Rhiannon Hendricks
Choosing what to wear to a wedding can be a daunting task. The outfit needs to match the dress code, venue, season, and time of day. It's also important to consider any religious edicts about modesty and avoid matching the bridal party or the bride. To make your wedding guest outfit feel fresh, it's all about the accessories. From strappy heels to chic flats, statement jewellery, and elegant clutches, the right accessories can transform your wedding guest outfit. There are several options available online and in stores for wedding guest dresses, including Lulus, Reformation, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Nuuly, ASOS, and Mac Duggal.
| 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, Baltic Born, Azazie, Amazon, PrettyGarden |
| In-store retailers | Macy's, Nordstrom Rack, City Chic, Formalwear shops, Windsor, The RealReal |
| Style | Jumpsuits, two-pieces, silk gowns, floral dresses, maxi dresses, lace dresses, sheath dresses, midi dresses, mini dresses, suits, matching sets |
| Price | $80-$130+ |
| Accessories | Heels, flats, clutch, handbag, jewellery, scarves |
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What You'll Learn
Online vs in-store shopping
When it comes to buying a wedding guest dress, there are two main options: online shopping and in-store shopping. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
Online shopping offers a convenient and efficient way to purchase a wedding guest dress. You can browse through a wide range of options from the comfort of your home and take advantage of features such as product filters and customer reviews to narrow down your choices. Many online retailers also offer free shipping, returns, and flexible payment options, making it a cost-effective and convenient choice. Additionally, online shopping allows you to compare prices and styles from different websites, ensuring you find the perfect dress that suits your budget and taste. However, one of the drawbacks of online shopping is the inability to try on the dress before purchasing. This may lead to the additional hassle of returning and exchanging the item if it doesn't fit properly.
On the other hand, in-store shopping provides the advantage of being able to try on different dresses and get a feel for the fabric, fit, and overall appearance. You can also benefit from the assistance of sales associates who can offer personalized recommendations and help you find the perfect dress based on your preferences and the wedding's dress code. In-store shopping can be a more social experience, allowing you to bring along friends or family for a fun day out. However, one of the main disadvantages of in-store shopping is the limited selection compared to online retailers. It may require visiting multiple stores to find the right dress, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, physical stores may have higher prices and less frequent sales compared to online options.
When it comes to online retailers for wedding guest dresses, there are several popular options. Reformation, for example, offers elegant silk gowns and whimsical floral dresses made from sustainable materials. They provide free shipping and accept returns up to 30 days after delivery. Another option is Petal + Pup, which offers on-trend dresses and accessories for wedding guests, including chic jumpsuits and a range of colours and styles. Adrianna Papell is another online retailer with a wide selection of wedding guest dresses, from mini to maxi gowns, suitable for various wedding themes and dress codes.
For in-store shopping, department stores such as Macy's, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale's are popular choices. While their online selections may vary, visiting their physical stores can offer a wider range of options. Macy's, in particular, is known for offering a variety of budget-friendly options and frequent sales. City Chic is another in-store option, offering sexy and classy cocktail dresses suitable for semi-formal or casual weddings.
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Dress code
When choosing a wedding guest dress, it is important to consider the dress code, the wedding theme, the venue, and the season. The dress code may be specified on the invitation, and could range from white-tie, black-tie, black-tie optional, formal, semi-formal, or casual.
For a white-tie dress code, women should wear a formal floor-length evening gown, with jewellery, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are expected to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or grey gloves, and formal footwear such as derby shoes or oxfords.
A black-tie dress code is a step down from white-tie and usually indicates a formal, evening event. Women can wear a floor-length gown or a sophisticated cocktail dress, and men are expected to wear tuxedos.
Black-tie optional is slightly less formal than black-tie, and while a tuxedo is not required, men can still choose to wear one. If opting for a suit, it should be a formal dark suit, with a white shirt and a conservative tie.
For a formal wedding, women can wear a formal maxi dress or a cocktail dress, paired with stylish heels and accessories. Men should wear a dark suit, white shirt, and tie.
Semi-formal and casual weddings are more ambiguous, and it can be tough to settle on the level of formality. For a casual wedding, a midi or maxi dress is appropriate, and for a semi-formal wedding, a midi or maxi dress in a bright or dark colour, or a satin or velvet fabric can be a good choice.
It is also important to consider the wedding theme, venue, and season when choosing a dress. For example, pastel tints, neutral tones, or vibrant colours that complement the wedding's colour scheme or the season are popular choices. For outdoor weddings, a wrap dress in a floral print can be a good choice, while for a wedding in a house of worship, a maxi dress or a lace dress may be more appropriate.
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Venue
When it comes to wedding guest dresses, there are a plethora of options available online. The right dress for you will depend on the venue and the dress code.
