These 20 Formal Wedding Guest Dresses Are Guaranteed to Turn Heads

So, you've recently received a wedding invite with a formal, black-tie,or black-tie optional dress code. Consider it your green light to break out your formal wedding guest dresses.

We're firm believers in the idea that you can never be overdressed, but when it comes to formal weddings, that sentiment certainly holds true. Look, it's not everyday that you get to put on a pretty dress and get all dolled up, so why not make the most of it? Whether you're attending a classic black-tie wedding at an upscale hotel or a Bridgerton-inspired garden party at a country estate, there are plenty of formal wedding guest dress options to help you show up in style. And if browsing through seemingly endless options online doesn't sound like your idea of fun, you're in luck. We've rounded up twenty of our top picks for 2023-24 to help simplify your search. Keep reading to discover your dream wedding guest dress (plus, plenty of helpful advice for shopping).

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In this article…

• The Best Formal Wedding Guest Dresses for 2023-2024
• What Is a Formal Wedding Guest Dress?
• When Should I Wear a Formal Dress to a Wedding?
• What to Look For in Formal Wedding Dresses for Guests
• Where to Buy Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests

The Best Formal Wedding Guest Dresses for 2023-2024

Good news—Just a few quick clicks and you can have your outfit squared away. Take a look at the 20 formal wedding guest dresses we've hand-picked for you:

Mac Duggal Plus Lace-Up Asymmetrical Side-Slit Embellished-Hem Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Your classic LBD just got a major upgrade. With a trim of eye-catching rhinestones, and a unique lace-up open back, this plus size pick is guaranteed to earn you plenty of compliments.

Size range: 14W - 24W
Price at time of publication: $598

Arcina Ori Juliana Dress Rouge

Photo: Arcina Ori

Switch up your look all wedding season long with this versatile maxi dress. Its detachable sash can be worn as a scarf, shawl, or even sleeves for the colder months. Who doesn't love options?

Size range: XS - XL
Price at time of publication: $251

Reformation Veria Silk Gown

Photo: Reformation

No matter the season, our love for this floral gown continues to blossom. Available in standard, petite and plus sizes, it's a stunning option for a formal dress code wedding.

Size range: 0P - 24
Price at time of publication: $448

Bronx and Banco Zoe Gown

Photo: Rent the Runway

Maybe you don't want to splurge on a fancy gown if you're only planning to wear it once. Trust us, we get it. Thankfully, there are plenty of options available to rent, like this navy blue stunner.

Size range: XS - XXL

Price at time of publication: Rent for $69

ASOS DESIGN Curve One Shoulder Exaggerated Sleeve Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

One word: Showstopping. At under $100, this affordable wedding guest dress checks off all our boxes, especially when it comes to style.

Size range: 12 - 26

Price at time of publication: $95

BHLDN Printed Iris One-Shoulder Cut-Out Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

How's this for looking pretty in pink? We love the flattering asymmetric silhouette of this chiffon gown almost as we love its charming floral print.

Size range: XS - XXL

Price at time of publication: $398

Reformation Barrow Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

This classic strapless dress can easily be dressed up or down (a.k.a., it will be your new go-to throughout wedding season). It comes in four different color options, as well as a floral print.

Size range: 0 - 12

Price at time of publication: $398

Dress The Population Ava Gown

Photo: Rent the Runway

In our books, a floral dress is always a good idea. This all-over embroidered look in particular is sure to turn heads at your next garden wedding.

Size range: XS - XL

Price at time of publication: Rent for $69

Mac Duggal Asymmetric Halter Neck Tiered A-Line Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

High heels, red dress. There's a reason the Jonas Brothers love the iconic combo, and we think you will too once you get your hands on this gorgeous gown.

Size range: 0 - 14

Price at time of publication: $398

ASOS EDITION Curve Satin Ruched Halter Neck Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

For a look that combines style with comfort, we love this lightweight satin maxi dress. Its flowy silhouette and breathable open back will have you ready to hit the dance floor.

Size range: 12 - 26

Price at time of publication: $209

V. Chapman June Corset Front-Slit Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

Between its corset bodice and elegantly draped skirt, this strapless gown is giving major it-girl vibes. P.S.: It's also available in five different color options.

Size range: 0 - 18

Price at time of publication: $415

Lulus Good Times Only Black One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

Real talk: We've never met a little black dress we didn't love, and this sexy one-shouldered number is certainly no exception.

Size range: XXS - XL

Price at time of publication: $79

Amsale Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

We love this dress for mothers-of-the-bride and guests alike. Available in three sultry color options, it's an elegant pick for any black-tie affair.

Size range: 0 - 24W

Price at time of publication: $495

Mac Duggal Floral Brocade Strapless A-Line Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

You'll feel like royalty in this regal ball gown. With an A-line silhouette and strapless neckline, it's as classic as it is chic. P.S.: Take a look at that stunning floral pattern!

Size range: 2 - 20

Price at time of publication: $798

V. Chapman Veronica Corset Ruffle Side-Slit Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This pastel hue will have you looking better then *mint* condition. A bustier bodice, belted waist and ruffle detailing are just a few of its charming details we can't get enough of.

