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From dresses with sleeves to tailored two pieces, 12 stylish wedding guest outfits you’ll wear again
Cost per wear = fabulous.
Weddings are expensive, and not just for the happy couple. As well as accommodation and travel, guests will also often be searching for a new outfit for the big day.
But now for the good news. As someone who’s preparing to attend an early summer wedding, I’ve already hunted out (and tried on) some of the best dresses and two pieces on the high street, so you don’t have to – and, even better, they’re all looks you can easily wear for other occasions or even to the office.
Because these are no one-hit-wonders. Here are the most fabulous, flattering and wearable wedding guest outfits I’ve found, plus tips on how to style them way beyond toasting the vows.
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This dress looks rather unassuming on the hanger, but when you try it on, you realise just how good the tailoring is. With puff sleeves, a flared, structured skirt (complete with pockets!), a fitted bodice, and a clever dropped seam at the bag, it sits beautifully.
You won't need any fussy pashminas or jackets with this one but it would work with a fabulous wide-brimmed hat and kitten heels. Even better, it's also easy to dress down for everyday with simple sandals. A dream of a dress.
This dress is a real showstopper and would be perfect for a warm destination wedding this summer. I love the scoop neck, fit and flare skirt, and golden yellow jacquard. It also comes with pockets (pockets hallelujah).
Add some golden heels (I own these ones from Sezane and they're so comfortable) and a caramel wrap for cooler evenings. Yes, it's pricey, but you could also layer over a fine knit black jumper for evening, turning it into a real statement skirt. And it's currently 15% off...
Reiss Single-Breasted Peak-Lapel Suit Blazer in Burnt Red
Reiss Single-Breasted Peak-Lapel Suit Blazer in Burnt Red
If you're not really a dress person, a beautifully tailored suit is an incredibly chic alternative for a wedding, especially a city ceremony. And this burnt red shorts suit from Reiss (the shorts are sold separately for £140) is not only a versatile buy, but it reminds me of the one Julia Roberts wore at the end of Pretty Woman.
Add a white shirt, T-shirt or tonal camisole and nude heels. Straw trilby optional. Yes, it's expensive, but you'll be able to wear the blazer and shorts separately and it also makes a great summer suit for the office. A smart investment.
If you're after something more affordable, this textured midi dress with peplum detail looks way more expensive than its price tag and would make a real statement at a summer wedding.
It would lovely with a pill box style hat (I recommend checking out Hurr or By Rotation for designer rentals). And it will also make a lovely evening dress come party season.
Polka dot is the print of the season and incredibly versatile. Rixo's dresses are also real multitaskers, too. They wash brilliantly and can be dressed up and down. This Abi style has a fabulous tie neck and tiered skirt, and would also be perfect for a trip to Wimbledon. Just waiting for my invite...
Add a thin belt at the waist and some red heels for wedding season, then swap for boots and a blazer when it gets a little cooler.
If sleeves are a non-negotiable, Boden's latest dress drop is full of gorgeous floaty options. This elegant V-neck design features an Indian garden-inspired print and romantic ruffles. It would look gorgeous with some leather sandals for a relaxed wedding with a boho vibe. And you won't take it off all summer.
With pretty cap sleeves and flattering ruching across the middle, this dress looks like it could be Victoria Beckham. It comes in five shades, but we're big fans of navy for a wedding – very chic, very classic. Wear with gold heels and jewellery.
Essentiel Antwerp Green floral lace pencil skirt with rhinestone embellishments
Essentiel Antwerp Green floral lace pencil skirt with rhinestone embellishments
It's the season of the statement skirt, and this beautiful one from Essentiel Antwerp will help you stand out in a sea of dresses. It would look fabulous with a pussybow blouse or crisp white shirt and a red lip. Sometimes less is more.
And when all the champagne has been drunk, you'll be able to wear it again and again.
Mango Embroidered Crystal Dress with Flared Sleeves
Mango Embroidered Crystal Dress with Flared Sleeves
This dress has pretty fluted sleeves and a bias cut skirt with pretty embellishment. No need to add any cover-up – just accessorise with a fabulous pair of heels and a clutch bag. A simple dress for any occasion.
M&S Floral V-Neck Mini Relaxed Smock Dress
M&S Floral V-Neck Mini Relaxed Smock Dress
One for a more laidback ceremony, but if you prefer a short length, this affordable smock dress comes with some lovely details, from the blouson sleeves to the floaty skirt. It comes with a slip underneath, which was a little tight for some, so you may want to invest in your own alternative and we'd ditch the cinch belt and wear it 60s-style with flats.
This linen midi dress is a special pick for high-summer weddings. It has simple straps and an A-line skirt at the front, but it's all about the back bow detail. Style with low heels and a classic blazer worn over the shoulders.
Sister Jane DREAM Lilt Floral Jacquard Top
Sister Jane DREAM Lilt Floral Jacquard Top
If you prefer a nice top and trouser combination, Sister Jane is a great go-to for statement blouses. Wear this with a beautiful pair of tailored cream trousers and heels as a chic alternative to a dress this summer.
The bomber jacket gets a tailored update
Barrel leg trousers get a cord update for winter
The Princess of Wales looks chic in tartan
Cosy and colourful jumpers are a must-have
