The 17 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses of 2023
Table of Contents
Wedding season is still in full swing, which means 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 various options with these features in mind.
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 best.
Read on for the best summer wedding guest outfits for every dress code, style, and budget.
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping on orders over $50 | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $69
Size Range: P-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
Get ready to fall head over heels in love with this summer-staple maxi dress. We love its pull-on styling and its tie neck for a custom fit. The bright pastel green is beautiful for summer, and the waist cutouts give the illusion of separate pieces. The plunging neckline adds to the already sexy flair, while the maxi length allows you to don it for casual and more formal affairs. Round out this simple yet stylish dress with loose beach waves and espadrilles wedges.
Price at time of publish: From $312.75
Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | 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 slide 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.
Price at time of publish: $168
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Cotton | Length: Maxi | Shipping: $6.95-$15.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $168
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Blend | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
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 its 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.
Price at time of publish: $114
Size Range: US 0-10 | Material: Linen | Length: Maxi | Shipping: $10 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
Summer weddings call for fun prints, bright colors, and flouncy hemlines, and this dress boasts all three. We also love that it has a tie front and cutouts for a sexy flair. It’s crafted from linen making it the perfect dress for a destination wedding or summer soirée. Wear with simple sandals and bold accessories to mirror the brand’s styling.
Price at time of publish: $1,350
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $141
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Viscose | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $328
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $125
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Jersey | Length: Midi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
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 cocktail 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.
Price at time of publish: $215
Size Range: 14-28 | Material: Polyester and spandex | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Free shipping on orders $125+ | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $100
Size Range: XS-L | Material: Jersey | Length: Mini | Shipping: Free 2-day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 60 days
If you’re looking for a classic, A-line look, try this Susana Monaco dress. The cowl neckline offers a unique spin on this style, and it’s easy to dress up with your favorite jewelry and comfortable block heels. This mini dress is made from stretchy nylon and spandex, so you’ll feel cool and comfortable no matter how long the wedding lasts. We think the sweet lavender color is great for summer—just make sure it doesn’t clash with the bride’s bridal party colors to avoid a faux pas.
Price at time of publish: $46
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
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.
Price at time of publish: $320
Size Range: IT 36-46 | Material: Lace, georgette, point d’esprit | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $832
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Viscose and rayon | Length: Midi | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $228
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Free 2-Day shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days
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, a 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.
Price at time of publish: $198
Size Range: 0-3 | Material: 100 % silk | Length: Maxi | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days
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.
Price at time of publish: $595
What to Look for in a Summer Wedding Guest Dress
If you’re attending a summer wedding, it’s wise to shop for 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. When it comes to silhouettes, mini, midi, and tea-length dresses are ideal for warm-weather nuptials and work especially well for beach and garden venues.
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.
Why Trust Us
Contributing writer Sophie Moore is 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.