16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (2024)

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (1)

While summer wedding season is officially behind us, it's never too early to start planning—especially if you've already started receiving save-the-dates for next year. Of course, you'll need fresh and summer-ready dresses to wear to all of your upcoming nuptials. Luckily, the options for summer wedding guest outfits are endless and endlessly stylish.

The silhouette you choose will largely depend on the wedding's dress code. You'll want a longer option for formal events, but don't be afraid to pick out pieces with unique cutouts or off-the-shoulder sleeves. When it comes to your dress color, bright hues and patterns are always a fun and practical choice for this sun-filled season. And don't forget about the material—lightweight and breathable fabrics are always a must, especially if the venue is outdoors.

To help you find the best summer wedding guest dress, we researched a wide range of options with these features in mind. We scoured the web and made our final selection based on materials, sizing, lengths, and overall quality.

Read on for the best summer wedding dresses.

Once you've chosen your outfit, it's time to accessorize. For shoes, espadrilles, sandals with block heels, and flats are always great options for venues with soft terrain (like grass or sand). For other accessories, like clutches and jewelry, woven items or colorful statement pieces are perfect for the summer season.

Our Top Picks

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Best Strapless

Lulus Love You So Truly Burnout Floral Strapless Midi Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (2)

This cheery number from Lulus might be your new go-to dress for summer weddings. The best part? The strapless neckline has hidden no-slip strips, so your dress will stay in place while you hit the dance floor. The midi length of this dress makes it versatile enough to wear to both casual and formal summer weddings, and it's made from lightweight polyester, so you can rest assured that you won't overheat. The double-tiered hemline offers a romantic feel, and the zipper closure is completely hidden for a seamless look.

Who It's For

Anyone who loves a cheery, bohemian style

Size Range: XS-XL |Material: Polyester | Length: Midi |Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

We love this slip dress from BHLDN for its pared-back and unfussy aesthetics. It comes in over 10 colors, and the midi length works for a variety of wedding dress codes, from tropical to black-tie. We love that the cowl neckline and side slit add some drama without overpowering the chic and simple design, and it's easy to dress up or down. It's made of lightweight polyester so you will stay cool even in hotter, outdoor venues.

Who It's For

A sleek, stylish guest

Size Range: 0-16 |Material: Polyester | Length:Midi |Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

Best for a Backyard Wedding

Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (4)

This dress strikes the ideal balance of casual and fashionable that's ideal for backyard nuptials. The smocked waist and maxi silhouette flatter any body type, and it comes in various colors and patterns that match well with the summer season. Made from lightweight cotton, you'll stay cool and breezy during the ceremony. Dress it down with a lace-up sandal or dress it up with a block heel and a glowy makeup look.

Size Range: XXS-XL |Material: Cotton | Length: Maxi |Shipping: $6.95-$15.95 standard shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 60 days

Best Mini

MINKPINK Tahlia Mini Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (5)

Leg-baring mini dresses are a must for warm-weather nuptials, and this MINKPINK option rises to the occasion. The peachy hue and ruffled design are fun and flirty, and the lightweight fabric will keep you cool on balmy nights. The balloon sleeves add an extra bit of charm, and it's fully lined with hidden zipper closures for a seamless fit. Pair it with your best summer heels or sandals and minimalist jewelry, and you're ready for weddings, brunches, and more.

Who It's For

A guest who wants a flirty look

Size Range: XS-XL |Material: Blend | Length:Mini |Shipping: Free 2-day shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 60 days

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Best One-Shoulder

Lovers and Friends Dawn Mini Dress

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With a one-shoulder sleeve and ruffle tiers, this dress elevates the classic look of a summer mini dress. We love its bright blue for a pop of color, and it's made from 100 percent polyester for a lightweight feel. It also comes fully lined, so you don't have to worry about finding a slip to wear underneath it. Overall, this pick is fun, flirty, and won't hold you back on the dance floor.

Who It's For

A whimsical guest

Size Range: XXS-XL |Material: Polyester | Length: Mini |Shipping: Free 2-day shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 60 days

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Best Floral Print

Reformation Jasen Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (7)

You can never go wrong with a simple floral print dress for summer weddings, and this Reformation pick is a step above the rest. The shoulder ties, ruffle-edged neckline, and fitted trumpet skirt give it a dreamy feel, while the bustier-like bodice adds some structure. If you aren't sold on this gorgeous dark green, they have several other floral patterns in other summery colors like golden yellow and bright pink. It's made from 100 percent georgette Viscose fabric, so it has a lightweight and dry feel that's ideal for warmer weather, and the midi length allows you to don this at casual and formal weddings alike.

