Save Up to 60% on Formal Wedding Guest Dresses for All Your Events This Season (2024)

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Looking for a gorgeous, romantic dress for a formal occasion that doesn’t compete with the couple-to-be (but still lets you stand out)? Try this satin dress, which has unique details like a corset bodice, side slit, and flared hem. It’s available in multiple colors and just waiting to be dressed up with your favorite jewelry and heels.

Size: XXS-XXL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

If you're going to opt for a midi dress that hits just below the knee, go for something in a neutral shade that is easy to dress up. This satin-finish dress is so pretty and versatile, and can truly look formal with the right accessories. It also comes in a variety of different colors and it's easy to move around in.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Polyester

While black is a quintessential formalwear hue, you can certainly branch out and wear other colors. This metallic emerald green dress is a beautiful option, with a shimmering finish and a glamorous one-shoulder neckline.

Size: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

A formal gown with a belt? It exists! This unique Sachi & Babi gown features a full-length skirt and is definitely on the fancier side. We love the mix of slate and navy, a perfect color combination for a guest attending a winter wedding.

Size: 0-22W | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, silk

This ruffled maxi dress features a feminine tiered skirt that makes it feel dressed up. The pretty lace design and ruffled sleeves are also flirty touches, and it comes in a few different colors for a variety of options.

Size: XXS-3X | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Cotton, nylon, polyester, spandex

Stay comfortable on chilly autumn wedding days with this long-sleeve maxi dress. The pleated satin skirt is still airy enough to dance in, and the form-fitting waist and deep-v neckline add interest and shape.

Size: 2-16, plus size available | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Polyester

If you're not afraid to make a splash, opt for this bold, neon orange dress (there’s a bright green color, too.) Between the color and the silhouette, this look would be perfect for a formal wedding in a tropical locale. We love the high slit and asymmetrical neckline, too.

Size: UK 6-16 | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Polyester

This silky, off-the-shoulder column gown is effortlessly elegant with a straight skirt and beautiful draping throughout the bodice. It comes in a few different colors to match the venue and the vibe.

Size: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

This silk dress has a tight fit with a trendy straight neckline and thin straps. The green hue and delicate floral pattern make it a lovely pick for a spring wedding, but it also comes in brown if that better suits your style.

Size: 14-24 | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Silk

Sophisticated and classic, this one-shoulder gown exudes Old Hollywood vibes. It has a side slit and a slight train for a dramatic touch, and the thick crepe fabric makes it feel comfortable on chilly evenings.

Size: XXS-S | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, spandex

The corset top and wrap style skirt of this dress give it an almost Grecian look, but with a trendy, modern feel. We love the bow detail at the waist and the contrast between the structured bodice and draped skirt.

Size: 0-18 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, spandex

The halter neck and keyhole cutout make this dress feel perfect for a summer wedding. It comes in a variety of colors, but this burnt orange hue is unique and our personal favorite.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Polyester, elastane

If you think it's appropriate to wear a shorter hemline to a particular event (it's always a good idea to check with the hosts first), then this sleek midi dress is a great choice. It's a versatile option that can be dressed up or down, depending on the overall vibe of the wedding you're attending. Pro tip: black will likely feel the most formal.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Polyester

As far as midi dresses go, this one is pretty formal, with gorgeous off-the-shoulder sleeves and flared hem. It's also sold at a great price point, making it an affordable option for anyone shopping on a budget.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex, polyester

Made of delicate, flowy material, this maxi dress feels feminine and romantic. The soft floral print, sweetheart neckline, and off-the-shoulder sleeves are enough to make anyone fall in love.

Size: 0-12 | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Viscose

If you want something on the sexier side, this maxi dress is perfect: it features double slits, a plunging neckline, and a nearly backless design. It's a risquélook that still feels sophisticated.

Size: XXS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

The purple floral print feels utterly unique when printed on a sumptuous velvet fabric—it's an excellent choice for fall or winter weddings. Though it slightly gives off a casual vibe, it could work at certain formal affairs.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Viscose, nylon, polyester

This satin wrap dress is a versatile piece that can easily be dressed up or down. The vibrant green color will make you stand out from the crowd (in a good way) and we love the bow detail with the sash.

Size: 14-28 | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Polyester

The ruffle and lace detail at the neckline would make this dress right at home in a different decade (or century), but it looks just as nice at a contemporary summer wedding. Choose from one of several pretty floral patterns or a solid hue.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Viscose

Formal doesn’t have to mean boring. This gown comes in bright colors and a unique pleated metallic fabric, The overall shape of the dress is classic—while showing off leg with the high-slit—but it stands out without going over the top (or outshining the partners-to-be).

Size: 6 (XS) - 14 (XL) | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Polyester

Slip dresses are sexy and classic, and when paired with the right accessories can be a great pick for a formal wedding. This gown is dressed up with a cowl neckline and a skirt that is a cut on the bias. Choose from a number of colors to fit the wedding's mood.

Size: XXS-XXL | Length: Maxi | Materials: Polyester

There's something so glamorous about a velvet maxi dress. This one features a beautiful column silhouette and off the shoulder sleeves, with a leg slit that makes it feel red carpet-ready. Any of the rich, striking colors are a fit for a formal wedding.

Size: 0-19, plus-size available | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Velvet polyester, spandex

Not a dress person? Sabina Musayev x Revolve's shimmering metallic jumpsuit is dressy enough for a formal wedding. With a plunging neckline and pretty sleeves, it's a great choice for someone on the hunt for a dress alternative.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

Add some sparkle to your dress with sequins. This dress features lots of glittering, multi-hued embellishments in a geometric design. The full-length skirt and sweetheart neckline keep the look classic.

Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

This iconic gown one of the most highly-rated wedding guest dresses because it comes in so many different colors. The "storm cloud" hue is perfect for a summer wedding, but can be layered with a silk scarf for chillier days too.

Size: 0-16 | Length: Tea-length | Materials: Polyester

This sleek, metallic-looking champagne dress befits a lavish venue. It has a classic, slim silhouette and open back for a sexy look that still has a place at a formal event.

Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

This super sweet dress is just right for a formal garden wedding. The flutter sleeves, airy skirt, and floral embroidery set a whimsical vibe.

Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester

FAQ

• What does formal wedding guest attire mean?

  Formal wedding guest attire typically means long (or midi) gowns and tuxedos or suits. It’s a step up from cocktail attire, but not as fancy as black- or white-tie. According to Bingham, look for a dress in a long length with an elevated material (skip the jersey or spandex dresses). If you're feeling unsure of what to wear, always ask the couple or wedding party if your outfit is appropriate for the occasion.

• Can you wear a cocktail dress for a formal dress code?

  Cocktail dresses are not completely off-limits, depending on the season and type of wedding. Make sure it leans towards the fancier side, though. Look for elevated cocktail pieces that are made of high-quality materials and fabrics. Neutrals or dark shades are always great too, but patterns and prints aren't out of the question.

• Does formal attire always mean a long gown?

  Gowns are typically expected at a formal wedding. “When in doubt, go long. But obviously we see many people go to extremely formal events (Met Gala, red carpets, galas, etc.) in short gowns. The key is to make sure you aren't underdressing. There are short gowns that have a super interesting design, like Jourdan Dunn's Zac Posen gown for the Met Gala, that absolutely still feel formal even if they're short,” said Bingham. That said, you don't have to wear one to every formal event. Elegant maxi dresses can work with this dress code, and midi ensembles are an acceptable option too. Remember, though, the dress code ultimately depends on the overall vibe the couple has established for their wedding.

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