25 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Kind of Ceremony

Wedding season is officially upon us. You know what that means: endless bachelorette parties and booked weekends. If you're searching for the best summer wedding guest dresses, let’s get into some FAQs first: While bright colors and floral prints are most popular, you can totally wear black to a summer wedding. (Same goes for long sleeves and maxi dresses.) Really, it just comes down to picking forgiving materials that breathe, like cotton or silk; airy silhouettes with cutouts, open backs, or slits; and numbers that are a little more elegant than your average summer dresses.
Whether you’re shopping for a unique mother-of-the-bride dress, a showstopper that doesn’t read “bridesmaid dress,” or something affordable from Amazon that won’t reveal you procrastinated, our edit covers every occasion and budget. Now grab a pair of comfortable heels and a portable fan—these are the only dresses you’ll need in 2024.
The best types of summer wedding guest dresses, at a glance
- The Puff-Sleeve Beauty: ASTR the Label Off-the-Shoulder A-Line Dress, $95
- The Hidden Gem from Amazon: Exlura Square-Neck Minidress, $49
- The Formal Dress: Reformation Selah Silk Dress, $378
- The Simple Stunner: Staud Wells Dress, $285
- The Size-Inclusive Dress: Old Navy Fit & Flare Sleeveless Midi Dress, $36
- The Black Dress: J.Crew Philomena Dress, $168
- The Trendy Midi: T1fe 1Sfe Square-Neck Dress, $50
- The Long-Sleeve Dress: Boden V-Neck Puff Maxidress, $215
- The Cutout Number: Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Cutout Dress, $150
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- 1/25
ASTR the Label Off-the-Shoulder A-Line Dress
Simple and elegant enough for any dress code, this puff-sleeve pick from ASTR the Label makes the perfect blank slate for a wedding-guest look. There’s plenty of real estate for statement earrings and necklaces; finish up your look with some trendy slingback heels and a designer bag. There are no pockets, but we’re willing to overlook that detail thanks to a breezy linen blend and a ruched back for the perfect fit. Choose from orange-yellow, black, periwinkle, and other poppy colors.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 60% rayon, 40% linen / Colors: 5 options
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- 2/25
Exlura Square-Neck Minidress
Plenty of gems are up for grabs at Amazon—if you know where to look. This slightly stretchy puff-sleeve number (a longtime favorite of Glamour readers) dresses up nicely, especially if you opt for statement heels and dainty jewelry. And after the big day, it’ll be another cute option to add to your collection. Oh, and it’s machine-washable.
Sizes: XS–XXL / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 19 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Amazon promo codes.
- 3/25
Staud Wells Dress
Here’s a not-so-well-kept secret: Staud is the brand behind some of the absolute cutest event dresses on the market. This perennial bestseller makes a convincing case for simplicity over scene-stealing silhouettes, and it’s just as appropriate for formal dress codes as it is for casual ones.
Sizes: 00–12 / Material: 98% cotton, 2% spandex / Colors: 4 options
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- 4/25
Old Navy Fit & Flare Sleeveless Midi Dress
For low-key affairs, this shockingly affordable pick from Old Navy should be your go-to. There’s a sweetheart neckline, a breezy linen blend, and three lengths up for grabs—not to mention a size run that extends to 4X. Treat this as a cute backdrop for more statement-making accessories.
Sizes: XS–4X / Material: 55% linen, 45% rayon / Colors: 11 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Old Navy promo codes.
- 5/25
Reformation Selah Silk Dress
Reformation is basically synonymous with wedding guest dresses at this point, and this fitted number is one of the best on the market. That elegant print is classic without being boring, and the shape and material should ace any dress code that skews more formal, from cocktail to black-tie. Win-win.
