE
Price: $
A wedding guest dress? From Amazon? Yes! There are so many affordable options under $50 to be found if you know where to look. This versatile and classic dress is an excellent option if you want to show just a bit of skin during the hot summer nights!
Image: Nordstrom
Cyprus Dress
Petal & Pup
Price: $$
If you’re a guest at a summer wedding set in the evening, this silky dress hugs in all the right places, with just enough shimmer to reflect the patio lights right back at you. With a variety of colors, you can choose the style that is right for you, but we love this warm gold tone!
Image: Amazon
Halter Neck Sleeveless Maxi Dress
PrettyGarden
Price: $
The summer is the time to play around with color. This bright orange is fun, festive, and the maxi tiered skirt length is perfect to wear with a variety of shoes—heels or flats, you choose! (Beach wedding? Go barefoot!)
Image: Dillard’s
Illusion Yoke Crepe Cocktail Dress
Maggy London
Price: $$$
There’s something about this dress that gives us vintage ‘50s vibes in the very best way! The mesh design and sweetheart neckline would pair exquisitely with your favorite bright red lipstick!
Image: Amazon
Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This floral wrap dress is a timeless and effortlessly stylish choice for any occasion. The wrap-around design complements any body type, making it a versatile choice, and the floral pattern add as touch of femininity and grace to the dress.
Image: Nordstrom
Lace Spaghetti Strap Midi Dress
Endless Rose
Price: $$
The lace accent on the dress, along with the flowing skirt, adds just the right details to a perfect summer dress.
Image: Amazon
Swiss Dot Belted Dress
BTFBM
Price: $$
While the bright, bold colors often take the spotlight as wedding guest dresses—especially during the summer—this earthy color is a gorgeous addition to your wardrobe that can be worn to a variety of other occasions, perfect for anyone on a budget and wanting to make the most of their closet!
Image: Macy’s
Pleated V Neck Maxi Dress
Pinkblush
Price: $$
We can’t leave our expecting mothers off the list! This comfortable, bump-friendly dress provides comfort and style on even the hottest of days.
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Corset Satin Dress
Alfred Sung
Price: $$$$
While many of the dresses on our list are for casual, cocktail, or evening weddings, it doesn’t mean that black tie wedding aren’t still the events of the summer! This dress is an appropriate length for the formal wedding dress code, but the floral pattern is an intricate touch that makes this summer dress extra special.
Image: Amazon
Off The Shoulder Mesh Bodycon Dress
LUXVEER
Price: $
This figure-hugging dress is perfect if you want to show off your curves. Pair it with an updo to show off your shoulders and neckline, too. (Not to mention, this dark red is ideal for fall weddings, too.)
Image: Macy’s
Ruffle Off The Shoulder Column Gown
After Six
Price: $$$$
The puff sleeves, combined with the strapless neckline, take this dress from simply another dress for a casual or afternoon event, and upgrade it for any occasion!
Image: Macy’s
Bow-Trimmed One-Shoulder Gown
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$
Simply an elegant option, this full-length gown will look great on anyone of any age. The rich, deep hue also allows you to play around with a variety of jewelry and shoes. too! Perfect for a black tie wedding.
Image: Lulus
Pink Cowl Back Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
If you’re looking for an elegant wedding guest dress, look no further than this gorgeous pink maxi dress. The lines are clean and simple, with a long hem that makes it a great choice for evening weddings. Bring a light jacket or shawl for cooler summer nights!
Image: Amazon
Tie Front Keyhole Floral Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
This watercolor-inspired dress combines a few of our favorite trends—fun florals and a tiny sliver of skin. Plus, it’s under $50!
Image: Nordstrom
Sleeveless Sequin Sheath Dress
Mac Duggal
Price: $$$$
Why not use the summer as a time to play with both color and sparkle? This shimmering, gold gown makes us think of a sparkling glass of champagne and is sure to be the talk of the party (in the very best way).
Image: Amazon
Dark Floral Boho Dress
Kirundo
Price: $
If you’re looking for pure versatility in your closet, this dark floral dress can fit right in at a summer wedding and still be worn throughout the fall and winter for a variety of cute outfits!
Image: Lulus
Square Neck Bubble Hem Mini Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
If you’re not looking for a long dress for the wedding that you are attending, why not try this short cocktail dress? The bubble skirt is fun and flirty, but still dressy enough for an evening or cocktail wedding.
Image: Nordstrom
One-Shoulder Midi Dress
Dress the Population
Price: $$$
This dress screams elegant. If you received an invitation for a black tie wedding (or black tie optional), this formal dress is exactly what you need. Plus, this little black dress will become a closet staple for big events and fancy dinners to come. (And we all need a go-to LBD!)
