Forget hot girl summer — this year we’re all about hot wedding guest summer. It’s officially the season of weddings, which means it’s time to invest in some seriously eye-catching summer wedding guest dresses.
From balmy beach bashes to formal evening affairs, each event calls for its own style — and a dress that brings those celebratory vibes. And with so many cute fashion trends this summer (bows! metallics! pleats!), these wedding guest dresses will have you looking the part, no matter how many weddings you have on your calendar.
So, whether your next round of “I do’s” takes you to Tuscany or Austin, we’ve rounded up the summer wedding guest dresses that will dazzle from cocktail hour to the last dance of the night. But first, a few wedding fashion tips!
If you have a fast-approaching wedding but still nothing to wear, you don’t want to miss these spring-approved guest gowns.
Green Wedding Shoe’s product selections are curated and/or tested by the editorial team and GWS community. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. Please consider shopping through our links if you would like to support GWS!
What should a guest wear to a summer wedding?
For a summer wedding, it’s best to wear dresses that match the bright, breezy vibes of the season. Instead of dark colors and heavy fabrics, the most stunning summer wedding guest dresses are flowy and light — think brights pops of color, sweet pastels, floaty silhouettes, and breathable materials.
Summer weddings also tend to be more relaxed than their cold-weather counterparts, which means you have more freedom with hemlines, prints, and fabrics. While you still want to make sure you’re following dress codes, don’t be afraid to try out a new trend (hello, bows!) or play with fun patterns. Florals are a fool-proof print for summer wedding dresses, but there’s nothing stopping you from spicing them up with a bold color or an unexpected silhouette.
What do you wear to a wedding when it’s hot?
It’s the ultimate dilemma: you want to look polished and elevated for that upcoming beach ceremony, but you also want to be comfortable under the July sun. For those extra hot summer days, stay cool (while still looking chic) with summer wedding guest dresses made out of lightweight and breathable fabric like chiffon or linen.
Current trends are also here to help you keep your cool in the heat. Cut-outs, for example, add an extra opportunity for breeziness, while also making a fashion-forward statement. The same goes for high leg slits, open backs, and leg-baring mini dresses.
If the dress code is more on the formal or semi-formal side, you can channel the same level of airiness (without showing as much skin) with bohemian flowy skirts and cottagecore billowy sleeves. Materials like silk and tulle will also give you an ultra luxe look, minus the weight of rich fabrics like velvet.
The best ways to accessorize a summer wedding guest dress
Accessories are the best way to take a simple summer wedding guest dress to the next level — and have a little fun while you’re at it. Pair a slip dress with statement tassel earrings and a classic pair of flats for a relaxed backyard celebration. Or, rock the same dress for a black tie soirée with trendy metallic platforms and some glittery jewelry. This is your chance to get creative, experiment with new trends, and show off your personal style.
When it comes to shoes, it’s best to think about the terrain of the event when choosing the perfect pair. Luckily, stylish wedges are back in a big way, just in time for grassy ceremonies and backyard receptions.
For a beach event, a cute and comfy pair of slides are a no-brainer, and some chic strappy heels would shine for an elegant indoor party. Have a barn wedding on the horizon? Consider this your sign to finally buy those western boots you’ve been eyeing!
Shoes on the brain? Find your new favorite pair with this roundup of wedding-ready kicks!
Where to buy summer wedding guest dresses
With wedding szn kicked into high gear, more and more retailers are creating collections specifically for summer wedding guests. These include fan-favorite sustainable brand Reformation, chic and affordable retailer Lulus, and wedding wardrobe mainstay ASTR The Label. For a range of designer and everyday pieces, we also love Revolve and Anthropologie.
To help you narrow it down, we’ve rounded up the chicest dresses from allllll our favorite shops. Keep scrolling to find the look that will earn you a spot on the best-dressed guest list.
Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
After years of having to postpone tying the knot, many couples are now pulling out all the stops for their celebrations. This means formal dress codes are on the rise — and we are HERE FOR IT.
