Deciding what to wear to a wedding can be one of the most difficult parts of attending one. Even if you have an idea of what the bride will be wearing, it can still be hard to choose the right outfit that’s both comfortable and flattering, while remaining seasonal and socially appropriate. Here are 10 top summer wedding guest dresses that make sure you won’t miss out on any fun—and look great while doing it!
1) Layered chiffon maxi dresses
A summer wedding is the perfect opportunity to break out a pretty maxi dress. To stay cool and comfortable in the heat, go for a style with layers of lightweight chiffon. This will also prevent any dreaded wardrobe malfunctions if there's a breeze. Choose a sleeveless silhouette or one with thin straps for the most summer-appropriate look. Maxi dresses can be worn off the shoulder to show some skin, but avoid going too low since that might not be appropriate at a daytime wedding. And don't forget your sunscreen! Sunburns are no fun, especially when you're dressed up and already feeling hot. Plus, it'll make you feel even more uncomfortable when you have to wear a form-fitting dress all day long!
2) Floral lace maxi dresses
A floral lace maxi dress is the perfect choice for a summer wedding guest. The lace adds a touch of elegance, while the maxi length keeps you cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Plus, there are so many pretty floral lace dresses to choose from! Here are our top 10 picks for summer wedding guest dresses:
1. Floral Lace Maxi Dress
2. Chiffon Maxi Dress
3. Sheath Dress
4. A-Line Dress 5. Bodycon Dress 6. Strapless Dress 7. One Shoulder Dress 8. Off-The-Shoulder Dress 9. Cocktail Length Gown 10. Two Piece Gown
3) Short lace dress with a train
A short lace dress with a train is the perfect choice for a summer wedding guest. The lace will keep you cool and the train will make you feel like a princess. Plus, the short length will show off your legs. To complete the look, pair the dress with nude heels and a clutch. If it's not a formal event, wear your hair down or in an updo to avoid being too hot. If it is a formal event, go ahead and put your hair up. Wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm to protect yourself from sunburns. Be sure to drink plenty of water and eat small portions of food throughout the day to stay hydrated and well-fed. Lastly, don't forget about your eyebrows! Take some time during the morning before you leave for the event to fill them in with pencil so they'll be defined all day long.
4) Floral midi dresses
Floral midi dresses are always a good choice for summer weddings. They are comfortable, flattering, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a summer wedding, look for a dress with bold colors and patterns. Avoid anything too whimsical or youthful – you want to look like a guest, not a flower girl! If your event is formal, you can opt for a more classic silhouette in a bright color or jewel tone. If it’s less formal, go for something in white lace with embroidery detailing on the skirt and sleeves. A more playful option would be a short dress with an oversized bow at the waist that gives off major garden party vibes. Whatever your style preference is, there’s no need to break the bank when looking for that perfect summer dress to wear to a wedding! You'll find everything from casual maxi dresses to elegant strapless evening gowns, all of which will make you feel glamorous without breaking the bank. One popular trend we spotted this year was ruffles – they're delicate but feminine and will provide a welcome breath of fresh air in any outfit! You'll also see lots of flowy fabrics (think chiffon) which will help keep you cool throughout the day as well as plenty of vibrant prints, textures, and shapes.
