Are you stressing about what to wear to that fancy wedding you’ve been invited to? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re attending a black-tie event or a less formal celebration, these tips will help you pick out the perfect dress!

1. Know the dress code

Before you start shopping, it’s super important to know what kind of wedding you’re going to. Is it a black-tie affair or a casual beach celebration? The invitation should give you a clue. If you’re not sure, don’t be afraid to ask the bride or groom!

Understanding the dress code is crucial because it sets the tone for your entire outfit. A black-tie event, for instance, calls for a formal gown, while a casual beach wedding might allow for a more relaxed sundress.

By adhering to the dress code, you show respect for the couple and their vision for their special day. It also ensures that you’ll feel comfortable and appropriately dressed among the other guests.

If the invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, you can often get clues from the time of day and venue. Evening weddings tend to be more formal, while daytime events are usually more casual.

A church wedding might require more conservative attire, while an outdoor garden party could allow for brighter colors and patterns.

When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose from a selection of formal dresses to make sure you’re not underdressed.

Different types of wedding dress codes:

• White tie
• Black tie
• Formal or black tie optional
• Cocktail attire
• Semi-formal or dressy casual
• Casual

2. Consider the venue and season

Where and when the wedding is taking place can make a big difference in what you should wear. A flowy sundress might be perfect for a garden party in July, but not so great for a winter wedding in a fancy hotel ballroom.

The venue and season play a significant role in determining the most appropriate attire. For an outdoor summer wedding, you’ll want to choose breathable fabrics that will keep you cool, like chiffon or lightweight cotton.

Opt for lighter colors that won’t absorb as much heat. On the other hand, a winter wedding calls for richer fabrics like velvet or satin, and deeper, more saturated colors.

Consider the practical aspects of the venue as well. If the ceremony is on a beach, avoid long dresses that might drag in the sand or heels that could sink into soft ground.

For a rustic barn wedding, you might want to skip delicate fabrics that could snag easily. By taking these factors into account, you’ll ensure that your outfit is not only stylish but also practical for the specific wedding environment.

Think about:

• Indoor or outdoor venue
• Time of day (daytime or evening wedding)
• Weather and temperature
• Season (spring, summer, fall, or winter)

3. Choose the right length

The length of your dress can make or break your look. For formal weddings, you’ll want to go with a longer dress. But for less formal events, you have more options.

Selecting the appropriate dress length is about more than just following the dress code. It’s also about feeling comfortable and confident throughout the event.

A floor-length gown can make you feel elegant and sophisticated, perfect for a black-tie affair. However, if you’re not used to wearing long dresses, it might take some practice to move gracefully.

For semi-formal or cocktail attire weddings, knee-length or tea-length dresses are excellent choices. They strike a balance between formal and fun, allowing you to dance comfortably while still looking polished.

If you’re unsure about the exact dress code, a midi dress (falling between the knee and ankle) can be a versatile option that works for various levels of formality.

Dress lengths to consider:

• Floor-length gowns (most formal)
• Tea-length dresses (mid-calf)
• Knee-length dresses
• Midi dresses (between knee and ankle)

4. Pick flattering colors and patterns

When it comes to colors, you’ve got lots of choices! Just remember, you don’t want to outshine the bride or clash with the wedding colors.

Choosing the right color for your dress is an art in itself. While you want to look great, it’s important to remember that the focus should be on the bride and groom. That’s why it’s generally best to avoid wearing white, cream, or ivory unless explicitly stated by the couple. These colors are traditionally reserved for the bride.

Beyond that, consider colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. If you have warm undertones, you might look best in earthy hues like coral, golden yellow, or rich browns.

Cool undertones often pair well with jewel tones like sapphire blue or emerald green. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns, either. A subtle floral print can be perfect for a spring or summer wedding, while a sleek, solid color might be more appropriate for a formal winter event.

Color tips:

• Avoid wearing white, cream, or ivory (unless the bride says it’s okay)
• Stay away from anything too flashy or attention-grabbing
• Pastel colors are great for spring and summer weddings
• Jewel tones work well for fall and winter celebrations

5. Find the right fit

A dress that fits you well can make you feel like a million bucks! Take the time to try on different styles and sizes to find what looks best on your body type.

Finding the perfect fit is about more than just getting the right size. It’s about choosing a dress that flatters your unique body shape.

If you have an hourglass figure, look for dresses that cinch at the waist to accentuate your curves. Pear-shaped bodies often look great in A-line dresses that highlight the waist and flow gracefully over the hips. If you’re apple-shaped, empire waist dresses can be very flattering, drawing attention to your upper body and creating a flowing silhouette.

Don’t be discouraged if a dress doesn’t fit perfectly off the rack. A few minor alterations can make a world of difference in how a dress looks and feels on you. Just be sure to factor in the cost and time for alterations when you’re shopping.

Fit considerations:

• Make sure you can sit, dance, and eat comfortably
• Check for any gaping or pulling in the fabric
• Consider getting alterations for a perfect fit

6. Don’t forget about comfort

You’ll be wearing this dress for hours, so it’s gotta be comfy! Look for soft fabrics and styles that let you move around easily.

Comfort is key when it comes to enjoying yourself at a wedding. You’ll likely be wearing this dress for many hours, through the ceremony, photos, dinner, and dancing. A dress that looks amazing but leaves you feeling uncomfortable will ultimately detract from your enjoyment of the event.

Consider the fabric of the dress. Natural fibers like cotton, silk, and wool tend to be more breathable and comfortable than synthetic materials.

