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The 39 Best Places to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style and Season

Wedding Guest Dresses

Brides / Kevin Liang

Everyone has their go-to clothing brand for special occasions. But when wedding season rolls around, multiple events can mean many different looks, and it can be nice to switch things up. While shopping for outfits that fit within specific dress codes and styles can sometimes seem overwhelming, think of it as an opportunity to open yourself up to new labels you may not have tried otherwise.

Fashion stylist Elisabeth Kassab suggests looking for dresses on sites with a wide selection and reasonable shipping and return policies. That way, you can peruse and try on items without worrying about getting stuck with a dress you don’t want. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best retailers to shop for wedding guest attire; some you may know and love, and others may pique your interest for the first time. No matter your budget or style, we’re sure there’s something on this list for you. Prepare to fill your wardrobe with the season’s hottest wedding guest attire.

Lulus is an affordable, trend-focused brand that's a treasure trove of special occasion dresses—all at affordable prices. We love the variety of styles, silhouettes, and sizes (XXS to 3X), so every guest can find something that speaks to their aesthetic. We’ve shopped the site for all kinds of events, and while it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, it helped us focus by offering filters for dress code, season, color, silhouette, and more. And when the design we had our eyes on was out of stock, the site suggested similar styles.

Once we had our dress, we finished the look with a pair of coordinating shoes and a cute clutch for a one-and-done shopping experience. The shoes are also high quality (one of our editors had a pair of stilettos from the brand that lasted through all four years of college). Whether you’re looking for a casual dress or a gown for a black-tie wedding, Lulus has it all at affordable prices. Plus, the site offers free shipping for purchases over $50 and free returns within 10 days of delivery.

Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Returns: 30 days; free within 10 days of delivery, $4.99 plus $1.49 restocking fee per item after 10 days

ASTR The Label offers flirty, feminine, and fun wedding guest dresses that are wallet-friendly. We love the gorgeous floral designs, perfect for spring and summer weddings. The retailer also offers the ASTR Social Club, a tiered point system where you can earn two points for every dollar spent. Every 20 points is a $1 ASTR dollar back for you to spend on your next wedding guest dress. Most pieces are reasonably priced, ranging between $40 to $200, with free shipping over $75 and free returns.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free U.S. shipping over $75 | Returns: Free returns within 28 days of your order ship date

Saks Fifth Avenue has offered luxury items and a customer-service-focused experience since 1924. Founded in New York City, the company is based on bringing consumers an expertly curated assortment of fashion and highly personalized customer service. It's safe to say that this still rings true today. Browsing Saks, you'll find cutting-edge and classic styles you can wear to any wedding—and you can bet the quality will be top-notch. In addition to bold dresses and sleek jumpsuits, you'll also find a wide range of gorgeous accessories to pair with your wedding outfit.

Size Range: 0-40; XXS-4XL | Shipping: $9.95 for orders under $100 | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery

From edgy, unconventional dresses to sophisticated designer gowns, Moda Operandi offers a bit of everything. Prices range from $59 to a whopping $119,000 for a single gown, which shows the site's incredibly diverse assortment of brands and styles, including emerging and veteran designers. The site breaks everything down into easy-to-shop categories and subcategories, and there are many gorgeous options for chic bags, shoes, jewelry, and more.

Size Range: 0-20 | Shipping: Starts at $10 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery

Known as one of the OG eco-friendly fashion brands, Reformation has made a name for itself within the millennial and Gen-Z communities. Its pieces are always one step ahead of the current trends and it's a staple brand for anyone looking for a fashion-forward, on-trend look. Plus, with its focus on sustainable practices, you'll feel good about your purchases. The brand will even pay you to send in Reformation clothing you don’t wear anymore so it can use the fibers to make new clothes. We also love that it offers free shipping to all 50 states and free returns within 30 days.

Size Range: XS-3X | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery date

Nordstrom is a one-stop shop for all wedding guest attire. The retailer carries a wide variety of brands in all price ranges, and with its quick shipment options, it’s a great choice if you’re in a pinch for time. It has a super generous free shipping and return policy; there’s no time limit for returns or exchanges, but they will be handled on a “case by case” basis. In addition, their size ranges are inclusive, ranging from XXS to 4XL, with petite and maternity options.

