25 Rent the Runway Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Type of Event

From black-tie to beachy and everything in between, these gowns are high on style and light on your wallet.
Collage of two Rent the Runway wedding guest dresses and a jumpsuit
Photos: Rent the Runway
Elle Cashin headshot
by
Elle Cashin
Elle Cashin headshot
Elle Cashin
The Knot Fashion Contributor
  • Elle writes for The Knot online with a focus on fashion, covering gown design trends and shoppable accessories.
  • Elle is a contributor to wedding publications across the country, including Brides, The New York Times Vows and Modern Luxury Weddings.
  • Prior to shifting to weddings, Elle covered lifestyle, culture and celebrity across Chicago as the editor of the Chicago Tribune’s SPLASH magazine, where she interviewed cele...
Updated Mar 15, 2024
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If you have a big year of weddings ahead—particularly if each one has a different dress code—you might feel the strain on both your closet and your wallet. Luckily, there's an alternative to buying a new wedding guest outfit each time: renting one. Rent the Runway's wedding guest dresses are the solution. "Renting is the perfect way to dress for the wedding location and specific formality of the event," says RTR's senior director of fashion and styling, Suzanne Smallshow. "Whether you're dressing for a black-tie wedding in the city or heading to a country wedding in Europe, we have options for every occasion."

Rent the Runway offers a subscription program for everyday style, and a one-time rental option for weddings and events. "We recently launched The Vault, a collection of high-end, luxury designer styles that are perfect for weddings," Smallshow says, adding that she particularly loves styles from Anna October, Altuzarra and Rosie Assoulin. (Note that many styles from The Vault are exclusively available as one-time rentals and can't be kept for extended periods.) A few trends to look out for when it comes to wedding guest dresses? "We are seeing lots of muted pastels in soft tones juxtaposed by the colors of the season: shades of red and golden-hour hues," Smallshow says. "Florals are always a big trend; however, this season, designers are playing with scale. We're seeing oversize blooms and small floral-allover prints."

The rental service certainly makes it easy, but with more than 10,000 items in its inventory, there's a lot to sift through. Here, and with Smallshow's help, we did the digging for you. Simply scroll through to find your wedding dress code and ta-da! The perfect wedding guest dress to rent.

The Best Rent the Runway Wedding Guest Dresses for 2024

Whether it's a cocktail dress rental or a black-tie gown you're on the hunt for, Rent the Runway's wedding guest dresses check every box. While membership plans range from $89 to $169 per month, below, we've listed the prices of one-time rentals; we recommend single rentals for weddings and wedding-related events if you know the date well in advance. Psst, here are a couple of discounts to consider: Members get 25% off all one-time rentals, and first-timers can get 20% off a one-time rental with the code GETDRESSED.

1. Best Jumpsuit: Halston Randi One-Shoulder Jumpsuit

Halston pink wedding guest jumpsuit
Photo: Rent the Runway

There are so many great wedding jumpsuits on Rent The Runway it's hard to pick just one. But this option hits in all the right places, literally and figuratively. Its side cutout and one-shoulder silhouette are ultra on-trend, and the vibrant color is a burst of freshness. Plus, we love a jumpsuit for the comfort factor as a wedding guest. You can dress this one up for black tie with stellar jewelry and a clutch, or wear it with espadrilles for a garden affair. Either way, heels are a must to make the most of the long draped legs.

From the reviews: "I wore this to a fall Colorado wedding and was obsessed! It fit like a glove, was so comfortable, very flattering and hugged in all the right places. I love jumpsuits at weddings because you can really get down on the dance floor. It's a little long, so definitely wear heels. Would highly recommend!"

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length

2. Best for Cocktail Attire Dress Codes: Hutch Side Drape Dress

Hutch cocktail wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Cocktail attire is a fun dress code because you can play with length; a mini is much more appropriate at cocktail affairs than at black-tie weddings. This cocktail dress rental is one of our faves, with a ruched mini skirt and hanging side drape. The pink and red color combo is splashy for spring weddings. It's highly rated with 4 out of 5 stars; just have some fashion tape handy, as many reviewers noted they had to pin or tape the low V top.

From the reviews: "Loved this dress—I definitely plan to try future Hutch dresses. The fabric was soft, the dress was well made and fit well, perfect length. I'm 5'2". Wore it for a beach wedding, and it was perfect."

