Junior Rasmussen
There are many options available for those looking to buy a wedding guest dress. It is important to consider the type of wedding you are attending, as different styles of dresses are more appropriate for different settings. For example, a strapless sequin gown would be out of place at a simple, outdoor beach wedding, whereas a light wrap dress would be too casual for a black-tie evening reception. The invitation is a good place to start when deciding what to wear, as certain phrases and colours can indicate the level of formality and the bridesmaid dress colours. If in doubt, it is best to follow traditional rules, such as avoiding wearing white or black. Popular options for wedding guest dresses include midi, mini, and maxi dresses in various fabrics, prints, and colours. Department stores, both online and in-person, often have a wide range of options, and some websites offer quick shipping for last-minute purchases.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online Shopping | Abercrombie & Fitch, Nordstrom, Lulus, Azazie.com, Anthropologie, Petal & Pup, ASTR the Label |
| In-Store Shopping | Local mall department stores, Nordstrom Rack, Macy's, TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Kohl's, Abercrombie & Fitch |
| Dress Types | Midi, Mini, Maxi, Cocktail, Wrap, Shift, Shirt, Sheath, Jumpsuits |
| Dress Codes | Black-tie, Semi-formal, Cocktail, White tie |
| Accessories | Heels, Jewellery, Bags |
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Online vs in-store shopping
When it comes to wedding guest dress shopping, there are two main routes to take: online or in-store. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your unique circumstances and preferences.
Online shopping offers the convenience of being able to browse and purchase a dress from the comfort of your own home. This can be especially useful if you have a busy schedule or live far from physical stores. Additionally, online retailers often offer a wider range of options, allowing you to easily compare prices and styles from different brands. Some online stores, such as Azazie, even offer custom sizing and the opportunity to order fabric swatches beforehand, so you can get a better sense of the fabric's look and feel. However, one of the main drawbacks of online shopping is that you cannot try on the dress before purchasing it. This can lead to the hassle of returns if the dress doesn't fit or meet your expectations. Additionally, it can be challenging to determine the true colour, fabric, and overall look of a dress from online images alone.
In-store shopping offers the advantage of being able to try on different dresses and get a sense of the fit, fabric, and overall appearance in person. This can help ensure that you find a dress that flatters your figure and suits your personal style. Additionally, in-store shopping allows you to get assistance from sales associates, who can offer suggestions and help you find dresses that meet your specific requirements. However, one of the main drawbacks of in-store shopping is the limited selection compared to online retailers. You may need to visit multiple stores to find the right dress, especially if you have a specific style or colour in mind. Additionally, in-store shopping may be less convenient if you need to travel long distances or work around store operating hours.
Ultimately, the decision to shop online or in-store for a wedding guest dress depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Online shopping offers convenience, a wide range of options, and customisation opportunities, while in-store shopping allows for trying on dresses, getting personalised assistance, and experiencing the social aspect of shopping.
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Dress codes and styles
Wedding dress codes can be complicated, and with the rise of creative wedding guest attire suggestions, it can be challenging to interpret the prescribed wedding dress code. However, here are some general guidelines for dress codes and styles to help you choose an appropriate and stylish outfit as a wedding guest.
White-Tie
White-tie is the most formal wedding attire. 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.
Black-Tie
Black-tie dress codes indicate a formal, evening event. Women should opt for floor-length gowns in luxurious fabrics like silk and organza. A sophisticated cocktail dress may be acceptable for a less formal black-tie event, but it is best to consult the couple first. Women can also wear elegant pantsuits if they prefer. Men's attire remains the same as in white-tie, except that tails are not required.
Black-Tie Optional
Black-tie optional is slightly less formal than black-tie. A tuxedo is not required, but men can still choose to wear one. If opting for a suit, men should wear a formal dark suit, a white shirt, and a conservative tie. Women's attire remains the same as for black-tie, with the added flexibility of showing their ankles.
Cocktail Attire
Cocktail attire strikes a balance between elegance and comfort. Women should choose a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress. Men should wear a suit and tie, regardless of the setting. Cocktail attire allows for more flexibility with hemlines, colours, and patterns. Embellishments, jewellery, and nicer shoes are key for this dress code. Lighter fabrics and colour palettes are more common for daytime cocktail events, while darker colours and luxe fabrics are more appropriate for evening cocktail attire.
Semi-Formal/Dressy Casual
Semi-formal and dressy casual weddings offer more freedom in what you wear. For men, a classic navy or dark charcoal grey suit is appropriate, but a floral camp shirt or knit polo can add a unique touch. Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, a dressy skirt and top, or an elegant pantsuit with heels, wedges, or formal flats. The time of day and venue will influence the specific attire, with darker, more formal colours for evening events and lighter hues and airy fabrics for daytime affairs.
