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Updated Mar 06, 202525 Editor-Approved Wedding Guest Dresses with Sleeves
Keep warm while looking stylish in these editor-approved picks.
Photos, from left to right: Free People, ASTR the Label, Windsor
With the influx of colder weather comes a flurry of fall and winter weddings—and the perfect opportunity to rock a long-sleeve wedding guest dress. If you're searching for fall wedding guest dresses or winter wedding guest dresses, opting for a long-sleeve dress will ensure you stay warm while looking fabulous at your next vow exchange. Whether you're headed to an elegant black tie evening or a more casual daytime wedding, a long-sleeve wedding guest dress can be worn for any wedding dress code. Our editor-vetted picks will guarantee you'll be among the best-dressed guests at your next wedding.
In this article:
- The Best Long-Sleeve Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style
- Stylist Tips for Choosing a Wedding Guest Dress with Sleeves
The Best Long-Sleeve Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style
When shopping for wedding guest dresses with sleeves, it's important to consider both the season and the venue. Knowing these key components of the wedding will ensure you have dressed appropriately for both the wedding vibe and the weather constraints.
If you're running low on closet space or simply want a more affordable and sustainable way to shop, rental services like Rent the Runway and Nuuly are a great option for wedding guest dresses. These services allow you to rent designer dresses you may not otherwise want to splurge on—think of it as your unlimited wardrobe. We especially love renting wedding guest dresses because you can try a variety of special occasion styles you may not wear again. With the code THE KNOT20, you'll get $20 off your first rental at Rent the Runway or Nuuly.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
Best Lace: Saylor Mathilde Dress
Photo: Saylor
This gorgeous black lace mini is equal parts feminine and edgy. The bell sleeves are a subtle nod to '70s fashion—in the very best way. Pair it with a black high heel for a monochromatic look.
Size range: XS–L
Best Florals: Ieena for Mac Duggal Floral Long-Sleeve Ruffle Detail Dress
Photo: Rent the Runway
Charming florals are given a fashionable update with delicate ruffles and a shoulder-baring neckline. Rock this whimsical dress to a romantic garden wedding.
Size range: 2–14
Most Red Carpet Inspired: Azazie Hallie Fitted Off-The-Shoulder Long-Sleeve Stretch Satin Dress
Photo: Azazie
Cue the paparazzi. This glamorous off-the-shoulder gown is sure to stun at your next black-tie affair. Delicate draping adds a romantic allure to this timeless wedding guest dress with sleeves.
Size range: 0–30 or Custom
For a Casual Wedding: Rhode Caro Dress
Photo: Rhode
This whimsical floral mini can be worn with sandals or boots for a casual wedding or dressed up with a pair of heels for a semi-formal dress code. It has a comfortable full skirt, a slightly dropped waist and a feminine, fall-friendly print.
Size range: XS–XL
Most Glamorous: Lotus Threads Dorris Gown
Photo: Lotus Threads
It doesn't get more glamorous than this breathtaking sequined gown from Lotus Threads. The New York-based brand hand beads all of their artisan gowns. Pair this long-sleeve formal wedding guest dress with a chic updo and some gold high heels for a look that's sure to wow.
Size range: 2–18
Best Vintage-Inspired: The Somerset by Anthropologie Mock Neck Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
Give your closet a chic upgrade with this Victorian-era-inspired maxi. With a mock neckline, A-line silhouette, smocked waist and tiered skirt, this maxi dress with sleeves for a wedding is anything but basic.
Size range: XXS–3X
Best Midi: Baltic Born Amani Pleated Midi Dress
Photo: Baltic Born
This sexy midi is sure to become a staple in your wedding guest dress arsenal. It features allover pleating and a flirty peekaboo cutout under the bust The best part? It's under $80.
Size range: XS–XL
For a Destination Wedding: Anthropologie One-Shoulder Printed Shift Dress
Photo: Nuuly
A destination wedding in the tropics calls for a laid-back wedding guest dress. This shift dress features a one-shoulder design, side slit and tropical-inspired print. It pairs just as well with high heels as it does with sandals.
Size range: 00–26W
Most Unique: Saylor Delphine Dress
Photo: Saylor
If Phoebe Buffay were attending a 2024 wedding, this would definitely be her top wedding guest dress pick! The bohemian-inspired print, silky fabric and bell sleeves give this dress a whimsical flair. Throw on a pair of leather mules or high heels and you're ready to dance the night away.
Size range: XS–XL
Best One Shoulder: Lulus Majestic Energy Black Cape-Sleeve One-Shoulder Mini Dress
Photo: Lulus
A glam one-shoulder dress is always a great choice and this chic mini is no exception. It features a glamorous cape sleeve for extra drama.
Size range: XXS–XL
Best Boho: Free People Dahlia Embroidered Maxi Dress
Photo: Free People
Channel your inner Stevie Nicks with this ethereal, boho long-sleeve maxi dress for a wedding. It features billowing puff sleeves and 3D embroidered flowers scattered throughout. It comes in 12 gorgeous colors and can be dressed up or down.
Size range: XS–XL
Best Polka Dots: AFRM Thelma Dress
Photo: Revolve
Polka dots never go out of style. This glamorous gown gives a nod to retro style with the classic print. Pair it with simple black heels and a swipe of red lipstick.