But, it can be tricky to find formal summer wedding guest dresses that allow you to keep your cool in the heat while also staying appropriate for more classy affairs. Our favorite picks make the most out of opulent (yet still breathable) fabrics, breezy silhouettes, and elegant pops of skin.
1: Shimmery Blue Formal Wedding Guest Dress
This blue formal summer wedding guest dress has us SWOONING. With shimmery fabric and a timeless silhouette, you’re guaranteed to shine — whether you’re toasting the happy couple under the sun or doing the Cupid Shuffle beneath the disco ball.
2: Metallic Pink Formal Wedding Guest Dress
While metallics may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of floral gowns, this formal summer wedding guest dress is here to prove just how cool and classy this new trend can be.
With glistening blue and golden flowers and that dreamy pink color, it simply oozes opulence. Plus, the airy midi skirt means you can dazzle the room without breaking a sweat.
3: Flowy Silk Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress
How mesmerizing is this flowy formal gown? Gorgeous draping makes this silk summer wedding guest dress look both effortless and luxurious at the same time. A floral dream, this is as timeless and as glamorous as it gets.
4: Sultry Green Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress
You already know our affinity for green, and this formal dress gives the rich hue a summery twist. The trendy halter neckline is THE MOMENT, and the sultry leg slit works overtime to keep you from overheating.
Style it with some equally trendy accessories, like these pleated gold heels, and you’ve got a seriously stand-out look.
5: Regencycore Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress
This tiered formal gown is giving regencycore. It’s giving fairytail. It’s giving main character energy. Do yourself a favor and add this dress to your summer wedding guest wardrobe ASAP.
6: Romantic Rose Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Channeling the vibes of a dreamy rose garden, this floral gown is summer wedding guest dress GOALS. The sheer organza and plunging neckline up the romance factor — perfect for a formal garden wedding or elegant evening affair.
7: Sweet Mini Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Oh-so sweet bows steal the show with this formal summer wedding guest dress. Although shorter hemlines aren’t as popular for formal dress codes, you can dress this look up with some sparkly accessories and an elevated up-do.
GWS Tip! This mini dress can also be toned down for a semi formal wedding or cocktail party. Just swap out your glitzier accessories for something simple, like a minimalist birthstone necklace or a chic pair of flats.
Looking for semi formal wedding guest dresses instead? We’ve got you covered.
8: Classy Long Formal Wedding Guest Dress
Flower patterns may not be ~groundbreaking~ when it comes to summer dresses (we have MANY on this list), but this pink formal wedding guest gown still manages to stand out from the crowd!
From the dreamy color palette to the whimsical flutter sleeves, it’s a soft and feminine design that will have everyone doing a double-take.
Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
In our opinion, summer is made for rocking dresses 24/7. But, the frock you wear to bottomless brunch may not have the same level of refinement that you’re hoping to bring to your friend’s elegant city wedding.
For those moments when you want to show just how well you clean up, classy summer wedding guest dresses are the answer. From chic satin slip dresses to feminine floral gowns, these picks will have you looking like a class act all summer long.
9: Cool and Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
This list wouldn’t be complete without everyone’s favorite classy summer wedding guest dress: a cowl-neck slip dress. This one adds an extra touch of elegance, with a front slit and an alluring open back.
Plus, it comes in multiple colors, including our summer faves: blush, dusty blue, and, of course, moss green.
10: Whimsical Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
This classy summer wedding guest dress is the definition of whimsical. With blossoming floral appliqués and a dreamy sheer overlay, you will quite literally be a Midsummer Night’s Dream. Shakespeare could never!
11: Dazzling Sequin Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
This year, we’re all about upping our floral game. After all, why have a plain flower print when you could have this lilac sequin gown instead?
This classy summer wedding guest dress is truly next level, and we can’t get enough of the dazzling details. And that oh-so-high leg slit? To die for!
