Summer Wedding Guest Dresses Guide
Written By: Dawn Rajah
Updated: 28/04/25
You’ve RSVP’d, the date’s locked in, and now there’s only one thing left on your to-do list: find the perfect summer wedding guest dress. With wedding season stretching from May to September (or November through to March if you’re in Australia), it’s time to start the search for something stylish, seasonally savvy, and celebration-ready.
From sun-soaked garden vows to candlelit indoor receptions, we’ve curated a collection of summer wedding guest outfits that strike the perfect balance—cool enough for those balmy daytime "I dos," yet cosy enough to carry you through breezy evenings.
Whether you’re on the guest list for the entire affair or just popping in for the party, our guide to dresses for summer weddings is brimming with beautiful options for every setting, vibe, and dress code.
What should you wear to a summer wedding?
When it comes to deciding what to wear to a summer wedding, the choices can feel delightfully endless… and maybe a little overwhelming. With so many colours, cuts, and styles to consider, where do you even begin?
First things first: let the location and dress code lead the way. Is it a breezy outdoor celebration or a chic indoor soirée? Is the vibe black-tie or more relaxed and casual? These details will help guide your wedding guest outfit in the right direction—and save you from a fashion faux pas.
No matter the location, warm weather calls for breathable, lightweight fabrics that will keep you feeling cool and comfortable all day long. Think airy linens, flowing chiffon, and soft cotton blends—perfect for dancing the night away without breaking a sweat.
A beautiful strapless midi summer dress offers timeless elegance for semi-formal weddings, while a refined cocktail dress is a must for more formal affairs.
What should you not wear to a wedding?
Let’s talk don’ts. The top of the list? Avoid any shade that could be confused with the bride’s look—think white, ivory, cream, or anything too close. Even light beige can feel off-limits unless the couple says otherwise. When in doubt, steer clear.
Also, skip anything too casual—jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, or leggings don’t belong at a wedding, no matter how relaxed the invite sounds. Respect the occasion, dress thoughtfully, and make sure you blend in with the tone of the event—not the bridal party.
What colour should you wear to a wedding?
When it comes to colour, most shades are fair game—but summer weddings are the perfect excuse to embrace bold brights and dreamy pastels. From sunshine yellows to soft lilacs, colourful wedding guest dresses bring a joyful pop to the celebration and look gorgeous in photos. The rule? The bolder, the better.
Why not go for a satin slip in a vibrant pink or a chic bodycon midi in citrus orange or emerald green? These hues not only turn heads but also perfectly match the sunny, upbeat energy of the season.
Wondering about black? Yes, you can wear black to a wedding—especially if it’s your go-to for feeling confident and polished. That said, if you’re attending an outdoor summer wedding, you might want to swap dark tones for something lighter and more breathable. It’s the ideal moment to experiment with colour and have fun with your look.
Can you wear a floral dress to a summer wedding?
Absolutely. It wouldn't be summer without a little floral flair. A floral dress is a timeless choice for guests and fits effortlessly into any setting—whether it’s a garden party, a rustic vineyard, or a casual beach celebration.
For a smart-casual event, opt for a sweet, ditsy sundress. Heading somewhere more elevated? A romantic floral midi in shades of red, pink, or blue makes a beautiful statement. And for cocktail dress codes, choose a tailored piece in luxe fabrics to strike the perfect balance between pretty and polished.
Looking to go all out? A floor-sweeping floral maxi dress paired with wedges and a coordinated bag creates a chic, show-stopping ensemble that still feels effortless.
What to wear to a casual summer wedding?
Even low-key weddings deserve a stylish look. A casual dress code gives you room to play—just keep it polished. A tailored shirt dress is a great mini option: simple, smart, and perfect for mingling.
If you prefer a longer hemline, a midi tea dress styled with low-heeled sandals and a crossbody bag makes for an effortlessly cool outfit. Feel free to embrace playful prints and bold colours to let your personality shine through.