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Mini

3. Most Loved: Tanya Taylor Zoe Dress

Tanya Taylor floral long sleeve wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Pulled directly from RTR's "Top Rated Styles," this dress gets an enthusiastic stamp of approval from nearly 200 users—many of whom chose it for weddings. The deep hues of the printed jersey material, high neck and long sleeves make it a perfect Rent the Runway dress for fall weddings: Style it with tall heeled boots for a more casual look or pretty pumps and a gold chain belt to dress it up.

From the reviews: "One of my favorite rentals from Rent the Runway! The dress was so beautiful. The colors really pop, and the detailing at the chest made it very unique. It was so soft and comfortable. I could've won this several times for different occasions. I got so many compliments!"

Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Midi

4. Best for Beach Weddings: Nicholas Drie Dress

Nicholas Drie beach wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Beach weddings are a unique opportunity to wear something a little more revealing to weddings, if that's your vibe, and this Nicholas 'fit is exactly that. It has nods to beach wear in the bikini-inspired top and unique cutouts. The sandy shade is a perfect complement to the beach. And, speaking of sand, pair it with wedges or flat sandals for easier walking.

From the reviews: "I wore this dress for a wedding in Mexico. Wasn't too hot and it was very comfortable to dance in all night!"

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Midi

5. Best Gown: Ieena for Mac Duggal Gold Halter Gown

Ieena for Mac Duggal gold wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

When the dress code calls for elegance, opt for one of Rent the Runway's gowns. The selection is endless, from light-hued satin spring gowns to patterned styles to classic black. But this piece, from wedding guest and MOB go-to Mac Duggal, is an all-around top pick black-tie gown rental. Its metallic hue and floor-skimming length are statuesque touches, while a keyhole cutout and high slit add a bit of va-va-voom.

From the Reviews: "I wore this gown to a wedding, and it is very comfortable! I also got so many compliments, it felt amazing. I highly recommend!"

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Floor-Length

6. Best for Tall Wedding Guests: Sau Lee Juliana Jumpsuit

Sau Lee floral wedding guest jumpsuit
Photo: Rent the Runway

While this sunny patterned piece technically only comes in one length, countless reviewers 5'9 or above commented that it was great for their height. The plunging neckline and low back elongate the lines. But the best part? While this style moonlights as a stunning floor-length gown, it's actually. a. jumpsuit! So prepare to dance the night away.

From the Reviews: "The back was a bit loose fitting, so if you wanted to size down you could. It was perfect for my height. Just loved the boho fit of this. Standing it looks like a dress but walking you can see the jumpsuit and it is FABULOUS! Felt like I was walking the runway."

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Maxi

7. Best for Accessorizing: Suboo Jacqui Ruched Dress

Suboo black wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

A fun FYI: Rent the Runway has a huge assortment of accessories for rent, too. We love this simple black stunner as a canvas for any type of styling: Its body-hugging shape is aesthetically minimal and doesn't draw attention away from the accessories. Pair it with gold bangles and a metallic clutch, a statement necklace and sky-high heels, or dangling drop earrings and a chain belt.

From the Reviews: "You will not regret this dress! It can be dressed up or down. I can see me wearing it to different events for decades to come! What I liked about this dress is how you can style it in many different ways for different occasions. The dress is SO comfortable, feels like you are wrapped up in a T-shirt. Although it is fitted, it never feels constructed, and I was able to dance in it better than most dresses I have worn."

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Ankle-Length

8. Best for Black-Tie: Rosie Assoulin Old Hollywood Dress

Rosie Assoulin red black-tie wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

While black-tie dress codes often bring out the floor-skimming gowns, here's a nice ankle-length alternative that still ups the wow factor. The name says it all: Rosie Assoulin's Old Hollywood dress brings old-school glamour in a big way. (Pair it with smooth Hollywood waves to double down on the style, or modernize it with a slicked-back bun and gold earrings.) Our favorite part? It's three dresses in one: The draped shawl of the dress can be worn completely off the shoulder, asymmetrically or pulled up over the shoulders.

Size Range: 0-10 | Length: Ankle-Length

9. Best for Destination Weddings: FARM Rio Ocean Tapestry Dress

FARM Rio tapestry wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

With a pattern reminiscent of ancient Spanish tiles, this dress would fit perfectly at nuptials in Barcelona, Tuscany or even wine country. The unique silhouette is fresh and fun, with flutter sleeves and a miniature peplum. Plus, an elastic middle and bra-friendly top make it a comfortable, wearable style.