Beach Wedding
For a beach wedding, lightweight and breathable fabrics are a must. Look for dresses made from linen, cotton, or chiffon. Boho-style dresses with crochet or raffia details are perfect for this setting. A midi dress is a great option for a beach wedding, as it is versatile and can be dressed up or down. To keep cool and comfortable, opt for a dress with a flowy skirt and pair it with dressy sandals or block heels.
Garden Wedding
For an outdoor garden wedding, embrace the natural aesthetic with a midi dress in a floral print. Dark rose florals on shimmering satin with an asymmetric neckline will make a stylish statement. Flowy skirts and breathable fabrics are ideal for this setting, and you can add a romantic touch with open-toe heels or delicate flats.
Black-Tie Wedding
A black-tie wedding calls for a formal dress code, with floor-length gowns being the traditional choice. Look for luxurious fabrics such as satin, chiffon, or crepe, and pair your dress with elegant accessories, high heels, an evening bag, and fine jewelry. If you want to stand out, opt for a vibrant citrus-hued gown or a full-length tuxedo dress.
Semi-Formal Wedding
A semi-formal wedding dress code strikes a balance between dressy and relaxed. Midi or knee-length dresses in chic fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or satin are a perfect choice. Bold colors, subtle prints, and elegant details like wrap silhouettes or off-the-shoulder necklines will make you look sophisticated yet comfortable.
Casual Wedding
For a casual wedding, shorter styles like cocktail dresses or sundresses are appropriate. Keep the look simple with flat shoes and delicate jewelry. Avoid overly casual styles like sneakers, athletic wear, or denim. Fabrics with less tailoring, such as knit fabrics, are also a good option for a more relaxed look.
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Season
When it comes to choosing a wedding guest dress, it's important to consider the season.
For spring and summer weddings, bright and bold colours like sage green and dusty blue are a great choice. Lighter fabrics will also help keep you comfortable in the warmer months; Petal & Pup recommends lightweight linen or a soft slip dress for summer weddings. ASOS also offers plus-size wedding guest dresses in flattering satin and chiffon fabrics. If you're looking for something a little more fun, they also offer mini dresses in reds, pinks, blues and more. Yumi Kim is another great option, especially if you love floral prints. Their pieces are timeless, so you'll get use out of your dress for years to come.
For fall and winter weddings, darker hues are typically more appropriate. If you're looking for a formal evening gown, Azazie Atelier offers a wide range of colours and styles, including black and other dark tones, which are always a safe choice for a wedding guest dress. Rent the Runway is another good option for year-round weddings, as you can filter for the season directly on the site.
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Accessories
Jewellery
Elegant and understated jewellery pieces can beautifully complement your wedding guest outfit. Depending on your dress's neckline, consider adding a stylish necklace, a dazzling statement piece, or a delicate pendant. Earrings are another way to enhance your look, whether you opt for sparkling studs or more subtle drop earrings. Don't forget to choose a bracelet and rings that match your style and personality.
Scarves or Wraps
If you're attending an outdoor wedding or the venue tends to be chilly, a scarf or wrap can be both fashionable and practical. It will keep you warm during the ceremony and reception while adding a stylish touch to your outfit.
Handbags
A handbag or purse is a functional accessory that can also elevate your look. Choose a style and colour that complements your outfit and the wedding theme. Consider the size and shape that best suit your needs, whether a clutch, crossbody bag, or a small wristlet for just the essentials.
Shoes
The right pair of shoes can make a significant difference to your overall look and comfort. Stylish heels can elevate a formal dress, while a pair of comfortable flats or wedges might be more suitable for an outdoor wedding or if you plan to dance the night away.
Belts
Adding a belt to your wedding guest dress can help define your waist and create a more tailored silhouette. It can also add a stylish accent to your outfit, especially if you choose a belt with an eye-catching buckle or an embellished design.
When choosing accessories, it's essential to consider the wedding's dress code, venue, and season. You can also browse websites like Petal & Pup, Saks Fifth Avenue, RTR, Baltic Born, and Lulus for accessory options that align with your wedding guest dress and the event's style.
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Frequently asked questions
Lulus is a great place to buy a wedding guest dress on a budget. They have a wide selection of styles and dress codes, including cute alternatives like jumpsuits and two-pieces. You can also try Baltic Born or Azazie, which are very budget-friendly.
There are many places to buy a wedding guest dress online, including Lulus, Reformation, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, ASOS, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
It's important to consider the couple's requested formality when choosing what to wear as a wedding guest, as well as the venue and season. For example, a strapless sequin gown wouldn't be appropriate for a simple, outdoor beach wedding. A light wrap dress would be suitable for a casual wedding but not a black-tie evening reception.
