The one retailer I always check before wedding season officially kicks off is Zara. Shocking, right? Most people go for retailers with more luxury offerings but with all of these events being “destination,” I am going to splurge on the hotel and save on the dress. Zara has mastered the art of creating occasion dresses that look far more expensive than they actually are, and this year's selection is objectively better than I've seen in recent years. Think elegant fabrics, scarf details, sophisticated necklines, and just enough standout prints to guarantee compliments all evening long.

Because I've witnessed Zara's best pieces disappear from my cart in real time more than I'd like to admit, I have a feeling these dresses won't make it through the summer untouched. It's time to make moves. Whether you have a black-tie affair on your calendar, a coastal ceremony, or a casual garden celebration, I rounded up the Zara wedding guest dresses I'd recommend shopping immediately—ideally before July 1. Trust me, future you will be grateful.

Wedding season is officially underway, and with that, the wedding guest dress trends of 2026 are becoming clear. In terms of styles, we're seeing a lot of maximalist designs with floral and feather embellishments. At the same time, '90s-inspired and sleek slip dresses are dominating. When it comes to colors, there's a noticeable shift. Instead of butter yellow, the style set is favoring cobalt-blue dresses.

Cobalt-blue dresses have unexpectedly taken over the fashion scene in 2026, mirroring the sudden rise of butter-yellow dresses in 2025. What the style set loves about this shade is that it's bold but versatile. It works for all dressers and for a handful of wedding destinations—from Miami to NYC and Italy. Plus, the shade has that designer seal of approval, and it was spotted on tops, pants, dresses, and outerwear on the spring/summer 2026 runways. Think Akris, Meryll Rogge, and Versace.

Even if you have no weddings on your calendar, the cobalt-blue dress trend is worth noting. From Staud to Reformation, Valentino to Tove, every label has one to offer in a range of silhouettes. There are cute minis to wear on vacation in Ibiza, midis that can take you from the office to post-work drinks, and flowy maxis to throw over bikinis.

Since this story is about wedding guest dresses, though, I have curated an edit of the best cobalt-blue dresses you can wear to celebrate love this summer. Keep scrolling to check them out.

Style Notes: Embellished cobalt-blue gown + Mini black tote bag

Style Notes: Embellished cobalt-blue gown + Metallic heels

Jennifer Atilémile is the definition of a woman who does it all. A true multi-hyphenate, she is a model, writer, creative, activist, and intellectual. As an editor in residence, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry.

The courthouse wedding used to be an alternative to the old-school "establishment" religious ceremony, but now, it's one of the chicest ways to get married. There are two camps to the courthouse wedding: those who choose that moment to be their entire wedding and those who opt for the courthouse as their intimate moment before they celebrate in a main event with all their friends (your faves/cool girls/celebs). Dua Lipa had her intimate version in none other than custom Schiaparelli before her Italian celebration. Charli XCX married George Daniel at Hackney Town Hall in a Vivienne Westwood mini with her Sicilian blowout still to come. Let's talk about Sicily as the cool-girl musician's wedding-party destination in a different article.

I've got a personal stake in all of this. I'm following each detail like a hawk, even while I'm on date night with my fiancé, for any inkling or inch of the reveal of Lipa's ultimate wedding dress. My reason? I'm getting married at the end of the year, starting with the courthouse and then celebrating with all our friends at a separate event. So much of what I've seen play out as a 2026 bride has already been on my Pinterest list, and I'm watching—not so I can copy but so that I can appreciate and then make some choices on what feels most aligned with how I envision my moment.

For the Bride

The Suit

The most enduring courthouse-wedding look in fashion history is a suit, and it belongs to Bianca Jagger… well, according to my planning and Pinterest searches. She married Mick Jagger in Saint-Tropez in 1971 and wore an Yves Saint Laurent bias-cut column skirt and the ever-iconic Le Smoking single-buttoned jacket. She topped it off with a hat that hinted at a veil.

It's literally been on my Pinterest board for months, and clearly, I'm not the only one who thinks it's stunningly chic. That reference is having a full resurgence, and while the look is currently being talked about by one of the biggest pop stars of the moment, there's a reason why it's remained iconic since 1971.

Who What Wear's own Ana Escalante got married in a vintage Dior suit sourced by Studio Dorothy.

What I love most about the idea of the wedding suit is that it isn't just a one-and-done moment. It's something that can be reworn time and again, unlike a big, showstopping gown, which—don't get me wrong—I also love!

The Hat

The detail I keep coming back to, especially in my own bridal-look planning, is whether I want to wear a veil or have a hat. The hat is more city, less traditional bridal, and reminds me a lot of one of my favorite movie montages from The Parent Trap.

After Lipa's hat moment, I'm sure that we're going to see a lot more hats in final bridal looks, especially at the courthouse.

The Unexpected Mini

Not everyone wants to wear the suit, and I did until my designer told me, "I'm not making you a suit." I'm still not sure what my courthouse look will be, but if it's not a suit, it might be a little mini. You can't go wrong. Charli XCX's Hackney Town Hall dress was an off-the-shoulder Vivienne Westwood mini with a corseted bodice, something that had also been on my radar even before I had a boyfriend and got engaged. I also think you can't go wrong with a slip dress.

For the Guest

A courthouse wedding puts guests in a strange spot because it's not the traditional wedding we're used to. To be honest, I've never been invited to one because I think it's reserved exclusively for the future spouses and their immediate friends and chosen family. I don't know if there's an invitation specifying dress code, and I'm currently navigating that, but given what I'd want, there's still a dress code. It's not casual. You're not meeting friends for brunch. It's not business casual either, and it's not a cocktail garden party unless it's a mimosa brunch for the after-party.

The Only Rule That Really Matters

Don't wear white to a wedding that isn't yours—unless you're Lipa at Simon Porte Jacquemus's wedding, where her dress was actually designed by the groom, and the dress code is white to begin with.

At the end of the day, you can have Pinterest boards galore and be following every celeb wedding trend, but something that always gets missed is that, ultimately, the final decision for anything you plan to wear to your wedding, be it a courthouse or the whole shebang, is whatever your heart desires.

Lady Gaga, who could literally have the most extravagant wedding on the planet, said this about marrying her fiancé, Michael Polansky: "We actually talk a lot about just going to a courthouse, just the two of us, and ordering Chinese food. But knowing me, also, it could become like a circus with unicorns."

That's how I feel about ours right now. I've had a couple of fittings, and I keep seeing other people's weddings online, and the one thing I say is, "Do what feels natural to you." It's your moment, and these trends are all guidelines. So follow the suit if the suit calls you. Follow the resurgence, copy Bianca Jagger, and wear the hat. Or ignore all of it and wear the biggest dress you can find to a tiny municipal office because you love a big dress. It's your day, and nobody else's! The brides who look the best at the end of the day are the ones who looked and felt the most like themselves. That's the only thing your future self will care about.

Wedding guest dressing can be challenging at the best of times, but throw in a flight, hotter climates and a destination-specific dress code, and the stakes suddenly feel much higher. Whether you're attending a beachfront ceremony in Greece, a black-tie celebration in Italy or a countryside wedding in the South of France, knowing exactly what to wear to an abroad wedding requires a little more consideration than usual.

