Got a wedding coming up but no idea what to wear? Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Whether you're dancing beneath fairy lights at a garden party or feeling the sand between your toes at a boho beach wedding, there's a dress that will make you shine, whatever the dress code. Think breezy florals, glamorous gowns, and everything in between. In this blog, you'll discover the different wedding dress codes, the best fabrics and colours for the occasion, and how to find a wedding guest look that reflects your style — with a sprinkle of vintage charm, of course. Let the celebration begin!
What kind of dress should you wear to a wedding?
Whether you’re a fan of flowing minis, dreaming of an elegant maxi, or feel most like yourself in a classic A-line: there’s a wedding guest dress out there that captures your unique flair. From flattering necklines to playful sleeves, pastel hues to deep, rich tones — the right dress enhances your confidence and lets your personality sparkle. You may not be the bride, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dazzle. ✨
Choosing the right dress length
A wedding calls for an outfit that’s not only stylish but also in tune with the setting. Short and chic or long and refined? The ideal length depends on the venue, the vibe, and your personal style. Let’s explore the most popular dress lengths for wedding guests.
Mini Dress
Short, sweet and made for dancing — the mini dress is a fabulous choice for sunny weddings with a relaxed vibe. It’s absolutely fine to show a little leg as long as the look remains elegant and festive. An A-line cut or a flared skirt with delicate detailing hits just the right note. For more traditional venues like churches, consider a longer hemline or adding a chic cover-up. With the right styling, the mini is definitely wedding-appropriate. Add a pair of heels and a smile — and you're ready to celebrate love!❤️
Midi Dress
The midi — with its graceful length falling between knee and calf — strikes the perfect balance between chic and classic. A cocktail dress may turn heads, but the midi brings a timeless elegance that works from ceremony to reception. Pair it with heels or sandals, grab a cheerful clutch and voilà: you’re wedding-ready with effortless grace. And the best part? A midi moves beautifully with every slow dance and spin.
Maxi Dress
If you’re looking for elegance with a romantic twist, the maxi dress is your go-to. Skimming the ankles or just above, this flowing style is perfect for evening ceremonies, glamorous venues or dreamy outdoor settings. Just be sure to avoid bridal white or anything too close to a wedding gown. Think light, breathable fabrics, gentle colours or romantic prints. A design with an open back or a subtle slit adds effortless elegance. Maxi means maximum style (and comfort).
Cocktail Dress
A true classic with a twinkle in its eye — the cocktail dress is made for toasting in style. Falling just above or at the knee, this style is made for semi-formal weddings and cocktail dress codes. While evening gowns are full-length, cocktail dresses offer a breezier take on celebration chic. Look for satin, chiffon or lace for a refined finish. As long as it’s not too revealing, a cocktail dress is a lovely choice for wedding guest outfit. Cheers to love.
A-Line Dress
A forever classic — the A-line dress flatters just about every figure. With a fitted waist and a flared skirt, it works for hourglass, pear and apple shapes alike. Ideal for every kind of wedding, from elegant dinners to seaside ceremonies or garden gatherings. Just add heels or pretty sandals and step into the day feeling stylish and confident. It’s feminine, timeless and wonderfully comfortable — everything a great wedding guest look should be.
Swing Dress
Want to twirl your way through the big day? The swing dress is made for it. With a defined waist and a full skirt, this retro-inspired beauty brings movement and grace to every step. Choose a knee-length version in a vibrant print or colour and you’ll be turning heads for all the right reasons. Perfect for all seasons too — wear it bare-legged in summer or with tights and a bolero in cooler months. Add a cute clutch and a vintage-style hair accessory, and you’re ready to swing in style.
Pencil Dress
Sleek and fitted doesn’t have to mean over the top — a pencil dress can absolutely work for weddings with the right styling. Opt for a midi or knee-length cut to keep things refined, and choose stretchy fabrics, gathered details or subtle wrap styles for comfort and shape. Ideal for hourglass silhouettes but flattering on all body types with the right fit. Keep the venue in mind — casual beach party? Go for it. Formal church ceremony? A more covered version may suit better. The key? Confidence and class, every step of the way.
Which sleeve length suits your wedding guest look?