While you can keep things relaxed, the key is to still look “wedding-ready.” Keep it clean, coordinated, and above all—comfortable. After all, the happy couple just wants you to look and feel good while celebrating their special day.
What to wear to a formal summer wedding?
A formal summer wedding often calls for a floor-length gown or an elegant cocktail dress, depending on the level of formality. Think elevated and refined—but not red carpet.
For a classic choice, go for a flowing evening dress and add a touch of glamour with an embellished clutch or statement earrings. A structured long dress can also shine when paired with a fascinator or tailored jacket—perfect for outdoor ceremonies where the breeze might pick up.
The golden rule? Don't outshine the bride. Opt for understated elegance: solid hues or subtle patterns, paired with thoughtful accessories. If your dress is bold, keep the extras minimal. If your dress is simple, let your accessories speak.
What should a guest wear to a summer destination wedding?
Being invited to a destination wedding is always exciting—sunshine, new scenery, and a celebration to remember. But dressing for a summer wedding abroad can come with its own challenges, especially when it comes to staying cool and stylish.
So, what should you wear to a summer destination wedding? It all depends on the setting. Whether you’re celebrating love on a sandy beach, in a charming coastal town, or amidst rustic countryside views, your outfit should reflect both the vibe and the temperature.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and chiffon are your best friends when it comes to destination wedding guest dresses. Embrace bright colours and playful prints—perfect for sunny days and golden hour photos. Wedges or block-heeled sandals are ideal footwear options—elegant, yet practical on uneven ground or sandy shores.
What to wear to an outdoor wedding?
Outdoor weddings call for style that’s equal parts chic and practical. A smart-casual or semi-formal dress is usually a safe—and stylish—bet. Whether the setting is a garden soirée beneath a marquee or a seaside celebration, we’ve got looks for every backdrop.
Lightweight, flowy fabrics like chiffon and cotton blends are ideal for warm-weather events. Embrace a boho moment with a beach wedding guest dress in a loose silhouette—perfect for catching the breeze and those candid snaps.
Need to turn up the glamour? A sophisticated maxi dress paired with heels and a matching clutch creates an effortlessly elegant ensemble. For a countryside wedding, lean into feminine prints like florals, polka dots, or subtle stripes. And don’t underestimate the value of sleeves—short or flutter styles add coverage for chillier evenings without sacrificing summer appeal.
Can you wear a short dress to a wedding?
Yes—you can. The trick? Make sure your mini is event-appropriate. Keep it polished and sophisticated to suit a smart casual dress code—flirty is fine, but leave the overly revealing styles for another time.
From a-line and bodycon to shift and skater, there’s a perfect dress out there that will flatter your figure and keep you feeling fabulous, from champagne to cake.
Can I wear a simple wedding guest dress?
Yes—you don’t have to go big on lace or loud prints to look the part. If your style leans minimalist, a simple dress in a soft, neutral shade is a sophisticated way to show up and stand out. Think of sleek silhouettes in colours like sage green, dove grey, or warm mocha.
A long-sleeve maxi or a classic midi shift dress can be styled with understated accessories—think heeled mules, a shoulder bag, and delicate jewellery—for a look that’s clean, refined, and endlessly wearable.
Simple summer wedding guest apparel also scores high on versatility. These pieces can be worn to multiple weddings throughout the season and beyond, making them a smart investment for your wardrobe.
Just one tip: if you’re keeping your look pared-back, it’s a good idea to check with the bride about the bridal party’s colours—just to make sure you don’t accidentally blend in with the bridesmaids.
Conclusion
No matter the destination, dress code, or your personal style, the key is to find a look that’s both comfortable and celebratory. Our curated edit of wedding guest dresses for summer weddings is full of versatile options—from standout sundresses to timeless classics—that are made to travel well and turn heads.
Whether you're drawn to bold colours and dreamy florals, or prefer soft neutrals and minimalist silhouettes, this is your chance to express your style and feel your best while toasting to the happy couple.
Above all? Wear something you feel confident in—because great memories (and great photos) start with feeling good in what you wear.