In my years as a fashion editor, I've learnt that the key to destination wedding dressing is striking the perfect balance between style and practicality. You want an outfit that feels special enough for the occasion, but one that will also travel well, suit the climate and keep you comfortable from the ceremony right through to the dance floor.

From floaty dresses to elevated co-ords and statement accessories, the best destination wedding guest outfits feel effortless without compromising on sophistication. Ahead, I've rounded up the chicest looks to inspire your next wedding guest ensemble, whatever the venue, dress code or destination.

1. Floral Dress + Thong Sandals + Head Scarf

Style Notes: Print clashing may feel daunting, but it remains one of fashion's chicest styling hacks when done right. @alicezielasko's choice of a subtly printed floral satin dress allows for the injection of another, more bolder print such as leopard print, in the form of a small accessory. By varying the scale of the prints, both can coexist in a way that looks cohesive while making a statement.

Shop the Look:

2. Fringed Dress + Stilettos + Clutch Bag

Style Notes: Weddings abroad often feel like they call for a little extra wow-factor. But if bold prints and dramatic silhouettes aren't your style, a fringed dress can be a chic way to make an impact without stepping too far outside your comfort zone. The movement of the fringe catches the light beautifully as you walk, adding texture and a subtle sense of glamour to even the simplest shape. This detail requires minimal accessorizing, so keep bags, shoes and jewellery as pared-back as possible.

Shop the Look:

3. Linen Co-ord + Heeled Sandals + Top Handle Bag

Style Notes: @cassdimicco's linen co-ord outfit is proof that you're not limited to dresses when attending a wedding abroad. Ideal for sun-soaked destinations, it offers a polished yet relaxed feel that's perfectly suited to hotter temperatures. Styled with statement jewellery and elegant sandals, it delivers all the sophistication of traditional occasionwear while feeling refreshingly modern.

Shop the Look:

4. Mini Dress + Printed Heels + Statement Earrings

Style Notes: Now this is one for the maximalists. The combination of a statement silhouette, printed heels and bold earrings creates a look that's guarunteed to turn heads. The key is to keep everything within the same colour palette, and to keep volume to one area which in this case is up top, with the puff-sleeves and oversized earrings. Use silver and white accessories to ground the look so it doesn't feel too busy.

Shop the Look:

5. Strapless Dress + Heeled Mules + Clutch Bag

Style Notes: A strapless maxi dress feels elegant while staying light and breathable, which is exactly what you want for partying the night away somewhere warm and humid. Details such as drop-waists or pleats elevate the style, and works really well with architectural accessories such as pebble clutch bags and flower earrings.

Shop the Look:

I have a confession: Anthropologie wasn't the first retailer that came to mind when I started searching for wedding guest dresses this season. I assumed I'd end up bouncing between designer sites, specialty boutiques, and the usual suspects. Then I clicked into Anthropologie's Wedding Guest Dresses section and completely lost track of time.

The selection is genuinely impressive. There are romantic silk gowns; fashion-forward drop-waist silhouettes; modern, minimalist slips; and statement dresses that look like they belong at a destination wedding in Italy. Better yet, many of them have that hard-to-find quality of looking far more expensive than they actually are. If you've got a wedding on your calendar this summer, fall, or beyond, these are the styles worth adding to your cart before everyone else discovers them.

Much like the scent of fresh jasmine and a sweet humidity that hangs low and hot, love is certainly in the air. In London, you see these public displays of affection everywhere you look, from the paramours holding one another’s hands over glasses of pét nat at a local buzzy wine bar, to the sheer amount of bodies embracing on the open park spaces dotted throughout the city. Further testament of this fact, however, is that every little white chapel from here to Suffolk, the Cotswolds and Cornwall is filled each weekend with the grandest romantic gestures of them all—a wedding.

Indeed, the summer wedding season for 2026 is in full swing. Invitations have been sent out, bridal showers have been thrown, and floral arrangements have been made. Still, a perennial question that faces any attendee is the matter of what to wear. Selecting a style to say ‘I Do’ to isn’t a matter of fishing something out of your wardrobe the morning of the nuptials, though. Speaking to Teale Talbot, the co-founder of Réalisation Par, which specialises in slinky dresses rendered in magnetic prints that are undoubtedly a summer wedding staple, she tells me that she always thinks the best place to begin is to reframe your mindset and “look for a forever piece rather than just a dress for one event”.

“It’s important to find something that captures the memory and the feeling of the moment, but that you’ll genuinely want to wear again afterwards,” Talbot adds. “The most beautiful dresses become part of your life rather than something you wear once and forget about.” This season specifically, the Australian-born, London-based design director reveals that the key summer wedding guest dresses will all feature “soft, feminine silhouettes”. Key trends include “bias cuts, open backs, halter necklines and delicate straps”, noting these adhere to the discernible shift “away from anything too structured or over complicated” and “towards dresses that move naturally with the body”.

This idea of effortlessness is what permeates the best summer wedding guest dresses, Talbot adds. “Comfort is everything. If you feel restricted or uncomfortable by the afternoon, it changes your entire energy. I always think the best dresses are the ones you don’t have to think about once you put them on,” she continues. “Silk dresses work beautifully because they move with the body and still feel elegant after hours of wear. If you can dance in it, sit in it and still feel amazing at midnight, then it’s the right dress.”

As for how to style these pieces? “Slightly undone hair, sun-kissed skin and minimal jewellery. Nothing too overdone. Dresses always look best when they feel natural and lived in. There’s something very modern about simplicity and not looking too perfect.” You don’t have to tell us to ditch our V V Rouleaux-esuqe and Andie Macdowell in Four Weddings and a Funeral-inspired hats…

To have and to hold, uncover below the very best summer wedding guest dresses for every kind of ceremony.

The Best Wedding Guest Dresses for Summer 2026, Per Each Type of Ceremony

1. The Town Hall Wedding

Style Notes: A short and sweet civil service hosted within the marble confines of your closest town hall has become somewhat of the ceremony du jour. From Marlybeone to Hackney, these inner-city suburbs have become awash in dried botanical confetti and swaths of angelic whites as newlyweds exit the venue and enter this new chapter of their lives, a stone’s throw from the bustling city streets that make London such an exciting and vibrant capital.

As a result, the dress code is certainly less formal than in other settings, and you’ll often find yourself seeking out ways to breathe new life into a timeless slip or formerly-loved treasure instead of buying a whole new look for these kinds of celebrations. Echoing this sensibility, Talbot admits that she thinks rewearing pieces is incredibly chic and luxurious. “The women with the best style have a signature look and always repeat things. They just style them differently each time.” So, invest in something that can serve as a blank canvas. As Charli XCX said, fall in love again and again.

Shop the Look:

2. The Destination Wedding

Style Notes: When the invite demands international flights, you might as well use the travel to your advantage and pack with you a dreamy ensemble that gives you an excuse to dress up. Anything can happen when you’re abroad, especially as venues like Tonnara Di Scopello in Sicily and Hotel Corazón in Mallorca become popular haunts.

“For a destination wedding, practicality is just as important as the style,” Talbot tells me. “You want something lightweight, easy to travel with and comfortable in heat, but still romantic. Soft silks and prints always work beautifully.” Still, there’s something to be said for maximising the contents of your carry-on. “A dress can feel completely different when slung casually on holiday with flats and oversized sunglasses versus styled for a wedding with heels and jewellery,” Talbot says. So why not make the most of this investment and style it both ways?

