A social calendar filled with wedding RSVPs may feel exciting—until the dreaded “What do I wear?” question pops up. As someone who has spent most of her PTO on going to weddings the past three years, I’ve had plenty of practice answering it. I curated a mix of styles featuring this year’s biggest trends, like halter necklines and slip-inspired dresses, to bring you the best wedding guest dresses to shop right now.
A few things I’ve learned after attending multiple weddings: Look for breathable fabrics to help keep you cool, flattering silhouettes that add shape without restricting your movement, and strategically-placed ruching and pleating that move with your body.
Ahead, you’ll find picks from retailers our GH editors regularly shop for special-occasion dresses. I personally love Abercrombie & Fitch for finding wedding guest attire, thanks to trendy designs that work for larger busts. Anthropologie’s selection is another GH-staffer favorite, particularly for their jacquard designs and A-line dresses. Plus, Amazon is a goldmine with under-$100 finds for those on a budget.
Dramatic necklines
Statement necklines are great way to add interest to an otherwise simple silhouette—whether you’re drawn to a trendy asymmetrical necklines, a 90s-inspired halter, or a classy high-neck style. We love the movement of this ruffle tiered dress from Amazon that features a sleek high-neck silhouette. For maximum re-wearability, Abercrombie & Fitch’s Giselle Convertible Maxi Dress can be styled five different ways, including as a deep V-neck or cross-neck halter, with flutter sleeves, or strapless.
Smooth satin
Thanks to the ’90s revival happening in fashion right now, satin and silk dresses are a mainstay for wedding season. Whether you prefer a classic slip-inspired silhouette or details like pleated skirts and flutter sleeves, these dresses drape beautifully and add subtle movement. Many of our picks also come in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find one that suits the season or dress code. Best of all, these dresses don’t require much accessorizing thanks to their lustrous finish—a pair of earrings, a delicate bracelet, and an elegant clutch are all you need to complete the look.
Floral patterns
When in doubt, a floral dress is a classic choice. While florals are often associated with spring and summer, darker hues and more muted tones can easily carry the pattern into fall and winter. Case in point: this gorgeous chocolate brown velvet pick and this sage green tulle dress—both of which are on Amazon and come available in fall/winter-appropriate colors.
Basque and drop waist silhouettes
Basque and drop waist dresses are some of this year’s biggest trends, thanks to their flattering, torso-elongating silhouettes. A dipped waist, also known as a basque waist, features a fitted bodice and creates a more sculpted, romantic look, as seen on the strapless maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. A drop waist extends the bodice below the natural waistline for a taller look that feels more modern. Deputy Commerce Managing Editor Cristina Corvino owns the Nia Santal Dress and loves “how [she] can wear it with heels or flats, even at 5'2.”
Jacquard textures
For eye-catching detailing, jacquard dresses are an elegant choice. These intricate patterns are woven directly into the fabric—not printed or embroidered on top—creating a dimensional texture that photographs beautifully (and looks even better in real life). Jacquard also has a subtle sheen, similar to silk or satin, making it an especially polished pick for afternoon affairs and formal evening occasions.
A-line silhouettes
Fitted through the bodice with a skirt that gradually flares from the waist, the classic A-line dress is a flattering and versatile choice for wedding guests. The flowy skirt allows you to move freely and feel comfortable while still adding shape and movement in every step. Best of all, this timeless silhouette won’t go out of style, so you’ll be able to re-wear it for years to come without feeling outdated.
Body-con dresses
Body-con dresses are a timeless choice, and these elegant options feel especially polished for weddings. While each has a figure-hugging silhouette, details like stretchy mesh and ruching can offer a comfortable, flattering fit. We also found styles with statement-making touches, including puff sleeves on this cocktail dress from Amazon and a keyhole cutout and asymmetrical neckline on the mesh draped dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. Mango’s Ruched Dot Midi Dress even combines two of the season’s biggest trends: polka dots and chocolate brown.