Whether you're drawn to romantic off-shoulder designs, graceful long sleeves or playful straps — the sleeve length you choose plays a big role in the overall feel of your dress. To help you shine with confidence and elegance from ceremony to celebration, here’s a guide to the most flattering sleeve options for wedding guests.
Short-Sleeved Dress
Short-sleeved wedding guest dresses are a popular pick for informal or semi-formal weddings. Offering a little more coverage than sleeveless styles, they strike the perfect balance between modesty and comfort — especially for daytime ceremonies where you want to look polished but not overdressed. At the same time, they feel much breezier than long sleeves, making them ideal for spring and summer celebrations. From delicate cap sleeves to puffy sleeves or lace details, there’s a short-sleeved style to suit every taste.
Long-Sleeved Dress
Attending an autumn or winter wedding? Or is the dress code a little more formal? Then a long-sleeved dress is a beautiful and practical choice. Think sheer chiffon sleeves, subtle pleats or fitted tailored cuts that bring elegance and warmth to your outfit. Long sleeves offer a timeless, graceful look that’s perfect for evening receptions and church ceremonies alike. Pair with a cinched waist or A-line silhouette for a flattering finish.
Strapless Dress
Want to show off those shoulders? A strapless dress is a glamorous, confident choice for sun-soaked weddings and evening affairs. Just remember: if you're attending a religious ceremony, layer your look with a chic blazer or light scarf for respectful coverage — without compromising on style.
Fit is everything when it comes to strapless dresses. You don’t want to be adjusting your dress all day. If your chosen style doesn’t work with a bra, consider using boob tape for discreet support that keeps everything in place — simple, seamless and oh-so-effective!
One-Shoulder Dress
Looking for something a little unexpected? The one-shoulder dress is an eye-catching option that blends elegance with a modern twist. With one strap or sleeve on one shoulder and the other left bare, it’s ideal for fun, festive weddings with a relaxed vibe. For a church ceremony, simply add a matching bolero or jacket. A little more covered than off-shoulder styles, one-shoulder dresses offer balance and charm in equal measure.
Off-Shoulder Dress
For a dreamy, romantic look, the off-shoulder dress is simply perfect — especially for outdoor summer weddings or vintage-inspired celebrations. This style gives you the freedom to show off your neckline while keeping things elegant and feminine. Heading to a religious venue? Bring along a cover-up to layer over your shoulders during the ceremony.
Compared to strapless dresses, off-shoulder styles offer a touch more coverage, while still feeling light and graceful. To make sure everything stays in place, fashion tape is your best friend — gentle on the skin and perfect for carefree dancing!
Style tip: Pair your off-shoulder look with softly pinned-up hair for a romantic finish that’s sure to turn heads.
Which neckline flatters you best?
The neckline of your wedding guest dress says more than you think — from subtly romantic to a touch of sultry. Will you go for a graceful bateau, a cute halter or a feminine V-neck? The options are endless, so discover which neckline works best for your figure, your style, and the mood of the big day. Time to shine!
V-Neckline & Halter Neckline
A V-neckline is flattering, elongates the neck and enhances your natural curves — especially if you have a fuller cup. It’s a feminine choice that works beautifully for both daytime and evening weddings. A soft, subtle V is often the most elegant option. Prefer to highlight your shoulders or love a more modern look? Then the halter neck might be your match. A halter dress leaves the shoulders bare and fastens at the neck, while a V-neck draws the eye downward for a more open and classic feel. Not sure about a deeper V? Go for it — just keep the balance right. Add sleeves, choose a luxurious fabric or opt for a higher waist to keep things classy and wedding-appropriate.
Sweetheart Neckline
Looking for a touch of romance with a vintage twist? The sweetheart neckline is your go-to. With its heart-shaped curve, it softly frames the décolleté and flatters both fuller and smaller busts alike. It’s ideal for dreamy evening weddings or celebrations with a retro vibe. Fabrics like lace, velvet or satin elevate the look with an extra dose of romance.
Bateau Neckline
Elegant and understated, the bateau neckline (also known as a boat neck) runs gently from shoulder to shoulder, showing just a peek of collarbone. It’s perfect if you love a sophisticated, no-fuss look that still feels feminine. Ideal for formal weddings or church ceremonies, this neckline adds quiet grace without being too revealing. Wear your hair up or softly pinned back to highlight this refined detail.