Size range: XXS–3X
For the Timeless Fashionista: Lulus Wait For Me Black Long-Sleeve Maxi Dress
Photo: Lulus
A chic black gown never goes out of style. This one from Lulus features a sultry backless silhouette, perfect for pairing with a trendy back necklace.
Size range: XXS–3X
Best Mini: ASTR the Label Ruffle V-Neck Lace Mini Dress
Photo: ASTR the Label
Dreamy crochet steals the show on this gorgeous ruffled mini dress. Bell sleeves and a ruffled V-neckline add dimension to this sweet wedding guest dress with long sleeves.
Size range: XS–XL
For the Charlotte York Wannabe: By Anthropologie Long-Sleeve Tie-Neck Swing Mini Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
This bow-adorned mini dress is reminiscent of our favorite Park Avenue princess. Pair it with some mauve pink pumps for a monochromatic wedding guest look.
Size range: XXS–XL
For All Ages: Windsor Esther One-Shoulder Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Photo: Windsor
This timeless one-shoulder gown is a crowd-pleaser for wedding guests of all ages. The figure-flattering shape and modest neckline would flatter a wide range of wedding guests.
Size range: XS–XL
For the Rockstar Wedding Guest: Jen's Pirate Booty Odyssey Mini Dress
Photo: Free People
This edgy beaded mini dress is sure to turn heads at your next wedding. If you've been drooling over the costumes in Daisy Jones and the Six (same), this one's for you.
Size range: XS–L
Best Sequins: Hello Molly Static Memory Sequin Dress Green
Photo: Hello Molly
If you're attending a swanky New Year's Eve wedding this season, sequins are a no-brainer. This shimmering wrap dress from Hello Molly is a sophisticated, yet festive, long-sleeve wedding guest dress.
Size range: XXS–XXL
Most Comfortable: Cleobella Chantal Mesh Midi Dress
Photo: Cleobella
This mesh form-fitting midi is just as comfortable as it is stylish. Plus, the elastic front allows you to adjust the length and shape to create a custom fit. Dress it up or down for a variety of dress codes.
Size range: XS–XL
Most Versatile: Hill House The Grace Mini Nap Dress
Photo: Hill House
The Hill House nap dresses are a fan favorite for a reason. The smocked bodice and flowy skirt make for a comfortable fit that's—as the name suggests—comfortable enough to nap in. This long-sleeve mini wedding guest dress is a closet staple and can be styled in endless different ways depending on the dress code.
Size range: XXXS–XXL
Most Vibrant: Tuckernuck Lemongrass Blakely Dress
Photo: Tuckernuck
Wear this citrus-hued mini to make a splash at a spring or summer wedding. The flattering fit-and-flare silhouette is paired with a flirty off-the-shoulder neckline for a style that's sure to land you a spot on the best-dressed guest list.
Size range: 0–12
Best High-Low: City Chic Plus-Size Lace Athena Dress
Photo: Macy's
This black lace midi long-sleeve dress for wedding guests is anything but boring. It features a glamorous off-the-shoulder neckline and a ruffled high-low hem for a flirty twist on your basic black wedding guest dress. This versatile plus-size long-sleeve dress for wedding guests is perfect for celebrations year-round.
Size range: 12–24
Best 60s-Inspired: Rhode Luke Dress
Photo: Rhode
This chic mini dress has a 60s-inspired silhouette with blouson sleeves and a gathered skirt. The cheerful hydrangea print makes it perfect for a spring wedding.
Size range: 0–14
Most On-Trend Color: Petal & Pup Alina Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal & Pup
Sage green has dominated the fashion scene in 2024 and is not going anywhere anytime soon. This cold shoulder maxi is a trendy pick for a long-sleeve wedding guest dress. From Petal & Pup's latest MUSE collection, this glamorous gown is inspired by Australia's native flora and landscapes.
Size range: XS–XL
Best Closet Staple: Abercrombie The A&F Emerson Chiffon Long-Sleeve Midi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie
A basic midi dress is a closet staple for wedding season. This sleek long-sleeve version can be dressed up or down to fit a wide range of wedding dress codes. Switch up your accessories for each wedding for endless styling options.
Size range: XXS–XXL
Stylist Tips for Choosing a Wedding Guest Dress with Sleeves
When shopping for a long-sleeve wedding guest dress, there are a few key points to keep in mind to make the shopping process as seamless as possible. We chatted with Catherine Seaton, VP of Marketing at Windsor, for her expert tips on selecting a long-sleeve wedding guest dress.
1. Consider the Venue
It's always nice to keep the venue of the wedding in mind so you can dress appropriately. "If you are having your wedding at a beach or winery, consider a dress with romantic long bell sleeves," Seaton shares. Leaning into the aesthetic of the venue is always a good idea — and will make for some amazing Instagram pictures!
2. Dress for the Season
While most people associate long-sleeve dresses with fall or winter weddings, you can rock a long-sleeve dress any time of year, given the correct fabric and silhouette. Flowy, lightweight sleeves are a great option for the warmer months, while heavier fabrics like jacquard and velvet work best for fall and winter.
3. Wear a Jacket
If you want to wear a long-sleeve wedding guest dress, but haven't found one you love, you might want to consider wearing a jacket or bolero that you can take on and off throughout the night. Seaton suggests "If you want long sleeves for the ceremony but not the reception, consider a bolero jacket that you can easily remove for a night of dancing."
