26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (2024)

Table of Contents
Y2K-Inspired Reformation Veria Silk Dress Es Reformation Veria Silk Dress Es Norma Kamali Halter Wrap Straight Gown Norma Kamali Halter Wrap Straight Gown Mango Printed Cut-Out Detail Dress Mango Printed Cut-Out Detail Dress Everlane The Satin Square-Neck Slip Dress Everlane The Satin Square-Neck Slip Dress La Femme Strappy Back Ruched Trumpet Gown La Femme Strappy Back Ruched Trumpet Gown Rixo Devi Dress Rixo Devi Dress HOUSE OF CB Nalini Floral Mesh Corset co*cktail Dress HOUSE OF CB Nalini Floral Mesh Corset co*cktail Dress ME+EM Wild Meadow Print Ruched Midi Dress ME+EM Wild Meadow Print Ruched Midi Dress Fleur du Mal Eco Luxe Keyhole Slip Dress Fleur du Mal Eco Luxe Keyhole Slip Dress Mac Duggal Embroidered Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress Mac Duggal Embroidered Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress SIR. Allegra Gown SIR. Allegra Gown STAUD Wells Stretch Cotton Dress STAUD Wells Stretch Cotton Dress Christopher John Rogers Pleated Metallic Cotton-Blend Jacquard Gown Christopher John Rogers Pleated Metallic Cotton-Blend Jacquard Gown Simon Miller Junjo Dress Simon Miller Junjo Dress The Drop Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress The Drop Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress Lisa Says Gah Grace Dress Lisa Says Gah Grace Dress Silk Laundry Halter Dress Silk Laundry Halter Dress Maje Stretch Lurex Fabric Dress with Ruffles Maje Stretch Lurex Fabric Dress with Ruffles Markarian Claudette Floral Print Dress Markarian Claudette Floral Print Dress Significant Other Karli Midi Dress Significant Other Karli Midi Dress FAQs References
26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (1)

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In my humble opinion, summer weddings are the best. The weather is warm, everyone’s in a feel-good mood, and there’s a healthy chance that a destination wedding might be on your schedule. But finding the perfect summer wedding guest dress is not always as fun. And when you’re working with an ambiguous dress code, discerning what’s appropriate for that city rooftop versus a beachfront property can get all the more confusing. Fret not, ELLE.com is here to help.

I have a handful of summer weddings to attend this season, so while I’ve been on the hunt for my own wedding guest wardrobe, I found plenty of options worth sharing. Whether you’re looking for a black-tie wedding guest dress to invest in or a dance floor-ready mini (be sure to grab those comfortable high heels while you’re at it!), shop the most stylish wedding guest dresses to wear this summer, below.

Reformation Veria Silk Dress Es

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (13)

Reformation Veria Silk Dress Es

Between the pretty floral print, the luxe silk, and the chic neckline, what more could you need? This has “black tie wedding guest dress” written all over it.

Sizes: 14-24

Material: 100% silk

Norma Kamali Halter Wrap Straight Gown

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (14)

Norma Kamali Halter Wrap Straight Gown

Sleek and elegant, this halter gown works for pretty much every wedding dress code. Hands down, a black wedding guest dress is a smart buy if half your Instagram feed is engaged right now.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Mango Printed Cut-Out Detail Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (15)

Mango Printed Cut-Out Detail Dress

Now 57% Off

This is the type of dress you’ll want to wear over and over again. Pair it with classic black pumps or another pair of heels for the special day, and a set of sleek sandals when you want a more casual look.

Sizes: 0-20

Material: 100% polyester

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Everlane The Satin Square-Neck Slip Dress

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Everlane The Satin Square-Neck Slip Dress

When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a classic, airy slip dress—especially if you happen to be attending a wedding at the height of summer. Let yourself breathe in this dress, which will pair perfectly with summer sandals or heels.

Sizes: 00-16

Material: Shell: 100% Naia acetate; lining: 100% polyester

La Femme Strappy Back Ruched Trumpet Gown

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (17)

La Femme Strappy Back Ruched Trumpet Gown

Not every wedding calls for a sleek, fitted gown. but when one does, you won’t regret wearing this top-rated number.

Customer review: This dress has a stunning fit—the stretchy material ensures that! Tight throughout then mermaids out....The bodice has boning for structure and support. The back is open to slightly below the waist. Fits true to size...We will have to have the bottom hemmed for length and the spaghetti strap tightened and then—perfecto!

Sizes: 6-12

Material: 100% polyester

Rixo Devi Dress

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Rixo Devi Dress

There’s a CVS receipt-long list of details that make this pretty Rixo dress so special. But, let me name a few: the vintage-inspired print and the sleeve length to the keyhole detail in the front. I’m in love. This is a great option for the more casual weddings you may have on your summer agenda.

Sizes: XXS-2XL

Material: 52% silk/46% viscose/2% metallic; lining: 100% polyester

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Y2K-Inspired

HOUSE OF CB Nalini Floral Mesh Corset co*cktail Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (19)

Y2K-Inspired

HOUSE OF CB Nalini Floral Mesh Corset co*cktail Dress

Not only have I noticed that this under-$250 dress is a bestseller among shoppers, but it’s also a popular favorite among my stylish friends. I may just have to order this one for myself as my go-to summer co*cktail dress.