What colours to wear to a wedding — and which to skip
Not sure what colour to wear to the wedding? No need to worry — there’s a shade for every season, setting and skin tone. From soft pastels to rich, earthy hues, it’s all about finding the right match for your personality and the occasion. One golden rule? White is for the bride. Other than that, feel free to play with colour, as long as your look feels festive and elegant.
Hues that may not be wedding-guest approved
White might flatter, but it’s the bride’s time to sparkle in it. No matter how stunning that white dress may look on you, it’s simply not the time or place. Cream, ivory and very light beige tones can also be risky — best to steer clear. Black can be a chic option for certain weddings, but might feel too sombre for a relaxed or summer celebration. And bold neons or loud prints? Save those for another party. Instead, think soft, romantic shades or deep, luxurious tones that reflect your style without stealing the spotlight. Because yes, you’re allowed to shine — just not brighter than the couple.
What colour should you wear as a wedding guest?
Whether you’re drawn to soft pastels, rich burgundy or vibrant blue, the colour of your wedding guest dress says something about you and adds to the overall atmosphere of the day. But which hue is best for a wedding? And does your colour choice carry a hidden meaning? In this section, we’ll take you through colours that reflect who you are — without stealing the bride’s spotlight.
Beige is timeless, subtle and versatile, but when it comes to weddings, it can be a tricky choice. This shade can sometimes resemble white, which, of course, is reserved for the bride. However, beige can still work beautifully if you go for a warmer tone, pair it with bold accessories, or opt for a print. This way, you’ll stay chic and appropriate, without anyone thinking you’re the one walking down the aisle. 
Wearing a black dress to a wedding? Absolutely — but it’s all about how you wear it. Black is the colour of elegance and sophistication, but it can feel a little too sombre for a joyful day filled with love. Choose a dress with festive details or vibrant accessories to lift the mood. Black works wonderfully for evening weddings, but for daytime affairs, consider adding a pop of colour. In short: black is fine, as long as you wear it with flair and in harmony with the occasion. 
So, what’s the perfect colour for your wedding guest dress? It depends on the vibe of the day and what makes you feel your best. Soft pastels exude romance, rich tones add sophistication, and bright colours bring a burst of energy. Each colour has its own meaning and feeling, so choose what resonates with you. Whether you go for classic blue, sweet pink, or sunny yellow — you’re meant to shine in your own style.
Of course, you should select a dress colour you adore, but always keep the wedding’s dress code in mind. For a black-tie wedding, darker, richer hues like deep green or navy are perfect. Attending a boho wedding outdoors? Think soft pastels or earthy tones. If the invitation says "festive chic", feel free to go all out with colour! Ultimately, let the atmosphere guide you, and of course, your personal style. That way, you’ll always be appropriately and beautifully dressed.
Beautiful shapes, beautiful dresses: Wedding inspiration for every figure
As a wedding guest with a stunning figure, you naturally want to wear a dress that makes you feel absolutely beautiful. The good news? There are plenty of flattering styles that accentuate your curves just right. A-line dresses, wrap dresses, and fit-and-flare silhouettes create an hourglass shape and highlight your natural curves. Choose soft, lightweight fabrics like chiffon, jersey, or viscose that drape beautifully and move with you. Avoid stiff fabrics, as they may add volume where you don’t need it, instead of highlighting your silhouette. Midi or knee-length dresses are always a safe bet, offering both elegance and comfort. Looking for a little extra flair? Go for a subtle slit, beautiful sleeves, or a striking neckline. And remember: it’s not about hiding your curves, but celebrating them. Choose the dress that lets your silhouette shine.
Wedding guest dresses for every season
Whether the wedding takes place in a sunny garden filled with flowers or in a cosy banquet hall with candlelit dinners, your dress should reflect the season. Think airy fabrics for spring, joyful colours for summer, warm tones for autumn or luxurious textures for a winter celebration. We’ll help you choose the perfect dress for the time of year, keeping both the atmosphere and temperature in mind.
Spring calls for floral patterns, breezy fabrics, and soft pastel shades like light yellow, lilac, mint green, or pale blue. Popular fabrics include chiffon, viscose, or cotton blends. These materials are light and comfortable for unpredictable weather. Opt for a flowing A-line dress or a wrap dress with sleeves. And don’t forget: a stylish jacket or cardigan is a must if the sun is a little shy.
