And just like that, wedding season is upon us once again. After a few years of postponed ceremonies and shifting schedules weddings are back in full force for 2023. Springtime is the unofficial kickoff to the season, and if your calendar is anything like mine this year then you have quite a few wedding guest looks to plan.
I decided to get a head start on shopping since I typically have a hard time finding the right dress for each particular event, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that designers heard our wedding season cries. Whether you're headed to a tropical destination ceremony or polished black tie nuptials, there are tons of gorgeous dress options out there fitting for the full range of dress codes. Below are the best wedding guest dresses for every type of ceremony, broken down by dress code.
Of course, the dress codes specificities will vary wedding to wedding based on each specific couples' taste. My best advice is know your bride—some brides will prefer everyone stick to the classic rules of said dress code and some will say the bolder, brighter dresses the better. Plan accordingly so that you're aligned with their vision.
SEMI-FORMAL
Semi-formal or garden dress codes are quite common for spring ceremonies, especially for outdoor occasions. Lighter colors and fabrics, prints, and midi hemlines are typically welcome—and since it's springtime these dress options are plentiful.
This one is so romantic.
I just love this neckline.
Rosettes are having a major moment.
The perfect spring wedding guest dress does exist.
The tie shoulder details add a nice touch.
Florals! For spring!
A timeless choice.
What a fun color.
It's giving garden wedding.
So pretty.
Another day, another perfect Ref dress.
Prepare for compliments.
FORMAL
Formal dress codes mean floor-length hemlines and fancier fabrics. Once again, know your bride, but a formal wedding in the spring probably calls for a pretty color or unexpected detail.
Simply stunning.
My dream dress.
This silhouette is just gorgeous.
A work of art.
May I suggest this one for a ballroom ceremony?
So romantic.
A classic slip is always a good choice.
The most flattering neckline.
This hemline was made for dancing.
Made for an evening affair.
Just wait until you see the back.
Green might be the It color of 2023 wedding season.
I'm a sucker for a high slit.
DESTINATION
Destination weddings are when you can really have fun with your outfit. Tropical locales and warmer climates call for a bolder, more playful choice.
This color is too good.
How fun is this fringe?!
I'm picturing her on a beach somewhere.
I mean.
Hello, prints!
Classic cut, modern color.
This one is as versatile as it gets.
Just think of the accessory options here.
Not for every bride, but this one is so cool.
This one can be dressed up or down with ease.
Next up: Wedding season is approaching—30 black-tie dresses on my short list.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
-
4 Dated Sweater Trends I'm Purging From My Small NYC Closet by the Year's EndAnd the chic knitwear I'm making room for.
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
-
These 30 Pretty Gowns Are Just Begging to Be Worn to a Fall WeddingPrepare to be the best dressed guest.
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
