The Well-Dressed Wedding Guest: Attire for Every Occasion

Easy, breezy: Shoshanna Auburn dress available from Tuckernuck in Washington, D.C. 

Wedding season is in full swing, calling for a stylish, versatile, and celebration-ready wardrobe. As any well-dressed wedding guest knows, having the right attire can make or break an evening; after all, no one wants to be over- or under-dressed at an event, and certain practical factors must be considered. Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite looks for a variety of celebrations. From beachfront nuptials to a black-tie fete, these frocks are party-ready.

Breezy Outdoor OCCASION

Celebrating a wedding in a beautiful outdoor setting can be an unforgettable experience—especially in the right outfit. In the summertime, we like to keep it cool and comfortable, and gravitate toward a neutral or light palette.

The Raquel Allegra pewter maxi dress (left) available from Charlottesville, Virginia-based eloise is loose-fitting yet flattering, while the Tibi Sculpted Sleeve dress (right) available from Hampden in Charleston, South Carolina, is fresh and fashion-forward.

The Tibi Striped dress (left) available from Coplon’s in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a clean-lined classic that will be a wardrobe staple for years to come. Temperley London’s Juniper dress (right), also from Coplon’s, is the perfect garden party frock.

Left: The C/MEO Vivid dress available from The Geisha House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, offers unstructured comfort with an edge. Right: The chic color-blocking and pleats of the Roksanda Rosewood tent dress available from Hampden take the loose-fitting dress to the next level.

Chic CITY celebration

City weddings call for sophistication. When the occasion arises, we tend to gravitate toward stylish and structured outfits that feel sleek and modern.

Solace’s Rene dress (left), available from Hampden, is effortlessly chic (and the perfect tomato red). The THIRD FORM Reflection cami dress (right) available from Anaphora in Kansas City is an excellent choice for the minimalist style maven.

The Roksanda Celeste abstract dress and Escada Danissas dress, both available from Marissa Collections in Naples, stand out without being too statement-making.

The Endless Rose Stella midi dress (left) available from Mod & Soul in Richmond, Virginia, is a bold and architectural take on the LBD, while the Rachel Comey Coax dress available from Scarpa in Charlottesville, Virginia is sleek and striking. Neither are for the faint-of-heart wallflower, but no one will accuse the wearer of upstaging the bride, either.

Formal Affair WITH FLAIR

When it comes to formal weddings, we tend to think a traditional silhouette paired with romantic details or pretty pattern works best. Whether you love a black-tie occasion or the idea of attending an event in formalwear sends you into a sartorial panic, these options will have you covered.

Feminine, elegant, and utterly charming, the Roksanda Sibella dress (left) available from Vermillion in Raleigh, North Carolina, and the Strut & Bolt Ruffle detail gown available from Thread in Columbus, Ohio, are ideal options thanks to bell sleeves, bows, and perfectly proportioned ruffles.

The sophisticated simplicity of the Cameo First Impression dress and BCBGMAXAZRIA Jesse gown, both available from Elle Boutique in New Orleans, make them an excellent choice for a formal occasion. Just add jewels and you’re ready to dance the night away.

We love the full skirt and gorgeous fabric of CO’s Tea Length Sleeveless dress (left) available from Hampden in Charleston, South Carolina. Right: The beautifully embellished Self-Portrait Florentine maxi dress available from Coplon’s in Charlotte, North Carolina, is the picture of feminine refinement—and perfect for a formal occasion.