Shop the Look:

3. The Countryside Wedding

Style Notes: Quaint and quintessentially British, the countryside wedding is a charming way to escape the big smoke and revel in verdant greenery and plush landscapes that the United Kingdom has to offer. Rural but by no means less cosmopolitan, this occasion is defined by bouquets of native wildflowers, so embrace the delicateness of the occasion in a dress that reflects your surroundings. Like something out of Alice in Wonderland, a trip down the sartorial rabbit hole will lead you to a warren of watercolour palettes, ethereal blooms and leafy hues.

Shop the Look:

4.The Beach Wedding

Style Notes: Long gone are the days when the likes of Pamela Anderson rocked up to get married in an itty-bitty white bikini at her local beach. These days, beachside weddings are balmy affairs straight out of a Slim Aarons photograph. Under the setting sun and with salt hanging in the hair, these are occasions to embrace your most bohemian and hedonistic sensibilities. Because where else could you wear seashell-emblazoned dresses from Conner Ives with generously sized raffia hats from Jacquemus and call it wedding appropriate?

Shop the Look:

5. The City Soirée Wedding

Style Notes: Another common choice for couples is to eschew the big, stuffy ceremony altogether. Focusing on a more intimate service provides the opportunity to go all out with a raucous reception that stretches into the early hours of the next morning. Where dirty martinis are slung all evening, and the paramount concern is convincing the DJ to play your favourite karaoke song, opt for something slinky, sensual and fit for midnight glamour. As Talbot says, “for a city wedding, I’d probably lean slightly more polished with cleaner silhouettes and minimal styling.”

Shop the Look:

I've worked in fashion for a decade now, and here's what I know: There's no undertaking more time-consuming and complex than searching for the perfect wedding guest dress. There are numerous factors that need to be considered—weather, dress code, day-to-night activities, silhouettes for your body type, and fabric, among a multitude of others—and on top of this, you never want to choose something that's radically different to your own personal style.

If you have warm-weather weddings to attend this year and need some inspiration to help you feel cool, current, and, most importantly, comfortable, then take a look at some of the summer 2026 dress styles that are dominating, from scarf dresses to lace-trim details. The fashion set from London to L.A. is embracing these trends right now. Perhaps they will take the hard work out of hunting for a dress that feels chic and on-trend and that you can actually wear for plenty of other formal occasions. Keep scrolling to get inspired.

1. Scarf Necklines

If there's one trend I'm spotting absolutely everywhere this season, it's dresses that come with matching scarves. The accessory instantly adds elegance and movement to your wedding guest outfit.

Shop:

2. Lace-Trim Details

It's natural that one of the biggest trends of the season—delicate lace-trim details—is now one of the most popular choices for wedding guest dresses. There are so many gorgeous satin and lace options in various hues that are perfect for a summer wedding.

Shop:

3. Magnified Florals

Forget ditsy florals—this summer is all about large and bold floral prints, as if they've been zoomed in on a macro lens. They make for an Insta-worthy wedding guest look.

Shop:

4. Shimmer & Shine

Shimmery dresses are taking center stage, but forget the black, burgundy, and silver sequins reserved for the holiday season. For summer 2026, it's all about shimmery fabrics in subtle pastel and gentle hues that will sparkle in the sun.

Shop:

5. Romantic Ruffles

Thanks to Chloé's bohemian resurgence we've seen on the runways for the past few seasons, delicate ruffles are back on the scene, and they strike the perfect balance of romantic and playful—ideal from daytime to dance floor.

Shop:

6. Fringe

Playful fringe is trending, and I'm seeing a rising number of fringe dresses at all our favorite retailers right now that feel chic and fun for a summer wedding. Keep your accessories polished to elevate your wedding look.

Shop:

Finding the perfect wedding-guest dress is rarely straightforward, but for those of us under 5'4", the challenge is often twofold. Not only does a dress need to feel appropriate for the dress code and align with our personal style, but it also needs to fit properly without requiring a trip to the tailor.

As someone who stands at 5'2" and has spent more than a decade working as a fashion editor and stylist, I've become well-versed in spotting dresses that flatter a petite frame whilst still looking incredibly chic. So, I've put my expertise to good use and searched through hundreds of styles to find the very best petite wedding-guest dresses for 2026.

The good news? Brands are finally paying attention to proportions. From dedicated petite collections to cleverly cut silhouettes that naturally suit shorter heights, there are now plenty of elevated options that don't involve hemming maxi lengths or adjusting straps before the big day. Whether you're attending a countryside ceremony, a city celebration or a black-tie evening reception, I've got you covered.

Keep scrolling for 26 petite-friendly dresses that I would genuinely recommend investing in for the season ahead. Compliments incoming.

Shop the Best Petite Wedding-Guest Dresses for 2026

The Best Petite Wedding-Guest Dresses Under £50

The Best Petite Wedding-Guest Dresses Under £100

The Best Petite Wedding-Guest Dresses Under £200

The Best Petite Wedding-Guest Dresses Under £500

Sara Walker is a Who What Wear editor in residence, content creator, stylist, and fashion consultant based in Los Angeles.

I feel so lucky to be having not one but two bridal showers. I didn’t think I’d have any, but my aunt in NYC and my best friend in L.A. both offered to host, and I certainly don’t need an excuse to celebrate. So yes, two bridal showers: one very family-oriented in New York and one very sunshine-in-Malibu in Los Angeles.

I wasn’t initially set on having a bridal shower for a number of reasons. While I love celebrating all things love, it didn’t feel like a priority in the grand scheme of wedding planning. Time has flown by, and there are so many logistics—not to mention my friends and family are spread all over the country. While I’m based in L.A. and most of my friends are here, my family (and some of my closest friends) are on the East Coast. I also didn’t want anyone to feel obligated to travel for this. But thanks to two incredible women in my life who so generously offered to host, I now get to celebrate in two completely different ways, and I feel endlessly grateful.

With that comes two totally different approaches to dressing—something I’ve had a lot of fun thinking through.

NYC Bridal Shower

My NYC bridal shower has already happened, and I had four fantastic options to choose from: a watercolor Altuzarra dress (one of my favorite NYC designers!), a Liberowe fringe tweed mini, a Staud white mini with a matching coat, and a vintage Chanel suit from The RealReal. Each felt very “New York” in its own way—polished, considered, and slightly more traditional. For this event, I really leaned into spring with soft pastels and a more sophisticated, buttoned-up look, literally. I even considered a Ralph Lauren button-down with a pencil skirt, which felt very Upper East Side in the best way. As you can tell, my mindset was more formal and classically bridal, with an emphasis on tailoring and timeless silhouettes.

The Altuzarra Dress I Chose for My NYC Bridal Shower

I ultimately landed on the watercolor Altuzarra dress. I went into the process leaning toward something a bit more traditional and polished, but this felt like the perfect balance—feminine and girly yet slightly unexpected with the soft wash of color. It still felt bridal, just with a bit more personality. I also love Altuzarra as a New York brand, so wearing it in the city made the choice feel even more fitting and special.

Pieces I Considered for an NYC Bridal Shower

L.A. Bridal Shower

For my L.A. bridal shower, I took a completely different approach. I found myself gravitating toward texture, ease, prints, and a more relaxed, playful energy. I’ve always felt that bridal looks can be casual and interesting, especially in a setting like Malibu where everything feels a bit more undone in the best way.

