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Updated Jul 07, 2026The 40 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses for 2026
Ideal for the attendee who wants to be named "best-dressed guest."
Photos, left to right: Petal & Pup, ELOQUII
Fact: You can never have too many summer wedding guest dresses in your closet. This isn't just something I'm telling you as a fellow shopaholic, either: According to The Knot 2026 Real Weddings Study, summer is the second-most-popular season of the year for couples to get married (behind autumn). This illustrates the importance of buying your summer wedding guest dress now, because the cutest styles might sell out if you wait too long.
Of course, there are so many great dresses to wear to a summer wedding as a guest, which means finding the perfect 'fit can be overwhelming. That's why I've taken the guesswork out of it by curating 40 of my favorite summer wedding guest dresses that you can shop right here. The season is all about bright colors, vibrant patterns and airy fabrics (especially for those attending outdoor weddings where temperatures may soar). So, if you're not sure what to wear to a summer wedding, shop my top dress selections for every venue, dress code and price point.
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In this article:
- Editor's Picks: The 5 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses for 2026
- Black-Tie and Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
- Semi-Formal and Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
- Where to Buy Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding as a Guest
Editor's Picks: The 5 Best Summer Wedding Guest Dresses for 2026
Don't have the time to scroll through this entire list of summer dresses for wedding guests? Have no fear. I've rounded the very best of the best right here, categorized by style and price point so you can make your purchase right away.
- Best Overall Summer Wedding Guest Dress: ASTR The Label Blythe Floral Plisse Midi Dress, $164
- Best Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dress: Lulus Floral Ruffled Tiered Maxi Dress, $118
- Best Cocktail Summer Wedding Guest Dress: ELOQUII Pleated Ruffle Neckline Midi Dress, $200
- Best Affordable Summer Wedding Guest Dress: Birdy Grey Isla Dress, $99
- Best Splurge Summer Wedding Guest Dress: Reformation Anaiis Silk Dress, $398
Black-Tie and Formal Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Summer wedding guest dresses for a black-tie or formal wedding should feature floor-length skirts and elegant fabric like silk, chiffon or organza. Since the season is all about vibrant colors and prints, you'll have the chance to embrace your bolder side when choosing summer formal wedding guest dresses. Unexpected patterns, bright sunset-inspired colors and floral appliques are all beautiful details to consider when shopping for black-tie and formal summer wedding guest dresses. Shop a few of my favorite styles below.
Lulus Floral Ruffled Tiered Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Whimsical ruffled straps make this tiered maxi dress a charming choice for summer weddings. Available in green, yellow or two shades of blue floral, this gorgeous frock will elicit so many compliments from fellow guests.
Use code THEKNOT30 for 30% off first-time purchases in selected categories.
Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
The dropped waistline of this off-the-shoulder maxi dress makes it an incredibly on-trend summer wedding guest look for women, as does the vibrant pink blur pattern. It also conveniently features a built-in bra with removable pads, so you don't have to worry about wearing one.
Petal & Pup Della Midi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Prepare to earn yourself the title of best-dressed guest with Petal & Pup's Della gown, which has cascading vines of flower petals hanging from the spaghetti straps and tie waist. Exposed boning on the bodice gives this formal summer wedding guest dress a structured look.
Get 15% off with our exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
Hello Molly Halter Maxi Dress
Photo: Hello Molly
The fun and flirty hemline of this pink floral halter-top dress is ideal for showing off your cutest pair of shoes. Given the sky-high slight, bookmark this summer wedding guest dress for a formal wedding, rather than a black-tie affair.
Meshki Dakota Chiffon Maxi Dress with Scarf
Photo: Meshki
The bright orange hue of this dress makes it a great pick for a summer wedding, while the maxi length ensures it's formal-appropriate. A high neckline with a cowl back and a removable scarf add the finishing touches to this on-trend look.
Bloomchic Two-Piece Tiered Ruffled Hem Maxi Dress
Photo: Meshki
You'll get two looks for the price of one with this tiered ruffle maxi dress. Wear the gown on its own, or add the matching cape for an elevated touch.
