Lyla Dejesus
Finding the perfect wedding guest dress can be a challenge, especially when you're on a budget. While it's important to consider the style of the wedding, from black-tie to boho-beach, and the season, with darker colours for autumn and winter and lighter hues for spring and summer, it's also crucial to find an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Luckily, there are many retailers offering affordable wedding guest dresses, from fast fashion sites like Shein and Amazon to more specialised options such as Lulus, Ever-Pretty, and Azazie. For those looking to spend under $100, Bloomchic, Baltic Born, Gap, Banana Republic, and Yumi Kim are great options. For an extensive collection of dresses catering to different budgets, The Dress Outlet is a good choice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dress Code | Black-tie, formal, semi-formal, casual, boho-style, beach, backyard, church |
| Dress Style | Floor-length, mini, maxi, lace, wrap, floral print, silk slip, satin with cutouts, midi, jumpsuits, pantsuits |
| Dress Colour | Avoid white, ivory, cream; deep colours for autumn/winter, light colours for spring/summer |
| Online Retailers | Lulus, Ever-Pretty, Poshmark, Abercrombie & Fitch, Windsor, The Outnet, TheRealReal, Shein, Amazon, Rent the Runway, Azazie, Yumi Kim, Baltic Born, Banana Republic, Gap, The Dress Outlet, Bloomchic, PinkBlush Maternity |
| Physical Retailers | H&M, Francesca's |
| Other Tips | Check invitation for strict dress codes, season of event, colour scheme; add accessories like a clutch, jewellery, bling, heels, flats |
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What You'll Learn
Dress colour and type based on wedding location and season
When choosing a wedding guest dress, it's important to consider the location and season of the wedding to ensure your outfit matches the vibe of the event. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect dress for the occasion:
Beach or outdoor weddings:
For beach ceremonies or outdoor celebrations, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton. A wrap dress in a floral print or a midi dress with block heels or sandals is a great choice for comfort and style.
Winery weddings:
For winery nuptials, the dress code is typically between semi-formal cocktail attire and formal attire. Go for a neutral colour palette and let your accessories be the focal point.
Country club settings:
Country club weddings call for classy and stylish attire. A midi or floor-length dress with strappy heels is a perfect option. You can also add a touch of preppy style to your look.
Church weddings:
For a wedding in a house of worship, a maxi dress or a lace dress is a good choice.
Seasonal considerations:
The season of the wedding will also influence your dress choice. For autumn and winter weddings, deep colours such as burgundy, navy, and forest green are ideal. Spring and summer weddings call for lighter hues like blush pink, light grey, and pale yellow.
Formality:
The level of formality of the wedding will also dictate your dress choice. For a white-tie wedding, the most formal attire, women typically wear floor-length evening gowns, while men don tuxedos with tails. Black-tie weddings are a step down in formality, with women wearing floor-length gowns in sumptuous fabrics or sophisticated cocktail dresses, and men donning tuxedos. For black-tie-optional weddings, a tuxedo is not required, but it can still be worn if preferred. Semi-formal and casual weddings offer more flexibility, but it's important to dress appropriately for the venue and season.
When in doubt, it's always a good idea to ask the bride or another close family member for recommendations, as some weddings have strict dress codes. Checking the invitation for dress code clues, such as "garden formal" or "beach cocktail," will also help guide your outfit choice.
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Online retailers for affordable dresses
There are many online retailers that offer affordable wedding guest dresses. Lulus, for example, offers a wide range of formal and cocktail dresses suitable for wedding guests at affordable prices. They also have a selection of mini dresses and floor-length gowns, so you can find a style that suits the formality of the wedding.
Another option is to check out department store websites, such as Macy's, Nordstrom, or Nordstrom Rack. These stores often run sales, so you can find discounted dresses across various brands. Macy's, in particular, offers a wide range of wedding guest dresses, although you may have more luck checking in-store rather than online. Nordstrom Rack is also a great option for finding mid-range brands at affordable price points.
If you're looking for a designer dress on a budget, consider checking out resale or consignment stores, such as Poshmark, ThredUp, or Buffalo Exchange. These stores offer secondhand dresses at discounted prices, allowing you to find high-quality pieces without breaking the bank. You can also try searching for a specific dress you've seen in a bridal shop on these sites, as they often list dresses at cheaper prices.
For a monthly subscription, Rent The Runway offers another unique option for wedding guest dresses. You can rent up to five dresses at a time, allowing you to access more expensive pieces for a fraction of the cost. This is a great option if you want to wear a designer dress without committing to buying it.
Lastly, some online retailers, such as ASOS, offer a wide range of affordable dresses suitable for wedding guests. You can also check out Yumi Kim, which offers timeless pieces that can be worn for various occasions, including weddings.
Happy shopping, and I hope you find the perfect dress for your upcoming wedding!
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High-street stores for affordable dresses
There are several high-street stores that offer affordable wedding guest dresses. Lulus is one such option, with a range of formal and cocktail dresses suitable for weddings, including floor-length gowns and mini dresses. Lulus also offers dresses suitable for different wedding venues, such as outdoor celebrations or formal church weddings.
