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Updated Oct 14, 202424 Stunning Backless Wedding Guest Dresses
Grand exit guaranteed.
Photos, left to right: Mac Duggal, For Love & Lemons, Lulus
There's something so elegant about a backless wedding guest dress. Any wedding guest dress is given a sexy upgrade with a silhouette that shows off your back. This head-turning style is perfect if you want to make a subtly sexy statement at your next event.
You may typically associate a plunging back with a fancy evening event. However, today's selection of backless wedding guest dresses features an array of silhouettes, whether on an elegant evening gown or a sweet daytime cocktail dress—and they don't have to be reserved for summer weddings, either. Rich fabrications like velvet and jacquard make for perfect winter wedding guest dresses.
While everyone has a different comfort level when it comes to showing skin, the good thing is that there's a backless dress out there for everyone! Whether you want to rock a more modest keyhole back or a daring plunging V-back style, the options are endless when it comes to low-back wedding guest dresses.
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The Best Open Back Wedding Guest Dresses to Shop Now
Need a little help with your search? Here are some of our top backless wedding guest dresses you can shop now.
1. Katie May Surreal Gown
Photo: Revolve
Sage green is the perfect color for an understated pop of color. The eyelash lace detailing along the back of this stunning gown lends a lingerie-inspired feel to the otherwise simple design. It also comes in shades of blue, pink and black.
Size range: XXS–XXL
2. Reformation Jeany Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
You'll look effortlessly elegant in this stunning maxi dress. The open back contrasts with the demure boat neckline, while the silk fabric and navy hue give this look a luxurious feel.
Size range: XS–XL
3. Petal & Pup Lucah Frill Shoulder Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
This pretty floral maxi from Petal & Pup is an excellent choice for a spring or summer wedding guest dress. The ruffle-edged straps, open back and side cutouts create a look that's both chic and fun.
Get 15% off with The Knot's exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
Size range: XS–XL
4. Lulus All This Allure Black Strappy Backless Mermaid Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Sexy crisscross straps on this backless V-neck gown are sure to turn heads. Plus, the mermaid shape adds a dramatic flair.
Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–3X
5. Katie May Leyla Maxi Dress
Photo: Nuuly
This backless wedding guest dress just screams summer. We love the vibrant hue, ruched detailing and floral print.
Size range: XS–XL
6. For Love and Lemons Elea Maxi Dress
Photo: For Love and Lemons
This pretty yellow floral maxi dress is perfect for summer weddings. Feminine floral print pairs effortlessly with ethereal chiffon in this romantic dress. We love the dramatic ruffle hem and adjustable lace-up back.
Size range: XXS–XL
7. Lulus Exquisite Refinement Black Backless Bow Ruffled Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
This super-chic black maxi from Lulus is perfect for formal weddings. With a bow detail and cascading ruffles adorning the open back, this dress is both elegant and sexy.
Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–XXL
8. Lilysilk Back-Tie Silk Maxi Dress
Photo: Lilysilk
Stand out from the crowd in this gorgeous open-back slip dress from Lilysilk. The dreamy blue hue and chic halter neckline are sure to turn heads.
Size range: 2–16
9. Nicholas Zaire Open Back Gown
Photo: Rent the Runway
Looking for a long-sleeve option? Look no further. This fashion-forward pick from Nicholas is the definition of "business in the front, party in the back."
Size range: 0–12
10. BHLDN Alivia V-Neck Ruffle Ombre Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
This ombre BHLDN maxi would be perfect for a destination beach wedding. The sunset-hued colors, ruffle detailing and relaxed silhouette give it that effortless, breezy vibe.
Size range: XXS–XXL
11. Amanda Uprichard X REVOLVE Samba Gown
Photo: REVOLVE
This stunning green maxi dress is sure to impress at a black-tie wedding. The high neckline is chic and elegant, while the side slit adds a sexy edge. If green isn't your color, there are six other beautiful colors to choose from.
Size range: XS–XL
12. Fleur du Mal Open Back Maxi Slip Dress
Photo: Fleur du Mal
This silky maxi is sure to be your new wardrobe staple—no matter the dress code. Its classic shape is given a chic twist with the crisscross detailing on the back. Rock yours with a sleek chignon and nude heels for a sophisticated look.
Size range: XS–L
13. Mac Duggal Open Back High Neck Side Ruched Gown
Photo: Mac Duggal
A chic halter neck and daring leg slit perfectly complement the open back on this elegant gown. The satin fabric drapes the body with artfully placed ruching for a figure-flattering fit. It comes in seven beautiful colors, so there's something for everyone.