From the reviews: "This dress is the perfect spring/summer dress! I loved it so much!! I really wanted to buy—will definitely rent again."

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi

10. Best in Bold Color: Amur Pink Cleopatra Pleated Dress

Amur pleated wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

When the wedding palette is vibrant—look to the invitation suite or guest attire mood board for cues—follow suit with a boldly colored gown. (We especially love hot hues for destination affairs.) This dress gives double the color, juxtaposing hot pink and orange in an asymmetrical A-line style with a front cutout.

From the reviews: "I wore this dress as a bridesmaid for sunset colors, and did not stop receiving compliments for it! It truly made an impression, and was so comfortable all night. The perfect balance of sexy and sophisticated!"

Size Range: 00-12 | Length: Midi

11. Best for Plus Size: Badgley Mischka Belted Butterfly Gown

Badgley Mischka floral belted wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

This flirty floral frock is a breezy pick for spring and summer weddings—and the wide blue sash gives it a decidedly bridal twist. It can be dressed up or down depending on footwear and accessories, so it works well for any wedding dress code. Note that many reviewers suggested sizing up if you have a larger chest, as the gown is tighter through the top, but with a long, flowy skirt, the sizing up doesn't show elsewhere.

From the reviews: "I wore this dress for a black-tie wedding we attended in Miami and it was PERFECT! I loved it so much. It was way outside my everyday comfort zone, which made it all the more fun."

Size Range: 0-22 | Length: Floor-Length

12. Best for a Budget: Amanda Uprichard Mandy Midi Dress

Amanda Uprichard pink midi wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Listed in RTR's lowest price category at just $30 for a one-time rental, this piece is affordable but on-trend with its hot hue, high slit and midi length. And the best part? It also has rave reviews, with more than 160 people rating it 4.5 out of 5 stars, many commenting that the fit made them feel sexy in an otherwise simple silhouette.

From the reviews: "I wore this to a wedding in Key Largo and could not have been happier with it. I felt amazing in it. It was the perfect dress for a tropical wedding."

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi

13. Most Unique: Cinq à Sept Adeline Dress

Cinq à Sept babydoll wedding guest mini dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Patterned dresses are definitely on trend, but look closely here and you'll see that it's not actually a pattern, but rather words: je t'aime (I love you), mon coeur (my heart) and other romantic French phrases. What could be more fitting for a wedding than a dress that's a literal ode to love? The unique fit brings it home: The babydoll-inspired silhouette has a rounded neckline and puffed mini skirt.

From the reviews: "Baby doll silhouette, but the pattern kept it sophisticated. Kept its shape and did not wrinkle. Just the right amount of cleavage to keep it classy."

Size Range: 0-12 | Length: Mini

14. Best for Formal Occasions: Amur Khari One-Shoulder Dress

Amur Khari one-shoulder purple wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Formal dress codes often evoke classic black, but why not mix it up with color? This piece is one of our favorite formal dresses on Rent the Runway, not just for its poppy hue but also its unique asymmetric neckline. Reviewers loved the flowy skirt and weighed in that the dress was perfect for dancing—mark this as an "I do" for weddings!

From the reviews: "I wore this dress for a formal wedding in Miami during the winter, and it was perfect. Super comfortable with a bright color that never goes wrong. I know I am petite, but it is incredibly long even with my highest heels. Still 10/10."

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Ankle-Length

15. Best for Backyard Weddings: Madewell Short-Sleeve Midi Slip Dress in Plissé

Madewell plissé wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

The plissé fabric makes this unique: It's an intentionally crinkled material that gives a lived-in feel, but can still be dressed way up. We love the burgundy hue with bold gold jewelry—think a chunky chain necklace or wide bangles. Pro tip: Belt the dress for a more fitted look.

From the reviews: "Loose and comfy. I paired it with a black belt and gold jewelry."

Size Range: XS-XXL | Length: Midi

16. Best for Winter Weddings: Rachel Parcell Burnout Velvet Dress

Rachel Parcell velvet wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Warmth is key for winter weddings, and that typically means full coverage. But, this chic long sleeve gown is the best of both worlds, with sheer sleeves and a deep plunging V that showcases just the right amount of skin. Its dark floral pattern and velvet touches are vibey winter bonuses.

From the reviews: "The dress fit perfectly, even for my height. It's a dress that's definitely more cleavage-revealing than what I'm accustomed to. I wore a bra and garment tape to ensure everything stayed put and I was able to dance with no worry."