ASOS is another popular choice, offering a wide range of styles, including sparkly sequined gowns and floral dresses, catering to various body types such as plus, maternity, standard, petite, and tall. Their dresses are also known for being budget-friendly, often costing less than $100.
For those who love floral prints, Yumi Kim is an excellent choice. They offer timeless pieces suitable for various occasions, from casual backyard weddings to more formal affairs. Similarly, Baltic Born has a swoon-worthy wedding guest edit with romantic maxi and midi dresses in various colors and patterns, most of which are priced under or around $100.
If you're specifically looking for a high-quality, made-to-last dress, Reformation is a go-to brand for ethically-minded shoppers. They offer an "under $200" section with budget-friendly options. You can find Reformation dresses online, as well as at Nordstrom and Anthropologie.
Lastly, Macy's is an option, although their selection may vary by store, so it's worth checking their website or your nearby stores. They tend to have a good selection of cocktail and formal dresses suitable for wedding guests.
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What to avoid wearing
When choosing what to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the type of ceremony and venue. For example, an outdoor wedding will have a different vibe to a formal church wedding. Beach weddings are a great opportunity to wear a breezy halter dress or a pretty open-toe sandal, while for a church wedding, a maxi dress or a lace dress might be more appropriate.
However, there are some general rules about what not to wear to a wedding. Firstly, it's important not to wear anything that could be considered a wedding gown, or that could outshine the couple. This includes sequined ball gowns, sparkly tiaras, and sky-high platform heels. It's also best to avoid anything too revealing, such as crop tops, dresses with mesh sides, short skirts, plunging necklines, or form-fitting gowns.
Another important rule is to avoid wearing white, ivory, or champagne hues, as these colours are reserved for the bride. Lighter colours like pale blue or light yellow with a white lace overlay can also photograph as white, so it's best to avoid these too. If you're unsure about a particular dress, stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz has a simple rule: "if you're having to question what you're wearing, it's probably not appropriate".
It's also a good idea to avoid anything that matches the wedding party or the colour scheme of the invitations. This way, you won't look like you're part of the bridal party or upstage the couple. Finally, while black used to be considered unsuitable for weddings, it's now acceptable to wear a long or short black dress, especially for autumn and winter weddings.
There are plenty of options for affordable wedding guest dresses, including Ever-Pretty, Poshmark, Abercrombie & Fitch, Windsor, and The Outnet. Lulus is also a popular choice, with a range of affordable and stylish options. For formal dresses on a budget, Azazie is a great option, with many dresses under $50.
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Accessories
Handbags and Clutches
An elegant clutch or handbag is a must-have accessory for a wedding guest. It adds a touch of sophistication to your outfit while also providing a practical place to store your essentials, like keys and lipstick. Go for a chic bridal clutch that matches your dress and the overall vibe of the wedding. For example, a pearl-adorned top-handle bag would be perfect for a ceremony off the coast, while a mini chain-strap bag could complement a downtown city wedding.
Shoes
The right footwear is crucial for a wedding guest. A pair of cute, strappy heels can elevate your look, but don't forget to bring a pair of comfortable flats if you plan on dancing the night away. You can find elegant and comfortable wedding guest shoes from contemporary brands like Staud and Reformation, or even luxury labels like Vivienne Westwood, often for under $500.
Jewellery
When it comes to jewellery, a little bling is tasteful. Add a delicate tennis bracelet or a dainty hair accessory, like a hair bow or a sleek headband. You can also opt for statement earrings or a necklace that complements your dress. Just be mindful not to overshadow the bride's accessories!
Gloves
Gloves can add a touch of glamour and elegance to your wedding guest outfit. Delicate opera gloves or sheer sequined gloves will make a fashion statement and keep your hands warm during those outdoor ceremonies.
Other Accessories
Don't forget about the smaller details that can elevate your look. A sleek satin headband or a dainty hair bow can accentuate your hairstyle, while a colourful silk scarf can add a unique touch to your wedding guest ensemble.
Remember to consider the overall vibe and aesthetic of the wedding, the dress code, and the season when choosing your accessories. You can find affordable accessories from various sources, including online retailers like Lulus, Poshmark, ThredUp, and The RealReal, as well as department store websites and rental services like Rent the Runway.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many online retailers that offer affordable wedding guest dresses, including Yumi Kim, Banana Republic, Gap, Baltic Born, PinkBlush Maternity, Ever-Pretty, Abercrombie & Fitch, Windsor, The Outnet, TheRealReal, Shein, Amazon, Lulus, Azazie, and Poshmark.
First, check the invitation for any dress code or colour scheme clues. If you're still unsure, don't hesitate to ask the bride or another close family member for recommendations. Remember, it's important not to match the bridesmaids or the bride—avoid anything close to white, ivory, or cream. If you're planning ahead, check the sale or clearance section of department stores or retailers like 6pm or BHFO.
Dress styles vary depending on the venue and season. For outdoor or beach weddings, try a wrap or floral-print dress. For a formal church wedding, a maxi dress or a lace dress is a good option. For black-tie weddings, go with something simple and classic, like a silk maxi dress. For winter weddings, try a long-sleeved dress, and for summer, a breezy halter dress or a floaty midi dress.
