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Updated Mar 06, 2025The 23 Best Wedding Guest Dresses for Teens That'll Earn You Positive Aura Points
These versatile looks are fun, just formal enough and definitely not too juvenile.
Photos, from left to right: Lulus, Birdy Grey, Lulus
While many wedding receptions are adult-only affairs, it's also not uncommon for teenagers to be invited, especially if they're close with the couple. As exciting as that may be, looking for wedding guest dresses for teens can sometimes feel a little difficult. A lot of formal or cocktail dresses are made with older adults in mind, so they might end up feeling a little too revealing or mature for teens. And for younger teenagers who are in between tween and young adult clothing, finding a dress that fits well and looks fancy for a special wedding can be extra tough. The best teen wedding guest dresses are comfortable, easy to dance around in and appropriate for their age without looking too childish. Below are a variety of options for both preteens and the older set.
How to Shop for Wedding Guest Dresses for Teens
Whether they're 13 or 17, teens who are going to a wedding want to be dressed to impress. They don't want to wear something that makes them look young, and they probably also want to show off their own personal style. Read on for some tips on how to find a teen wedding guest dress that both teens and their parents will be happy with.
- Shop With the Dress Code in Mind, But Don't Be Too Limiting: Like every other wedding guest, teens should follow the dress code in place. That said, they probably aren't expected to be quite as formal as everyone else. Cocktail and semi-formal dress codes are easy; teens can opt for shorter or knee-length dresses that are a bit on the more casual side. For formal or black-tie optional, look for longer maxi or midi dresses, but don't feel like you have to stress over an expensive gown. For black-tie, they should probably opt for something long, but again—an overly expensive gown may not be totally necessary.
- Look for Petite Options: Petite sizes can be great for younger teens who are somewhere in between juniors sizes and adult sizes—they might feel like juniors are too young or small for them, but adult sizes are just a bit too big. Petite dresses may fit better overall.
- Have Fun With Their Look: Like every other guest, teens should look appropriate for a wedding—no super casual clothing—but they're also young, so the overall vibe can be playful and fun. Think brighter colors, cool prints and maybe some embellishments.
- Look at the Right Retailers: Some brands and stores that sell wedding guest dresses may not be the best place for a teen to shop, as those dresses are often made with adults in mind. If you're shopping for preteens or younger teens who still fit in juniors sizes, Macy's has a great selection of juniors dresses at a good price, while Birdy Grey has some great juniors gowns. If you want to save a little money and get them something trendy, Abercrombie & Fitch and Altar'd State have versatile dresses (A&F also sells extra petite, petite and plus sizes), and Arula has some fun plus size dresses. With some hunting, you can also find some beautiful wedding guest dresses for teens at stores like Bloomingdale's, Anthropologie and Lulus.
23 Best Wedding Guest Dresses for Teens
The perfect teen wedding guest dress is something that both the teen and their parents love, which, let's be honest, can be hard to achieve. Look for something they feel comfortable and confident in. A more versatile dress is also ideal—shop for something that can be worn to other events in the future. Have fun with the print and color, and remember that if a dress feels too mature, you can always try dressing it down with accessories, like flats or fun jewelry.
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City Studios Juniors' Draped-Top Skater Dress
Photo: Macy's
A skater dress can be a great silhouette for teens of any age, and this one is a perfect example of that: the swingy skirt is fun and flirty, while the draped top and fabric make it feel more formal. The asymmetrical skirt makes this one stand out even more. While the skinny straps make this great for spring and summer, it can also easily be layered under a silky wrap or cardigan.
Size Range: 0-17
Altar'd State Jasmine Midi Lace Strapless Dress
Photo: Altar'd State
With the strapless neckline, short slit in the front and pretty lace pattern, this dress has an on trend feel that calls back to '90s style. The supportive grip at the top makes it more comfortable and it has a bit of a stretchy feel, with a midi length that makes it feel appropriate for more formal dress codes.
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Abercrombie & Fitch Organza Tiered Strapless Mini Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
This flouncy mini dress, with tiered ruffles and a lightweight organza fabric, is perfect for teens of any age. It's fun and cute, but still feels formal enough for a wedding reception. It's available in a few colors, including a floral print, and doesn't seem like it's too short. It's also available in a variety of sizes and lengths.
Size Range: XXS-XXL, petite, regular or tall
Aqua Long Sleeve Lace Dress
Photo: Bloomingdale's
This mini dress is ideal for a fall, spring and even winter wedding thanks to the long sleeves. The detailed lace pattern is really pretty to look at, while the high neck balances out the shorter skirt. It's available in blue, white and black, although it's best to avoid white lace as a wedding guest.
Size Range: XS-XXL
Lulus Started With A Kiss Black Floral Tiered Dress
Photo: Lulus
Sweet and versatile, this black floral wedding guest dress can easily be made to look more casual or more formal. It hits at about mid-calf, so it's on the longer side, with a sweetheart neckline and straps that really tie for a more adjustable fit. The lightweight fabric makes this great for warm weather events.
Size Range: XS-XXL
City Studios Juniors' Draped Off-The-Shoulder Fit & Flare Dress
Photo: Macy's
Perfect for preteens, this dress comes in junior sizes and is budget-friendly and great for a semi-formal dress code or more casual wedding. It has an off-the-shoulder neckline, a subtle high/low hem and a swingy skirt that makes it feel more fun. It's also available in a few different bright colors.
Size Range: 3 /4-15/16
AFRM Long Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Mesh Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
The long length of this maxi dress makes it work for a teen attending a black-tie optional or black-tie wedding, but it doesn't come with the cost of your typical gown. The off-the-shoulder neckline and all-over print make this feel very trendy, so it's great for a stylish teen who wants to stand out.