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Tea-Length

17. Best for Summer Weddings: L'idée Gala Gown

L'idée marbled wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Bold color is a must for sunny summer weddings, and this dress uniquely checks the box with a vibrant tie-dyed effect. But it's the silhouette that stands out most, with open sides and a plunging V-neck and back. Thanks to the pleated material and the marbled color, the dress hides wrinkles flawlessly, making it a great piece to travel with. Note: Fashion tape is most likely required.

From the reviews: "This is one of my favorite dresses I've ever rented from RTR. It's super flowy, and the colors are brilliant. It especially looks nice on darker skin, which I appreciated. I ended up sizing up to 10, which left a little more fabric on the top of the dress, but with fashion tape to keep everything in, it wasn't a problem. The dress still looked gorgeous, and I received so many compliments."

Size Range: 6-16 (UK sizing) | Length: Maxi

18. Best for White Parties: Mara Hoffman White Maia Dress

Mara Hoffman white wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

One trend we've been seeing a lot? Pre-wedding white parties: A welcome party or rehearsal dinner to which the guests wear white and the couple comes in bold color. It's fun to explore all the otherwise off-limits white options, and we particularly love this sculptural Mara Hoffman midi. The oversize floral on the bust gives it a high-fashion feel, and it can be styled for various dress codes, from beachy to black-tie.

From the reviews: "I wore this to my bridal shower, and received SO many compliments! It was sculptural, classic, timeless and complements the female form. Looked and felt luxury, despite being a linen-like material. Perfect for a formal event requiring white!"

Size Range: 00-10 | Length: Midi

19. Best Patterned Dress: Rhode Lulani Dress

Rhode patterned wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Reviewers commented that the pattern makes this dress very flattering, and the kick-flare hem adds a chic touch that's also comfortable for walking and dancing. We love this Rent the Runway dress for wedding guests at a springtime garden affair—maybe even add a hat or fascinator!

From the reviews: "When I say this dress fit like a glove, it was flawless! From the shoulders to the length, all around perfect 10s. The fit of this dress is super flattering and sexy, gorgeous color scheme, perfect feminine dress!"

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Midi

20. Best Wedding Guest Handbag: Mansur Gavriel Accessories Crema Cloud Clutch

Mansur Gavriel Accessories wedding guest clutch
Photo: Rent the Runway

Sometimes, finding the perfect clutch is the hardest part of selecting a wedding guest outfit. So, we've done the job for you: This Mansur Gavriel handbag works for almost any dress code, from a beachy boho vibe to black-tie elegance. The removable shoulder strap is convenient—stash it inside to carry chicly for the ceremony, then sling the bag on your shoulder for dancing—and it's large enough to actually hold your stuff.

From the reviews: "Loved bringing this cutie on vacation in Portugal. The color makes it easy to pair with anything to dress it up a bit. There's really a ton of room, and yet it never felt bulky or heavy. Wish I could have kept this one!"

21. Best for Petite Guests: LoveShackFancy Bexlie Halter Gown

LoveShackFancy wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

Rent the Runway's petite options can be tough to sift out since there's no way to filter for petite. However, if you click the "size & fit" tab on any style, it will tell you if the gown comes in multiple lengths. Here's one we particularly love that comes in Rent The Runway petite sizes—and proves that petite doesn't have to be minimalistic. Its rose gold hue is the perfect celebratory shade, and many reviewers commented that it's lighter weight than it appears, making it a great pick for the dance floor.

From the reviews: "As soon as you put this dress on you feel like you want to twirl around! It's super comfortable and absolutely stunning. It appears gold but there's actually a subtle floral design that gives the gold its pinkish hue. I didn't want to take it off at the end of the night. Rent it!"

Size Range: XS-L | Length: Floor-Length

22. RTR Pick: Rosie Assoulin Vampire Dress

Rosie Assoulin wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

"The Vampire dress is a particular favorite of mine," says RTR senior director of fashion and styling Suzanne Smallshow. "It's a fresh take on a bustier-style dress featuring a neck scarf as an accessory—but when you see the back, you're surprised by the design elements and realize it's all one [piece]." The luxe style is available exclusively for one-time event rentals.