Show Me Your Mumu Lisa Maxi Dress
Photo: Show Me Your Mumu
You can't go wrong with a bright pink column gown for a summer black-tie wedding. This high-neck dress has a massive bow tie at the back, which adds a hint of drama to this otherwise timeless silhouette.
Reformation Anaiis Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
If you're looking to invest in a special occasion dress that'll become a closet staple, you can't go wrong with the luxe silk styles at Reformation. This green floral print dress is simply stunning for summer weddings, especially those taking place in an outdoor garden.
Lulus Floral Print Twist-Front Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
The flattering twist-front top on this tropical summer wedding guest dress makes it a top choice for the season. Choose from five vibrant floral prints and pair with your favorite statement earrings to complete the look.
Use code THEKNOT30 for 30% off first-time purchases in selected categories.
Azazie Atelier Vesper Maxi Dress
Photo: Azazie
Did you know the bridesmaid dress brand Azazie also has guest looks? Perfect for paradise, this mossy floral print pleated dress looks like something you'd wear to frolic in a meadow…or on a summer wedding dance floor.
Birdy Grey Valentina Dress
Photo: Birdy Grey
Birdy Grey also has dresses that guests can wear. This bright lemony yellow ruffled frock is a sweet style to don at the height of summer when you want your outfit to be as vibrant as the sun.
Use our exclusive code KNOTFRIENDS for 10 free swatches (first-time customers only.)
Showpo Angie Maxi Dress
Photo: Showpo
Emulate the watercolor vibes of a stunning summer sunset with this Showpo maxi. It comes with a neck scarf for those in the market for an on-trend ensemble.
Ralph Lauren Floral Print Halter Maxi Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
So, you want to make a statement? Opt for this floral print halter-neck formal wedding guest dress, which has a stunning watercolor-esque pattern. The delicately tiered skirt offers comfort and movement.
ELOQUII Halter-Neck Satin Maxi Dress
Photo: ELOQUII
You'll look elegant as can be in this layered halter-neck satin gown, which is available in lavender, olive or classic black. (And yes, for the record, you can wear black to a summer wedding, especially if it's a black-tie event.)
FarmRio Viscose Maxi Dress
Photo: Farm Rio
FarmRio is one of the best places to find destination wedding guest dresses. Show off your fun sense of style with this V-neck option, which boasts weaving patterns of ornate garden-inspired motifs.
Abercrombie & Fitch Giselle 5-in-1 Convertible Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
There are five—yes, five!—ways to style this convertible maxi dress. While it's certainly a showstopper, just make sure you nail down the styling before it's time to leave for the ceremony.
Petal & Pup Keani Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Romantic pink and yellow floral patterns cover this floaty frock, making it an excellent summer wedding guest dress. Style your hair in an updo to show off the bow at the back of the neckline.
Get 15% off with our exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
BHLDN Sienna Off-the-Shoulder High-Shine Satin Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
The asymmetrical neckline of this high-shine dress is ideal for showing off a pretty pair of earrings. It's available in nine wedding guest-worthy colors, including a few floral prints.
Sachin & Babi Delphine Gown
Photo: Sachin & Babi
Any guest headed to a garden party would be remiss not to consider this botanical design from Sachin & Babi. The elegant one-shoulder silhouette and floor-length skirt make it a great contender for a black-tie summer wedding guest dress.
Bloomchic Floral Twist-Front Jacquard Maxi Dress
Photo: Bloomchic
Donning an elegant satin jacquard fabric is a sure way to turn heads at your next event. The twist-front bodice and ruffled skirt elevate this rather affordable option from Bloomchic.
Meshki Caira Chiffon Scarf Maxi Dress
Photo: Meshki
This graceful chiffon maxi comes in delicate sage or an ombre dark pink hue. Whether you choose to wear it with or without the removable scarf, it's an elegant choice for a formal summer wedding.
Semi-Formal and Casual Summer Wedding Guest Dresses
Summer brings sunny skies and warmer temperatures, so it's no surprise that many couples choose to host their event outside this time of year. Since outdoor venues are not usually as formal as, say, a banquet hall, dress codes tend to lean a bit more casual. You may have the chance to embrace a more laidback vibe when picking out your outdoor wedding guest dresses.
