Wedding Guest Dresses For Every Style
The right wedding guest dress is bound to make a statement, made from gorgeous fabrics and colors that make you feel your absolute best. Find your perfect guest dress that's sleek, unique, and beautiful.
When you shop for wedding guest dresses at David's Bridal, you can browse our selection by size, silhouette, length, occasion, fabric, and more. With many unforgettable and beautiful hues to choose from, you'll find the perfect dress to match the wedding venue, season, dress code, and theme.
What to consider when picking your wedding guest dress
When shopping for a wedding guest dress, there are several factors to keep in mind:
Time. If the wedding is in the morning or middle of the day, a light-colored dress might be a better choice. At night, darker colors or prints may be a more fitting option.
Venue. Where is the wedding taking place? If it's on a beach, wearing a long, flowy floral dress is a great fit. Whereas if it's at a country club, something more formal such as a midi or floor-length gown would be appropriate.
Dress code. Some wedding invitations will mention a dress code for guests to follow. This code can be anything from black tie to a specific color scheme. Be sure to read that over before you go shopping!
Weather. Is the wedding outside or inside? What's the weather supposed to be? For cooler weather, opt for a floor-length gown or long-sleeve dress (or try a wrap or jacket over a sleeveless dress). If it's warmer out, a mini dress or flowy, lightweight maxi dress would be best.
Wedding Guest Dress Styles for Every Occasion
Black Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
Black tie weddings require the most formal guest attire. Choose floor-length gowns in luxurious fabrics like silk or chiffon, or sophisticated cocktail dresses with elegant details like beading or lace. Rich jewel tones and classic colors like navy, burgundy, and emerald photograph beautifully and maintain the glamour expected at formal events.
Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Summer celebrations call for breathable, lightweight options that keep you comfortable while looking elegant. Flowing chiffon and georgette dresses move beautifully in summer breezes, while bright and cheerful colors like coral, turquoise, and soft pastels complement outdoor settings. Sleeveless and short-sleeve styles provide cooling comfort, and midi or tea-length options offer elegant coverage without overwhelming in the heat.
Fall and Winter Wedding Guest Dresses
Cooler seasons allow for rich textures and deeper colors that complement the seasonal atmosphere. Luxurious velvet and structured crepe provide warmth while creating sophisticated silhouettes. Deep burgundy, forest green, navy, and warm metallics harmonize with seasonal decor, and long-sleeve styles offer elegant coverage that can be enhanced with sophisticated wraps or jackets.
Beach and Destination Wedding Guest Dresses
Destination and beach weddings require special consideration for travel and outdoor elements. Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics like jersey that maintain their appearance after packing, and opt for shorter hemlines or high-low styles that won't drag in sand. Tropical prints and ocean-inspired colors complement beach settings, while breathable, unlined construction keeps you comfortable during warm celebrations.
What color dress do you wear to a wedding as a guest?
While there is no specific color you have to wear as a wedding guest, there are a few things you should consider when choosing your garment.
First, look to the seasons. This serves as a great inspiration for the right outfit. In fall, you might want to opt for colors that complement the season like olive or cinnamon, whereas in spring you can go lighter with a pink or light blue. Popular wedding guest colors include navy blue, burgundy, forest green, dusty blue, and elegant metallics that work beautifully across seasons and venues.
You also should pay attention to the wedding invitations since the color scheme is typically the colors the wedding party will wear. Ideally, you want to choose a color that doesn't match the bridesmaids. And it goes without saying: In many cultures, wearing white when the bride wears white is a social faux pas! Also avoid overly bright colors that might distract from the ceremony.
How to accessorize a wedding guest dress
Once you've found the perfect guest dress, it's time to accessorize. Here are a few great go-to accessories that will complete your look.
Strappy heels. This kind of wedding guest dress shoe is a classic accessory that adds elegance to any outfit, whether it's a maxi dress or a shorter number. If you plan on hitting the dance floor all night, bring a pair of sandals or flats just in case.
A small clutch. The right handbag can add a pop of color or texture to your outfit while keeping all your essentials such as your phone and keys in a safe place.
Earrings or a bracelet. Spice up your dress a bit with some dangle earrings or a few simple bracelets. These small accessories add a bit of sparkle to your outfit, instantly making it a bit more formal.
Find your perfect wedding guest dress at David's Bridal
From the beautiful flower bouquets to the gorgeous decor and twinkling lights, there's something magical about witnessing a beautiful union between two loved ones. Whether getting married on a beach, at a catering hall, or in a rustic barn, the right wedding guest dress matches the occasion while making its own statement. Here's how to find your dream guest dress:
Fabric. You'll find a variety of fabrics when you shop at David's Bridal. From a silky satin to a smooth velvet or sparkles, the options are endless – and each one makes its own statement.
Length. Choose between a mini, midi, or maxi dress for the wedding. For a black tie event you may want to opt for a maxi, whereas you can wear a mini or midi to a more casual venue.
Silhouette. David's Bridal offers plenty of options in A-line silhouettes, ball gowns, jumpsuits, mermaid, sheath, and separates. Pick the silhouette that makes you feel your best!
Shop guest to wedding dresses in sizes 0-30
David's Bridal offers comprehensive sizing for all body types:
- Junior sizes for younger guests
- Missy sizes 0-16 with classic proportions
- Women's sizes 14W-30W with flattering construction
- Petite options available in select styles
- XS to 5X range ensuring perfect fits
Complete Your Wedding Experience
Planning for a wedding celebration? Explore our bridesmaid dresses collection if you're in the wedding party. For coordinated menswear, we partner with Friar Tux and Generation Tux for special wedding party pricing.
Personalized Wedding Gifts & Exclusive Rewards
Make your wedding celebration even more memorable with personalized gifts and decorations from Personalization Mall. From engraved jewelry and custom home decor to personalized wedding accessories, find unique gifts perfect for the bride and groom, wedding party, or as thoughtful guest presents.
Join our Diamond Loyalty Program for exclusive benefits including Diamond Member Pricing, points toward free getaways, and special access to member-only promotions. Diamond Loyalty members enjoy exclusive discounts on wedding guest dresses and earn points with every purchase toward rewards and honeymoon experiences.
How do I know which size dress to get?
Follow these steps for the perfect fit:
- Put on your planned undergarments
- Use a flexible measuring tape (keep it parallel to the floor)
- Measure bust at fullest part
- Measure waist at smallest point
- Measure hips at widest point
- Check length from neck to desired hemline
- Compare measurements to the dress's specific size chart
David's Bridal guest to wedding dress shipping options
Get your dress on time with flexible shipping:
- Free standard shipping on orders $99+ (U.S. except Alaska/Hawaii)
- Expedited shipping for faster delivery
- Express shipping for last-minute needs