The Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style and Venue

Scored an invite to watch someone you love tie the knot this summer? Consider your outfit taken care of. We’ve searched the web for this year’s best dresses to wear to a summer wedding, no matter the location, dress code, or your personal style. We’re here to make figuring out what to wear to a summer wedding easy peasy—leaving you a little extra time to find a fierce pair of shoes to match (and buy the perfect wedding gift too). These summer wedding guest dresses are the season’s hottest picks—all you have to do is decide which one you love the most.

Where to Buy Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

Good news: There are lots of great places to shop for cute summer wedding guest dresses online. We’re sharing some of our favorite websites to browse that’ll help you get a headstart on being the best-dressed guest.

• Rue La La: On the hunt for a bargain? Avid thrifters will appreciate Rue La La’s incredible sale prices and curated boutiques that make shopping for designer fashion a breeze. The site is currently running an online wedding boutique—but hurry, it won’t be around forever.
• Lulus: Lulus is hands down one of our favorite places to shop online for pretty much any wedding-related event. You’ll find a variety of stylish guest attire for under $100.
• Rent the Runway: Who said you have to buy a new outfit? Rent the Runway is an eco-friendly alternative that’ll give you access to tons of designer styles. Keep reading to see some of our favorite summer wedding guest dress ideas from the site.

The Best Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding

We’ve scoured the web so that you don’t have to and listed our favorite fashion picks of the season. So what are you waiting for? Check out the most stylish summer wedding guest dresses (and jumpsuits) of 2021 right here.

1. Shiny sunset hue

Attending an evening wedding in the great outdoors? This gorgeous satin dress will look stunning in the sunset. Wear it with flat or wedge sandals for a beach wedding (or, if you know you’re going to be on solid ground, go for a cute heel). 

Lulus Because of You rust orange satin tiered maxi dress, $68, Lulus

2. Playful ruffled tiers

When shopping for a dress to wear to a summer wedding, don’t shy away from bold details. After all, summer is the season of bright colors and daring prints. Ruffled tiers add a flirty texture to this gorgeous floral maxi. For more formal events, dress it up with a pair of stiletto heels and some elegant jewelry.

AMUR ruffled Viola dress, from $90 to rent, Rent the Runway

3. Unique boho print

Beach celebrations are typically a little less formal than weddings at other venues. Feel free to explore looser silhouettes, light and airy fabrics, and bohemian prints in your search for the perfect summer beach wedding guest dress. This beautiful option offers plenty of coverage from the sun thanks to its full-length sleeves and skirt. 

Sachin & Babi Cassidy dress, $465, Sachin & Babi

4. Dainty lace overlay

If the invitation states a dress code of “black-tie optional” or “cocktail attire,” we’ve got you covered. This sleeveless lace style definitely fits the bill. Plus, it comes in a variety of summer-ready pastel shades.

ASTR The Label lace A-line midi dress, from $89, ASTR The Label

5. Enchanting blush blooms

We’re obsessed with the gradient pink hues on this plus-size summer wedding guest dress. With a romantic print and flowy skirt, this breezy maxi can easily be dressed up or down to suit a semi-formal or casual celebration. It’s all in the accessories!  

Torrid light pink floral lace tiered maxi dress, $90, Torrid

6. Modern button-down midi

Here’s another cocktail reception-approved outfit for your next summer celebration. The dusty pink hue is super on trend this season and the row of buttons adds a delicate finishing touch. 

BHLDN Maren satin charmeuse dress in Dusty Rose, $198, BHLDN

7. Cool kimono sleeves

Getting dressed up for a wedding isn’t just about looking good—it’s about comfort too. If it’s an outdoor event, you’ll want to make sure you wear something light and breathable. (Trust us, it can get hot out there!) This pretty floral number has a floaty silhouette made with light and airy chiffon. 

Adrianna Papell plus-size printed Kimono sleeve dress, $149, Adrianna Papell

8. Vintage-inspired florals

Florals aren’t just for spring—they’re also a staple pattern when it comes to summer styles. The double-breasted design gives this gorgeous midi an elevated finish. Add a pair of strappy open-toe heels for a look that’s worthy of a semi-formal event.

& Other Stories floaty pleated midi dress in Blue Print, $129, & Other Stories

9. Bright-striped maxi

Take the summer wedding season as your chance to get really creative with choosing colors and patterns. Have you ever seen anything as eye-catching as this vibrant, striped maxi dress? You’re sure to out-dress the other guests.

Torrid multicolor stripe pleated chiffon maxi dress, $90, Torrid

10. Stylish tropical print

Formal summer dresses for weddings can still make a statement! Between the one-shoulder design and bright, tropical print, this Badgley Mischka gown is utterly striking.

Badgley Mischka floral one-shoulder gown, from $135 to rent, Rent the Runway

11. Elegant ruffled midi

Muted pastels meet pretty florals on this mock wrap dress from Show Me Your Mumu. The ruffled neckline and subtle asymmetrical trim add a sweet finishing touch.

Show Me Your Mumu Jess ruffle midi dress, $198, Show Me Your Mumu

12. Unique cape dress

The dress code is an important guideline, but following it shouldn’t stop you from wearing something that emanates your personal style. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try this gorgeous designer cape dress. It’s an excellent pick for summer events, whether you’re looking for a wedding guest dress for June, July, or August.

St. John luxe silk Georgette cape dress, $2,595, St. John

13. Trendy sage green

Sage green is having a major moment, and if you haven’t jumped on the bandwagon already, a summer wedding is the perfect place to debut the pale hue.