5) Off-the-shoulder boho dresses
A summer wedding is the perfect opportunity to wear a pretty boho dress. An off-the-shoulder style is both flirty and fun, and it will keep you cool in the summer heat. Look for a dress with pretty details like embroidery or fringe, and don't forget to accessorize with a pair of statement earrings. If you're looking for something more affordable, try out a handmade dress from an indie designer on Etsy. You'll be the coolest guest at any summer wedding! And if you want to feel extra special, invest in a gown that's made just for you. We've found some cute summer dresses on Rent The Runway that are available now through their app. Here are the top ten styles for summer 2020:
Off-the-shoulder Boho Dress // Sleeveless Maxi Dress // High Neck Embroidered Gown // Ruffled Gown
6) Flirty sundress with ruffles
A flirty sundress with ruffles is the perfect choice for a summer wedding guest. The ruffles add a touch of fun and femininity, while the sundress silhouette keeps you cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Plus, this style is flattering on just about any body type. To complete the look, pair your dress with strappy sandals and a pretty clutch. Add some jeweled earrings to bring out the feminine features of the dress, like the ruffles or delicate straps. With so many summer weddings coming up, it's important to make sure that you're prepared for all sorts of weather conditions - luckily we have tons of styles for every occasion! Keep scrolling to find even more ideas for what to wear to a summer wedding. Off-the-shoulder maxi dress: We can't get enough of off-the-shoulder dresses right now - they're effortless and chic at the same time. You'll want to take advantage of their popularity by wearing one to a summer wedding this year.
7) Maxi dress with a shrug
A maxi dress with a shrug is the perfect summer wedding guest dress. It's comfortable, stylish, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, it's a great option for hiding those problem areas that you don't want to show off.
Here are our top 10 picks for summer wedding guest dresses:
1. Maxi Dress with a Shrug
2. Sheath Dress
3. Wrap Dress
4. Halter Dress
5. Cap Sleeve Dress 6. Turtleneck Dress 7. Fit and Flare Dress 8. Shift Dress 9. Off-the-Shoulder Dress 10. Bodycon Dress
8) Lightweight shift dress with flounce hem
This is a great option for a summer wedding as it's both comfortable and stylish. The flounce hem adds a touch of femininity, while the lightweight fabric will keep you cool in the heat. Plus, this dress can easily be dressed up or down depending on the event. Add some peep-toe pumps to amp up the style at night!
Lightweight sleeveless maxi dress with lace bodice: The lace bodice and sheer chiffon skirt make this look chic without being too heavy.
Velvet off-the-shoulder cocktail dress with side cutouts: Velvet is trending for 2020 weddings so don't miss out on the trend! Pair with black strappy heels for an edgy yet elegant look. Leave your hair loose and wavy for maximum sex appeal. Finish with red lipstick and a gold cuff bracelet that matches your earrings.
9) Lace gowns for wedding guest photos
Lace always looks good in photos and is perfect for summertime weddings. This airy and feminine fabric will keep you cool and comfortable all day long. Look for a dress with intricate details like ruffles or beading for added interest.
Chiffon gowns for a summer garden wedding (five sentences): If you're attending a summer garden wedding, a chiffon gown is the way to go. This flowy fabric is perfect for hot weather and will keep you cool and comfortable all day long. Look for a dress with delicate details like lace or embroidery.
Linen gowns for late-summer outdoor ceremony: A linen gown is perfect if you are attending an outdoor ceremony in late-summer. Linen has a naturally cool touch that won't make you feel sticky on an already humid day. You can also opt for off-white linen if white isn't your color of choice, but still want something soft and light to wear as your outfit when walking down the aisle. Whether it's an outdoor or indoor wedding, a cute romper would work well as a first layer. Slip on some stylish sandals so you don't have to walk barefoot in heels up the aisle!
10) Pleated midi skirt + crop top combo
This is a great choice for a summer wedding because it's both dressy and comfortable. The skirt is made of a lightweight, airy fabric that will keep you cool in the heat, and the crop top is perfect for showing off a little bit of skin. Plus, the pleats on the skirt add a touch of elegance. To complete the look, pair this outfit with some strappy heels and a clutch. Finish your makeup with bright eyeshadow and rosy cheeks, then pin your hair up loosely to show off your neckline. You can also use a headband or headwrap to make sure everything stays put. Now all you need are some sunglasses and a statement necklace for your final touches! Make sure to pack these items in your carry-on when flying out for the event, so you don't have to lug them around once you get there. Add a chic pair of earrings (maybe some round hoop ones) and voila - you're set! There's no need to go overboard on accessories since they'll just weigh you down in the hot weather. And before you leave, be sure to apply sunscreen liberally - especially if you're going to be sitting outside during dinner.