Fortunately or unfortunately, a dozen weddings on my 2025 agenda have turned me into something of an “expert” at finding a wedding guest dress. Not only have I shopped enough to create a curated list of the most beautiful (and affordable) options, but I’ve also developed an eye for spotting the favorites among girls who, like me, have attended enough ceremonies that we’ve worked out what styles are most comfortable and elegant, what prints look good in a photo, and which brands are to be avoided if you don’t want to show up wearing the same thing as someone else.
And this year, there is one particular style of wedding guest dress that I keep seeing repeated. It’s not any one dress from a brand or even a specific print—rather, it’s a silhouette that seems to be a favorite among the best-dressed wedding guests.
Read moreWhat to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner as a Guest, According to a Bridal Stylist
What does dressy casual mean, anyway?
The patterns and little details may differ, but they all share the following features:
- A round or square neckline.
- Wide straps.
- Midi length
- Typically with a floral print, though I’ve also seen some plain versions.
- A fitted bodice and pleated skirt, sometimes with ruffles
See some interpretations of the look, below…
When it comes to this style of dress, there aren’t many rules beyond one: Anything but white. If it’s a floral print, some white in the design is fine as long as the pattern is over 50% color. Other than that, find the design, neckline, and length that speaks the most to you. It’s a cool and breezy option that works for a beach wedding as well as it does at a more formal affair.
And for those who want the most cost per wear (and don’t mind having a repeat in photographs), you can make the most of yours by changing out the shoes, bag, and jewelry for each event. Ballet flats, sandals, block heels and wedge espadrilles are all excellent options, and you can add a cardigan or scarf as an extra layer after dark. After all, a dress this pretty doesn’t deserve to be a one-and-done.
Shop some of our favorites here:
J.Crew Embroidered Apron Dress
J.Crew
Gap Linen-Blend Square-Neck Maxi Dress
Gap
Abercrombie & Fitch Stretch Midi Dress
Abercrombie & Fitch
Julia Jordan Floral Embroidered Sleeveless Midi Dress
Nordstrom
A version of this article was previously published in Glamour Spain.
The post This Is the Wedding Guest Dress All the Chic Girls Are Wearing appeared first on Glamour.
