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Nuptial season is underway – and we’ve found the looks to say yes to
Wedding season is in full swing – and if you’re drowning under a pile of invites, it’s time to find the perfect dress for summertime nuptials.
When deciding on your frock, there are a few things to consider... Firstly, you’ve got to give thought to any dress codes. Then there’s the venue to consider – are you staying in rainy England or heading to a balmy destination wedding? And finally, investment value (goodbye single wear summer).
Whether it’s a black tie soiree, beach affair or party in the city, your chosen dress should be comfortable enough for day-into-night wear and sufficiently breathable for balmy weather (if we’re so lucky).
If you’re spending a little more money than you usually would on a wedding guest dress, make sure it’s classic enough for year-after-year wear. But this doesn’t restrict you from leaning into this season’s hottest trends – from fuschia pink hues (thank you Barbie) and halter necklines that nod to the Nineties to sweeping maxi hemlines and asymmetric silhouettes.
Above all, you want to feel just as good as you look. To help you on your way, we’ve rounded up some of the best wedding guest dress options across the high street, from destination-worthy frocks to cocktail evening gowns and classic floral options.
Judging for fit, comfort and style, we’ve found both trend-led and classic dresses for every body type, taste and climate. Keeping in mind cost-per-wear and all-year-round wearability, these dresses will ensure you’re the best dressed guest this season.
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Florals for a wedding? Groundbreaking they may not be – but Free People’s take puts a fresh spin on the classic nuptials attire. Oozing elegance, the Amira dress is cut into a fitted silhouette with a V-neckline and pink-hued floral print. Characterised by a playful flower broach that gives it a retro-feel, the stretchy, breathable fabric enhances your figure while the adjustable spaghetti straps are a handy touch. Style with matching pink heels and a simple clutch for an effortless occasion-wear look that you’ll wear far beyond wedding season.
If you prioritise comfort and practicality, jumpsuits are a reliable option for wedding season and can easily be dressed up or down. Mango’s satin jumpsuit is cut from a luxe-looking flowy fabric with the wide trouser leg boasting a floor-sweeping hem.
Halter neck silhouettes are having a moment and we love the delicately ruched neckline on Mango’s one piece. Complete with a removable waist bow, the soft lilac hue and satin finish is perfect for both summer weddings and the upcoming party season. Costing under £100, you’ll certainly get your cost-per-wear.
A favourite for affordable frocks that put a classic spin on trends, Nobody’s Child’s Aubrey dress is perfect for channeling this summer’s obsession for all-things-Barbie. From the hot pink finish to the flattering puff shoulder and cut out detailing, the dress fits the criteria for a statement wedding guest dress.
Crafted from a responsible fabric blend derived from plant-based fibres, the wafty, lightweight design is ideal for summer. Whether it’s a destination wedding in sunny Portugal or a ceremony in the British countryside, let the versatile dress take centre stage and style with simply strappy black heels and gold jewellery.
A playful approach to wedding guest dressing, this Asos Design number boasts a classic summer floral print with the asymmetrical one shoulder and mini hem giving it a contemporary feel. Super flattering thanks to the A-line silhouette, tiered skirt and waist definition, the long blouson sleeve adds the final flourish. A stellar option for more casual ceremonies or pre-wedding parties, the laidback frock is best paired with mega platform heels and chunky gold jewellery.
When in doubt, head to Rixo for all your occasion wear needs. With decadent dresses for every event, body shape and taste, the British brand’s rails are well worth a browse if you’re willing to splurge.
The Clarice satin midi dress in the green Daisy print is a foolproof style for weddings, thanks to its elegant and understated design. The vintage-nightgown inspired shape is elevated by the lace-trimmed V-neckline and cap sleeves while the waist tie enhances your silhouette. Hanging loosely and falling fluidly, the cupped bodice and bias cut skirt are flattering touches. Style with platform Mary Janes for wedding season but get your cost-per-wear by dressing down with ballet flats at the weekend.
If the theme is strict black tie, Omnes’s simple yet sophisticated silk dress is the perfect choice. Crafted from deadstock materials to reduce waste, the soft satin-effect finish is shiny and sleek. Complete with a deep neckline, an open back with tie detailing and an elegant maxi length, the body-skimming cut hugs you in all the right places, while also being supportive enough around the bust for us to forgo a bra. Jazz up the black dress with colourful accessories (if the theme allows) or keep it classic with silver and gold.