Summer is all about colour. Think sunny yellow, coral, turquoise, or fuchsia. These vibrant shades pair perfectly with airy fabrics that breathe and flow beautifully. Whether you choose a midi dress with a flared skirt or a strapless design, you’ll stay stylish and comfortable, even in the hottest of temperatures. Many summer weddings take place outdoors, so make sure you pick a dress that allows you to eat, dance, and mingle with ease!
An autumn wedding is your opportunity to experiment with textures and layers. Warm shades like rust, burgundy, emerald green, or navy blue are striking choices. These colours are even more eye-catching when paired with rich fabrics like satin or velvet. If it’s a bit chillier outside, layer your dress with a cropped cardigan, bolero, or a chic trench coat.
Heading to a winter wedding? Velvet dresses, jacquard fabrics, or stretchy materials in deep tones like dark green, navy, or wine red are incredibly popular. Dresses with long sleeves or high necklines are also ideal for the colder months. Complete your outfit with a coat, faux fur stole, or a stylish cape. Tights and closed-toe heels ensure you’ll look fabulous without feeling cold.
Choosing the right dress for the wedding theme
Is the wedding themed? It’s even more fun to match your outfit to the theme. From a boho beach wedding to a vintage garden celebration or a sophisticated black-tie dinner, every theme calls for its own unique look and feel. But don’t worry — with the right dress, you’ll perfectly fit into the theme and celebrate in style!
Summer Chic
This dress code blends casual charm with elegant flair. Picture a stylish yet laid-back look—ideal for a garden wedding on a sunny afternoon. Soft shades like lilac, turquoise, buttery yellow or peach set the perfect mood. Whether you choose a flowy floral dress or a plain stunner, opt for silhouettes like maxi dresses, wrap styles or A-line midis. Pair with heeled sandals, wedges or slingbacks for comfort and style. Finish the look with a clutch and a pair of sunglasses to channel that effortless summer chic vibe.
Bohemian
Bohemian weddings radiate romance and natural beauty—especially when they take place on the beach. Think relaxed fits, dreamy details and soft fabrics. Colours like sand, dusty rose and sage green beautifully complement the setting. A lace-trimmed maxi dress or a style with flutter sleeves suits this free-spirited theme. For a more formal boho affair, go for refined touches such as a layered skirt or elegant neckline. Skip stiff fabrics and high heels—they’re no match for sandy settings. Instead, opt for barefoot sandals or pretty espadrilles.
Garden Wedding
A garden wedding calls for a dress that’s both graceful and practical. Think breathable fabrics like cotton, linen or viscose in soft hues or romantic floral prints. Midi or maxi dresses with flutter sleeves, A-line shapes or wrap styles are all lovely choices. Compared to a beach wedding, a garden ceremony tends to be slightly more polished—so go easy on the spaghetti straps and opt for a more structured silhouette if needed. Skip high heels (no one wants to sink into the lawn!) and go for sandals, ballet flats or wedges. Whether in the garden or by the sea, let your dress flow with the breeze—and with love! 
Vintage Wedding
Step back in time and celebrate the glamour of decades past. Whether the wedding is inspired by the Roaring Twenties, the sophisticated thirties, the strong-shouldered forties or the flirty fifties, there’s a vintage dress for every era. Channel the twenties with fringe and Art Deco details, or go full thirties glam with fluid lines and puff sleeves. Fancy a forties look? Choose a dress with shoulder accents. Prefer the fifties? A cinched waist swing dress is just the ticket. Sixties lovers will adore A-line mini dresses, while the seventies shine with flowing florals. Fabrics like lace, satin and jacquard complete the vintage vibe. From tea dresses to button-up midis, choose a dress that speaks to the era—and let your inner retro icon shine.
Boho Chic
This theme is all about relaxed elegance and effortless beauty. Flowing shapes, light fabrics and earthy tones set the tone. Think maxi dresses with floral prints, lace trims, soft ruffles or floaty skirts in breathable cotton or linen. Colour palettes include warm rust, soft blush, muted sage and sandy neutrals. Complete your look with statement earrings, a woven clutch and espadrilles to match the natural, free-spirited energy of the day.