However, some modern synthetic blends are designed to be both comfortable and wrinkle-resistant, which can be a big plus for a long event. Also, think about the structure of the dress.

While a form-fitting dress might look great, make sure you can sit down and eat comfortably. Similarly, be mindful of necklines and straps – you don’t want to spend the whole night adjusting your dress.

Comfort factors:

• Breathable materials (like cotton or silk)
• Straps or sleeves that stay in place
• Shoes you can dance in all night

7. Accessorize wisely

The right accessories can take your outfit from good to great! Just remember, less is often more when it comes to formal events.

Accessories are the finishing touches that can elevate your outfit and express your personal style. However, it’s important to strike a balance, especially for formal events. A good rule of thumb is to follow the “less is more” principle. Choose one or two statement pieces, like a pair of elegant earrings or a eye-catching bracelet, rather than piling on multiple accessories.

When selecting jewelry, consider the neckline of your dress. A statement necklace can look stunning with a strapless or V-neck dress, while drop earrings might be the perfect complement to an updo hairstyle. Don’t forget about practical accessories, too. A small clutch or evening bag is essential for carrying your essentials like your phone, lipstick, and any emergency supplies you might need throughout the night.

Accessory ideas:

• Simple jewelry (earrings, necklace, or bracelet)
• A clutch or small purse
• A wrap or shawl for cooler evenings

8. Mind your budget

Wedding guest dresses can get pretty pricey, but you don’t have to break the bank to look fabulous!

While it’s tempting to splurge on a designer gown for a special occasion, it’s important to be realistic about your budget. Remember, you’ll likely have other expenses associated with attending the wedding, such as travel costs, a gift for the couple, and possibly accommodation. Setting a budget for your outfit before you start shopping can help prevent you from falling in love with a dress that’s out of your price range.

If you’re looking to save money, consider renting a designer dress instead of buying. Many online services now offer high-end formal wedding guest dresses for rent at a fraction of the purchase price. Another option is to look for a versatile dress that you can wear to multiple events. A classic little black dress or a elegant navy gown can be dressed up or down for various occasions, making it a smart investment.

Money-saving tips:

• Set a budget before you start shopping
• Look for sales or rent a designer dress
• Choose a versatile dress you can wear to other events

9. Plan ahead

Don’t wait until the last minute to find your dress! Give yourself plenty of time to shop around and make any necessary alterations.

Starting your search early is one of the best things you can do when looking for the perfect wedding guest dress. Not only does it give you time to explore different styles and try on multiple options, but it also allows for any unexpected delays or issues. For example, if you order a dress online and it doesn’t fit quite right, you’ll have time to return it and find an alternative without feeling rushed.

Planning ahead also gives you the luxury of waiting for sales or special promotions if you’re shopping on a budget. Many stores have seasonal sales or offer discounts for first-time customers, which you can take advantage of if you’re not in a time crunch. Additionally, if you find a dress that needs alterations, you’ll have plenty of time to have them done properly, ensuring a perfect fit for the big day.

Timeline suggestions:

• Start looking 2-3 months before the wedding
• Allow time for shipping if ordering online
• Schedule alterations at least 2-3 weeks before the big day

10. Consider the wedding party colors

You don’t want to show up looking like you’re part of the bridal party! If you know the colors the bridesmaids are wearing, try to avoid those exact shades.

While it’s not always possible to know exactly what colors the wedding party will be wearing, it’s a good idea to avoid any colors that are commonly used for bridesmaids’ dresses if you can. This typically includes popular wedding colors like blush, sage green, or navy blue. If you do happen to know the specific colors, definitely steer clear of those exact shades.

This doesn’t mean you have to avoid entire color families, though. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing light blue, you could still wear a dark blue or teal dress.

The goal is simply to ensure that you don’t look like you’re trying to be part of the wedding party. Not only can this be embarrassing for you, but it can also be distracting in photos and potentially upset the couple who carefully chose their wedding party attire.

11. Be mindful of cultural considerations

Some weddings may have specific cultural traditions or dress expectations. If you’re unsure, it’s always okay to ask the couple or their families for guidance.

Weddings are often deeply rooted in cultural traditions, and being respectful of these customs is an important part of being a good guest. Different cultures may have specific expectations when it comes to wedding attire. For example, in some Indian weddings, it’s common for guests to wear vibrant, colorful outfits, while in traditional Chinese weddings, it’s best to avoid wearing red as it’s typically reserved for the bride.

If you’re attending a wedding that incorporates cultural elements you’re not familiar with, don’t be afraid to ask for guidance.

The couple or their families will likely appreciate your effort to respect their traditions. They may even be able to provide specific suggestions or resources for appropriate attire. This can be a wonderful opportunity to learn about and celebrate different cultural practices.

12. Trust your instincts

At the end of the day, you want to feel confident and beautiful in your dress. If you try something on and it just feels right, go for it!

While it’s important to consider all the practical aspects of choosing a wedding guest dress, don’t underestimate the power of your own instincts. When you find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident, that feeling will shine through in your demeanor and how you carry yourself at the event.

Confidence is the best accessory you can wear. If you feel amazing in a dress that perhaps breaks one of the “rules” we’ve discussed (while still being appropriate and respectful, of course), don’t be afraid to go for it. Your comfort and confidence will contribute to the joyous atmosphere of the wedding, and that’s what truly matters.

Final thoughts:

• Choose a dress that makes you feel amazing
• Don’t be afraid to ask for opinions from friends or family
• Remember, the most important thing is to celebrate the happy couple!