Designer Wedding Guest Dresses

Wedding guest dresses by dress code

• Black tie: a floor-length gown in silk, satin and velvet; browse evening gowns and read our black tie wedding guest guide.
• Formal and cocktail: a structured midi with one strong detail, such as a draped neckline and a statement sleeve; see cocktail dresses and midi dresses.
• Garden, daytime and beach: printed silk and cotton midis and maxis; see our beach wedding guest dresses guide and how to wear a kaftan to a wedding.

Wedding guest dresses by season

For autumn weddings, read our fall wedding guest dresses guide and our edit of velvet wedding guest dresses. For winter, see winter wedding guest dresses; for spring, spring wedding guest dresses and floral dresses. For a romantic texture in every season, browse lace dresses.

Wedding guest dresses by colour

Jewel tones, blues and pinks are the safest colours, and black works for evening. See blue, pink, burgundy and black wedding guest dresses. Leave white, ivory and cream to the bride.

Finishing the look

A small bag and a comfortable heel matter as much as the dress at a long wedding; see our guide to wedding guest bags. Mothers of the couple can start with mother of the bride dresses.

Wedding guest dresses: FAQs

What should a wedding guest wear?

Follow the dress code on the invitation. Black tie means a floor-length gown, formal and cocktail mean a dressy midi, and a daytime and garden wedding suits a printed midi. When there is no dress code, a polished midi is the safest choice.

What colours should a wedding guest avoid?

Avoid white, ivory, cream and anything that could read as bridal, unless the couple asks for it. Check the invitation too: some couples ask guests to avoid a colour, and some ask for one.

Can you wear black to a wedding?

Yes, especially to an evening and black tie wedding, where black reads as elegant rather than sombre. Add colour with jewellery and a bag; see our black wedding guest dresses guide.

What should I wear to a black tie wedding?

A floor-length gown in a formal fabric such as silk, satin, crepe and velvet. Browse evening gowns and our black tie wedding guest dresses guide.

What should I wear to a fall wedding?

Choose richer colours and fabrics: burgundy, emerald, navy and rust in satin, crepe and velvet, with sleeves for an outdoor ceremony. See our fall wedding guest dresses guide.

What should I wear to a winter wedding?

Long sleeves, velvet and heavier silks keep you warm without looking bulky; add a coat for photographs outside. See our winter wedding guest dresses guide.

What does cocktail attire mean for a wedding?

Cocktail attire means a dressy knee to midi length dress, a polished jumpsuit and elegant separates. Browse cocktail dresses for the most options.

Can I wear a long dress to a daytime wedding?

Yes. A printed maxi in a light fabric and a soft colour suits a daytime, garden and beach wedding. Keep it relaxed rather than formal: skip heavy beading and sequins before the evening.