Sizes: XS D/E

Material: 97% polyester, 3% elastane

ME+EM Wild Meadow Print Ruched Midi Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (20)

ME+EM Wild Meadow Print Ruched Midi Dress

Now 50% Off

I should just let this dress speak for itself. With such a vivid shade of pink as the main draw, followed by the timeless print, it’d be hard not to snap a picture when you’re wearing it.

Sizes: 0-12

Material: 100% viscose

Fleur du Mal Eco Luxe Keyhole Slip Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (21)

Fleur du Mal Eco Luxe Keyhole Slip Dress

Feeling yourself this summer? Showcase it with this slinky slip from Fleur du Mal. I envision you wearing this with strappy black or white sandals.

Sizes: XS-L

Material: 97% recycled polyester, 3% spandex

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Mac Duggal Embroidered Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (22)

Mac Duggal Embroidered Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress

Could there be a more fitting wedding guest dress for summer than this romantic beauty? I think not.

Customer review: I was apprehensive about buying this dress because of the comments about the zipper. I took a chance and am so glad I did. The zipper is fine. You have to be careful zipping & unzipping but that is no surprise. The dress is beautifully made and fits perfectly. I love it.

Sizes: 2-24

Material: 100% polyester

SIR. Allegra Gown

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SIR. Allegra Gown

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you have to have a lower neckline—or even show much skin. In this case, be sure to go for a dress that’s comfortable, like this ruched number.

Sizes: 0-4

Material: Main: 100% Ramie; lining: 100% Rayon

STAUD Wells Stretch Cotton Dress

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Heading to a destination wedding this summer? pack this Staud dress. I’ve personally seen one of these cross the Atlantic for a trip to Italy. It packs well, works for multiple occasions (which means it’ll be great after the wedding, too!), and boasts a timeless design. I know what you’re thinking: Say less.

Sizes: 0-16

Material: 98% cotton, 2% spandex

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Christopher John Rogers Pleated Metallic Cotton-Blend Jacquard Gown

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Christopher John Rogers Pleated Metallic Cotton-Blend Jacquard Gown

Look, I know this is all about not overshadowing the bride, but I can’t make any promises if you show up to the nuptials wearing this. Yes, there’s a high price tag, but you won’t regret this—I promise.

Sizes: 0-14

Material: 71% cotton, 19% polyester, 10% polyamide; lining: 100% polyester

Simon Miller Junjo Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (26)

Simon Miller Junjo Dress

Now 70% Off

It’s the little cutout detail at the hip that does it for me.

Sizes: XS-XXL

Material: 65% viscose, 35% nylon

The Drop Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

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The Drop Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

A black slip dress is the ultimate failsafe choice—especially as an Amazon wedding guest dress. For a casual-leaning option, look to this viral Tik Tok find from Amazon's in-house brand The Drop. As one verified shopper put it: “[This dress] Makes you feel like the leading star of a romance movie.”

Sizes: XXS-5XL

Material: 95% Polyester, 5% elastane

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Lisa Says Gah Grace Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (28)

Lisa Says Gah Grace Dress

Now 25% Off

I’m getting major Pretty Woman vibes with this dress. (And no, you don’t have to complete the look with a hat and gloves!)

Sizes: XS-3XL

Material: 100% recycled chiffon polyester

Silk Laundry Halter Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (29)

Silk Laundry Halter Dress

Breathable silk? Check. Timeless design? Check. Endless possibilities? Check. This sleek halter dress will find many a wear, which, in my opinion, is one of the most important factors when shopping for a wedding guest dress.

Sizes: XS-XL

Material: 100% silk

Maje Stretch Lurex Fabric Dress with Ruffles

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (30)

Maje Stretch Lurex Fabric Dress with Ruffles

Now 40% Off

You'll be in tiers when the couple exchange vows.

Sizes: S-XL

Material: Main fabric: 57% polyester, 43% metallic fibres; lining: 100% viscose

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Markarian Claudette Floral Print Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (31)

Markarian Claudette Floral Print Dress

Now 70% Off

Nothing beats Markarian when you’re looking for a luxurious option to wear to formal weddings. This option is perfect for when the occasion calls for co*cktail attire.

Sizes: 4-10

Material: 55% viscose/30% silk/15% polyester; lining: 100% polyester

Significant Other Karli Midi Dress

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (32)

Significant Other Karli Midi Dress

A sunset in a dress. It’s basically a beach wedding guest dress waiting to happen. Can’t you just picture this in a tropical setting?

Sizes: 2-16

Material: 62% rayon, 38% polyester

26 Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding (That Won’t Upstage the Bride) (2024)

FAQs

How do you not upstage the bride? ›

How to Avoid Upstaging The Bride
  1. Consult with The Bride. ...
  2. Avoid Being Too Casual. ...
  3. Don't Make the Wedding About You. ...
  4. Don't Be Pushy. ...
  5. Don't Tell Her Who Should Be Her Bridesmaids. ...
  6. Don't Compare Her Wedding to Others. ...
  7. Don't Be Too Critical. ...
  8. Don't Make Empty Offers.