Dresses for outdoor summer weddings don't need to be floor length if the invitation indicates a semi-formal, cocktail attire or causal attire dress code. Instead, opt for a summer outdoor wedding guest dress in a mini or midi-length silhouette. When it comes to colors and patterns, the bolder the better (think: neons, florals and tropical prints). You can accessorize cocktail and casual outdoor wedding dresses for guests with a pair of sandals or wedges and a stylish clutch.
ASTR The Label Blythe Floral Plisse Midi Dress
Photo: ASTR the Label
Available in four cheerful patterns, this mid-length pleated dress is perfectly suited for summer soirées. While you can buy it directly from ASTR The Label, it's also available to rent starting at $44.
Petal & Pup Achanti Pleated Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
This Petal & Pup maxi just screams summer. With its vibrant floral print, flowy pleated skirt and spaghetti straps, it's perfect for a destination wedding—or a warm-weather event at home. The cups are padded with underwire for support, and the straps are adjustable. It comes in five pretty patterns, but we love the bright Pink Azalea colorway for this time of year.
Get 15% off with our exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
Lulus 3D Floral Embroidered Halter Midi Dress
Photo: Lulus
Dimensional embroidered flowers cover this elegant high-neck design, making it a great semi-formal summer wedding guest dress for attendees who really want to lean into the season.
Use code THEKNOT30 for 30% off first-time purchases in selected categories.
Azazie Atelier Dulcie Midi Dress
Photo: Azazie
This sky-blue midi will brighten up any room. It features a flattering V-neckline and halter top, as well as a luxe floral mesh pattern that'll shimmer in the light of the dance floor. It's also available in equally summery shades of light green and pink.
Farm Rio The Vicky Dress
Photo: Farm Rio
We adore this Farm Rio midi for a casual or semi-formal summer wedding, especially if it's a destination event. With its heart-shaped bodice, scalloped hem and intricate Richelieu embroidery, it's guaranteed to get compliments.
Tuckernuck Embroidered Coral Millay Dress
Photo: Tuckernuck
Headed to a casual coastal wedding? Pack this pink maxi gown from Tuckernuck, which has a thematic coral pattern embroidered on the skirt. Complete your look with shell earrings and rattan block heels to really lean into the seaside vibe.
Petal & Pup Theophania Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
This breezy maxi is ideal for a beach or destination wedding. Made from textured fabric in a summery mango hue, it can easily be dressed up with heels and statement jewelry or down with sandals or wedges.
Get 15% off with our exclusive code, PETALXKNOT.
Quince Washable Stretch Silk High Neck Midi Dress
Photo: Quince
The washable silk styles from Quince are some of the best pieces you can add to your capsule wardrobe. (Yes, I'm speaking from experience.) This timeless midi dress has a delicately draped cowl neckline and a criss-cross back, and it's available in eight colors—but the vintage pink and butter yellow are especially fitting for summer weddings.
ASTR The Label Serenidy Floral Ruffle Tiered High-Low Midi Dress
Photo: ASTR The Label
With a twirl-worthy skirt like this, you'll be the star of the dance floor. Embrace the vibes of a warm July sunset with this strapless midi, which is one of the very best dresses to wear to a summer wedding as a guest.
Theia Joni Velvet Bow Strap Gown
Photo: Rent the Runway
Sometimes, you simply don't have the closet space to add one more special occasion gown to your collection. If that's the case, consider renting a summer wedding guest dress for your upcoming event. This velvet bow strap frock from Theia has a garden-inspired brocade pattern that's oh-so Bridgerton coded.
Birdy Grey Isla Dress
Photo: Birdy Grey
Even if you're not a bridesmaid, Birdy Grey's Isla dress is a top contender when it comes to the best summer wedding guest dresses. This slinky strapless midi comes in 70 (yes, 70!) colors and 11 floral patterns. And for less than $100, it's one of the best deals you'll find when looking for dresses to wear to a summer wedding.