One outfit I kept coming back to was a structured Staud top paired with vintage Levi’s and chic white mules. I loved the contrast of something tailored and polished with lived-in denim—it felt effortless but still intentional, which to me is the essence of L.A. style.

Another option I considered was a Dôen fringe dress. It was a bit dressier but still felt easy and romantic, especially styled with a heeled flip-flop for that slightly unexpected touch. I also kept thinking about the “shark dress” from Staud. While it was mostly white, it had a subtle shark design along the side, and I loved that it didn’t take itself too seriously. Because honestly, who doesn’t want to wear a shark dress by the beach while sipping champagne with all their friends?

The Jacquemus Dress I Chose for My L.A. Bridal Shower

I ultimately landed on a light pink Jacquemus dress. I went into the process wanting something a bit more undone and slightly rebellious—leaning away from anything too traditional or expected. While I explored a lot of those directions, I ended up choosing something that still felt effortless and true to me. It wasn’t white, which I loved, but it still carried a softness and femininity that felt right for the moment. It struck that balance of feeling a little unexpected but still completely natural.

There were also a few other pieces in the mix that almost made the cut—some more traditional bridal options, a few ultra-minimal looks—but ultimately, I kept coming back to outfits that felt the most like me in each setting. That’s really been my guiding principle through all of this.

Pieces I Considered for my L.A. Bridal Shower

At the end of the day, planning these looks made me realize how much style is tied to place and mood. New York called for something polished, classic, and a little more buttoned-up, while L.A. invited a more relaxed, playful, and slightly unexpected take on bridal dressing. I loved leaning into each city’s personality and letting that guide my choices. If anything, this experience reminded me that bridal style doesn’t have to fit into one box. It can, and should, feel like you—wherever you are, whatever that looks like.

Wedding bells are soon to ring this spring and summer, with UV rays on high and love in the air. It's strange to finally arrive at that age when your friends decide to get married and be, well, adults. The invites have started hitting my email and physical mailboxes, from destination weddings to intimate ceremonies. If you have more than one wedding to attend during this warm season, shopping for the right wedding guest dress may seem almost as stressful as shopping for a wedding dress. But don't fret. I promise it doesn't have to be so hard. Finding the right plus-one is the actual difficult part.

To lighten the load of searching high and low for a chic, lightweight wedding guest dress, I've found 32 perfect ones, ranging from black-tie to laid-back, silk to linen. No matter your aesthetic or dress code, any of these dresses will garner compliments without overshadowing the couple. Reformation is my destination for many formal events, including weddings. Its selection of dresses is versatile and within a relatively affordable price range. If you need assistance in your hunt for the perfect wedding guest dress, keep scrolling.

I have had my fair share of wedding guest outfit ideas go all wrong. Recounting them still makes me cringe, but such is life. At one wedding, I wore a dress that definitely fit the American standards of wedding guest outfits more so than the British ones. Being born and raised in the U.S., I know many weddings take place later in the day and have an evening attire feel with darker dresses, more formal looks and occasionally more revealing cuts. (They can lean casual, too; I've even been to a blue-jean wedding.) After now living in the UK for six years, I’ve picked up on lighter materials, floral prints, higher necklines and looks that work from day to evening as the norm.

As I've written about before, I'm also not a dress person and am often seeking out more interesting, alternative wedding guest outfits. Altogether, you have the makings of a perfect disaster. Luckily, these have been exceptional learning lessons. I am now a strong proponent of finding the perfect wedding guest outfit and doing so early.

When you have an idea of wedding guest outfit trends and what most fashionable folks are gravitating toward, it's easier to find a fail-proof option that you feel incredibly chic wearing to a wedding. This summer, there's an eclectic mix. Once you're aware of dress codes, location, themes and colours (either to wear or avoid), you can plan and pull inspiration from the following trends and outfits. They seemingly all have one thing in common—to provide the perfect level of energy that stands out without detracting from the couple, of course.

There are scarf dresses, which, courtesy of that extra element, instantly upgrade your outfit. Sleek jumpsuits and pops of red are also emerging, alongside dresses with textured materials. Additionally, a movement toward vintage and vintage-inspired outfits has taken over social feeds, showing that unique personal style is a key focus of getting dressed for a wedding this year. If you're immersed in your own outfit-finding research, scroll on for plenty of trends setting the tone for the summer.

6 Wedding Guest Trends to Wear in Summer 2026

1. Magnified Florals

Style Notes: Florals are undoubtedly one of the most iconic patterns and constant trends used in wedding guest dresses. Floral prints have a long, rich history, and I expect they'll remain a timeless choice decades from now. That said, the type of pattern is always shifting, and my eye has been drawn to a particular trend I've seen on my feeds lately: magnified florals. These dresses typically only feature one or two flowers, or a handful of larger ones, as if zoomed in on a macro lens. They look exceptionally refined and sophisticated in a way that usurps other blossoming prints.

Shop the Trend:

2. Scarf Dresses

Style Notes: Though I can't quite put my finger on why, a scarf instantly elevates a dress. It could be the way it drapes, its fluidity and movement, the attention it draws or simply the fact that icons like Princess Diana started wearing the scarf dress trend many years ago (that Cannes Film Festival look was everything). Regardless, a scarf dress is chic, and understandably, there has been a resurgence this year.

Shop the Trend:

3. Textured Dresses

Style Notes: A quick way to find a wedding guest outfit that feels a little different is to seek out materials that stand out on their own. From crinkled tea-length gowns to layers of ruffles to burnout textures, it's no surprise there is an uptick in textured dresses when so many shoppers are seeking out ways to feel individual amongst a sea of other wedding guest dresses and jumpsuits. Opting for a more tactile material is great, too, if the dress code states a specific colour.

Shop the Trend:

4. Jumpsuits

Style Notes: If you love the elegance and movement of a dress but prefer trousers through and through, a jumpsuit is the best wedding guest outfit idea. Whilst suits often look impeccable, there's something about the fluidity and materials that jumpsuits come in that feel so romantic. It's the best of both worlds, and a strapless style is functional for summer weather. Simply add a chiffon cape if you need more coverage.

Shop the Trend:

5. Pop of Red

Style Notes: Whether you opt for a bold and vibrant red dress or a pair of red shoes, a pop of red is a fun and fitting summer trend to incorporate into a wedding guest outfit. Depending on the style of dress or garment you opt for, you can also take this colour into autumn and winter weddings, too. As a quick caveat, there are some weddings where a bride might wear red, so it's never a bad idea to check.

Shop the Trend:

6. Vintage-Inspired Dresses

Style Notes: Whether you source a vintage dress secondhand or find a dress that's reminiscent of older styles, you'll be right on trend. There has never been more interest in seeking out styles that differ from modern-day wedding guest dresses. As part of feeling unique and going beyond the offerings on the high street, vintage and nostalgia-driven is the way to go. More recent looks from Y2K, like fringe, babydoll and bustier dresses, are popular, as are styles that go back further, like '50s halter-necks and glimmering, sequined shifts reminiscent of the 1920s.