Image: Amazon
Vintage Floral Ruffled Dress
Belle Poque
Price: $
Need a casual wedding guest dress for an upcoming afternoon wedding? This sweet floral dress is flowy, with cascading ruffles for a feminine edge. The best part about this dress is that it can be dressed up or down, paired with a hat for a boho touch, or worn with sandals to a beach wedding. Even better, it would make a perfect brunch outfit for summer.
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Ruffle Sleeve Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
We love any affordable find that makes you say: “You found that on Amazon?!” Yes, we did! This ruched, asymmetrical dress is just the right amount of sexy, while still being a great option for a cocktail or evening wedding event. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors, all for under $50. We’ll take two!
Image: Anthropologie
Asymmetrical Floral Midi Dress
Yukiko Noritake x Anthropologie
Price: $$$$
This beautiful dress might be the epitome of beach wedding attire. It has everything that you could want—unique, bold patterns, thin straps, and a flowing skirt that lets you withstand the hot humid temps of summer. We can feel the sand between our toes already!
Image: Amazon
One Shoulder Boho Maxi Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This mod-inspired floral print is one of our favorite color combinations and a pairing worthy of a summer wedding. Not only is it incredibly affordable (another under $50 find!), but it comes in a variety of colors to suit your personality.
Image: Nordstrom
Halter Floral Chiffon Dress
Julia Jordan
Price: $$$
This belted floral dress is yet another bright, sunny floral for a summer wedding. Whether you are headed to an afternoon affair or cocktail evening, this fun print will be a fitting wedding guest dress.
Image: Amazon
Puff Sleeve Boho Floral Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
This ruffled midi length dress would look great at a summer wedding, but also just as fitting for a date night or summer afternoon adventure with the girls.
Image: Macy’s
Beaded Neck Mikado Midi Dress
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$
A simple design that is wonderfully classic, Adrianna Papell is a designer that is known for her beautiful, yet understated dresses. We love the high/low hem, with a modest neckline, perfect for showing off your favorite diamond earrings with an updo.
Image: Nordstrom
Empire Rosette Midi Dress
Mac Duggal
Price: $$$
Feeling like you want a little extra on your dress? The large shoulder ruffles certainly draw attention, while the fabric and fit are perfect for a fancy affair.
Image: Nordstrom
Cold Shoulder Glitter Gown
Alex Evenings
Price: $$$
Weddings are all about romance, and this dress gives plenty of it! We love the rich grey—another color that transitions well into fall and winter events.
Image: Reformation
Winslow Dress
Reformation
Price: $$$$
A sustainable brand on our list, this dress from Reformation is what “cottage core” dreams are made of. Reminiscent of Bridgerton, it’s a wrap dress that belongs in a summer garden. It could even be a great choice as a bridesmaid dress!
Image: Nordstrom
Vivienne Rib Cover-Up Dress
LSPACE
Price: $$$
Lilac is one of the most popular colors of the year, and it’s a perfect choice for a summer wedding guest dress. The square neckline and the side slit make us swoon!
Image: Amazon
Strapless Floral Midi Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
A beautiful dress that you can wear all season long, we are in love with the bold print and strapless fit. The ideal dress when the wedding is a close group of friends or far off destination.
Image: Abercrombie & Fitch
Giselle Sunburst Pleated Maxi Dress
Abercrombie & Fitch
Price: $
Yes—you read that right! Abercrombie has made a comeback in recent years with high quality denim and relaxed fashions. However, we’re most impressed with their line of affordable special occasion dresses.
Image: Nordstrom
Elisa Floral Sequin Embroidered Cocktail Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
There’s not many dresses on this list that are more intricate and beautifully delicate as this dress. This is the ideal dress if you have multiple summer weddings on your schedule—while spendy, this dress is perfect for the season.
Image: Macy’s
Hardware-Trim Sheath Dress
Donna Karan
Price: $$$
Another option that we love for its versatility, this sleeveless dress has a belt at the waist and a chic style that you’ll want to wear just about everywhere. A very classic, “old money” style.
Image: Lulus
Bloom With a View Two-Piece Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
While we wouldn’t normally suggest a crop top and skirt as a wedding guest dress choice, we also know that you know the bride and groom’s wedding style best. If they are having a laidback p-a-r-t-y at a tropical beach or a destination locale, this bright and colorful skirt and crop top combo should be in your packed bag. Sandals and brightly colored earrings make it even more fun and festive.
Image: Nordstrom
Tahani Embroidered Floral Flare Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
This A-line floral dress has a delicate lace design that is so fitting for just about any fancy event. Keep it handy in your closet for your next date night.
Image: Macy’s
Embroidered Sheath Dress
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$
There’s something about florals that we will never turn down, but this floral embroidery is romantic—just like a wedding should be!
Image: Nordstrom
Nicole Sweetheart Cocktail Dress
Dress the Population
Price: $$$
This is yet another formal summer dress that is absolutely striking. Simple, yet incredibly elegant, this midi length dress is ideal for an evening wedding or big soirée and can be worn for fancy events all year long.
