These 8 Wedding Guest Dress Trends Will Dominate 2026

As a fashion editor, I'm constantly on the lookout for what's new and noteworthy in the world of wedding guest attire. From intimate events, to over-the-top affairs, each celebration offers a chance to spot the defining wedding guest dress trends of the year. So, what are people wearing to weddings these days? I spoke with other industry experts to put together the official forecast. Together we identified the key styles, silhouettes and colors you'll be seeing at ceremonies all throughout 2026. Keep scrolling to find a list of what we believe will be the top wedding guest trends for 2026, plus plenty of cool girl wedding guest dresses you can shop on the spot.

Top Wedding Guest Dress Trends for 2026

"Generally speaking, wedding guest styles tend to celebrate understated glamour, with attention to quality fabrics, interesting silhouettes and a reverence for timeless elegance," says NYC-based bridal stylist Jackie Avrumson. And it's no wonder why: "Wedding guests add to the beauty of a wedding and play an important role in photos. Not to mention, it's their opportunity to look their [most] glamorous as well." When it comes to 2026 wedding guest dress trends, I'm anticipating that brands will really lean into the glitz and glam of it all with more elevated options for occasionwear. According to fashion expert and content creator, Katie Sands Bochner, "formal attire in general is on the rise, with guests embracing polished and elevated looks." While mini and midi dresses will always have a place within their respective dress codes, I'm expecting to see more guests don floor-length gowns in 2026, even for less-formal events.

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Speaking of glam, I'm also predicting that this year's wedding guest dress styles will take inspiration from one of the most swanky eras of fashion: Old Hollywood. From draped scarves and shawls reminiscent of the ones worn by Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief, to pleated satin gowns made famous by Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch, you can expect to see plenty of references to this bygone era in 2026 wedding fashion. Of course, these trendy dress styles for wedding guests wouldn't be complete without the proper accessories, so be prepared to see lots of old Hollywood-inspired add-ons like crystal and pearl necklaces, sparkly clutches, evening gloves and even folding fans.

Though guest-of-dressing has become a form of self-expression, and on-trend wedding guest dresses run the gamut of appropriateness, there are still rules. "Remeber, it's all about honoring the couple's vision for their day," Sands Bochner says. Caitlin Bell, a designer and product developer for Petal & Pup—one of our favorite places to buy wedding guest dresses—agrees. "As we see more and more brides throwing traditional rules out the window, there are fewer hard rules; however, everyone is different, so the most important thing is to always check the invite for the dress code and ask the couple if you are not sure," she says. (Hint: If the invite doesn't specify, check the wedding website as well.)

Top wedding guest dress trends for 2026:

1. Cape Wedding Guest Dresses
2. Wedding Guest Dresses With Scarves
3. Wedding Guest Dresses With Drop Waists
4. Pastel Wedding Guest Dresses
5. Jacquard Wedding Guest Dresses
6. Column Wedding Guest Dresses
7. Wedding Guest Dresses With Ruffle Details
8. Wedding Guest Dresses With Pleated Skirts

1. Cape Wedding Guest Dresses

One of the biggest ways that guests will incorporate old Hollywood flair into their wedding wardrobe this year is with cape wedding guest dresses. Made popular in the 1930s and 1940s, these trending wedding guest dresses evoke a sense of drama and elegance that so many today crave. We can expect to see this trend manifest in a number of ways, including gowns with attached capes and shawls draped over the top of dresses. According to Daniel Sanchez, Creative Director at Azazie, "this look works best with dresses and capes made out of softer fabrics like georgette, chiffon and satin." Not only do these lightweight fabrics help you feel more comfortable in a layered look, but they'll also create a beautiful sense of movement as you're on the dance floor, or just roaming about the venue.

Light Blue Pleated Maxi Dress With Cape

Photo: ELOQUII

Why settle for just one wedding guest dress trend when you can rock multiple at the same time? This look has an attached cape, pleated fabric, and it comes in a pastel blue shade, making it a fitting choice for nuptials all throughout 2026.

Size range: 14–32

Sage Green Satin Maxi Dress With Cape

Photo: REVOLVE

For the guest who believes entrances were meant to be grand, may I present to you this sage green satin maxi dress with a matching cape. It's modest enough to wear to a religious wedding ceremony, but trendy enough that it won't feel frumpy even in the slightest.

Size range: 0–10

Red Crepe Maxi Dress With Chiffon Cape

Photo: Azazie

Here's another one of our favorite 2026 wedding guest dresses. It comes in 23 different shades so it's easy to find one that fits the vibe of the event you're attending. Plus, it's also size-inclusive with the option to have it custom made to your exact measurements.

Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)

Blue Silk Chiffon Midi Dress With Matching Cape

Photo: REVOLVE

This blue midi dress with a matching cape is as comfortable as it is stylish. Made from lightweight silk chiffon fabric, it's the perfect choice for a spring or summer wedding in 2026. Pair it with nude-colored pumps and a shimmery clutch to complete the look.

Size range: XXS–XL

2. Wedding Guest Dresses With Scarves

Cape dresses aren't the only vintage-inspired style making a comeback in 2026. According to Sanchez, guests are channeling Grace Kelly's glamour by wearing floating chiffon scarves, usually in the same print or shade as their dress. "A great styling reference is her ice blue chiffon gown and matching scarf from To Catch a Thief," he explains. "Some are even styling them Jackie Kennedy–style, knotted neatly at the neck or draped elegantly over the shoulders." The best part about this trend is that it gives guests multiple outfits for the price of one, since wedding guest dress scarves can be styled a number of different ways, and even removed entirely for a more understated look.

Silk Strapless Maxi Dress With Matching Scarf

Photo: Reformation

When it comes to trendy wedding guest dresses for 2026, this ensemble from Reformation would have to be one of my top picks. It comes in 10 stunning color options, all made from 100% lightweight silk.

Size range: XSP–3X

Black Polkadot Midi Dress With Matching Scarf

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

A matching scarf gives this classic LBD a major upgrade. Whether you choose to wear the scarf over the dress, or rock the two pieces separately, you're guaranteed to get plenty of use out of this trendy set in 2026.

Size range: XXSP–XLT

Plum Strapless Maxi Dress With Matching Scarf

Photo: Lulus

Plum is one of the most unique colors to wear to a wedding, so you'll certainly turn heads while sporting this set. It features a streamlined silhouette with a strapless neckline and side leg slit (perfect for hitting the dance floor). Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).

Size range: XXS–XL

Yellow Floral Anarkali Dress With Matching Dupatta

Amazon

This on-trend ensemble is further proof that scarves (also known as dupattas) are one of the best wedding guest accessories. While the floral-printed Anarkali dress is bold enough to wear on its own, the matching scarf takes it to the next level.

Size range: XS–XXL

3. Wedding Guest Dresses With Drop Waists

While we're on the topic of vintage-inspired styles, we can't go without mentioning this wedding guest dress 2026 trend. Drop waist dresses were extremely popular in the 1920s and more recently made a resurgence as one of the top wedding dress trends. Today, we're seeing them become a major part of wedding guest fashion. "Drop waist styles elongate the bodice and sit just below the natural waistline to create a flattering silhouette that highlights the torso and hips," explains Jenn Hyman, founder and CEO of Rent The Runway. "The drop waist adds an extra touch of drama with its signature shape and ultra-flattering design." Sands Bochner is prepared to see this trend take off in the coming months. "I'm noticing a resurgence of drop waist wedding guest dresses; it's a timeless silhouette that's making a comeback for both brides and wedding guests," she says.

Teal Drop Waist Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This floaty teal maxi dress was practically made for a summer soirée in 2026. Pair it with platform or espadrille wedding guest shoes for seamless strutting across the sand or grass at an outdoor venue.

Size range: 0–16

Red Drop Waist Maxi Dress With Boat Neckline

Photo: Reformation

Though there are some rules when it comes to wearing red to a wedding, it's commonly agreed that the hue is acceptable for Western weddings with a formal dress code. In that case, we're all for it. The color is classic—so give it a modern twist with a trendy drop waist and boat neck.

Size range: 0–12

Pink Drop Waist Maxi Dress With Gathered Skirt

Photo: Free People

This is one of my favorite dresses for a spring wedding in 2026, and for good reason. Its drop waist and A-line silhouette are utterly adorable. Plus, it comes in nine stunning shades, all perfect for watching your loved ones say "I do".

Size range: 0–12

Navy Blue Ruched Drop Waist Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

With a chic drop waistline and an elegantly ruched bodice, this affordable wedding guest dress looks like a total splurge. No one will believe you actually paid less than $100 for it (especially once you dress it up with some sparkly accessories.) Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).