Size range: 0 - 14

Price at time of publication: $575

Mac Duggal Ruffle Tiered Floral Cut-Out Chiffon Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

Choosing this fashion-forward gown for your next formal wedding is a no brainer. Deciding between its twelve vibrant color options and two floral prints, on the other hand, is where things get tough.

Size range: 0 - 16

Price at time of publication: $598

Sachin & Babi Jenny Gown

Photo: Sachin & Babi

It doesn't get more timeless than this. With a flattering silhouette and side leg slit made for showing off your shoes, we'd say this pick is well worth the splurge.

Size range: 0 - 22W

Price at time of publication: $795

Ieena for Mac Duggal One Shoulder Floral Gown

Photo: Rent the Runway

This floral gown has 'spring wedding' written all over it. Paired with a vibrant-colored set of heels, it will certainly be a look to remember.

Size range: 0 - 14

Price at time of publication: Rent for $112

Sachin & Babi Bonnie Gown

Photo: Sachin & Babi

Like all great packages, this gorgeous sheath silhouette is tied together with a bow. To say you'll look like a gift in it would be an understatement.

Size range: 0 - 14

Price at time of publication: $895

Lulus Wait For Me Black Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

Sometimes, simple makes a statement. Don't believe us? Just look at this streamlined black gown. Its classic sheath silhouette and sexy open back make it an all-around win in our books.

Size range: XS - 3XL

Price at time of publication: $69

What Is a Formal Wedding Guest Dress?

A formal wedding guest dress is a full-length gown that you would wear to a formal or black-tie dress code event. They differ from cocktail dresses in that they are slightly more elevated in design. A formal wedding guest dress is typically made from high-quality materials such as silk, velvet or crepe. They may also feature eye-catching jewel embellishments.

Midi and mini dresses are not considered to be formal. Only dresses that fall to the ankle or floor are considered to be a part of the dress code. Because of this, formal wedding guest dresses often require tailoring to be hemmed to your exact measurements.

When Should I Wear a Formal Dress to a Wedding?

Simply put, if the wedding's dress code is either black-tie or formal, you should consider wearing a full-length formal gown. However, there are a few distinctions to consider. All black-tie dresses are considered to be formal, but not all formal dresses are considered to be black tie (Confusing, right?). That's because black-tie dress codes are synonymous with black or dark-colored attire. Formal dress codes, on the other hand, are less strict when it comes to colors and patterns. Whether you're attending a black-tie or formal dress code event, you should consider dressing up your look with accessories. And of course, steer clear of overly casual footwear, and instead opt for heels, wedges, dressy flats.

What to Look For in Formal Wedding Dresses for Guests

Whether you're shopping online or in-store, be sure to keep an eye out for these key features when choosing a formal wedding guest dress:

• Silhouette: A formal or black-tie dress code is your sign to keep things classy (but hey, we know you always do). If possible, try to avoid bodycon dresses, as well as dresses that reveal too much skin. Insead, opt for classic silhouettes that provide adequate coverage. You can never go wrong with A-line or sheath dresses.

• Length: As mentioned above, your formal wedding guest dress should be floor-length. Save your mini and midi-length dresses for the pre-wedding events (they'll be perfect for the rehearsal dinner).

• Color: If the wedding you are attending has a black-tie dress code, choose a dress in a darker hue, such as emerald, sapphire or burgundy. You can never go wrong with black either. If the invite just says 'formal' choose a color or pattern that you feel most confident in. Of course, you should always avoid wearing white, or colors that could be mistaken for white in photos, unless instructed to by the couple.

Where to Buy Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests

Haven't found what you're looking for yet? Not to worry. There are plenty of options for every style and budget. Here are four of our favorite places to shop wedding guest formal dresses:

Anthropologie

Anthropologie is our go-to for all things wedding guest attire. Not only do they carry a wide variety of outfit options for every dress code, but they also have shoes, jewelry and other accessories, so you can seamlessly complete your look.

Size range: XSP - 3XL | Prices from: $130

Mac Duggal

You can't go wrong with the classics and Mac Duggal proves that. Their wide selection of timeless formal gowns offers a little something for everyone to love. Oh, and if you're looking to shine bright, they've got plenty of options with sparkles.

Size range: 0 - 26W | Prices from: $103

Lulus

You don't have to break the bank to attend a formal wedding. Lulus has plenty of gorgeous options for attire that are under $100. With the money you'll be saving, you even can throw in a pair of shoes and some accessories from their collections as well—score!

Size range: XXS - 3XL | Prices from: $19

Rent the Runway

Maybe you don't anticipate attending too many formal weddings in the future (after all, semi-formal is the most common dress code for nuptials). In that case, you might not want to splurge on an expensive gown that you'll never wear again. Instead, consider renting from Rent the Runway. With one of their convenient packages, you can rent all the looks you'll need for the event, then send them back when you're done.

Size range: 0 - 22 | Prices from: $35 Rental