12: Sophisticated One-Shoulder Classy Dress
We can’t stop gushing over one-shoulder necklines, especially for classy summer wedding guest dresses. This pick is simple and sophisticated without being boring. Pair it with some statement pumps and you’re pretty much golden.
Looking for more ways to elevate a simple wedding guest dress for summer? Don’t miss these cute summer nail ideas — they’re the perfect finishing touch to your look!
13: Flirtatious Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Statement ruffles? Um, yes, please! This classy summer wedding guest dress doesn’t hold back with its bold silhouette and flirtatious details. If you’re dressing to impress someone else on the guest list, this is the look for you.
14: Pretty Pleated Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Manifest blue skies for your upcoming outdoor weddings with this blue pleated dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. With a new Best Dressed Guest Collection, A&F has made a name for itself as a go-to destination for classy summer wedding guest dresses. And this gown is proof!
Rock this classy look with white sandals to bring out the white flowers in the dress, or add a statement necklace to draw extra attention to that elegant plunging neckline.
15: Balletcore Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Move over cottagecore, there’s a new aesthetic making waves in the fashion world: balletcore. With soft lines, flirty details, and ultra-feminine vibes, this aesthetic was practically made for the summer wedding circuit.
If you want to channel that ballet-inspired look this summer, this is the classy summer wedding guest dress for you. With tiers of pretty pink chiffon ruffles, it’s the definition of comfy chic.
16: Lovely Lace Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
The perfect balance between sweet and sexy, this lacy pink dress has everything. A plunging neckline? Check. A dusty pink hue? Check. A stunning open back? Check.
We dare you to find a prettier classy summer wedding guest dress. We’ll wait.
17: Bold Floral Classy Wrap Dress
Wrap dresses are notoriously flattering, and this classy summer wedding guest dress is no exception. Vibrant florals make it the ultimate look for a tropical destination wedding — and the flowy fabric will save the day when humidity strikes.
Pair it with shoes that are made for traversing sand and you’re pretty much golden!
18: Garden-Inspired Classy Summer Wedding Guest Dress
A blossoming mustard color and white floral print means you’ll fit right in at a botanical summer wedding. And as an added bonus, this classy dress has an open back and elastic waist — a necessity after a few pieces of wedding cake.
Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
A wedding that doubles as an opportunity to get your tan on? Sign us up! While nothing beats the free-spirited, boho vibes of an outdoor wedding, dressing for a day spent in the summer sun can have its challenges.
Outdoor summer wedding guest dresses should be ultra-breathable (but not so airy that they float up with the breeze) and look great with a natural backdrop (for all those sunset photoshoots!). Think colorful florals, cottagecore mini dresses, and relaxed silhouettes.
19: Destination Wedding-Approved Outdoor Dress
Blessed are the wedding guests who get invited to a destination event somewhere truly magical. If you’re one of the lucky few this summer, make the most out of the gorgeous views with this vibrant outdoor summer wedding guest dress.
A sweet ruffled mini skirt will keep you photo-ready, whether you’re clinking wine glasses in Tuscany or swaying by sea views in Greece.
20: Shimmery Green Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
If you’re not ready to fully commit to the metallics trend, this dress is a more subtle (but still very shimmery) option. With delicate metallic threading woven throughout, we don’t know who will shine more at your next outdoor wedding: you or the sun.
Style it with some radiant block heels to capitalize on the glimmer (and still gracefully walk on outdoor terrain).
21: Trendy Cut-Out Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
With a sultry cut-out, a sweetheart neckline, and a sunny yellow hue, this outdoor summer wedding dress oozes hot girl summer vibes. We don’t know what details to look at first — but we do know that all eyes will be on you.
22: Cottagecore Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Puffed sleeves have proven that they are here to stay — and we’re not mad about it. With this fitted midi dress, the billowy sleeves and lightweight fabric will keep you feeling as fresh as you look.
And thanks to its versatile and on-trend silhouette, you can easily give this outdoor summer wedding guest dress a second life for Sundays at the farmers market or nights out with your crew.