Classic & Romantic
Timeless elegance takes centre stage at a classic romantic wedding. Picture a grand venue, delicate music in the background and a touch of fairytale magic. As a guest, choose a dress that feels feminine and refined—such as a sweetheart neckline, A-line cut or a twirly midi. Blush pink, dusty rose and powder blue are perfect for this setting. Bold prints and bright colours? Best saved for another occasion. With timeless pumps or slingbacks, soft waves in your hair and a golden clutch, you’ll be ready to step into a dreamy celebration. Prefer flats? A pair of dainty ballet shoes is a graceful choice.
Black Tie
Got an invite with a black tie dress code? Lucky you—glamour awaits! This means a formal evening look, so go for a floor-length gown or a sleek midi dress in luxurious fabrics like satin, lace or velvet. Classic black is always chic, but deep jewel tones like sapphire, burgundy or emerald bring stunning alternatives. Style-wise, think off-shoulder, halter neck or a dress with a subtle slit. Add high heels, sparkling jewellery and a chic clutch to complete the ensemble.
White Tie
The most formal of all dress codes—white tie calls for ultimate elegance. A full-length gown is a must, preferably in a classic cut and opulent fabric like velvet or satin. Neckline suggestions? One-shoulder styles work beautifully. Stick to deep, rich colours like navy, burgundy or aubergine for an understated luxe feel. Add pearl jewellery, long gloves and an elegant updo to create a look that’s pure old-world sophistication.
Hollywood Glamour
When the invitation says Hollywood Glamour, it’s your cue to shine bright. Think bold silhouettes, shimmering fabrics and red carpet drama. Dresses in gold, ruby red, black or emerald green—especially with sequins or metallic accents—are perfect for this show-stopping theme. Bring the glitz, turn heads, and embrace your inner starlet.
The perfect finishing touch: Accessories to complement your wedding guest dress
The dress is just the beginning—accessories make the magic happen! Because it’s the little details that bring your look to life. From elegant earrings and festive clutches to romantic hairstyles, the right finishing touches will help you shine as a guest at any wedding. But what works best with which style? And how do you strike the perfect balance between eye-catching and elegant? Let’s explore jewellery, bags, hair accessories and other sparkling extras that make your outfit unforgettable.
From pearls to vintage sparkle: Jewellery to match your dress
Jewellery adds that subtle dose of glamour to your wedding look. Going for classic? Pearl earrings or a delicate gold-toned necklace are always a chic choice. Prefer something bolder? Try statement earrings with a retro twist or a vintage-style brooch to pair with a flowy dress. Gold looks stunning with warm tones like red, green or champagne, while silver complements cooler shades such as blue or pastel hues. And yes—you can absolutely mix gold and silver, as long as it’s done with a light touch. Bonus tip: vintage jewellery with a ‘50s or Art Deco vibe brings personality to your look. Think shimmering stones, playful shapes or nostalgic details—just the right flair to stand out without overdoing it.
The perfect bag for your wedding guest look
At a wedding, leave the oversized handbag at home and reach for an elegant clutch or a dainty crossbody. 
Just big enough for your lipstick, phone and a tissue or two—that’s all you need. Going for a more refined vibe? Velvet or satin with gold accents always looks luxe. If you're wearing a vintage-inspired dress, a beaded clasp bag or one with a little sparkle makes the perfect match. For an evening celebration, feel free to go a bit bolder. Choose a bag that elevates your outfit, without stealing the spotlight. Subtle, stylish, and most of all—celebration-ready!
Hair accessories to complete your look
A party-worthy hairstyle calls for something special. Think delicate hair pins with pearls or florals, a velvet head band, or a shiny barrette to add just a hint of sparkle. For a vintage-inspired look, go for elegant hair clips, hair flowers or a soft fascinator that brings timeless elegance. Prefer a classic hat? Just be mindful of the dress code and ceremony time—daytime is fine, evening less so. Most importantly, choose something that suits both your outfit and your personality. That’s when the magic happens.
Small extras, big impact: Accessories with a twist
Beyond jewellery, bags and hairpieces, there are plenty of other accessories that can add charm to your guest ensemble. Think a graceful scarf, retro sunglasses or even lace gloves for a vintage touch. And if the weather’s feeling moody? A charming vintage umbrella is both practical and photogenic. 
Pop a mirror, a plaster and a bit of powder into your clutch so you're ready for everything—from the first toast to the final dance.