Who It's For

Petite guests

Size Range: 0-12 |Material: Viscose | Length:Midi |Shipping: Free standard shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

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Most Versatile

ASTR The Label Santorini One-Shoulder Dress

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If you're on the hunt for a versatile floral dress that you can wear to all of your upcoming weddings, make it this dress. This sweet design and midi length are ideal for taking you from day to night and can easily be dressed up or down for formal and casual weddings. The puff sleeve adds elegance to the one-shoulder look, and the handkerchief hem adds a touch of whimsy. It's made of polyester and elastane for a lightweight, stretchy, and comfortable fit. We're partial to this light floral print for summer, but they do have a blue-green floral print if that's more your style.

Who It's For

Anyone who loves a flirty floral print

Size Range: XS-XL |Material: Polyester | Length: Midi |Shipping: Free 2-day shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 60 days

The 24 Best Flattering One-Shoulder Wedding Guest Dresses Everyone Will Adore

Most Flattering

Norma Kamali Diana Ruched Stretch-Jersey Dress

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If you're looking for a fashion-forward pick, look no further than this irresistibly chic ruched dress from Norma Kamali.It comes in several summer-ready shades, but we're partial to this bubblegum pink. This midi dress will certainly grab attention, especially at co*cktail hour. It comes with a built-in body suit and will flatter many different figures. It's made of jersey fabric, so it's lightweight and stretchy. Wear your hair secured in a low bun or pony to showcase the one-shoulder neckline.

Who It's For

A guest who wants to stand out

Size Range: XXS-XL |Material: Jersey | Length: Midi |Shipping: Shipping rates vary |Return Policy: Full refund within 28 days

Most Feminine

Eloquii Tie Front Maxi Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (10)


For a spring or summer wedding, you can't go wrong with this feminine dress in a sophisticated floral print. The front tie is stylish and functional while the close-fit bodice and front high slit add a bit of drama. The maxi length adds to its versatility, and it's made of a super stretch knit jersey fabric that will keep you dry and cool in the summer heat. Pair this with strappy heels and a few accessories, and you're wedding-ready.

Who It's For

The chic guest

Size Range: 14-28 |Material: Polyester and spandex | Length: Maxi |Shipping: Free shipping on orders $125+ |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

Most Casual

Sleeper Atlanta Linen Dress

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Playful and statement-making, this Sleeper dress will catch the attention of your fellow guests. We absolutely adore the billowing sleeves with the ruffled cuffs for a touch of whimsy, and as a bonus, you can wear them on and off the shoulders to customize your look. Meanwhile, the shirred bodice helps accentuate any figure. The midi length and lightweight linen material have an easy-breezy feel that's great for hot summer nights. While we're partial to this timeless navy hue, it is available in other bright summer colors as well as floral prints. Pair it with a statement heel or clutch for an even more unexpected look.

Who It's For

A playful guest

Size Range: XS-XL |Material: Linen | Length: Midi |Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $350; $15 standard shipping for orders under $350 |Return Policy: Full refund within 14 days

Most Elegant

RedValentino Pleated Floral-Print Georgette Midi Dress

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For a more conservative and elegant dress to wear to a summer wedding, try this floral-printed and lace pleated dress. The different detailing and textures of this dress make it one of the more unique options on this list. It also comes with a detachable slip and a hidden zipper closure on the back. The lightweight fabric will have you feeling cool even while sporting long sleeves, so you can wear this to outdoor and indoor summer weddings alike.

Who It's For

A free spirit

Size Range: IT 36-46 |Material: Lace, georgette, point d'esprit | Length:Midi |Shipping: Free standard shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 28 days

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Most Retro-Inspired

Reformation Bryson Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (13)


Have a little throwback moment in this polka-dot dress from Reformation that's perfect for a laid-back summer wedding. It has a back smocking for a comfortable fit, and the cap sleeves and flowing skirt add a flirty touch to the overall feel of the dress. It's made of viscose and rayon, so you will be cool and dry all summer long. Style this midi dress with your favorite pair of mules and a red lip.