Use our exclusive code KNOTFRIENDS for 10 free swatches (first-time customers only.)
Reformation Frankie Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
You can't go wrong with blue florals for a summer wedding. This slinky silk ankle-length dress from Reformation is perfect for a semi-formal or cocktail dress code.
ELOQUII Pleated Ruffle Neckline Midi Dress
Photo: ELOQUII
This pleated dress packs a punch for all the right reasons. Not only is the vivid color a cheerful choice for the time of year, the ruffled neckline adds a hint of textured drama to this otherwise elegant design.
Showpo Artola Midi Dress
Photo: Showpo
A warm-weather wedding doesn't require a strapless neckline. If you're looking for a summer wedding guest dress with sleeves, this Showpo midi is a top-rated option. It features an abstract pink and purple pattern and open criss-cross detailing at the midriff.
Marie Oliver Bailey Light Green Botanical Print Micro Pleat Maxi Dress
Photo: Marie Oliver
Eazy, breezy and beautiful, this airy maxi is a dream for summer wedding guests. It has a gorgeous botanical print that's reminscent of watercolor gardens.
Hemant and Nandita Corseted Midi Dress
Photo: REVOLVE
This corseted midi is a lovely choice for a daytime summer wedding. Made from heavyweight poplin fabric in a peach floral print, it features an on-trend Basque waist and a full pleated skirt.
Hill House Home Margot Dress
Photo: Hill House Home
The maker of the legendary Nap dress also has summer wedding guest dresses too. Hill House's Margot dress is slightly more formal than the brand's other styles, making it a great selection for a dressy casual or laidback summer wedding.
Amanda Uprichard x REVOLVE Carlina Dress
Photo: REVOLVE
Flaunt your fun sense of style with this high-low Amanda Uprichard design. The pink and purple palette is reminiscent of the season's cotton candy skies, making this a superb wedding guest outfit for summer.
Dress The Population Audrey Embroidered Fit & Flare Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
Lovely floral lace hangs off the bottom of this fit-and-flare summer wedding guest dress, which is available in 12 colors (many of which are simply perfect for semi-formal events at this time of year).
Where to Buy Dresses to Wear to a Summer Wedding as a Guest
Photo: Siobhan Stanton Photography
Still haven't found the perfect summer wedding guest dress? Don't sweat it. Find your dream look by continuing your search below at one of my favorite retailers to buy wedding guest dresses for summer.
Lulus
With thousands of trendy styles, an ever-evolving catalog and affordable prices, Lulus is one the very best places to buy summer wedding guest dresses for all dress codes and venues. Plus, you can save even more on your purchase with our exclusive code. Use THEKNOT30 to get 30% off first-time purchases on select wedding categories, including wedding guest dresses.
Abercrombie & Fitch
As part of the recent Abercrombie & Fitch renaissance, the beloved retailer also launched a line of wedding guest dresses. Best for semi-formal and cocktail summer weddings, the pieces at A&F will earn you the title of "best-dressed guest."
Petal & Pup
The formal designs at Petal & Pup are whimsical, romantic and fun. You'll find details like floral patterns, ruffled hemlines and bow accents, all at great prices. (Psst: You can also use the code PETALXKNOT to get 15% off your purchase.) If you're in the market for a dress to wear to a summer wedding as a guest, start by browsing the brand's Modern Romance collection for the latest styles fit for the season.
Nordstrom
The best part about shopping for summer wedding guest dresses at Nordstrom is the sheer volume of options. Those on a budget will love the wallet-friendly looks from labels like WAYF, Dress the Population and Chelsea28. There are also plenty of higher-end formal and black-tie dresses from designers including Elliatt, Hutch and Alfred Sung.
Reformation
The sleek and fashion-forward designs at Reformation are ideal for guests who want to invest in high-quality special event pieces. Available in sustainable fabrics like silk charmeuse, lightweight georgette and organically-grown cotton, the craftsmanship speaks for itself. Details like whimsical flower prints, cool-girl polka dots and neck scarf accessories make these standout summer wedding guest dress selections.
Additional market work by Doireann Mangan.