Size Range: 0-8 | Length: Midi

23. Best for Spring Weddings: Caroline Constas Brigitta Gown

Caroline Constas floral wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

The colors! The fit! The fabric! Everything about this dress has us swooning. (Reviewers agree: They particularly love the stretchy fabric they said felt like a T-shirt but still formal.) With a pretty floral pattern, it doesn't need too many accessories. Sweep your hair back in a slick bun to showcase the high neck, and head out the door—a garden party awaits.

From the reviews: "I wore this to a formal wedding. Based on other reviews, I wasn't quite sure if the material would be formal enough, but I found it to be perfect with the right accessories. The dress was elegant, yet very comfortable. The bottom of the dress had such a fun swish to it —so great for dancing. I was concerned that the turtleneck would be too hot for an outdoor summer wedding, but it was fine. Getting the dress over the neck was a bit of a tight fit. I would recommend putting the dress on before finishing hair and makeup."

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Floor-Length

24. Most Unexpected: Hutch Blue Toni Gown

Hutch tulle blue wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

This style gives us Carrie Bradshaw vibes in the best way, and is a total surprise as a wedding guest dress with its long tiered tulle skirt and ruched bodice. We love it with playful earrings for a casual wedding or a dramatic diamond necklace for something dressier. Either way, don't forget great shoes: The gown hits right at the ankle, showcasing the footwear underneath. Carrie would be proud.

From the reviews: "Love how this dress feels on—absolutely red-carpet ready. The tulle is so much fun, a little SATC SJP in France, if that episode resonates. It's a great length for me (5'3")."

Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Ankle-Length

25. Best for NYE Weddings: Dress the Population Sequin Giovanna Gown

Dress the Population NYE wedding guest dress
Photo: Rent the Runway

New Year's Eve weddings call for a little glitz and glam, and this formal Rent the Runway dress delivers in a big way (plus, it looks far more expensive than its $50 rental cost). Gold and silver sequins are arranged in a geometric pattern from top to toe, and the spaghetti straps and classic sweetheart neckline leave room to accessorize. Style it with a dressy clutch and stiletto sandals.

From the reviews: "This dress was perfect for a New Year's Eve gala! It fit like a glove, had nice adjustable straps, was lined so it wasn't itchy, and had a good amount of stretch. I danced the night away! The length was shorter, which worked well for me—no tripping—but might not work for taller ladies. The dress has more color variation in person; some fun pink sparkles pop out. Definitely recommend!"

Size Range: XS-XL| Length: Ankle-Length

Rent the Runway Dress Rental FAQs

How Does Rent the Runway Work?

In general, Rent the Runway's membership program works like a rotating closet of fashion-forward pieces; members can keep up to 5 items at all times, for however long they desire, and return pieces when they want to swap something out. For weddings, RTR's one-time rental system is a perfect alternative. "Perfect for special occasions, one-time rentals allow you to reserve items in advance for your specific dates," Suzanne Smallshow explains. "RTR offers 4- or 8-day rental periods to cover your travel plans, and if you are someone who would like options, we offer a second item at a discounted price." The only caveat to consider? If you are extending your trip after a destination wedding, you may need a longer rental. "If you are planning on being away for more than eight days, we suggest the regular monthly rental option to ensure you can keep your piece for the necessary amount of time." The best part? While subscriptions start at $89 per month, one-time rentals can cost as little as $30.

Does Rent the Runway Have Petite Sizes?

The short answer: yes. The longer answer: Yes, but you have to do some digging. Some brands—Badgley Mischka, Amur Khari and LoveShackFancy are a few we love—offer multiple lengths in certain styles, but as of yet there's no way to filter for petite styles on RTR. So, here is where reviews are key. Reviewers note their height and what size they wore; find similarities and see if they felt it was too long, too short or just right.

Does Rent the Runway Have Plus Sizes?

Rent the Runway does offer pieces in plus sizes, and luckily it's easier to filter by size than it is by length. Simply click into the category you're shopping (Best-Dressed Guest is a great starting point!), select your size from the middle menu and see all the styles available in your range. On RTR, you'll find gowns from sizes 0-22, and get great recommendations from reviewers on how each piece fits a variety of body types.

Can I Buy a Dress From Rent the Runway?

One-time event rental pieces are not available for purchase while you have them—mainly because they may already be reserved for future dates by other customers. However, members have the option to purchase items in their monthly rotation at a discount (they simply click the "buy now" option on their subscriber homepage). So, if you opt for a formal piece through your membership and not an event-rental exclusive, purchasing is an option; one of the many benefits of membership.

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