Size range: 2–12
14. Reformation Pheby Dress
Photo: Reformation
Trending one-shoulder dresses always make a statement, and this one is no exception. We love its dusty blue hue and sexy asymmetric back.
Size range: XS–XL
15. Lovers and Friends Bridgette Gown
Photo: REVOLVE
How stunning is this soft pink satin gown from Lovers and Friends? Ideal for formal wedding events, it's sure to turn heads with its front and back cutouts, halter neckline and elegant waist tie.
Size range: XXS–XL
16. Show Me Your Mumu Lisa Maxi Dress
Photo: Show Me Your Mumu
A dramatic bow detail makes this dress a show-stopping option for formal weddings. With its open back, halter neckline and 14 beautiful color options, this satin gown is sure to make a statement.
Size range: XXS–XXL
17. Saylor Brenna Dress
Photo: Saylor
A tropical-inspired botanical print and a plunging back give this dreamy dress an instant wow factor. Style it with a neutral heel or a metallic sandal for the perfect beach wedding guest dress. This one is at the top of our wishlist.
Size range: XS–XL
18. The Wolf Gang Oahu Satin Slip Dress
Photo: Nuuly
This vibrant backless maxi just screams summer. The two-tone blue and turquoise colorway makes a bright and stylish statement, and we love the chic halter neckline that ties at the back.
Size range: XS–XL
19. Reformation Rhia Velvet Dress
Photo: Reformation
A romantic puff sleeve is always a good idea. This luxe velvet dress is perfect for a winter wedding. Whether you opt for the classic navy option or daring chianti red, you're sure to turn heads in this gorgeous maxi.
Size range: 00–12
20. Lulus Perfectly Classy Satin Strappy Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Channel Andie Anderson with this backless yellow wedding guest dress from Lulus. It combines a classic silhouette with a plunging crisscross back for a sophisticated look that's bound to impress. While the yellow color is perfect for spring and summer, it's also available in royal blue and emerald green.
Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–XL
21. Bec + Bridge Moon Dance Strapless Dress
Photo: Bec + Bridge
This satin dress is a celeb favorite—it's been worn by Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner—and for good reason! The low cowl back makes a statement on this elegant strapless dress.
Size range: 2–14
22. Petal & Pup Solene Maxi Halterneck Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Gingham is trending for 2025, and this retro maxi dress is the perfect way to incorporate it into your wedding guest look. This breezy cotton dress is perfect for a more casual wedding. Dress it up with heels or dress it down with flat sandals.
Size range: XS–XL
23. ASOS DESIGN Mesh Long Sleeve Slash Neck Open Back Maxi Dress with Sash
Photo: ASOS
Butter yellow is given a flirty update on this mesh maxi dress. Figure-flattering ruching and an open back are a welcome addition to this otherwise simple gown. The best part: It's under $60.
Size range: 0–14
24. Yukiko Noritake x Anthropologie Asymmetrical Floral Midi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
Fashionista wedding guests, this one's for you. This punchy red midi ups the ante with whimsical floral embroidery and an ethereal asymmetrical hem. Pair it with a fire-engine red heel for a daring monochromatic look. It also comes in a black version that's just as stunning.
Size range: 00–26W
How to Choose a Backless Wedding Guest Dress
So you've set your heart on a backless look for the next wedding you attend. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for the perfect dress.
The Dress Code: Keep in mind the formality of the event when choosing your dress. Each wedding has a specific dress code that should be top of mind when shopping for a wedding guest dress. Opt for a gown in an elevated fabric for a more formal evening wedding or go for a mini length for something less formal. While a backless style is appropriate for all levels of formality, the fabric and length of the gown will dictate which styles fit the event.
The Venue: If you're going to be outdoors, keep in mind that your backless dress may be covered up by a jacket if the weather doesn't cooperate. If you know you will be outdoors the whole time, also consider the length of your dress so that it does not drag in the grass the whole time—midi lengths are a great way to ensure you don't worry about your dress dragging all night.
The Season: While backless dresses are typically best for the spring and summer months, there are plenty of great options for fall and winter. Rich fabrics like velvet and long sleeves will ensure you are dressed appropriately for the season while also getting to show off your backless dress. The same can be said for choosing an appropriate color palette for the season. Save your brighter hues dresses for the warmer months and opt for richer tones in the cold months.