ASOS DESIGN Curve pleated cami midi dress with drawstring waist in Sage Green, $46, ASOS

14. Bold printed jumpsuit

This festive jumpsuit is made for warm-weather celebrations. Just look at that vibrant floral pattern! There’ll be smiles all around as soon as you walk in the room.

ELOQUII full printed jumpsuit, $140, ELOQUII

15. Cottagecore-inspired midi

We’re pretty much obsessed with anything eco-friendly brand Reformation has to offer, and their casual summer wedding guest dresses are no different. Anyone who appreciates a cottagecore vibe will love this vintage-inspired look featuring a fitted bodice and puff sleeves.

Reformation Luciana dress in Rosato, $278, Reformation

16. Pretty polka-dot florals

In search of a classy summer wedding guest dress that’s fit for a cocktail party? Look no further. Dainty floral lace, spaghetti straps, and an asymmetrical trim combine to create a look like no other.   

Sau Lee polka dot Lucy dress, from $45 to rent, Rent the Runway

17. Vibrant red maxi

Long summer dresses aren’t just for formal weddings. This vibrant red maxi will look great at a casual celebration. It’s exactly the kind of bold hue that summer events are known for.

Loveappella surplice maxi dress in Red, $89, Nordstrom 

18. Light, airy midi

The relaxed silhouette of this peachy pink outfit is equal parts stylish and comfortable. Wear it to a casual daytime wedding with your favorite accessories.

& Other Stories voluminous raglan sleeve midi dress in Peach Print, $99, & Other Stories

19. Contemporary wide-leg jumpsuit

Dresses aren’t your only option—we love a good jumpsuit moment. The loose silhouette of this brightly patterned outfit will help you keep your cool. Plus, the wide leg design gives the illusion of a skirt so you’ll get the best of both worlds.

Anthropologie breezy wide-leg jumpsuit in Blue Motif, from $98, Anthropologie

20. Understated skater dress

Looking for a short dress to wear to a casual summer wedding? This chic blue skater dress is as beautiful as the sky on a clear summer day.

Lulus Home Before Daylight periwinkle dress, $48, Lulus

21. Multicolor striped midi

Like we said, summer is the season to play around with fun prints and patterns. This stylish striped midi dress will turn heads in all the right ways. A low scoop back and deep V-neckline add a gorgeous finishing touch.

Lulus Malia emerald green multi striped midi dress, $48, Lulus

22. Retro floral jumpsuit

Want something that’ll really stand out? Trust us, no one else will be wearing anything like this vintage-style jumpsuit. The corseted bodice and wide leg design are right on trend for 2021.

BHLDN x Free People Elyssa jumpsuit, $220, BHLDN

23. Shiny metallic gown

If there’s ever a time to break out the rhinestones, it’s at a wedding. This shimmering foil print maxi is an excellent choice as an evening summer wedding guest dress. The crystal detailing around the waist creates a stunning silhouette.

R&M Richards asymmetric foil print crinkle dress, $109, CoEdition

24. Minimal midi dress

If you’re in search of a cocktail dress, we’ve got you covered. Pair this understated midi with your best stiletto heels and you’re good to go.

Nookie Divine midi dress, $239, Revolve

25. Romantic ruffled maxi

Maxi dresses are a popular choice for summer weddings, and it’s easy to see why when they look this good. While a black dress may not be typical of summer weddings, the bright floral print looks even more striking against a dark background. 

In The Style x Jac Jossa tie strap ruffle tiered maxi dress, $51, ASOS

26. Edgy blue midi

Here’s another stunning light blue option appropriate for a semi-formal celebration. The cutout details at the waist add an unusual twist, making this lace dress a great conversation-starter.

alice McCALL On and On midi dress, from $45 to rent, Rent the Runway

27. Trendy floral appliqués

There are so many lovely dresses you can wear to a summer wedding. This floral appliqué style can be dressed up for a semi-formal affair or kept casual for a beach wedding.

Dhruv Kapoor Calysta mini dress in Blue Combo, $328, Anthropologie

28. Cheery asymmetrical midi

Want to make a statement? It doesn’t get much bolder than the bright yellow hue and draped sleeve of this fancy midi dress. It’s a stylish option whether you’re looking for an indoor or outdoor summer wedding guest dress.

Solace London pleated Lila dress, from $80 to rent, Rent the Runway

29. Beautiful botanical print

Speaking of florals, we love this vintage-inspired wrap dress covered in a pretty watercolor print. The breezy silhouette and loose-fitting sleeves will help you keep cool and comfortable no matter the venue.

Sahin & Babi Marist dress, $375, Sachin & Babi

30. Comfy, convertible jumpsuit

This chic, convertible jumpsuit looks as comfy as it does stylish. Soft, stretchy fabric meets functional pockets and a flattering wide-leg silhouette.

Free People Dani convertible one piece, $88, Free People

31. Sophisticated floor-length gown

When it comes to formal summer wedding guest dresses, full-length gowns are an easy way to follow the dress code. A floor-sweeping dress in a pale shade of blue looks great all year round.

JS Collections floral embroidered chiffon gown in Mineral Blue, $325, Nordstrom

32. Chic off-the-shoulder style

If your favorite part of a wedding is hitting the dance floor, opt for a dress that’ll let you do just that. This cocktail-length skater dress leaves plenty of room for movement so you can get your groove on.

InLove by Marina Bulatkina Milano dress in Coral, $320, CoEdition