23: Lemon-Infused Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
When life gives you a lemon-infused maxi dress, wear it to a summer outdoor wedding! This gorgeous gown was practically made for sunny days spent celebrating your loved ones, limoncello in hand.
Style it with espadrille wedges for a sweet garden party, or rock strappy heels for a chic Southern soirée.
24: Elegant Jacquard Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Tired of wearing the same old slip dress to every event on your calendar this summer? Switch it up with this shimmery, one-shoulder outdoor dress. With an unexpected silhouette, this gown gives an age-old look an edgy update.
Pair it with sparkly accessories for an evening spent under the stars or nude heels for a classy daytime affair.
25: Statement Floral Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
A vintage-inspired look that makes a serious statement, this outdoor summer wedding guest dress is just TOO GOOD. That one-shoulder neckline and asymmetrical skirt will have everyone asking: “who is she?” Trust us, this is definitely not your grandmother’s floral dress.
26: Romantic Ruffle Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Embrace your divine feminine energy with this romantic ruffle outdoor dress. It’s dreamy and charming and would look so sweet for an outdoor backyard wedding. We’d wear it with a glowy, natural makeup look for ultimate summertime vibes.
27: Playful and Bright Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Weddings are all about celebrating love, and there’s nothing that screams celebration like a bright, cheerful print. Remember: every couple wants their party to feel joyful and full of life. This playful outdoor summer wedding guest dress does just that.
28: Sunny Outdoor Wedding Guest Dress
Speaking of radiating joy, can we get a round of applause for this charming sunshine yellow dress? There will be no clouds in sight when you rock this look — making it perfect for an outdoor bash.
But no need to reserve this gown just for wedding season! With a totally wearable silhouette, this summery mini dress is also perfect for Saturday picnics, warm-weather coffee dates, and any day you need a pick-me-up.
29: Flirty + Fluttery Outdoor Summer Wedding Guest Dress
When it comes to outdoor weddings, you can’t control the elements (aka, wind, sun, and overall hot weather) — so why not choose a wedding guest gown that works with them instead of against them?!
That’s the beauty of this fluttery floor-length gown. With layers of lightweight chiffon ruffles, it’ll give you the prettiest movement every time the breeze blows — while also keeping you cool under the summer sun.
Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
While formal dress codes may be on the rise, summer weddings still tend to lean more on the casual side compared to fall and winter nuptials.
With more hours of daylight, playful outdoor events, and the carefree vibes that come with warm weather, casual summer wedding guest dresses will go a long way this season. Don’t be afraid to gravitate toward fabrics like cotton and linen and invest in silhouettes you plan to wear well past the last dance.
GWS Tip! Even if your wedding invite calls for a casual dress code, it’s always best to add a touch of elegance to your wedding guest look. It’s called a big day for a reason, and most couples would rather you dress slightly up versus down. If you’re going casual, still make it chic and (importantly) photogenic.
30: Ocean Blue Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
It’s no secret that we love a beach ceremony, and we’re OBSESSED with this ocean-inspired casual summer wedding guest dress. You’ll stay on-theme at a sandy ceremony in Tulum or a boathouse reception in New England. For styling? Beachy waves, of course!
31: Olive Green Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Calling all maxi fanatics! Made with super lightweight cotton fabric, this floor-sweeping casual dress is cool and comfortable. And just wait until you see the cut-out in the back — so cute! And with endless wearability, you definitely don’t want to sleep on this one.
32: Breezy Cotton Summer Wedding Guest Dress
If you’re looking for a breathable fabric, you can’t get much breezier than a lightweight cotton. Throw on this casual summer wedding guest dress — which is made with 100% cotton and features cute side cut-outs — and you’ve got a classic, airy look in mere seconds.
33: Cute + Casual Botanical Nap Dress
It’s the silhouette we’re going to be wearing all summer long: a smocked bodice, a square neckline, and a flirty tiered skirt. In other words, the nap dress still has a hold on us — and that applies during wedding season as well.