Size range: XS–XL

4. Pastel Wedding Guest Dresses

As one of the top bridal fashion trends of the year, pastels have proven to be the perfect alternative to white for brides who are looking to make a statement. The good news is they're not restricted to nearlyweds in the same way that white is. From baby blues to soft yellow hues, wedding guests have been swapping rich, dark colors for more subtle shades when picking out their attire. We've also seen many couples opt for pastels as their bridesmaid dress colors. When looking for pastel wedding guest dress inspiration, keep an eye out for "gelato-inspired shades," Hyman says. "Mint green, blush pink, pale lavender and buttery yellow are all great, of-the-moment options."

Pink Ruffled Maxi Dress With Matching Scarf

Photo: Anthropologie

For trendsetters, this dress is a major win. It has multiple elements of trending wedding guest dresses, from its pastel pink color to its ruffled skirt and its matching scarf. It's ideal for a formal dress code and works for both indoor or outdoor affairs.

Size range: 00–16

Pastel Yellow Satin Maxi Dress

Photo: Park & Fifth

Here's one of my favorite dresses to wear to a summer wedding in 2026. It's bright, cheerful shade makes it a fitting choice for such a joyous occasion. Plus, its silhouette is as timeless as you can get.

Size range: XXS–XXL

Sage Green Silk Maxi Dress

Photo: Reformation

If you didn't think wedding guest dresses could be both timeless and trendy at the same time, this dress will convince you otherwise. It's made from 100% lightweight silk and features a streamlined silhouette with an edgy criss-crossed design in the back. Swoon.

Size range: 0–12

Pastel Blue Satin Maxi Dress With Draped Scarf

Photo: Birdy Grey

This look's icy blue shade and chic neck scarf makes this one of the best dresses to wear to a winter wedding in 2026. Not a fan of the color? Don't fret. It's available in over 75 different colorways, including a variety of floral prints.

Size range: XS–3X

5. Jacquard Wedding Guest Dresses

Searches for jacquard wedding guest dresses have skyrocketed in recent months and it's no mystery why. As wedding guest dress trends continue to skew more formal, this ultra-elegant fabric has earned a place in the rotation for many weddinggoers. Defined by unique textured patterns that are woven directly into the fabric itself, jacquard (and specific types of jacquard, like brocade), is unlike any other material. "Guests are letting this fabric shine by pairing their dresses with delicate heels and understated jewelry for effortless elegance," Sanchez reveals.

Navy Blue Jacquard Maxi Dress With Bustier Bodice

Photo: Revelry

This gorgeous gown is proof that you don't need to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks. At under $300, it's comparable to much pricier jacquard dresses. Plus, it's available in six different floral prints.

Size range: 0–32

Pastel Blue Jacquard Maxi Dress With Corset Bodice

Photo: Anthropologie

Every detail of this dress is simply exquisite, from its boned corset bodice, to its mermaid silhouette, and of course, its floral jacquard fabric. If it came in multiple colors, I'd be adding one of each to my cart.

Size range: 00–18

Floral Jacquard Strapless Maxi Dress

Photo: Mac Duggal

If you have a black-tie or white-tie wedding on the calendar in 2026, you'll need an elegant evening gown for the occasion. Enter: This dramatic jacquard number from Mac Duggal. Its bold floral pattern gives it a twist on tradition that's still perfectly appropriate for the dress code.

Size range: 2–20

Hot Pink Jacquard Midi Dress

Photo: Rent the Runway

This pretty pink dress leans more casual thanks to its tea-length silhouette, but it can be dressed up beautifully for an outdoor spring or summer wedding. Pair it with wedges and statement jewelry—think glittering diamonds or pops of color.

Size range: 0–16

6. Column Wedding Guest Dresses

So what sorts of silhouettes are on deck for 2026? Well, according to experts, we can expect column wedding guest dresses to dominate this upcoming year. Column silhouettes fall straight down from the neckline to the hem without an overly defined waist or flared skirt. They're not quite as form-fitting as bodycon dresses, but not loose enough to be considered A-line either. According to Sanchez, column dresses are very Jackie Kennedy; minimal yet commanding, with a statuesque presence. "They're usually styled sleek with sculptural earrings, chic updos and strappy heels to keep the lines uninterrupted," he explains.

Black Halter Neck Column Gown With Open Back

Photo: Anthropologie

Black is always a safe shade for wedding attire, but it can be a little basic on its own. This gown's column silhouette can help you stand out at a wedding in 2026, especially when paired with a sleek updo and a set of statement earrings.

Size range: XXS–XL

Floral Column Gown With Bustier Bodice

Photo: Azazie

Here's one of my favorite fall wedding guest dresses for 2026. Its rich, warm color scheme perfectly embodies the season. Plus, it comes in a wide range of sizes with the option to have it custom made to your unique measurements.

Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)

Red Open Back Column Gown

Photo: Lulus

Don't even stress about accessories; This bold red wedding guest dress commands attention all on its own. All you'll need is a pair of patent pumps and a slicked-back ponytail or bun to complete this trendy look. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).

Size range: XS–XL

Pink Jacquard Strapless Column Gown

Photo: Sachin & Babi

A refined silhouette and a playful pink color makes this gown the best of both worlds. Its fabric features a floral jacquard design, making it an on-trend option for 2026 weddings, especially those taking place in the spring or summer.

Size range: 0–14

7. Wedding Guest Dresses With Ruffle Details

You've probably heard the fashion rule that says if an outfit isn't interesting through color, shape or print, then it should feature a unique texture. Well, that's where ruffles come in. Their whimsical nature can make even the most understated styles appear visually intriguing. "Ruffles bring back vintage glam, think Princess Diana's playful volume or Grace Kelly's soft chiffon tiers," says Sanchez. "For upscale outdoor weddings, we can anticipate a refined display of textures, with ruffled wedding guest dresses taking center stage to make a bold yet elegant statement," Avrumson explains.

Pink Floral Midi Dress With Ruffle Details

Photo: Birdy Grey

This look's midi length and side leg slit make it the perfect beach wedding guest dress for 2026. Choose from a wide variety of color and pattern options, including 19 different floral prints and every pastel shade you can imagine.

Size range: XS–3X

Pink Floral Maxi Dress With Cascading Ruffles

Photo: Petal & Pup

Looking for a dressy casual or semi-formal wedding guest dress for 2026? I found just the look for you. This whimsical ruffled maxi dress is as cute as they come. Plus, it can be paired with sandals or flats for a laidback look. Take 15% off your purchase with our exclusive code PETALXKNOT.

Size range: XS–XL

Pastel Blue Cascading Ruffle Maxi Dress With Halter Neck

Photo: Revelry

Texture is more visible when rendered in lighter fabrics, like this baby blue dress from Revelry. The style can be dressed down with sandals or flats for a beach wedding, or dressed up with statement jewelry and pumps for a more formal affair.

Size range: 0–32

Pink Ruffled Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

You'll feel like royalty while rocking this elegant midi dress. Its cascading ruffle details aren't its only standout feature. It also has a matching scarf that can be worn draped across the neck, or tied into a bow at the back.

Size range: XXS–XL

8. Wedding Guest Dresses With Pleated Skirts

Pleated and plisse fabrics are another way that brands are incorporating texture into trendy dresses for wedding guests. According to Sanchez, while pleated skirts are having a major moment, they feel truly timeless. "Grace Kelly's skirts and Marilyn's iconic white dress from The Seven Year Itch are examples that prove just how magical movement and texture can be," he explains. "This trend is also perfect for those seeking comfort as pleated and plisse fabrics have inherent stretch and moldability." The best part? You can take your pleated wedding guest dresses with you into 2027 and beyond since experts don't anticipate this trend will be fading anytime soon.

Navy Blue Pleated Midi Dress

Photo: Petal & Pup

If your wedding guest wardrobe is in need of a major upgrade, this pleated satin midi dress will be a welcomed addition. It's versatile enough to wear during any season. You could even throw a chic wedding guest shawl over the top to make it more cold weather-friendly. Take 15% off your purchase with our exclusive code PETALXKNOT.

Size range: 0–16

Olive Green Basque Waist Midi Dress With Pleated Chiffon Skirt

Photo: Azazie

BTW: I'm still not over last year's Basque waist dress trend, and once you step into this charming midi dress, you won't be either. It features a satin bodice paired against a soft plisse skirt and matching oversized bows on the shoulders.

Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)

Floral Strapless Maxi Dress With Tiered Pleated Skirt

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

Layers of floral pleated fabric? Say no more. This stylish midi dress is perfectly light and airy for springtime weddings in 2026. Pair it with kitten heels and a simple clutch to take on semi-formal and cocktail dress code events all season long.

Size range: XXSP–XLT

Yellow Strapless Maxi Dress With Pleated Skirt

Photo: Park & Fifth

With a pleated skirt and pastel color, this strapless maxi dress is certainly a noteworthy pick for 2026. Of course, because of its classic silhouette, you'll likely find yourself reaching for it for many more years to come.

Size range: XXS–XXL

Additional reporting by Elle Cashin.