
Finding the perfect dress to wear to a wedding can be a stressful experience. You want to look your best, feel confident, and respect the dress code without upstaging the bride. Luckily, there are many options available at a range of price points. Department stores like Macy's and Nordstrom offer a variety of styles, while online retailers such as Lulus, Reformation, and Amazon provide convenient shopping with a wide selection of dresses to choose from. For those on a budget, Rent the Runway offers an affordable way to look your best without breaking the bank. When choosing a dress, consider the season, location, and formality of the wedding, as well as any religious or cultural dress codes that may apply. With a little thought and research, you're sure to find the perfect dress that will make you feel confident and stylish on the big day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online retailers | Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Nuuly, ASOS, Mac Duggal, ELOQUII, Sachin & Babi, ASTR The Label, Saks Fifth Avenue, Rent The Runway, FARM Rio, Hello Molly, Showpo, LoveShack, Bloomchic, Baltic Born, Amazon |
| Department stores | Macy's, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, JCPenney |
| In-store retailers | City Chic |
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Department stores
Macy's
Macy's is a popular department store that offers a wide range of wedding guest dresses. Their selection varies by store, so it's recommended to visit their website or your local Macy's store to browse their latest offerings. Macy's is known for having a variety of brands and styles, and they often have sales, making it a budget-friendly option. One customer reported finding an Anne Klein dress for under $80 at her local Macy's.
Nordstrom
Nordstrom is another well-known department store that carries wedding guest dresses. They have a range of options, from formal to casual attire, and their pricing varies as well. Some customers have found Nordstrom to be a bit more hit-or-miss due to pricing and a focus on more formal options. However, they do carry popular brands like Reformation, which has a budget-friendly selection of dresses under $200.
Saks Fifth Avenue
Saks Fifth Avenue is a tried-and-true department store known for its designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. They offer a sophisticated collection of bridal attire, including sleek column gowns, wrap dresses, modern jumpsuits, and tasteful mini dresses. Saks is a great option for those looking for a more luxurious or designer option for their wedding guest dress.
Local Mall Department Stores
Don't underestimate the power of your local mall! While it may not be the most exciting option, your local mall's department store can be a convenient place to find a wedding guest dress. You may be able to find nice dresses, but the selection might vary, and it can be a bit of a treasure hunt. It's worth checking out if you're looking for convenience or are short on time.
Other Options
In addition to the above-mentioned department stores, there are also other options to consider, such as Kohl's, TJ Maxx, and Marshall's. These stores often have a variety of brands and styles at different price points, so you may be able to find a hidden gem. Additionally, stores like Anthropologie and Abercrombie & Fitch sometimes carry wedding guest dresses, depending on the location and size of the store.
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Online retailers
There are many online retailers offering dresses suitable for weddings. Department stores such as Nordstrom, Saks, and Macy's have a wide range of options, including clearance items. Macy's, in particular, has been recommended for its sales and variety of brands.
For trendy yet affordable dresses, ASOS is a good option, with filters for different styles, necklines, and lengths, as well as a decent selection of maternity, petite, and plus-size dresses. Lulus is another recommended site for affordable, trendy dresses, with some users reporting that they have found "winners" there. For a more extensive selection of plus-size dresses, Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, and Marshall's are also good options.
If you are looking for a more high-end dress, REVOLVE carries designer brands, including Amanda Uprichard, Norma Kamali, and For Love & Lemons. Similarly, Farfetch offers a range of luxe gowns and accessories, as well as vintage pre-owned items. Amazon is another online retailer with a wide selection of dresses, including wedding dresses, and offers fast shipping.
For those looking for a more sustainable option, RTR offers one-time rentals for four- or eight-day periods, with free shipping and returns for members. FARM Rio is a Brazilian brand with colourful and uniquely printed dresses, ideal for an outdoor ceremony.
Finally, Azazie has a range of wedding guest dresses, including floor-length gowns and mini and maxi dresses, in a variety of colours, such as emerald green, dusty pink, and plum. They also offer a "try at home" option for $15, where you can test up to three dresses for a week before deciding.
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High street vs online
When it comes to wedding guest attire, there are a variety of options available, both on the high street and online. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of shopping for a wedding guest dress on the high street versus online:
High Street:
Pros: Trying on dresses in-store allows you to find the perfect fit and ensure that you feel comfortable and confident. You can often find a wider variety of options on the high street, especially if you are willing to spend time digging through the racks. In-store shopping also eliminates the hassle of dealing with shipping and returns, which can be a common issue when ordering online. Additionally, high street stores often offer sales and discounts, making it easier to find budget-friendly options.
