As wedding season ramps up, it’s time for guests to start looking for that perfect dress. Whether you’re attending a casual, semi-formal, outdoor or black-tie-optional celebration, we have 16 style suggestions to ensure you’re dressed both appropriately and fashionably. Plus, we’re offering up a few tips and tricks on what you and your date should be wearing for every dress code. Get ready to toast some lovebirds and look great while you’re at it. Here are 16 wedding guest dresses for every dress code!
CASUAL
Casual attire varies greatly and depends on the time and location of the wedding, but a “less dressy” cocktail dress or sundress is your best bet. If you’re not a heels girl, this is your type of wedding because flats and sandals are totally appropriate.
SB TIP: At the most formal casual wedding, men should wear a button-down with relaxed pants and a sports coat. At the least formal, men can wear a polo and even shorts. Either way, footwear is much less restricted so men can wear a pair of comfortable, classy boat shoes.
For a wedding with a casual dress code, a sundress is your best choice, and with temperatures rising, it’s the perfect time to don something vibrant and colorful. This Felicity and Coco tee-shirt dress is $88, Madewell striped floral wrap dress is $150, the playful polka dot midi dress is $128, and the crepe ruffled sundress is $89.40 Images: Nordstrom/Madewell
SEMI-FORMAL
For semi-formal dress code, think somewhere in between casual and black tie optional. Attire is fairly dressy, so opt for a cocktail dress that is conservative enough to remain respectful at a traditional wedding, yet light enough to keep you comfortable throughout the night. Women have a lot of flexibility with this dress code, so wear whatever color suits you best, and pair it with some sparkling earrings and simple, strappy heels for a classic look.
SB TIP: Most times, men should wear a suit with a tie, although some semi-formal weddings do not require a tie. Take note of the location and time of the wedding to decipher whether or not a tie is a must.
For a semi-formal wedding, opt for something a bit dressier while keeping the theme of the wedding in mind. Take cues from the venue and invitation to get a feel for how formal the wedding will be, and dress accordingly. All of these options are versatile enough to be worn to almost any semi-formal wedding and will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the night. This Adelyn Rae pink cocktail dress is $73.20, H&M red wrap dress is $29.99, the light blue lace dress is $129, and the navy ruffled dress is $158. Images: Nordstrom/H&M
OUTDOOR
An outdoor wedding, especially in the hot, humid summer months, calls for something light, breezy and a touch more casual. Go for something colorful and easy-to-style with wedges or strappy heeled sandals. Remember that most outdoor weddings occur around sunset, so plan accordingly, and bring sunglasses and a shawl or wrap for later in the evening depending on the weather.
SB TIP: Men should follow the same rules. Wear a suit or blazer in lighter colors and fabrics. It’s always better to arrive overdressed than underdressed, so bring the blazer and remove it if necessary. A simple white button up made from a light fabric paired with slacks is just right for an outdoor soirée.
At some point in this wedding season, you’re bound to attend an outdoor wedding. Or maybe you’re headed to a tropical destination wedding. Either way, these options are light, breezy and reflect spring and summer’s bright and playful vibes. This Eliza J blue dress is $128, J.Crew strapless yellow dress is $168, the floral wrap dress is $158, and the red off-the-shoulder dress is $54.99. Images: Nordstrom/Anthropologie
BLACK TIE OPTIONAL
Black tie optional is, most likely, the most formal wedding you’ll attend this season. Women should go for a timeless dress in a tea-length or floor-length style, although a chic cocktail dress will also work. Darker shades, including black, navy, wine and emerald, are the perfect fit for this dress code as they elevate the look. If you’re struggling to find a dress that feels fancy enough, consider going for a simple LBD and glamming it up with some standout accessories and shoes.
SB TIP: Men should wear a dark suit (tuxedos not necessary!) with a conservative tie instead of a bow tie.
Are you attending a black-tie-optional wedding this season? This type of wedding is often the most difficult to dress for, but don’t stress! We’ve got suggestions. Go for something darker, like these black, navy and wine options. Again, take cues from the invitation and venue to decipher exactly how dressed up guests will be. This Maggy London black dress with mesh is $148, Dress The Population navy one-shoulder dress is $254, the wine-colored wrap dress is $250, and the Bardot off-the-shoulder dress is $71.40. Images: Nordstrom/Anthropologie
Enjoy wedding season!
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