What I’m Wearing to Weddings This Season (Plus My Favorite Guest Dress Picks)
There’s just something about a wedding in the South. Warm nights, clinking glasses, and dresses that need to hold up in heat, humidity, and hours on the dance floor. Whether it’s a family friend tying the knot or a destination wedding for someone near and dear, I’ve got a couple of go-to dresses I’m loving this season and a few thoughts on what makes the perfect wedding guest look.
Weddings in the spring and summer are some of my favorites and this year 3 of my close friends are tying the knot. You know me, I don’t do fussy, and I’m not chasing trends. I’m just looking for dresses that feel good, move well, and make me want to twirl around the dance floor. Here's what I’m loving this season, how I choose them, and a few places I always check when I'm in need of something new.
What I Look for in a Wedding Guest Dress
Flowy fabric that doesn’t cling is non-negotiable, especially in the South where the summer heat is no joke. I want to feel breezy, not stuck to my seat.
A dress I can move in is a must. Whether we’re swaying to something sweet or full-on dancing like nobody’s watching, I need to be able to wiggle and breathe.
Soft seasonal colors are always my go-to. I’m not against neutrals, but I lean more toward airy tones and muted shades that feel fresh but not flashy. I also try to choose something that works with a simple block heel (or barefoot—IYKYK).
Bonus points if I can rewear it for church, a casual dinner out, or future travel. I’m all about dresses that earn their place in the closet.
And one thing to note … these days, more couples are requesting specific guest dress colors. One of my sweet friends is having a destination wedding and asked guests to wear blue because we’re her “something blue.” It’s thoughtful, fun, and a good reminder to always read the invite carefully.
The Dresses I’m Wearing This Season
This summer, I’ve got a few weddings on the calendar, and these are the dresses I’m reaching for again and again. They are classic, versatile, and just the right amount of dressy without being overdone.
Something Blue from Nordstrom
This one is a dream. The eyelet lace detail is sweet without being too much of anything, and it fits beautifully into that “something blue” category (especially perfect for a destination wedding where we’ve all been asked to wear blue). I love that it feels special enough for a cocktail-attire event or something more formal. It’s one of those dresses you can wear again and again and I just might.
Strapless Navy from Anthropologie
Elegant and understated, this navy strapless dress is simplicity at its finest. With its subtle A-line shape and flowy fabric, it’s both timeless and easy to style. Great with a little heel or even barefoot (my preferred dance floor look after an hour or two). I have a feeling this one will be on repeat, maybe even at multiple weddings. I’ll decide in the moment and pack both just in case.
A Bum-Friendly Favorite
Let’s be honest, some dresses just don’t flatter from every angle. So here’s one that does. If you’re looking for a bum-friendly silhouette, I’d recommend anything with a flowy skirt or wrap waist—something that gives a little grace and movement. Quince has a few that fit the bill and don’t break the bank.
Where I’m Shopping
My go-to places for event dresses are:
Nordstrom (so many good options that ship fast)
Anthropologie (for something extra special or feminine)
Quince (budget-friendly, simple silhouettes)
Avara (a favorite from my Texas days, started local and still a gem)
You don’t need to overthink it, just pick something you love, that you’ll feel great in, and maybe that you’ll want to twirl in under the string lights later that night.
How I Accessorize My Wedding Guest Looks
I’m a big fan of keeping things simple, elegant, and wearable beyond just one event. Here’s how I style my wedding guest dresses so I feel put together and comfortable all evening long.
Shoes
My go-to is a classic block heel—about 1.5 to 2 inches—with a simple strap. I have the same pair in nude and black, and they work with just about anything. Church, date night, jeans, or a cocktail dress. They’re comfortable enough to wear most of the night and still cute enough to dance in. If it’s an outdoor wedding, these are perfect for grass and gravel, too.
Layers
Depending on the weather and the venue, I’ll either bring a light shawl or a neutral cardigan. A denim jacket can work for more casual weddings, but for most of the weddings on my calendar, something a little more refined feels just right.
Jewelry
I keep it simple:
Earrings: Stud diamonds or pearls
Necklace: A delicate chain with either a tiny diamond or a strand of pearls
Bracelet or ring: One, not both … it just depends on the vibe
It’s all about feeling like you, not trying to pull off something that feels too fussy or too trendy.
Hair + Clutch Essentials
My hair will most likely be down in soft curls and yes, I always have a hair tie tucked into my clutch in case the dance floor calls.
Speaking of clutches, I’ll usually bring a small one just big enough for my phone, lipstick, and a hair tie. Nothing bulky, just the essentials.
No matter where you’re headed or who’s tying the knot, the best accessory you can bring is feeling like yourself. Pick a dress you love, dance a little longer, and don’t forget the hair tie.
Weddings are about love and so is showing up as you.
See you on the dance floor 💃