What should a female guest wear to a summer wedding? ›

Casual weddings are all about relaxed style. Pick from cotton, linen, or viscose dresses and jumpsuits, but remember, no jeans or t-shirts. Dress up your fanciest everyday outfit, like pairing a silk camisole with summer trousers.

What do you wear to upstage the bride? ›

Anything too revealing.

Save the skimpy co*cktail dress for a party and opt for a more conservative outfit. Dresses and skirts should be around knee length and cleavage should be covered. Wedding guest dress etiquette is all about not upstaging the bride, something you risk if you turn up with a plunging neckline.

How can I look better than the bride at my wedding? ›

Rethink the sparkles.

Of course you wanna win best-dressed guest, but you don't want everyone's eyes to be on you...and off the bride. Instead of over-the-top sequins, try other textures like ruffles, lace, or plissé for a look that stands out, but doesn't literally shine.

Is it rude to upstage the bride? ›

Shelley Brown, bridal style expert and former senior editor at The Knot says, “The general rule of thumb has always been: don't upstage the bride (or the couple).

What is the anti bride trend? ›

For example, an anti-bride wedding may have the bride wear something other than a white wedding dress, may not require formal dress, may take place early in the morning, or may feature a dessert that isn't a wedding cake. Often, the point of an anti-bride wedding is to be unique to the couple hosting it.

What is the best color to wear to a summer wedding? ›

For a summer wedding, light, airy shades like pastels will help you look fresh and fashionable in the sunshine. From a soft baby blue to a minty green, there are many options for injecting a subtle pop of color into your look. For winter weddings, jewel tones are a great choice.

Can I wear a maxi dress to a summer wedding? ›

A formal summer wedding usually means a floor sweeping gown and maxi, but less but a midi-length or a co*cktail number may be acceptable depending on how formal the dress code is.

What is the best dress code for wedding in summer? ›

Casual Summer Wedding Attire

But don't forget this is an important event. Showing up in shorts and a T-shirt is not a good idea. For women, think pretty, flowy dresses paired with sandals; an open-collared shirt, chinos and boat shoes are great for men.

How not to look matronly as mother of the bride? ›

What we recommend you wearing for a daytime wedding, is a swing or tea dress. As we mentioned earlier, this style of dress is one sure to stand the test of time, while ensuring you look quite the opposite of matronly.

Can you wear a sundress to a wedding? ›

Casual. While casual dress code weddings allow you to wear a more relaxed outfit, remember that this is still a celebration, so shorts and flip-flops aren't advisable. Sundresses paired with sandals are the perfect attire for women who want to feel dressed up but still comfortable.

How to look like a classy bride? ›

Stick to clean lines and a flattering silhouette when you are choosing your wedding dress. Think timeless, sophisticated and refined with your overall bridal look. Channel your the understated, chic look by complementing your wedding dress with accessories that are simple and lack ornamentation.

How to not upstage the bride? ›

Avoid sequins, extravagant patterns, and outrageous diamonds or jewels; although it is important for you to look your best, it's also vital to have all eyes on the bride and groom. The same goes for large bold patterns and garish silhouettes; your outfit should be elegant and graceful.

Do brides look better with hair up or down? ›

Consider Your Wedding Dress Neckline

"If you are wearing a strapless dress, either hair down or half up, half down will look pretty and feminine while still showing off the neckline," advises Mar. Loose waves and a soft, flowing style is key. If your dress has a higher neckline, our pro says to consider an updo.

What should a 60 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

Fit-and-flare Wedding Guest Dresses For Women Over 60

Fit-and-flare dresses whether knee-length or longer are chic and flattering. It has a defined waistline and fits closer to the body but is not too tight which makes it uncomfortable. This forgiving silhouette fits every body type.

Is it bad to outshine the bride? ›

Wedding Expert's View

"Weddings do have a lot of cultural significance and connotations, so I think it's understandable that guests would want to wear clothing that is culturally significant to them. I would see it as a mark of respect for the situation, rather than an attempt to outshine anybody.

What does upstaging the bride mean? ›

The wedding, of course, is all about the bride and groom and so the focus of attention should be on them. So, try not to do anything that may upstage or upset the bride. This means not trying to steal the show or the photographer.

Why do you not congratulate the bride? ›

Saying "congratulations" to a bride-to-be would infer a victory, as if she had conquered something impossible: landing a husband! “Saying congratulations to a bride implies that she has won something – her groom. The groom is to be congratulated for getting the lady to accept his marriage proposal.

Why is it tradition to not see the bride? ›

This practice emerges from pre-18th century time, when it was common place for pre-arranged marriages. It was deemed "unlucky" for a bride and groom to see one another. This was an attempt to keep the groom from backing out of the wedding upon seeing his unidentified bride to be prior to the ceremony.

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