Size Range: 1X-3X Plus
Birdy Grey Kiara Junior Dress
Photo: Birdy Grey
Those still in junior sizes will love all of the options for this dress. It features a one-shoulder neckline and A-line long skirt that give off a bit of a Grecian vibe and also feels elegant and more mature. It's available in a slew of colors and patterns, made of a lightweight and airy chiffon.
Size Range: S-XL
The A&F Giselle Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
The pleating on this dress is what makes it really stand out, but it's otherwise pretty simple. It has a sophisticated one-shoulder design, with a flowy skirt in a satin fabric that makes it look more luxurious and dressed up. Available in bright pink or a blue floral, this is a great choice for a spring or summer wedding.
Size Range: XXS-XL, petite, regular or tall
Lulus Certain Charisma Navy Blue Textured Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Photo: Lulus
This navy blue midi dress is a great mix of casual and formal that makes it perfect for a teen wedding guest dress. It has a burnout checkered fabric that gives it a nice texture, with puffed sleeves and a square neck. The sash at the waist is tied in a bow at the back for a touch of femininity.
Size Range: XS-XL
ASOS Design Curve Satin Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress
Photo: ASOS
This simple black dress is one your older teen will definitely be able to wear more than once. It has a bit of a v-neck, with a tie at the shoulders in the back. Flutter sleeves and a midi length are nice details, but this is otherwise easy to pair with lots of fun accessories if you want.
Size Range: 12-26
Hello Molly Illuminating Love Mesh Maxi Dress
Photo: Hello Molly
If your teen is a trendsetter who wants to wear something cool and stylish, this is a nice option that might just make everyone happy. The square neck and long skirt makes it feel more formal, while the mesh center shows off just a bit of skin without feeling too risque. The bright yellow is also such a vibe.
Size Range: S-XL
Arula Emmalyne Floral Maxi Dress
Photo: Arula
This floral maxi dress is a super versatile pick. With flat sandals, it can be dressed down and worn to parties or more casual special events, but with some heels and the right hairstyle, it can be dressed up enough for some weddings. It has a pretty floral pattern and a comfortable flowy silhouette with a bit of a boho feel.
Size Range: 0X-3X
City Studios Juniors' Printed Bustier Fit & Flare Tulle Dress
Photo: Macy's
The pretty purple floral print and short, flouncy skirt make this dress ideal for a spring or summer wedding, particularly one that takes place outdoors. It has a pleated bustier top that keeps it from looking too immature and adjustable straps.
Size Range: 3/4-15/16
Lulus Unbelievably Lovely Pink Floral Babydoll Mini Dress
Photo: Lulus
Babydoll dresses can sometimes feel a bit immature for adults, but they're perfect for teens because they have a fun and unserious vibe about them. This one has a really nice pink and blue floral pattern, with cute bow details and a square neckline. The shiny satiny fabric also makes it feel more dressed up.
Size Range: XS-XL
Reformation Rosi Midi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
A sweetheart neckline, ruffled hem and back cutout make this floral dress feel more romantic. It's another super versatile pick, as you can easily make it look more casual or more formal. It's made of a light and airy fabric, and the shorter length makes it great for a cocktail dress code.
Size Range: 0-12
Anaya Plus Twist Tulle Maxi Dress
Photo: ASOS
For something soft, feminine and romantic, opt for this light blue maxi dress. The tulle overlay, twisted bodice and long length make this a beautiful choice for a more formal wedding, and it would work for any season. The flutter sleeves are also a nice touch.
Size Range: 14-24
Birdy Grey Sienna Junior Dress
Photo: Birdy Grey
Go for classic sophistication with this halter neck dress. It has a pleated waistline, a keyhole cutout in the back and bow detailing in the back that just really adds something. It's available in a wide range of colors and is a pretty option for a junior bridesmaid dress, too.
Size Range: S-XL
Amanda Uprichard Jade Mini Dress
Photo: Revolve
Go chic and trendy with this mini dress. Available in bright pink, orange or inky black, it's made for the cool teens out there and is formal enough for most wedding receptions. It offers halter neck styling with a tie for a more adjustable fit and a more open back.
Size Range: XS-XL
Petal + Pup Franklin Dress
Photo: Petal + Pup
Sophisticated and sweet, this dress falls at about the knees and is perfect as a teen wedding guest dress for anyone who wants to keep it simple. It has a small front slit, short sleeves with shirred cuffing and a ruched bust with a sweetheart neckline. It's available in a bunch of colors and could be worn for any season.
Size Range: 0-16
Windsor Look So Sweet Floral Applique Skater Party Dress
Photo: Windsor
Opt for something fun that stands out in a crowd with this light blue party dress. The skater skirt feels appropriate for teens, and it has delicate floral embellishments that make it especially great for a garden wedding. It's also really budget-friendly and can definitely be worn again.
Size Range: XS-L
UO Bella Bow-Back Satin Mini Dress
Photo: Urban Outfitters
At a low price point and with a super simple design, this satin mini dress is one any teen will wear again and again. Dress it down for everyday wear with boots and a jacket thrown over it, or dress it up with heels and the right makeup and hair. It's available in a variety of colors and the bow in the back is a detail that is easily noticed.
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Arula Mabel Mesh Midi Dress
Photo: Arula
For a more casual wedding, this mesh midi dress is a trendy choice. It features a cool mixed floral pattern, an asymmetrical design, a front slit and strapless neckline. Made of the most perfectly stretchy fabric, it's also comfortable and very versatile.
Size Range: 0X-3X