Sizes: 0–12 / Material: 100% silk / Colors: 4 options
- 6/25
Hutch Strapless Hi-Low Dress
Long dresses lend themselves nicely to black-tie affairs, and this dramatic number should make quite the impression. A fitted bodice cascades into a high-low skirt that drapes (and photographs) beautifully. Note that this option is only available to rent—a plus if you don’t have many opportunities to wear a ball gown otherwise.
Sizes: 00–16 / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 1 option
- 7/25
Dress the Population Magnolia One-Shoulder Dress
This architectural pick is pretty much the definition of “cocktail dress.” Smart and just sultry enough, it’s a welcome antidote to the sea of boring wedding dress options. And we can’t argue with the under-$200 price tag.
Sizes: XXS–XXL / Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex / Colors: 4 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Nordstrom promo codes.
- 8/25
T1fe 1Sfe Square-Neck Dress
Another Amazon highlight that’s beloved by Glamour readers, this A-line option looks so much more expensive than it actually is. Reviewers praise its “Reformation vibes” and say it’s an ideal length for petite people. Better yet, those three bows nod at the bow trend without going overboard.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 10 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Amazon promo codes.
- 9/25
Free-est La La Maxidress
Perfect for a beach or garden ceremony, this top-rated boho maxi is at its best in motion. A long tiered skirt flows with every step (or dance move), while flutter sleeves make the silhouette all the more dynamic. An open back, meanwhile, will help keep sweat at bay. Wear it with strappy sandals and gold jewelry now, then give it a second life as a beach cover-up later this summer.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 65% polyester, 34% viscose, 1% elastane / Colors: 16 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Free People promo codes.
- 10/25
Atsu Sally Bow Midi-Dress
Atsu’s one-shoulder stunner lets you wear your love of bows on your chest. Available in standard, plus, and petite sizing, it’s a steal at under $250. And that peach color—one of four seasonal options—is just right for summer.
Sizes: XXS–3X / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 4 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Anthropologie promo codes.
- 11/25
By Anthropologie Katerina Button-Front Dress
Anthro’s short-sleeve pick features a modular design, allowing you to adjust the breathable cotton skirt for however much airflow you’ll need at that moment. Robust plus and petite sizing means that almost everyone can get in on the hot pink fun, and a smocked back ensures that you’ll get the perfect fit for your body, no tailoring appointment required.
Sizes: XXS–3X / Material: 100% cotton / Colors: 4 options
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- 12/25
Norma Kamali Diana Gown
Norma Kamali’s bodycon dress is a tried-and-true wedding staple—classy, universally flattering, and blessedly low-effort. While you can find it in nearly any color, this coastal teal is especially great for summer nuptials, even more so if you’re near the beach. It’s giving ocean goddess.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex / Colors: 1 option
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Revolve promo codes.
- 13/25
Reformation Mariska Dress
Another Reformation stunner, this scoop-neck dress is constructed entirely from deadstock fabric. The simple shape and dancing-friendly length are perfect for cocktail ceremonies and party-oriented gatherings. (It’s also stunning in canary yellow and deep burgundy.) Bust out the sculptural earrings for this one; we’d also love to see it styled with mesh ballet flats.
Sizes: 0–12 / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 3 options
- 14/25
J.Crew Philomena Dress
Although this airy cotton dress leans understated, lace embroidery at the neckline, waist, and hem adds some welcome visual intrigue. We’re imagining it with strappy silver heels and matching jewelry. (It’ll look great with your date’s blazer layered on top come nightfall.) It also comes in white, should you be a bride in need of a low-key dress for your wedding weekend.
Sizes: XXS–3X / Material: 100% cotton / Colors: 2 options
- 15/25
Saloni Tabitha Dress
Renting is the easiest way to get your hands on dresses that would otherwise be out of your price range. (Fellow guests need not know you’re sending it back on Monday.) This gorgeous Saloni number typically retails for nearly $700, but you can rent it (and four other options) for less than $100. Just look at that vintage-inspired print!
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Rent the Runway promo codes.
