What to Wear To Weddings This Spring

Photo: @rockybarnes

Vetted By: Jamie Lewin

4/16/24

It's almost May, the time of year that marks the official start of wedding season! Being a guest at someone else's big day can be so much fun to get dressed up for, without all the added pressure of being in the bridal party or, of course, the bride. And what better way to show off your personal style than being crowned best-dressed guest. There are so many more options in warmer weather compared to winter weddings, from bright colors, to floral prints, to modern cutouts. Summer weddings are the time to stand out and have fun getting dressed up. Whether it's an intimate affair on the beach or a big black-tie bash, follow our stylish guide for the best spring wedding guest dresses to look perfect for any dress code.

Photo: @rockybarnes

COCKTAIL PARTY IN THE CITY

A chic LBD is a perfect choice for a swanky city wedding and this twist with a white floral detail, plunging neckline and high slit is the perfect sexy vibe. Pair with a sleek blazer for those evenings when the temperature inevitably dips and don't over accessorize. Let the dress do all the talking!

Cocktail dresses are an obvious choice and wearing one in red is the perfect way to stand out. Whether you opt for a short or midi length, you'll be able to hit the dance floor all night long. Accessorize with statement earrings and strappy sandals to complete your look.

Women walking in Rodarte's yellow slip dress

Photo: Rodarte Dress from Moda Operandi

OUTDOOR WEDDING

A springtime wedding calls for pastel hues and I love the simplicity of this maxi slip dress in buttery yellow. The black ties at the shoulders and coordinating shoes take this look from understated to head-turning.

Woman wearing a Black Dress from New Arrivals

Photo: @hannahstraffordtaylor

I love this black midi dress with the corseted bodice and full skirt. It's such a fun way to play with proportions and let your accessories stand out with metallics or a pop of color. Espadrilles are a great shoe choice when the wedding takes place in the grass or there is a bit of a walk to get to the ceremony.

Photo: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2024 Collection

Romantic ruffles and floral patterns are perfect choices if you're invited to a romantic vineyard or garden wedding. An outdoor daytime wedding is common this time of year and a perfect time to play with fun colors when they will really stand out like these gorgeous dresses from Monique Lhuillier.

Woman Wearing A Maxi Floral Printed Dress with Cutouts

DESTINATION WEDDING

A destination wedding inherently calls for a more relaxed vibe. If you're in the market for beach wedding guest dresses, look for an allover floral print like this maxi dress with modern cutouts. This is a great dress to wear with flat strappy sandals where you can get away with comfort as well as style!

A summer destination wedding can get very hot so find a dress in breathable fabrics like this dramatic cotton strapless dress. Stand out in bold colors and pair with chic, sleek accessories.

This light and airy maxi dress is the perfect inspiration for a beach wedding. With a fitted bodice, center cutout, and semi-sheer skirt, it's a beautiful and elegant look in emerald green.

If dresses are not your thing, pairing a white menswear shirt with a sequin floor length skirt is a chic way to show off your style. And it works for any setting whether it be a European city or a tropical island. Bonus: This look has quiet luxury written all over it and works at any age.

Photo: Frame Slip Dress from Net-A-Porter

INTIMATE AFFAIR

A sleek slip dress is a great choice for an intimate affair. This nude dress from Frame is such a gorgeous color for any skin tone and is the kind of dress you can wear again and again no matter what the wedding dress code is.

Woman Wearing A Navy and Black slip dress

Black and navy is always a chic color combination like this sleek silk dress with lace trim. Simple and elegant, you'll be the best dressed guest without any effort at all!

Model in a Red Lace Maxi Dress from New Arrivals

Photo: @chloelecareux in New Arrivals dress

BLACK TIE WEDDING

A black-tie wedding is a great time to go all out when formal gowns are expected. Lace is always a great choice and this long sleeve, floor-length dress in red is a knock out!

Mary Lawless Lee in Silver Sequins Maxi Dress

Photo: @marylawlesslee

Formal weddings always beg for sequins and shine! The long sleeves offer a more modern take on the long silhouette and it's low neckline and high slit take it to another level. You will definitely stand apart from other wedding guests in a gorgeous sequin maxi dress!

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