Cons: The selection of dresses on the high street may vary by store, and it can be time-consuming to visit multiple locations to find the right dress. Additionally, the variety of styles and sizes available in each store may be limited, especially compared to the extensive options available online.
Online:
Pros: Shopping online provides a vast selection of dresses at your fingertips, allowing you to easily compare styles, prices, and reviews from the comfort of your home. You can find unique and trendy options that may not be available in local stores. Online shopping is particularly convenient if you are short on time or prefer a more efficient shopping experience. Additionally, online retailers often offer convenient shipping options and flexible return policies.
Cons: One of the main disadvantages of online shopping is the inability to try on dresses before purchasing, which can lead to the additional hassle and cost of returns. The quality of dresses can sometimes be questionable, and it can be challenging to assess the true colour and fabric of a dress through a screen. Additionally, online shopping may not allow for last-minute purchases, as shipping times can vary.
In conclusion, both the high street and online options offer advantages and considerations. The high street provides the benefit of trying on dresses and taking advantage of sales, while online shopping offers convenience and a wider selection. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, time constraints, and the level of convenience you desire.
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Dress codes
When choosing what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the dress code. While some couples may not specify a dress code, others may request that guests adhere to a particular style, such as cocktail attire or semi-formal wear. It's also important to consider the venue and season of the wedding. For example, autumn and winter weddings often call for darker, more subdued colours, while spring and summer weddings are perfect for lighter hues.
One rule to keep in mind is to avoid wearing anything close to white, ivory, or cream, as these colours are typically reserved for the bride. Additionally, if the wedding is taking place in a religious venue, it's respectful to choose a modest outfit, avoiding strapless dresses or plunging necklines.
If you're looking for a dress that will work for multiple wedding dress codes, a good option is to choose a versatile style that can be dressed up or down. Wrap dresses in floral prints are perfect for outdoor weddings, while maxi dresses or lace dresses are a great choice for formal church weddings. For a more formal wedding, a floor-length gown or a classic cocktail dress is always a safe choice.
If you're looking for stores that offer a range of dress codes, there are plenty of options available. Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, ASOS, and Mac Duggal are just a few places to find wedding guest dresses. Additionally, department stores like Macy's and JCPenney offer a wide variety of options, from elegant maxi dresses to plus-size dresses with lacework or sequin embellishments. For those on a budget, Amazon, Bloomchic, and Baltic Born offer affordable options, while Rent the Runway allows you to rent dresses without breaking the bank.
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Colour and style
When choosing a dress to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the style and colour.
Firstly, it's important to respect the dress code, if there is one. If the wedding is formal, a floor-length dress may be appropriate, whereas a cocktail dress may be more suitable for a semi-formal wedding. You should also consider the season, venue, and time of day. For example, lighter colours and fabrics are often more suitable for spring and summer weddings, whereas darker and heavier fabrics are more suitable for autumn and winter.
In terms of colour, it's important to avoid wearing white, ivory, or any shade of white, such as cream or champagne, as these are reserved for the bride. You should also avoid wearing anything too shimmery or distracting, as this may take attention away from the happy couple. Instead, opt for pared-back fabrics such as lace, chiffon, velvet, or crepe.
If you're looking for a colourful dress, there are many options to choose from. Pink, purple, and yellow are all cheerful and vibrant options that can work for various wedding settings and dress codes. Orange is a great choice for someone who wants to express their unique style, while teal is a universally flattering colour that complements various wedding themes. If you're looking for something more subdued, navy is a great alternative to black, and grey can be elegant and sophisticated.
There are many places to find dresses to wear to a wedding, including online retailers such as Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, ASOS, and Macy's.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for an affordable dress to wear to a wedding, you could try Macy's, JCPenney, Amazon, or Bloomchic.
For a formal wedding, you might want to try a classic cocktail dress, a floor-length gown, or a maxi dress. You can find these at retailers such as Lulus, Reformation, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, or JCPenney.
It's important to consider the details of the wedding you're attending. For example, an outdoor wedding will have a different vibe than a formal church wedding. You should also be mindful of any dress code or religious edicts about modesty.











