Image: Lulus
Floral Tie-Strap Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
One thing that we always look for in summer wedding guest dresses is flowing fabric that keeps us cool in the bright sun, but doesn’t sacrifice style. This tie strap dress also has bustier-style seaming and a high slit that feels feminine, without being too revealing.
Image: Anthropologie
The Somerset Maxi Dress
Somerset Collection by Anthropologie
Price: $$$
This dress is best described as “elevated casual.” With so many different ways to style it, you can meet a fancy or relaxed dress code with ease.
Image: Nordstrom
Strapless Satin Gown
Alfred Sung
Price: $$$$
This is a great example of a classic dress that can transition with you throughout the seasons. A black satin works perfectly for a fall or winter wedding, and every formal event in between, too!
Image: Macy’s
Jacquard Off The Shoulder Dress
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$
Jacquard is another fabric that is having a moment in the spotlight. We think that it looks great as a dark, yet bold floral dress that provides shimmer without being overpowering.
Image: ASOS
Vesper Bengaline Mini Dress
ASOS
Price: $$
Want to make an impression? This bright pink mini dress is going to do just that.
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Lace Illusion Mesh Cocktail Dress
Aidan Mattox By Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$$
Stunning. Elegant. Classic. These are the adjectives to describe this chic wedding guest dress. Not only that, but this is a timeless design that is worth every penny.
Image: Amazon
Ruched High Neck Bodycon Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
Looking for an ultra-versatile dress that is also incredibly affordable? This deep teal dress is fitting for a more formal event (such as a wedding, of course!) but can be worn on repeat to work functions, date nights, or even dressed down with a cardigan and sneakers. The outfit ideas are endless!
Image: Amazon
Lace Long Sleeve Mermaid Dress
LALAGEN
Price: $$
You don’t often see long sleeve wedding guest dresses for summer, but this under $100 lace option might make you change your mind. If you are attending a wedding in the evening, the long sleeves will be perfect for cooler nights, especially if it is a late summer invitation. Even better, this color palette fits right in as a great fall or winter wedding guest dress as well!
Image: Nordstrom
One-Shoulder Crepe Trumpet Gown
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$$
Sometimes the simplest dress can also be the most stunning. Plus, we think this is another dress silhouette that can look incredible on anyone.
Image: Lulus
Burnout Floral Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
We love a soft pop of color for summer, and this deep V-neck maxi dress has it (or choose the dark wine color for a perfect fall wedding guest dress)! The burnout floral style is a unique twist on the summery florals that you often see, but low-cut silhouette is flattering on a wide range of body types!
Image: Amazon
Off The Shoulder Floral Maxi Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
Bare shoulders paired with a sweetheart neckline is a universally flattering design that is made even better by this sweet floral print. It comes in a variety of soft patterns or bold mod colors, too.
Image: Lulus
Won Your Heart Lace Tie-Strap Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
We absolutely love the lace of this high-low dress. With a peekaboo waist detail, this dress is a great option for a casual event that you can also wear all summer long.
Image: Macy’s
Matelassé Floral Jacquard Column Gown
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$
Have you ever wanted to look like you just stepped out of a Victorian novel or a famous painting? While bright and bold colors often rule the summer palette, the romantic and muted floral design of this dress is an absolute showstopper for a formal summer wedding (and spring, too!).
Image: Show Me Your Mumu
Lady Corset Dress
Show Me Your Mumu
Price: $$$
Another boutique that we absolutely adore, Show Me Your Mumu makes incredible clothing for a wide range of sizes. This bright floral dress comes in sizes ranging from XS-3X and a variety of colors and patterns that would make for an excellent inclusive bridesmaid dress, too!
Image: Nordstrom
Courtney Sequin Lace Cocktail Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
This dress is elegance wrapped up in one versatile package!
Image: Nordstrom
Ruffle Front Gown
Eliza J
Price: $$
This is another dress on our list that we think would be right at home as a bridesmaid dress, too. The tied waist and ruffle detailing make this dress unique, but we love the sleeveless fit for the summer months.
Image: Amazon
Strapless Illusion Embroidered Column Dress
Babyonline D.R.E.S.S.
Price: $$
Love the look of a strapless gown but hate the idea of tugging at fabric all night long? The top of this dress has a transparent mesh that is nearly invisible and create the illusion of a strapless fit without the discomfort.
Image: Quince
Washable Silk Slip Dress
Quince
Price: $$
Why yes we did say washable silk! Quince is one of our favorite clothing brands for affordable, sustainable clothing. This slip dress is another versatile option that can be dressed up for a casual or afternoon wedding or dressed down with sneakers and a cardigan.
