TOP 20 SUMMER WEDDING-GUEST DRESSES

A long number is your first port of call when it comes to dresses for a summer wedding. They’re elegant, timeless and suit most dress codes – so if the brief is vague, you’re in safe territory. Summer weddings, however, require more lightweight fabrics and breathable silhouettes. Think cascading satin slip dresses and strapless designs that feel fresh and effortless. There’s nothing wrong with an uber-simple maxi dress for a wedding-guest look, so long as you focus on quality fabrics and perfect fits. But if you’re headed to a destination affair, consider citrusy shades and fun tasselled textures for an extra dose of escapism. And if dresses aren't your thing, why not try a wedding-guest jumpsuit instead?

GET THE LOOK: 

01: Topshop satin bias halter neck open scoop back maxi dress in lime, £65
02: ASOS DESIGN twist shoulder with lace up back maxi dress in black, £38
03: ASOS DESIGN lace sequin halterneck maxi dress in buttermilk, £52
04: ASOS DESIGN plunge neck gather detail mesh maxi dress in burnt orange, £42

If you fancy yourself an individual, why not try a midi wedding-guest dress this summer? These are great for inner-city events – which are on the rise thanks to stars like Charli XCX and Dua Lipa – and provide more room for dancing and dashing between venues. They also lean a little vintage (think 60s A-line dresses) despite feeling fresh on the wedding scene. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to be heading to a beach locale for your loved one’s big day, a midi dress is great for avoiding any soggy sandy hems.

GET THE LOOK: 

01: Brave Soul strappy midi polka dot dress with drop waist in cream, £32
02: ASOS DESIGN satin lace applique midi dress in bright olive green, £48
03: River Island Floral sequin bandeau midi dress in multi colour, £62
04: ASOS DESIGN satin high neck pleated bodice midi dress in pink lilac, £45

From town hall weddings to more casual affairs, some nuptials require a mini dress. These are my personal favourites for summer events, not least because they were made for the dance floor. This season invites an endless roster of great mini wedding-guest dresses to see you through all manner of soirees. I’m particularly loving caped and draped styles, which balance the old-school glamour of a maxi dress with the fun of a mini. You also can’t go wrong with a classic LBD – and there’s no fear of upstaging the bride in one, either.

GET THE LOOK: 

01: ARRANGE futurist paillette embellished strong shoulder t-shirt mini dress, £220
02: For Love & Lemons sleeveless wrap skirt bow back mini dress, £255
03: ASOS DESIGN bow detail mini dress in yellow, £28
04: ASOS DESIGN long cape sleeve mini dress, £50

Blue wedding-guest dresses are a creative spin on the ‘something blue’ wedding theme, and it’s an added bonus that the shade is trending this summer. Soft baby blues are a failsafe option that still leans relatively neutral if your couple-to-be are averse to bright shades. But if you’re still nervous about appearing too colourful, a classic satin scoop silhouette balances the vibrancy beautifully.

GET THE LOOK: 

01: ASOS DESIGN Petite scoop satin maxi dress in blue, £28
02: ASOS DESIGN Petite racer neck bias maxi dress with godet hem, £38
03: ASOS DESIGN satin chiffon cape layer mini dress in blue, £46
04: ASOS DESIGN slinky maxi dress with scarf detail in pale blue, £45

Black tie weddings are always a possibility, particularly in summer when the biggest and boldest of nuptials tend to take place. If you’re heading into a formal affair and don’t know where to start, off-shoulder wedding-guest dresses are an easy way to channel classic elegance in a flattering, understated way. Off-shoulder designs create visual interest from the outset, meaning you can leave things simple elsewhere and need take no risks with a dramatic dress. They’re also infinitely flattering, and give your shoulders a chance to bask in the midsummer sun.

GET THE LOOK: 
01: True Decadence Bardot midi dress with gathered sleeves in red, £178
02: Object extreme off the shoulder satin ruffle trim maxi dress in soft black, £70
03: Vesper bengaline off shoulder maxi dress in red, £74
04: ASOS DESIGN off shoulder mesh cape maxi dress in sage green, £45