Khloe Kardashian’s size-inclusive label, Good American, has expanded its offering to dresses with some stellar occasion wear options. Its satin ruched maxi dress comes in both bubble pink and black colourways with the slinky design flattering every curve. The sweeping maxi length is teamed with front and back ruched detailing while a front slit aids maneuverability. Adding intrigue, we love the deep back while the handy adjustable straps can be tied into bows. A go-to option for wedding cocktail receptions, it’s party-ready yets sufficiently formal.
Rouje’s red polka dot midi is a failsafe choice for wedding season. Channeling French It-girl style, the classic polka dot design is elevated by the statement red finish. Characterised by contrasting pink ruffles on the deep V-neckline and a subtly cupped bodice, the simple slip silhouette falls to a flattering midi length. Complete with a lining, it features adjustable spaghetti straps to help you find the perfect fit. Pair with matching red lippie for best dressed status.
If you’re not restricted by any theme or formality, why not go bold with this leopard print Urban Outfitters number. The contrasting floral adds feminine detailing while the cowl neck and mesh fabrication gives the dress a Nineties-feel. Complete with spaghetti straps and body-skimming silhouette, the maxi length is elevated by the asymmetric hem. Style with silver kitten heels and a mini shoulder bag for a wedding look that’s in vogue.
Topshop’s maxi dress is a flattering take on formal wear. Finished in a soft baby blue hue, the frill detailing elevates the design while the V-front, spaghetti strap tie and and floaty sleeves add intrigue to the neckline. The figure-hugging silhouette skims down into a floaty hem while the frill detailing throughout gives the dress a vintage feel. Elegant and effortless, accessorise with simple jewelry and silver slingbacks.
Never Fully Dressed is a treasure trove of wedding guest inspiration with options for every budget, size and theme. Its beaded Allegra dress is simple yet effortlessly elegant. The slip silhouette is characterised by the hand crocheted top with woven beading. Small coloured beads detail the V-neckline while the contrasting satin bias skirt glides as you walk. Crochet is everywhere this season and the Allegra dress is a sleek way to lean in. Perfect for a less strict black tie theme or destination wedding, you’ll dig it out summer after summer.
Sometimes a wedding calls for pure simplicity – and you just can’t go wrong with a satin slip dress. Ghosts’ slips are some of the best in the business and come in an array of colours for every taste. Crafted from bias-cut satin to create a flowing, flattering silhouette, the regular fit is comfortable and adjustable thanks to the thin straps.
Elevated by the scoop neckline and subtle bust cupping, the maxi length makes it a versatile staple. Serving you beyond occasion-wear, style with oversize knits and boots in winter. Coming in blue and natural, more colours are available via Ghosts’ own site (£129, Ghost.co.uk).
If you’re shopping on a budget, New Look’s floral square neck frill maxi dress has you covered. The orange-hued maxi boasts a flattering square neckline, tie front and sweet puff sleeves, while the vintage-inspired floral print nods to the Seventies. Featuring subtle tiered detailing in the floaty skirt, crochet inserts and an understated corset-style bodice, the other guests won’t believe it set you back less than £30.
Kitri’s Harlow dress silhouette is endlessly versatile and comes in 10 washes for every occasion. We love the abstract print for a dopamine hit this wedding season. Brightening up the congregation, splashes of red, blue, green and yellow characterise the frock.
Cut from the label’s summer-ready eco-conscious viscose fabrication, the Cheongsam-inspired design boasts a Mandarin collar, bow detailing and short cap sleeves. The figure hugging fit, teamed with a mini length, will look just as good with platforms this summer wedding season as it will with knee high boots in winter.
Polka dot is as timeless as prints come – and the formal yet playful print is perfect for wedding guest attire. Karen Millen’s exaggerated take boasts a stand collar, ruffled yoke detailing and an elegant A-line skirt that calls for stiletto heels. The buttoned placket and cascading bow tie add to the drama. A stellar option for black tie themes or monochrome occasions, it will last you well beyond wedding season. We’d suggest forgoing accessories and let the dress hog the limelight.
An affordable winner from Asos, the label’s long sleeve maxi dress from its curve line is perfect for those wanting a little more coverage. We love the contrasting design with the polka dot top half and floral skirt ticking off two major wedding print trends. Boasting a flattering round neck and exaggerated sleeves that add intrigue, the frock flows down into a floor-sweeping maxi hem. Elevate your look by styling with chunky gold jewellery and an up hairdo.
Elegant, flattering and versatile enough for donning long beyond wedding season, you’ll get your cost-per-wear from Free People’s Amira floral midi dress. If you’re looking to make a statement, Nobody’s Child’s hot pink frock and Mango’s satin jumpsuit provide a dopamine hit while Rouje’s polka dot midi and Rixo’s Clarice dress are classic choices that will be perfect for weddings in years to come.
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