- 16/25
Reformation Monette Linen Dress
Light, breathable linen is a girl’s best friend when summer isn’t playing nice. It’s a Ref bestseller, which makes sense; it’s simple, but the effect is eye-catching. If you’re worried about this floral print featuring so much white, you can also pick from red and yellow.
Sizes: 0–12 / Material: 100% linen / Colors: 4 options
- 17/25
Boden V-Neck Puff Maxidress
Although the long sleeves and maxi hemline might look like liabilities, a roomy cut and light viscose ensure you’ll stay light on your feet. And don’t even get us started on that gorgeous print—this is a floral dress you’ll wear well beyond summer. (You could even repurpose it for a winter wedding.)
Sizes: 0–22 / Material: 100% viscose / Colors: 4 options
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- 18/25
Zesica Ruffle Tiered Midi-Dress
Lightweight and effortlessly pretty, this tiered crewneck option looks great on almost everyone. It’s the “perfect any-event dress,” reviewers say, with a look that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the ceremony. (Pro tip: Keep an eye out for on-page coupons to get an even better deal at checkout.)
Sizes: S–XL / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 15 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Amazon promo codes.
- 19/25
L’Agence Akiya Tank Dress
Yes, slip dresses can be overdone—but thanks to a luxe lemon girl makeover, this low-key number feels completely fresh. Paired with gold accessories and bold sunglasses, it’s exactly the unfussy vibe a garden wedding calls for.
Sizes: XXS–XXL / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 1 option
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Nordstrom promo codes, Shopbop promo codes, and Revolve promo codes.
- 20/25
Nia Destene Dress
This under-$100 bestseller is an exercise in contradictions: A corset-style bodice flows into an open back. If you’ll be outside—potentially even at a destination wedding—the unique construction will be a lifesaver. (Buh-bye, back sweat.) Wear it with simple sandals to the ceremony, then bring it back throughout the summer with fisherman sandals and a raffia tote.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 100% cotton / Colors: 1 option
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Revolve promo codes.
- 21/25
Amanda Uprichard Isabel Dress
If the dress code leans more beachy (or sexy) than traditional, lean into the party vibes with this slinky Amanda Uprichard option. The ruched waist, rosette detail, and draped chiffon make it way more interesting than the usual LBD—and it’s the perfect attire for picking up your future spouse at the after-party.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 2 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Shopbop promo codes and Revolve promo codes.
- 22/25
Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Pleated Cutout Dress
This striking pleated gown is a little bit Studio 54 and a lotta bit gorgeous. We especially appreciate the side cutouts, which add some sex appeal, of course, but also make room for additional airflow to combat sweltering forecasts.
Sizes: XXS–3X / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 8 options
- 23/25
Lilly Pulitzer Ellara Jacquard Midi Bow Dress
Owned and loved by Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz, this hot pink, knee-length pick is preppy style done right. The big bow is the clear draw here, but we’re also obsessed with the floral jacquard fabric that’ll shimmer in the sunlight.
Sizes: 00–16 / Material: 100% polyester / Colors: 1 option
- 24/25
Reformation Parma Silk Dress
Reformation’s silk dresses prove that “less is more” isn’t just a cliché—it’s sound advice. The formfitting material cascades over the body, showing just enough skin to help you survive outdoor nuptials sweat-free. Go with statement jewelry, contrasting heels, and a beaded bag to add some welcome pops of color.
Sizes: XS–XL / Material: 100% silk / Colors: 5 options
- 25/25
Chelsea28 Faux Wrap Midi-Dress
This printed pick is neither too casual nor too fancy, making it an excellent option for most weddings you’ll be invited to this season. The fluttery high-low hem will catch the breeze in the best way—and show off the strappy heels you bought for the occasion.
Sizes: XXS–XXL / Material: 99% polyester, 1% spandex / Colors: 6 options
Save on the best summer wedding guest dresses with these Nordstrom promo codes.