This casual summer wedding guest dress nails the milkmaid dress look, and gives it a wedding-ready twist with a cute botanical print. We can’t wait to wear this for outdoor cocktail hours and casual summer afternoons alike.
From cut-out slip dresses to flowy milkmaid dresses, we’ve rounded up the summer gowns that will have you looking your best.
34: Lilac Purple Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Lilac is having its moment! This casual, sunny number is so much more than your average t-shirt dress, with a ruched waist that is endlessly flattering. Inject this look with some personality by styling it with statement tassel earrings or a pair of trendy wedges.
35: Airy Linen Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Add dimension to your look (without adding weight) with this cute linen casual summer wedding guest dress. It’s a timeless ‘fit that will never steer you wrong, and the highlighter yellow hue makes it modern for a fashion-forward guest.
36: Flouncy Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
For summer weddings, black can feel too heavy, and white is a no-go (for obvious reasons!). That’s why we love this tan hue for a neutral look that shines during warmer months. Combined with a flouncy skirt and a flirtatious open back, this casual dress holds a spot in the wedding attire elite.
37: Sophisticated Long Sleeved Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you have to retire your long sleeves! For those who want a bit more coverage, this long sleeved casual summer wedding guest dress maintains that bright summer energy with a luxurious floral print and fluttery skirt.
38: Chic Casual Summer Wrap Gown
Classic and elegant, this casual summer wrap dress will never go out of style. With fluttery sleeves and a bubbly shade of muave, it will effortlessly take you from day to night.
Plus, that flowy skirt was made for twirling around the dance floor to your favorite Taylor Swift song (let’s hope the DJ is taking requests!).
39: Sweet Babydoll Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Sweet and casual babydoll dresses like this one are always a good choice, whether you’re rubbing elbows with family members at the dinner table or trying to impress old high school friends at the bar. Style it with some sky-high platforms and you’ll appear as if you have legs for days.
Summer Evening Wedding Guest Dresses
Similar to formal attire, summer evening wedding guest dresses tend to be on the classier end of the fashion spectrum. Instead of the short, playful gowns you would rock at a morning or daytime wedding, these dresses are typically longer and more sophisticated — similar to your classic cocktail dress.
But don’t let this stop you from showing off your personal style! Summer evening gowns can still be as bright, bold, or trendy as you want them to be. For these picks, we decided on all of the above.
40: Romantic Halter Summer Evening Wedding Guest Dress
Despite its throwback details, like a halter neckline and bow tie back, this summer evening wedding guest dress feels as fresh as spring blooms.
With green and ivory flowers blossoming across the dress, it’s making a name for itself as a romantic classic. Careful — you might just outdo the bouquets.
41: Sunset-Inspired Cowl Neck Evening Dress
Stealing its orangey copper hue from a summer sunset, this silky slip dress would set the mood for an intimate evening wedding.
While we adore the cowl neckline and floor-skimming skirt, the real show-stopper is in the back. You’ll definitely add a touch of drama with the open criss-cross design!
42: Pleated Summer Evening Gown
This evening summer wedding guest dress isn’t holding back. Combining a statement shimmery fabric with a sultry plunging neckline (and cute cut-outs on the side), this dress exudes party vibes.
And if you’re looking for something more formal, this evening gown also comes in chic navy and classic black.
43: Tropical Orange Summer Evening Wedding Guest Dress
Picture this: It’s golden hour. You’re at a summer wedding on the beach. You’re raising a toast to the newlyweds with a sparkling glass of champagne. And you’re wearing this glowing orange evening dress.
Excuse us as we add this shimmery pleated gown to our carts IMMEDIATELY.
44: Airy Yellow Evening Dress
It’s about the little things, and for this evening dress, those are all the gorgeous details that make it shine. From the whimsical botanical bodice to the airy tiered design of the skirt, the details of this gown make a big statement. We wouldn’t blame you if you never wanted to take it off.