Shop the Trend:

Bridal season is truly one of my favorite times of the year as a beauty editor because there are always new trends on the rise to stay on the lookout for. And although I'm not planning a wedding anytime soon, I genuinely enjoy watching how people like to celebrate their big day with the beauty choices they make. Hair and makeup are the usual standouts, but as someone who's obsessed with nails, I always end up peeking at manicures the most.

There's also always a little bit of stress that comes with planning a wedding look and that goes for pretty much everyone in attendance. But no matter if you’re the bride, maid of honor, or a wedding guest, odds are you're going to be thinking about your manicure. Personally, I have my own theories on which nail colors will be on the rise throughout the 2026 wedding season.

However, it was only right that I cross-check with some leading experts. So naturally, I chatted with two nail artists to help you narrow down your perfect mani. Read on for the five colors you’ll be seeing everywhere.

1. Sheer Pink

2. Matcha Green

3. Milky White

4. Butter Yellow

5. Peachy Nude

The summer wedding season is right around the corner. If you have the opportunity to attend nuptials, then you know how exciting it can be. However, it can be really difficult to find a solid wedding guest dress—especially in plus sizes. Since hunting down great dress options is quite literally my job, I took to the virtual aisles of the online retail world and handpicked solid plus-size wedding guest dresses totally worth shopping this season.

Don't worry. I've detailed my findings below. In the mix, you can expect a slew of pretty dresses perfect for any kind of wedding, from black-tie optional to garden party. Keep scrolling to uncover your next wedding guest outfit for the months ahead.

Shop 2026 Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dresses

Historically, I have had a toxic trait when it comes to weddings: I like pretty shoes. Comfort hasn't always been my first priority when putting together my outfit, and I've ended up in a lot of pain near the end of the night. Over the years, my experience working in fashion has led to smarter shoe choices. Now that I've tried every brand, interviewed experts, and done my research, this mistake is far less common for me, but every now and then, I purchase a pair of shoes that just won't work for more than a door-to-door car ride to dinner.

When I had the chance to ask a podiatrist what actually makes wedding guest shoes comfortable, I listened. The takeaway? It's less about sacrificing style and more about knowing what to look for. The right pair should carry you from the ceremony to the dance floor without a second thought. I had a few words with Anna Baird, a podiatrist and the founder of Bared Footwear, about exactly what to know before picking out a pair of shoes for your next wedding.

What are the biggest mistakes you see people make when choosing wedding guest shoes?

The number one mistake is choosing shoes based purely on how they look in the box. You pick them up. They're beautiful. You convince yourself they'll be fine on the day, but a wedding is genuinely one of the longest days you will ever spend on your feet. You're standing for ceremony, cocktail hour, photos, dinner, dancing. People so often wear shoes with no consideration at all for comfort, so by the time the dance floor starts, they are either in pain or barefoot.

The other thing I see constantly is people underestimating the venue. A stiletto on a lawn is not a great idea, and a barely-there strap on a cobblestone terrace is likely to end in disaster. Think about where you're actually walking, not just what the shoe looks like standing.

Is there a safe heel height for standing and dancing for hours?

As a podiatrist, I would say that you are always going to be more comfortable in a lower-heeled shoe. Every body is different, so there is no known safe height, but under seven centimeters will definitely give you a good chance of staying comfortable all day and night. Around six centimeters gives you enough height and elegance without putting excessive load through the forefoot. A biomechanically designed footbed with arch support and cushioning is going to make a six-centimeter heel feel very different from a six-centimeter heel with nothing inside it. That's really what we engineer at Bared.

How should your feet feel when you first try on shoes? What's a red flag immediately?

It should feel comfortable straight away if you are just standing or walking around a store. It is much better to have a bit too much room in the shoe, but choose a style that fastens onto your foot. That little bit of extra room will be your lifesaver by the end of the night.

Avoid really narrow straps that feel snug in the store. These will end up feeling like wire if your feet swell after standing all day.

How much breaking in should you realistically do before the event?

I think the whole concept of breaking in has been normalized in a way that is really doing people a disservice. You should not suffer through weeks of wear before a shoe becomes comfortable, but leather shoes do need to soften and shape to an individual's foot. It is important to wear any new shoe two or three times around the house for a few hours before a big event. It may not be a great look, but wearing socks on the first few wears can help to keep your feet comfortable whilst the shoe molds to your feet.

What's your opinion on bringing a second pair? Smart or unnecessary?

I would say smart. Most brides and guests do want to wear a heel on their wedding day, but even a mid-height heel is putting extra pressure on your feet and affecting your posture. Even if your heel seems perfectly comfortable for the first few hours, you might want to change into something flatter as the night rolls on. And I say that as someone who has worked incredibly hard to make sure the first pair goes the whole day, but even we put out a flat option for exactly this reason.

It is nice to choose your second pair with intention rather than just grabbing flip-flops. A pointed flat with an ankle strap, something like the Riparia, gives you elegance with zero sacrifice. You never have to feel like you've given up on the look. You've just made a smart decision.

How do you plan for shoes that have to last through ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing?

You plan backwards from dancing. The dance floor is the most demanding part of the day, and it is also the part people want to be fully present for. If you choose a shoe that can handle that, it can handle everything before it.

Look for a block or sculpted heel over a stiletto for stability, an adjustable strap to accommodate any swelling, and cushioning. At Bared, every one of those things is engineered into the shoe from the start, not added as an afterthought.

Shop comfortable shoes:

While I personally don't have family or friends who are fancy enough to host black-tie weddings (the last ceremony I went to doubled as a Halloween costume party), I understand the dress code can be a bit intimidating. If you're currently being taunted by that black-tie invitation pinned to your fridge, fret not. Amal Clooney is here to offer you some excellent fashion advice when it comes to extra formal wedding guest attire.

In London today, Clooney attended an event at the Royal Albert Hall celebrating the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust. (Yes, King Charles and Queen Camilla were on hand as well.) Clooney looked right at home among the royals, wearing an Alexander McQueen F/W 07 gold gown, but you don't need access to designer archives to pick up on Clooney's style cues. All you need to know is that a gold sequin floor-length gown is an elegant, chic, and foolproof choice for any black-tie event that might come your way. Unlike more casual fabrics like linen and cotton, you'll never feel underdressed in sequins. Scroll down to see Clooney's newest outfit and shop the trend for yourself.

On Amal Clooney: Alexander McQueen F/W 07 dress

Shop Gold Sequin Floor-Length Gowns for Black-Tie Weddings

There's no reason that shopping for a wedding guest dress should be any more difficult than shopping for any other occasion, yet every time I sit down to take a stab at it, sourcing the perfect style feels just shy of impossible. I have several weddings on my calendar this year, which means I've been spending a considerable amount of time finding a dress to wear to each of them, taking into consideration the season, setting, and dress codes on the invite. Today, though, I'm diving into the top wedding guest trends of the moment.

We’ve already reported on the biggest bridal fashion trends to know for 2026 brides, but now it's time to discuss the trends shaping what guests will wear to weddings this year. There are already several themes emerging—from the trending colors defining the standout dresses to the personality-driven accessories to wear with them, these are all the elements of what defines a winning wedding guest look this year.

After analyzing overarching wedding trends, 2026 dress trends, and chatting with bridal stylist and fashion editor Corinne Pierre-Louis and bridal stylist Kennedy Schmidt, these are unquestionably the major trends in wedding guest dressing to know this year.

