What to wear to a wedding as a guest

You’ve RSVP’d, but you’re not sure what to wear… All we need from you is the wedding theme, the time of year and any dress code details from the invite. Got those? Keep scrolling to decode the perfect look for your wedding guest duties — and beyond! (We know your calendar is back-to-back brunches, birthdays, BBQs and race days too!)

Spring Wedding Guest Look Ideas

Arguably, the optimal season to be a wedding guest in? Unless the invite says otherwise, spring weddings call for breezy, breathable fabrics, soft colors and light evening layers. These are available across our wide range of spring wedding guest dresses and tailoring options.

Finding a design that fits both your personal style and the wedding theme is the key to its longevity and versatility within your wardrobe. So, while floral prints, pastel hues and flowy silhouettes are synonymous with the season, don’t let them overshadow comfort! If you still want to nod to spring, pastel and printed accessories are great ways to do so. Just don’t forget a lightweight jacket or shawl for the post-wedding walk to the taxi or hotel room.

Summer Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas

Summer weddings go hand-in-hand with monitoring the weather (for the newlyweds-to-be and you as the guest!) You’ll likely be attending an outdoor ceremony, so practicality is essential when deciding on your summer wedding guest look. Unless there’s a minimalist or specified color palette for the wedding, summer nuptials are the perfect excuse to wear bright colors and breezy fabrics. Summer wedding guest dresses often feature lightweight materials like linen, cotton or chiffon to keep you cool from pre- to post-ceremony. Popular prints include vibrant florals and polka dots, while airy silhouettes such as A-line dresses, tiered dresses or waistcoat suit sets are your go-tos.

Outdoor ceremonies with grassy or rocky terrain call for block-heeled sandals, kitten heels or delicate summer heels with open-toe fits, and open-air seating plans mean you shouldn’t skip the sunglasses (or SPF!)

Wedding Guest Looks: Black Tie

A dress code most of us struggle with… Despite the name, black tie doesn’t always mean all-black looks only. The classic definition of black tie usually requires floor-length gowns, cocktail dresses or tailored jumpsuits in dark or jewel tones. Consider the theme, weather and dress code and tailor your look accordingly. Black dresses are the safest option, but a chic black blouse and a black midi skirt or a black tailored suit look just as polished with the right accessories.

Casual Wedding Guest Looks

Not all weddings require formal attire, and if the bride and groom are opting for a more laid-back affair, this is a great opportunity to lean into smart casual wedding guest looks that feel innately ‘you’. Swap structured tailoring for relaxed knitted waistcoat options and longline Bermuda-style tailored shorts, and look to jumpsuits and co-ords as alternatives to occasion dresses. Check footwear queries with the bride and groom ahead of the big day, as sneakers and flip-flops may be allowed for certain locations or under long dresses!

Wedding Guest Style Trends for 2026

While wedding guest looks should ideally be something you’ll rewear on numerous occasions after the nuptials, leaning into a trend that your wardrobe already gravitates towards is a win-win. 2026 wedding guest fashion focuses on a multitude of aesthetics. Maximalism is back, whether that’s through bold colors, exaggerated watercolor floral prints or eye-catching ruffles, draping and drop-waist designs. For the minimalists, simple slip dresses are always ‘in’, and now more than ever. Want to add some personality? Statement jewelry, shoes and bags are your ticket to doing just that.

Silhouettes & details:

• Romantic & flowy: chiffon, silk and satin fabrics with movement.

• Structure & flair: dramatic sleeves, capes and architectural shapes.

• Retro revival: 1930s/40s inspired, including drop-waist designs.

• Playful textures: ruffles and accordion pleats.

Colors & patterns:

• Muted neutrals: champagne, taupe and sage.

• Soft pastels: soft pink, lemon yellow and sky blue.

• Bold florals: modern, abstract and large-scale botanical prints.

• Polka dots: timeless, ageless and seasonless.

• Jewel tones: chartreuse, deep red and emerald.

Accessories & shoes:

• Statement beaded bags.

• Matching scarves or wraps.

• Peep-toe and block heels for varied terrains.

• Complementary (or contrasting!) earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings to the look or wedding theme.

Wedding Guest Attire Examples by Dress Code

• Black tie: floor-length evening gown or very formal dress.

• Formal wedding attire: long dress, elegant midi dress or a formal, tailored jumpsuit.

• Cocktail: knee-length or midi cocktail dress with heels.

• Semi-formal: smart midi dress, skirt and blouse or tailored pants.

• Beach/destination: floaty midi or maxi dress, or a two-piece set with dressy sandals.

• Casual wedding attire: simple dress or smart top with pants or a skirt.

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

Winter weddings call for smart, stylish layering and heavier fabrics to add or remove as the day goes on. Pair blazers with chic skirts for women for a polished, cold-weather appropriate ensemble, or layer over dresses for an androgenous take on wedding guest dressing. Use tailored coats, fascinators and faux fur accessories to add opulence and drama to your look. If you love a hat, the pillbox shape is the style to be seen in for 2026!

FAQs: 

Where can I buy a wedding guest dress?

• You can find a wide range of wedding guest dress options in-store, with designs for every season, dress code and personal style.

What should I wear to a wedding with no dress code?

• If the dress code isn’t specified, aim for smart casual. A midi dress or tailored set is usually a safe bet, but consider the venue and time of day too.

What should I not wear to a wedding as a guest?

• Avoid anything too casual, like jeans or sneakers, and steer clear of white or any designs that might upstage the couple.

What should a woman over 50 wear to a wedding?

• For wedding guest dressing for women over 50, choose pieces that make you feel confident, whether that's a tailored dress, a blouse and skirt or a chic jumpsuit. Focus on fit and comfort, and don't be afraid to try something new.

What should a 60-year-old woman wear to a wedding?

• A 60-year-old woman should choose a wedding outfit that makes them feel like themselves! Chic wedding guest dresses, tailoring or a matching set in flattering cuts and colors are popular options, but comfort is key, so choose fabrics and silhouettes that you'll enjoy wearing all day, whatever the weather!

What colors not to wear to a wedding as a guest?

• White, cream and anything too close to the bride's dress should be avoided. Beyond that, most colors should be acceptable, depending on the season and dress code.

What is the best color to wear as a guest to a wedding?

• The best colors to wear as a wedding guest are usually muted neutrals, soft pastels and jewel tones, but it depends on the season and your personal style.

Can you wear leopard print to a wedding?

• Yes, you can usually wear leopard print to a wedding. But check with the bride and groom first. Leopard print can work as a stylish alternative to one-color pieces, especially in muted or tonal designs. We’d keep the accessorizing simple to balance the look and let the print do the talking.

What shoes are best to wear to a wedding?

• The best shoes to wear to a wedding vary depending on the location and weather. Block heels, heeled sandals or chic ballet flats are all practical choices. Think about the venue and how much walking or standing you'll be doing. After all, beauty doesn’t always have to mean pain!