45: Oh-So Sweet Summer Evening Wedding Guest Dress
How many ruffles are too many ruffles? The answer: you can NEVER have too many ruffles. This summer evening dress embodies this philosophy with layers of fluttery ruffles that give it a cheeky flair.
Commit to the oh-so sweet spring vibes by adding some pretty botanical accessories, like these fluttery petal earrings.
46: Bright and Bold Summer Evening Gown
For those who are always the life of the party, this evening dress is a bright, bold, and ultra-fun statement that fits your personality.
If your next wedding trip takes you to Hawaii or another tropical island, you won’t find a better ‘fit for the occasion.
Long Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Mini dresses may be trendy, but long dresses are forever. With long summer wedding guest dresses, you can look instantly elegant without any effort required. Plus, you don’t have to worry about an afternoon breeze giving you an unwanted Marilyn Monroe moment.
Just remember: think about the venue when choosing the perfect long gown — after all, you don’t want your hemline dragging along grass or dirt as you make your way around the festivities. Our favorites stop just before the ground (and feature flowier silhouettes to help you beat the heat).
47: Boho Long Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Summer is the season when boho dresses finally get their moment in the spotlight. This bohemian dream, in particular, is the crème de la crème of long summer wedding guest dresses.
With an open back, an airy skirt, and crochet lace inserts, this dress is so comfortable you’ll feel like you aren’t wearing anything at all.
And did we mention it comes in 17 different colors?
48: Vacation-Ready Long Summer Wedding Guest Dress
Why not extend your destination wedding weekend for a few extra days soaking up the sun? This long dress will take you from party central to lounging by the beach in the seconds it takes you to type up your “out of the office” memo. With that tropical print, we can almost feel the sand in our toes already.
49: Rosy Ruffle Long Summer Evening Gown
This long summer wedding guest dress is seriously swoon-worthy. We can’t get enough of the delicate ruffle detail and that stand-out gold sheen. The pink rose pattern is simply the bow on top of a stunning stand-out gown.
Wow your fellow wedding-goers by pairing this dress with simple gold jewelry and a pair of cute pink heels to let those romantic flowers really POP.
50: Feminine and Fluttery Long Summer Gown
When it comes to cut-outs for long summer wedding guest dresses, this gown is doing everything right. Two pops of skin in the front open up to a show-stopping open back with an alluring lace-up detail. You’ll definitely want to wear your hair up with this one!
51: Delicate Something Blue Long Dress
The gorgeous blue and purple flowers on this long summer wedding guest dress are simply too chic to resist. With both casual and formal potential, you’re guaranteed to be wearing this gown all summer long.
52: Garden-Inspired Long Summer Guest Gown
Garden party, here we come! We love long summer wedding guest dresses that still show off our shoes, and this ankle-length gown understood the assignment.
Style this feminine floral dress with a cute but practical clutch and you’re ready for a day of dancing, catching up, and cheers-ing true love.
53: Long Tiered Botanical Embroidered Dress
For those casual weddings where you still want the coverage of a long dress, this cotton frock is your new best friend. We can’t get enough of the subtle floral embroidery, the flattering v-neck bodice, and the flowy tiered skirt — but the shining moment has to be the summery green hue!
Completing The Best-Dressed Guest Look
Like we mentioned earlier, accessories are a summer wedding guest’s secret fashion weapon. With some strategic styling, you can earn the moniker “best-dressed guest” for every wedding you attend this season. But first, you’ll need the right accessories in your arsenal!
Some show-stopping tassel earrings or an eye-catching statement necklace can breathe new life into a simple dress you’ve already worn to a few times. Similarly, different shoes can completely transform a summer wedding guest dress from casual to cocktail to black tie (here are a few of our faves for doing just that).
Another fool-proof tactic? Just switch up your beauty look by rocking a cute half-up half-down hairdo or making your nails the star of the show.
What is your best-dressed guest strategy for the summer wedding season? Fill us in on all the details in the comments below!