Consider Skipping: Scarf Necklines

"Scarf necklines have been everywhere lately (on brides and guests alike), and I think this trend has run its course," Pierre-Louis says. "As we head into the 2026 wedding season, I’d love to see guests lean into other silhouettes, like a soft off-the-shoulder neckline, which is a nice alternative."

The Top Wedding Guest Trends of 2026

Bright Color

If there's one trend we're seeing the most of at weddings right now, it's bright, vivid color. 2026 as a whole is already being defined by this explosion of high saturation—from the runways to our everyday outfits—and now the same is true of our occasion wear. "Instead of the standard little black dress," Pierre-Louis explains, "guests are choosing vibrant colors like yellows, blues, greens, and playful prints that feel much more celebratory. Weddings are supposed to feel joyful, and color helps tell that story." Of course, there's a practicality to it, as wearing anything in the area of white or ivory is to be avoided, while many brides choose a no-black dress code to maximize color in their wedding photos. "Whether it’s painterly florals or sharp color blocking," Schmidt says, "it brings personality and freshness to traditional wedding guest dressing."

Built-In Hardware

Of course, not every wedding guest look need be the loudest (especially so as not to upstage the bride), and one more minimalist trend on the rise right now is built-in hardware. It's all about sleek and pared-back silhouettes that, with the addition of a single sculptural detail, are simplistic but hardly boring.

Dramatic Draping

Each season, there is always some inevitable crossover between what's trending on the runways and in the weddings space, and draped dresses are a defining trend for both this year. "Architectural dressing is having a major moment," Schmidt confirms, "especially for black tie weddings. Structured draping, exaggerated shapes, and couture-inspired construction make these gowns feel modern, directional, and almost like wearable art."

Stealthily Alluring

Yes, that's right, sexy is back—tastefully, of course. "Wedding guest dressing has definitely gotten sexier, but in an elevated way," Pierre-Louis confirms. That looks like not only body-skimming silhouettes, but also open backs, subtle and sneaky cutouts that show off a little skin in an elevated and stealthy way. Tasteful is the keyword here. "Don’t wear anything to someone’s wedding that you could also wear to the club," Pierre-Louis adds.

Personality Pieces

"Guests are having a lot more fun with fashion," Pierre-Louis explains. "They’re leaning into bold styling, vintage finds, and statement accessories that match the locale (i.e., a seashell clutch for a beach wedding)." In 2026, it's all about these statement pieces, but especially unique bags, that are just oozing with personality and are instant conversation starters. Pierre-Louis' one styling note? "Please, please, please make sure your personal style still aligns with the couple’s dress code. Being memorable is great, but not if you’re wearing a minidress to a black-tie ceremony."

Two-Piece Sets

Don't be afraid to step outside of the dress default. Right now, two-piece sets are surging in popularity, and they're a cool alternative that you can pretty much guarantee no other guests will be wearing.

Is it just me, or does it feel like there are only so many chic wedding guest dresses available right now? The search for the perfect ensemble to help my friends and family members tie the knot has become surprisingly challenging. I'm finding myself constantly hitting two extremes: dresses that require taking out a small loan and affordable options that, while accessible, feel basic, like everyone I know already owns them or will soon.

With a packed calendar of weddings coming up this summer, I'm looking for wedding guest dresses that stand out without screaming for attention while being distinctive and special. That's why I decided to look to my favorite online vintage stores for them. Think The RealReal, eBay, and Vestiaire Collective. After all, that's where I shop for designer bags, everyday shoes, and versatile outerwear, so why not look there for occasion dresses too?

As a vintage lover, I'm well aware that sourcing vintage is an art form. It takes time, patience, and practice. I also know that there are tips and tricks to finding those "wow" items. When it came to searching for really cool vintage dresses for summer weddings, it didn't take me too long to have 10+ tabs of chic finds open in my browser. I came across a Roberto Cavalli red halter gown that would look luxe at a wedding in a castle in Spain, a Dries Van Noten printed square-neckline maxi dress that would look picturesque against the wild flowers in upstate New York, and a simple black Ralph Lauren gown that would fit in perfectly with a traditional city wedding at the Plaza Hotel in NYC. But that's not all. If you, too, are on the hunt for one-of-a-kind wedding guest summer dresses and the best shoes and bags to pair with them, keep scrolling to see my carefully curated edit.

Next week, I'm headed to Oaxaca, Mexico, for a good friend's wedding. It's my first time visiting the culinary destination and cultural hub, and while there is a weekend of wedding festivities taking place, I'm particularly excited to shop at the vibrant markets and check out the colorful textiles and artisanal crafts. But back to the wedding. I have a welcome-night cocktail party and the formal wedding to dress for, and yes, you'd be right in thinking I've already been mustering up wedding guest dress ideas for the past month. My one prerequisite? Something bold and bright to match the city's rich color and culture. After trying a host of different styles, silhouettes, and brands, below I'm highlighting five of my absolute favorites that I think are perfect for a chic weekend wedding in Oaxaca. If you're in need of some wedding guest dress inspiration, then keep scrolling!

Mango Satin Halter Neck Dress

I had to do a double take when I saw this elegant satin dress at Mango, which is part of its Capsule collection. I had been looking for a bold chartreuse-meets-olive dress—a trend-forward color that will look great against the Oaxacan backdrop. The dress comes with a very elegant halter neckline with an attached scarf-style cape that adds the perfect amount of drama, volume, and movement. The long satin fabric is ideal for a formal wedding. This is the kind of dress that will incite plenty of compliments.

Cult Gaia Phoebe Gown

Cult Gaia's Phoebe dress is an absolute stunner. It's incredibly elegant and feels absolutely beautiful on! The soft silk-chiffon fabric drapes elegantly, and the halter neckline is incredibly sophisticated (obviously a silhouette I gravitate to!). Red was another color I was leaning toward for the wedding, and this one really stands out from the crowd. My favorite part of the dress is the fringed shoulder straps that exude a playful touch and create a trailing movement—perfect for the dance floor.

Carolina K Slip Dress

Latin American brand Carolina K has some of the most beautiful designs, prints, and hand-embroidered details combining the artisanal work of different cultures. The unique beaded straps of this Slip Dress really got my attention (definitely Insta-worthy!), not to mention, the bold floral paisley print. The dress has a fitted silhouette, a softly draped neckline, and an open back that is equally sexy and sophisticated. This is a great option for the cocktail party I will be attending.

ALC Lou Satin and Lace Midi Dress

I was looking at a number of dresses that leaned into the lace-trim trend we're seeing everywhere this spring, but none stood out quite like this vibrant orange dress from ALC. First of all, the color! It's made from a silky fluid viscose fabric in the most vivid orange hue—which is perfect for a Mexican wedding. The asymmetric lace detailing adds a romantic and feminine touch and falls into a softly flared midi hem. This is another that's high up on my list for the cocktail party.

Reformation Annabelle Dress

Obviously, I had to try something from Ref, and I fell utterly in love with this gorgeous floral gown. The cowl-neck silhouette is beautiful, and everything from the pretty mauve hue and intricate floral detail hit my eye just right. This is a great option for all kinds of weddings, whether it's in the Italian countryside or NYC. You'll get plenty of wear from this.