Creative Dress Codes
Some weddings may have creative dress codes like "whimsical garden party" or "tropical formal". These dress codes provide an opportunity for playful interpretations while still requiring clear guidance from the couple. For example, a country and western wedding may suggest denim jackets, cowboy boots, and floral prints.
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Colour schemes
When choosing a wedding guest dress, it's important to consider the wedding's colour scheme. While it is not customary for the couple to request that guests adhere to a specific colour scheme, it is worth checking if this is the case.
If there is no set colour scheme for guests, it is still a good idea to consider the colours of the wedding to ensure your outfit complements the event. For example, if the wedding has a pastel colour scheme, you may want to avoid bold colours that could clash.
Soft, romantic colours like blush, blue, cream, and pastel pink are popular choices for weddings and can be a safe option for guests. If you want to stand out a little more, consider a dress with a hint of contrast, such as sage, French blue, or gold. For a summer wedding, light and warm colours like salmon, tan, or brown paired with dove grey are a good choice.
For a more formal wedding, darker and richer colours may be appropriate. A colour scheme of hunter green, cream, black, gold, and rust is elegant and perfect for an upscale city wedding. Mauve is also a popular colour for weddings and can be paired with gold and ecru for a creative and soft look.
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Accessories
Bags
The right bag can elevate your wedding guest outfit. Opt for an occasion bag instead of your everyday purse to add a touch of sophistication. Websites like petal & pup offer a range of accessories, including bags, to complement your wedding guest dress.
Jewellery
Statement jewellery can transform your wedding guest dress into a stylish outfit. Consider bold necklaces, statement earrings, or sparkling earrings to elevate your look. If you're wearing a simple gown, you can add some extra shimmer with sparkling accessories. Websites like Abercrombie & Fitch offer jewellery to accessorize your wedding guest dress.
Footwear
Statement shoes or fun and eye-catching heels can elevate your wedding guest attire. However, it's important to consider comfort, as uncomfortable footwear can ruin your night. Websites like Nordstrom offer a range of footwear options, from heels to boots, that can complement your wedding guest dress.
Hair Accessories
If jewellery isn't your style, hair accessories are a great alternative. Colourful hair clips, bows, or headbands can add a unique touch to your wedding guest attire. Websites like Etsy offer a variety of hair accessories that can enhance your overall look.
Outerwear
If you're attending a wedding during cooler temperatures or in a cozy venue, consider adding a jacket or wrap to your outfit. These accessories add coverage while keeping your look chic and sophisticated. Websites like Maggie Sottero offer bridal accessories, including jackets and wraps, that can be paired with your wedding guest dress.
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Timing
When it comes to timing your purchase of a wedding guest dress, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, the timing will depend on the lead time before the wedding. It is essential to give yourself enough time to find a dress that suits the style and dress code of the wedding, as well as allowing for any necessary alterations. While it is possible to rent a dress or find one at short notice, having a comfortable buffer of time will reduce stress and provide more options.
Most sources suggest that wedding guest dresses should be purchased at least a few months before the wedding. This allows for any alterations and ensures the dress will be ready in time for the event. One source recommends buying a wedding guest dress with a similar lead time to that of a wedding dress, suggesting 8-10 months before the wedding. This may be excessive for a wedding guest dress, but it is certainly wise to avoid leaving your purchase too late.
If you are buying a dress from a department store or online retailer, you should consider the delivery times and return policies. Buying from a store with a physical location can be helpful if you need to make a last-minute purchase, as you can avoid delivery times. However, if you are ordering online, be sure to check the estimated delivery times and leave some leeway in case of delays. Additionally, consider the return policy, as you may need to return or exchange the dress if it doesn't fit or suit your expectations.
It is also worth noting that certain times of the year may offer more options for wedding guest dresses. January, for example, is a popular month for wedding dress shopping, as designers release new collections. This means that you may have more styles to choose from if you are looking for a wedding guest dress around this time. However, with the increasing popularity of fall and winter weddings, there is generally a good selection of dresses available all year round.
Finally, it is important to be mindful of the wedding dress code and any colour schemes that the bridal party may be following. You may wish to avoid wearing a colour that is too similar to the bridal party, so checking in with them beforehand can help to avoid any last-minute changes.
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Frequently asked questions
You can find a wedding guest dress online at Azazie.com, Nordstrom, Abercrombie & Fitch, Anthropologie, ASTR the Label, and Petal & Pup.
Popular styles for wedding guest dresses include maxi, midi, mini, cocktail, shirt, wrap, sheath, and floral dresses. For outdoor weddings, a midi dress with dark rose floral prints and an asymmetric neckline is a good option.
It's important to consider the dress code and venue of the wedding. For example, a strapless sequin gown may not be appropriate for a simple, outdoor beach wedding. It's also recommended to avoid wearing white or black.