Image: Nordstrom
Sequin Bodice Gown
Pisarro Nights
Price: $$$$
What can we say? We’re a sucker for gorgeous sparkle and chic silhouettes.
Image: Nordstrom
Lainey Body-Con Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$
Don’t keep that LBD in your closet until the cooler months come around! Summer is still the perfect time to pull out a black dress, especially when headed to a wedding on a summer evening. The longer length of this figure-hugging dress makes for the most flattering cut.
Image: Amazon
Off Shoulder High Low Dress
Sarin Mathews
Price: $
Affordable? Check. Versatile? Check? Perfect for summer? Double check. While this dress may be more casual than many on the rest of this list, that doesn’t mean that it can’t be right at home at a casual summer wedding.
Image: Amazon
Summer Knit Midi Dress
MIHOLL
Price: $
While this burnt orange dress fits the attire for a beach wedding, we think it could also be a great fit for transitioning into the fall weather, too!
Image: Macy’s
Jersey Off-the-Shoulder Gown
Lauren Ralph Lauren
Price: $$$
The perfect red dress to show off your neckline.
Image: Lulus
Black Iridescent Sequin Lace-Up Maxi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$$
This floral dress has a slimming cut that flatters a variety of body shapes, and the sequined floral design is intricate without being too busy or overpowering. We think that this would be a great option for an afternoon wedding that goes long into the evening!
Image: Amazon
Cape Sleeve Chiffon Gown
HEWEIGUI
Price: $$
While the mother of the bride isn’t technically a wedding guest, she’s shopping for a dress, too. If you’re sick of flipping through pages of frumpy MOTB dresses online…stop. This under $100 option has stunning cape sleeves with a classic silhouette that is both timeless and flattering. Plus, it comes in a vast array of colors and sizes from 0-28 Plus.
Image: Lulus
Sleeveless Tiered Midi Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
This tiered dress is absolute chic perfection with its wide straps and V-neckline. A dress long enough to be worn to a black tie event, this elegant wedding outfit is another that you will reach for in your closet long after summer is over.
Image: Nordstrom
Pailette Sequin Mock Neck Sheath Dress
Vince Camuto
Price: $$$
If you are looking for a classic wedding guest dress with a little extra pizzazz, this one sure makes an impression! If you know that you are going to a wedding that is going to be one big party, this dress will fit right in as you dance the night away.
Image: Macy’s
Olive Pleated Halter Dress
Pinkblush
Price: $$
Another option for our moms-to-be, this pleated dress is a great way to show off her bump…comfortably, that is.
Image: Amazon
Puff Sleeve Vintage Dress
Belle Poque
Price: $
Casual summer afternoon wedding? This vintage-inspired dress is relaxed enough for a laidback affair, but with the right pair of strappy sandals and summer accessories, this dress is ready for date night!
Image: Lulus
Enchanting Dream Print High-Low Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
While a LBD might be a staple in many wardrobes, we think there should always be room for a little color!
Don’t Forget The Accessories
Accessories for a summer wedding can be fun and fresh, such as statement earrings or gold hoops. As with all wedding outfits, the key to styling accessories is to accent the dress without overpowering it. If your dress has an interesting neckline, don’t clutter it with a large necklace. If you are planning to wear your hair in an updo, that would be the perfect time to have a pair of dramatic earrings. Regardless of what you choose, have fun with it and select a style that you can wear even after you take your dress off!
Shop Earrings
A drop earring or a simple diamond stud can be all the bling that you need.
Shop Bracelets
Keep the bracelets understated if you have a bright or beaded dress.
Shop Necklaces
Dainty drop necklaces or small diamonds are a great option to add a touch of sparkle without taking away from the dress.
Shop Hair Accessories
Hair accessories—such as these studded bobby pins and clips—can be an unexpected twist on standard accessories.
Don’t Neglect Your Feet
The shoes are often one of the most overlooked parts of your wedding guest outfit until it’s too late. When selecting your footwear, pay close attention to the wedding invitation. If you will be attending a beach wedding, flat, comfortable sandals will be your best bet. If you are attending an outdoor wedding, avoid wearing high, skinny heels as they will sink into the grass as you are walking to your seat.
If you plan to be dancing the night away, we all know how uncomfortable heels can be for long periods of time. To avoid holding your heels in your hands at the end of the night, consider shoes with a chunkier block heel or even a pair of embellished flats to change into when the dance floor begins to fill! Being prepared will help you make the most of your night, but still keep your outfit chic!
Sandals for a Beach Wedding
Choose lightweight, flat sandals or platforms that will allow you to walk freely and dust off the sand when you’re done!
Comfortable Heels
To keep dancing with your shoes on all night, try a lower shoe or one with a block heel to provide more support and comfort.
Elegant Flats
If heels aren’t your thing or you are wearing a dress that won’t show your feet, switch it up with a pair of elegant flats.