Shop More Wedding Guest Dresses for a Mexico Wedding

Anny Choi is a Who What Wear editor in residence, a stylist, a creative brand consultant, and the founder of bridal styling studio Anny Choi Brides.

Once the spring wedding RSVPs have been secured—from a formal garden-party welcome event in the English countryside to a black-tie celebration in Brooklyn—it's officially time to map out your wedding guest wardrobe. The good news? You don't need to overspend to look the part. In fact, the smartest approach is investing in versatile silhouettes you can rewear and restyle across multiple events.

For dress codes that call for a bit more personality, turn to fashion-forward yet accessible brands like Mango and Farm Rio. A one-shoulder, feather-trimmed moment from Hutch is guaranteed to earn you best dressed guest, while a black poplin LBD from Dôen offers endless styling potential, seamlessly shifting from a city hall celebration to a Western-themed fête with just a change of accessories. For a seaside ceremony, lean into bold hues from Significant Other and De Loreta.

Wherever the season takes you, consider these 35 wedding guest dresses that work for every dress code, all under $500.

Dress shopping is hard, and wedding dress shopping is harder. But do you know what the hardest dress to shop for is? A bridesmaid dress. Every single day, people of all different sizes are squeezed, poked, and prodded into uncomfortable, poly-blend dresses at the behest of their friend getting married. Even if the dress is expensive, ill-fitting, or downright ugly, there's an expectation to go with the flow, swallow your pride, and swipe your credit card because anything the bride says goes. There are dozens of clickbait-y articles about the pressures and costs associated with being a bridesmaid, and my former colleague Ruhama Wolle even wrote an upcoming book on the topic!

Heading into my 2026 wedding, I knew I wanted to bring the complete opposite energy into the lives of the lovely ladies choosing to be by my side on my special day. Under no circumstances did I want them to spend hundreds on a dress they didn't like and would never wear again. After countless hours spent watching TikTok videos and scrolling nearly every bridesmaid-related Reddit thread, one brand kept up coming up for its affordability, comfort, and style. Enter Azazie, the L.A.-based label that thousands of happy bridesmaids actually swear by. What began as a brand dedicated to at-home try-ons for bridesmaid dresses has evolved into a full brand of wedding-related offerings for everyone in your party—bridesmaids, flower children, groomsmen, mothers, and even the bride herself.

I landed on my wedding dress months ago, but there was still one key component of our wedding-weekend wardrobe missing: what my bridesmaids would walk down the aisle in. I jumped at the opportunity to head to the brand's L.A. showroom to try on the best of the best, and after trying on what feels like every best-selling dress Azazie has to offer, I walked away with six favorites that I immediately sent to our wedding group chat. The response? Every woman in the party hearted their favorite dress, and there was one clear winner they were all obsessed with. If that isn't validation for how good Azazie's dresses are, I don't know what is.

Still, I wasn't about to take a few heart reactions as the final word. Bridesmaid dresses have a funny way of looking great in theory and then completely different once they're actually on. My bridesmaids all have different body types, heights, and comfort levels, so it was important for me to try on a range of styles. As a plus-size bride, I know the frustrating feeling of not finding a dress you love all too well, so after learning that Azazie is one of the most size-inclusive bridesmaid-dress companies right now (its range goes from a 0 to a size 30 and includes made-to-measure options), I knew I was going with the right choice.

I put each of my top picks to the test, evaluating fit, fabric, flexibility, and—maybe most importantly—whether it passed the ultimate bridesmaid test of "Would you actually wear this again?" From universally flattering silhouettes to the one style that unexpectedly stole the show, here's my honest breakdown of the Azazie dresses that made the final cut and the one that earned unanimous approval.

Azazie Bridesmaid Dress Review

Style: Sorrel, a mermaid corset and long skirt with matching neck scarf

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin, chiffon, and metallic satin

My review: This was by far the dress I was most excited to try on. Azazie constantly lists this pretty two-piece as the brand's best seller, and it makes complete sense why. Despite ringing in under $150, this dress feels like the trendiest of the bunch thanks to the body-hugging basque-waist corset and matching neck scarf. The sizing is fairly expansive and accurate for the Sorrel, but if you have a larger bust, you might be nervous about spillage or coverage in the top—just like you would with any strapless style.

Shop the dress

Style: Velli, a bias-cut mermaid halter dress with cowl-neck draping and a low-cut back

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin, chiffon, and metallic satin

My review: While I tried to be as unbiased as possible when showing my bridesmaids the photos of the dresses I tried on, I might have let it slip that the Velli was my favorite. It's timeless, classic, and reminiscent of dresses from the '90s that are all over my mood board. If Kate Moss or Carolyn Bessette Kennedy were getting married today, I know they'd ask their bridal party to wear this dress in a dark, moody color. I'm following in their footsteps. While this rustic desert rose stole my heart, this dress really comes to life in classic black.

Shop the dress

Style: Sarella, a sweetheart-neckline bias-cut dress with a slit

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin and metallic satin

My review: The Sarella screams oldie but goodie in my mind. This universally flattering and classic dress style from Azazie is such a crowd-pleaser. What's not to love? You have straps for support, a range of colorways, a high slit, and an A-line frame for your bridesmaids who may be a bit more body conscious in dresses that are tighter around the midsection and legs.

Shop the dress

Style: Rylina, a cowl-neckline mermaid dress with an open back

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin, chiffon, and metallic satin

My review: For a dress you can wear over and over again to your best friends' weddings and fancier dinner dates, don't skip the Rylina. It's a modern, younger-feeling take on a cowl-neck dress with a chic open back and a delicate drape to it. Although this is technically a mermaid-cut dress, it feels much roomier and wider in the hips and thighs than a traditional mermaid-cut gown, making it a solid option for a bridesmaid who's looking to prioritize comfort over anything else. Wider straps also means it's easier to wear a supportive bra with the Rylina, although I'd recommend a low-back bra or a sticky bra because of the style's open back.

Shop the dress

Style: Rue, a halter-neck mermaid dress with a slit and a crisscross open back

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin, chiffon, and floral burnout

My review: I'm obsessed with this dress—so much so that I was about to walk out of the showroom with it on. The best bridesmaid dresses are the ones that you actually want to wear, not the ones the bride forces you to, so this came in one of my top slots that I sent in my bridesmaid group chat. The pleated halter-neck detail is also chic and makes the silhouette much more interesting than a plain halter.

Shop the dress

Style: Phaedra, a one-shoulder column gown with a slit

Sizing: 00 to 30

Fabric options: Stretch satin, chiffon, and floral burnout

My review: I'm not going to lie. A one-shoulder gown always screams old to me. I wore one for my sister's wedding, and for the first two hours of having it on, I couldn't stop adjusting myself and feeling like the strap was digging into my back. A one-shoulder bridesmaid dress can be hard to get right most of the time, so I was pleasantly surprised when I slipped on the Phaedra and din't immediately hate it. Granted, I only had the dress on for a few minutes, but it looked and felt good, which is always the most important thing to consider when you're having your loved ones wear dresses in your honor.

Shop the dress

Wedding season is approaching quickly, and whilst there are nuptials at all times of year, late spring and summer tend to hold the most celebrations. With that comes the inevitable question: "What to wear to a wedding?"