Who It's For

A vintage-loving guest

Size Range: 0-12 |Material: Viscose and rayon | Length: Midi |Shipping: Free standard shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

Most Colorful

Show Me Your Mumu Calloway Cut Out Dress

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If you're looking for a dress that pops, consider this vibrant maxi. The lace-up detail at the front and back, thigh-high slit, and cut outs offer the ideal mix of whimsical and sexy. Partially lined, and made of 100 percent polyester, this lightweight midi dress will carry you through endless summer nights.

Who It's For

A daring guest

Size Range: XS-XL |Material: Polyester | Length:Maxi |Shipping: Free 2-Day shipping |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

Best Cutout-Detailing

Hannah Artwear Rio Cutout Silk-Habotai Maxi Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (15)

This midi dress from Jonathan Simkhai gets the cutout trend just right with eye-catching bodice cutouts meeting at a ring detail. The open-back and unique floral print gives it an extra touch of romance, while the floor length silhouette is elongation and elegant. Even better? It's crafted from 100 % making it a smart and stylish choice for hot summer nights.

Who It's For

A trendy guest

Size Range: 0-3 |Material: 100 % silk | Length:Maxi |Shipping: Shipping rates vary |Return Policy: Full refund within 28 days

Best Pleated

Abercrombie & Fitch Satin Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress

16 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses That Make a Subtle Statement (16)

This satin pleated dress looks effortless and trendy and is appropriate for the summer wedding season. The deep V neckline and side cutouts make it sexy, while the maxi length tempers this elegant style. The open back will also keep you cool throughout a sweltering outdoor ceremony, reception, and beyond.

Who It's For

A guest who wants a sexy look

Size Range: XXS-XXL |Material: 100% polyester | Length:Maxi |Shipping: Shipping rates vary |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

Best for a Destination Wedding, Runner-Up

Farm Rio Brown Maxi Dress

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With its one-shoulder neckline and back ties, this maxi dress brings dreamy destination weddings to mind. The breezy skirt moves with you, and the rich solid color is festive without appearing too bright. The silhouette also has a fresh, flirty feel.

Who It's For

A guest at a beach wedding

Size Range: XXS-XL |Material: 100% viscose | Length:Maxi |Shipping: Free shipping over $50 |Return Policy: Full refund within 30 days

What to Look For in a Summer Wedding Guest Dress

  • Fabric: If you're attending a summer wedding, it's wise to shop for summer wedding guest dresses made from breathable and comfortable fabrics like linen and cotton. These lightweight fabrics will keep you cool—especially if the wedding is outdoors—and work for every type of dress code.
  • Silhouette: When it comes to silhouettes, mini, midi, and tea-length dresses are ideal for summer wedding guest dresses and work especially well for beach and garden venues.
  • Style: Attending a summer wedding is also the perfect chance to experiment with fun prints and vibrant colors. For a more classic take on summer wedding guest attire, look for dresses in soft pastel hues and dainty floral patterns, like the ASTR the Label Santorini One-Shoulder Dress. Just keep the bridal party's color palette in mind when selecting a dress with bold hues. You won't want to clash or draw too much attention to yourself as a guest.

FAQ

  • What should guests wear to a summer wedding?

    Summer wedding guest dresses in floral prints and bright colors are always a stylish and fun choice for warm-weather weddings. For summer weddings with a formal dress code, guests should consider wearing mid-length to floor-length gowns in light and breathable fabrics.

  • Can I wear a short dress to a summer wedding?

    Absolutely! Leg-baring mini and midi summer wedding guest dresses are perfect for balmy weather. However, if the wedding venue calls for more traditional attire, it might be best to opt for knee-length to ankle-length dresses.

  • How should I accessorize my summer wedding guest dress?

    If the ceremony will be on grass or sand, opt for espadrilles, sandals with block heels, or flats. Woven accessories like rattan clutches are always appropriate for the season, and colorful statement-making jewelry can easily dress up any summer wedding guest dress.

  • What shouldn't you wear as a guest to a summer wedding?

    Of course, don't wear white if you're a guest at a summer wedding, but also avoid anything overly sheer or with bright, neon colors. You want to look festive and fancy without drawing too much attention to yourself. And be sure to avoid the bridal party colors so you don't detract from them.

Why Trust Us

Contributing writerSophie Mooreis a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, bridesmaids, and more.

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