With different types of celebrations and levels of formality, there's a lot to choose from, and sometimes the best answers lie in this year's fresh alternative wedding guest trends. I'll be the first to admit I don't love dressing up, but this stems from my complicated relationship with dresses. Even at my own wedding, I changed out of my dress and into silk trousers and a crop top.

All that to say, I think it comes down to not being resolute in finding the right dress—but remembering that trousers and plenty of other alternatives exist for looking your best at a wedding. There are so many unique variations, cool fabrics, sleek colours and eye-catching silhouettes that make wedding guest attire so much more fun to plan. An alternative wedding guest outfit can be a major shift away from what you typically wear, or it can be a small change that makes a big impact on how you feel. This list is a blend of those things.

It features colours (like black and red), which weren't always go-to wedding shades, but are becoming far more popular. There are suits and trouser outfits that make sleek replacements for your standard dress. And some alternatives are subtler, like opting for a scarf dress or something with a sheer skirt, two details which make me feel more excited about wearing wedding guest dresses for the evening. There's an outfit for everyone, and with weddings themselves becoming more creative these days, you aren't short on options.

So whether you're like me and aren't a serious fan of the usual wedding guest attire, or you are simply looking to switch up what you typically wear, the following trends will suit you perfectly (pun intended), from black-tie affairs to city elopements to cosy garden dinner parties.

8 Chic Alternative Wedding Guest Trends To Adopt in 2026

1. A Power Suit

Style Notes: Nothing makes my fashion heart happy like a good power suit. As someone who has never loved dresses (and who rolls her eyes at stereotypical gendered expectations of dressing), a suit makes for the perfect alternative wedding guest attire. As London-based creative consultant Alexis Foreman shows, in an earthy neutral, you'll have a stunning outfit for all types of weddings. This alternative is ideal if you prefer not to wear dresses, like a jumpsuit or want something that feels totally different from a gown.

Shop the Trend:

2. Statement Black Dress

Style Notes: As black-tie dress codes have become more popular for weddings, so has wearing black to weddings. Seeing that this is my favourite colour, I've never been happier. There is something so sleek about a black dress, especially one with flair, like the one Danish content creator, Marie Jedig, is wearing. Black is elegant and sophisticated—think of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's and the icon status of the little black dress. This is a superb option if you're a fan of silk and satin dresses or opt for minimal colours in your wedding guest attire already.

Shop the Trend:

3. Silk Trousers

Style Notes: Silk trousers are a nice wedding guest alternative to a jumpsuit or black dress if you're more of a trousers person. Dutch style blogger Anouk Yve's styling of wrap-style trousers with a halter-neck is very chic. For more formal events, you could pair these with a cape or trumpet-sleeve top. If the wedding theme is garden fête, you could opt for more colourful pairs in green, pink or blue.

Shop the Trend:

4. Structured Blazer

Style Notes: If it's not a black-tie or ultra formal event, but you love the idea of a suit, a blazer and trousers can be a gorgeous alternative. London-based fashion influencer Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemak's choice of deep purple feels a little more interesting than a black or charcoal blazer. Pointed-toe shoes and a structured bag look lovely against this pairing. For warmer climes or destination weddings, a linen blazer is the perfect swap.

Shop the Trend:

5. Scarf Dress

Style Notes: Anyone who normally gravitates towards wedding guest dresses with ruffles, layers or fun prints will love a scarf dress—particularly one in a bold hue. This small detail can take a wedding guest dress from pretty to show-stopping. It feels sophisticated, and it works even for warm-weather weddings since the fabric is quite light.

Shop the Trend:

6. Two-Piece Set

Style Notes: Typically, for a wedding that calls for more relaxed attire, you might reach for a sundress or similar. As an alternative, two-piece sets make for a chic switch. A high-waisted look with a fun texture, like this style seen here, is so elevated. Silk and satin materials work for sleek dinners, but floral prints and bright colours can be fun for tropical destinations or more casual weddings. More neutral two-piece sets can also leave room for you to get more creative with your shoes.

Shop the Trend:

7. Sheer Skirts

Style Notes: I find some of the best alternatives simply come from reconsidering classics. A little black dress? A straight-cut dress? Classics. With a sheer skirt? It instantly feels fresh. This look is ideal for warm-weather celebrations and destination weddings, whilst also feeling ethereal for white-themed weddings that call for all guests to wear white.

Shop the Trend:

8. Bubble-Hem Tops

Style Notes: You've probably noticed the return of peplum outfits and the number of styles that have spun off from it. From waisted silhouettes to bubble hems, the last couple of years have brought them back, and they're chicer than ever. If you love a bubble hem dress or anything with ruffles or unique shapes, a bubble hem top and trousers outfit works as a great switch for the wedding you're attending. It's just as sophisticated as a dress but easier to wear (and dance in).

Shop the Trend:

There's no reason that shopping for a wedding guest dress should be any more difficult than shopping for any other occasion, yet every time I sit down to take a stab at it, sourcing the perfect style feels just shy of impossible. I have several weddings on my calendar this year, which means I've been spending a considerable amount of time finding a dress to wear to each of them, taking into consideration the season, setting, and dress codes on the invite.

It's not like there aren't a plethora of beautiful cocktail dresses across the market right now, but when it comes to wedding guest dressing, specifically, it can seem like the criteria for what to wear limits the options from a million to one. I've spent hours deep-diving all across the internet from Revolve to Tory Burch to even Zara, and it feels like I've seen every potential dress there is to see, so trust me when I say that the below 36 I've sourced are, at least in my fashion-editor opinion, the best of the best. Chic, occasion-appropriate, and the types of silhouettes I can see myself actually wearing again and again—behold my personal guide to 2026 wedding guest dressing.

As a petite fashion person, I find two areas particularly challenging to shop for: pants and dresses. I’m very petite with a short torso and short legs, standing at 5’0”. As wedding season approaches with spring, I’m preparing my outfits for upcoming weddings as a guest. There are a few go-to styles that I always turn to because they are petite friendly. Trust me, these types of dresses are easier to find than you think.

I’ve compiled six different reliable fits that I turn to, from strapless dresses to slip dresses. These styles fall at the perfect length on my body type, so I thought I would share for my other petite fashion lovers out there. Feel confident in your wedding guest outfit without overthinking it in these 30 wedding guest dresses. I even threw in jumpsuits for the bold dressers.

If you’ve already been invited to a wedding or a few, keep scrolling through to shop all the petite-friendly wedding guest dresses I discovered.

Minidresses

Minidresses are my favorite to wear to weddings. They're easy to style and tend to look like a regular-length dress on me. I'd dress up in any of these dresses below. They all fit various aesthetics if the wedding you are attending has a specific theme.

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits may not be as common at a wedding, but if there aren't rules against it in your invite, give it a try. I like wearing jumpsuits as they do the same trick as a dress: You can just put it on as a one-and-done outfit.

Two-Piece Sets

Two piece sets are the perfect solution if you're having trouble finding the right outfit for a wedding. They're a chic option, and they can be dressed up even more with accessories.

Midi Slip Dresses

A midi slip dress is the answer to your long-dress dilemma. I love wearing a floor-length dress but hate looking like I'm drowning in it. So a midi slip dress is always my go-to since it falls at the perfect length.

Strapless Dresses

Strapless dresses elongate the neck and bring attention for your décolletage. It's a chic and elegant option for any event but especially a wedding.