Size Range: XXS-4XL, plus petite and maternity | Shipping: Free for all 50 states and Puerto Rico | Returns: Free and no time limits for returns or exchanges

Keep Dia & Co. on your radar for contemporary cocktail attire and occasionwear. With sizes ranging from 0 to 36, the online retailer carries chic dresses that are flattering for all body types. We love that it offers a one-time style box curated by a stylist to help you on your aesthetic journey, and has a fun style quiz if you’re stuck on what to wear or want to figure out your perfect fit and style to flatter your body shape. Plus, there’s free shipping for orders over $75.

Size Range: 0-36 | Shipping: Free for orders over $75 | Returns: Within 30 days of shipment date

With hundreds of new drops daily, Revolve is always on the cusp of what’s new and trendy, especially in occasionwear. And with so much inventory, you can always find a gorgeous dress on sale. Kassab loves Revolve because of its "wide selection and incredible shipping and return options.”

The online retailer carries reasonably priced brands like Bardot and BCBGeneration, along with higher-end brands such as Retrofête and Sau Lee. It is also fairly size-inclusive, with sizes from XXS to 4XL, and offers free shipping and returns.

Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free for a full refund within 60 days and exchanges within 90 days

Tobi is a fast-fashion retailer in Los Angeles that carries stylish, affordable occasionwear dresses. The brand's West Coast influence can be seen through its trend-focused and youthful designs, which lean toward the sexier side. We love that it has so many categories to select from to really hone in on the vibe you’re looking for (which is great since there are so many styles). There’s free shipping over $75 and free returns within 10 days of delivery.

Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free shipping over $75 | Returns: Free within 10 days

Eloquii is a size-inclusive brand with fashionable options for every type of wedding. The company launched The Black Creatives Project (BCP), empowering Black creatives, business people, influencers, and professionals. It also offers tons of amazing accessories at a super affordable price point, making this a one-stop shop for the full wedding day look.

Size Range: 14-28 | Shipping: Based on merchandise total | Returns: Bridal returns accepted within 14 days; non-bridal returns within 30 days; $5 deducted

With tons of styles on the platform, ASOS is a trend-driven brand that offers dresses with modern, edgy twists—all at super affordable prices. They also have an inclusive collection, with options for all body types, including curve, petite, tall, and maternity, and sizes ranging from 00 to 26. They offer free shipping over $50 and free returns within 28 days of delivery.

Size Range: 00-26 | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery

For wearable, trend-focused pieces, look no further than Zara. From relaxed shift dresses to bejeweled minis, Zara has options for every style imaginable at prices you’ll love. It offers accessories, shoes, and even beauty products for all your wedding guest attire needs. Plus, there’s free shipping over $50.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free dropoff at any store or $3.95 when returned within 30 days of shipment

The global online retailer Shopbop has made a name for itself amongst online fashion retailers for carrying over 1,000 top fashion brands. With new pieces added daily, the site always offers something unique. Plus, it has a selection of accessories, shoes, beauty, and bags to top off your look, and provides free shipping and returns. The retailer is also Amazon Prime eligible, which makes it even more convenient to shop.

Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: Free worldwide | Returns: Free within 15 days of delivery

There’s a reason this brand has been a favorite of celebs like Meghan Markle, Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Gigi Hadid for years. Alice + Olivia has a range of cheeky, vintage-inspired, and whimsical dresses, jumpsuits, and two-piece sets for any wedding. Its dresses are on the pricier side, but they are investment pieces you’ll want to wear for years to come. You can also enjoy free shipping.

Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Within 14 days of delivery. In-person store returns or orders placed with ShopRunner are free; $15 restocking fee for mail-in returns

You're undoubtedly already familiar with this boho-inspired brand, best known for airy fabrics, asymmetrical hemlines, and free-flowing silhouettes. But did you know that Anthropologie has a great selection of occasionwear? It features notable brands like Bronx and Banco, Mac Duggal, AMUR, and Cynthia Rowley, and we love that you can shop by dress code and body type to make your search even more accessible. Plus, there is free shipping on orders over $50.

Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $50 | Returns: Within 30 days of purchase; free in-store returns and $5.95 on most mailed-in returns

Sachin & Babi features a wide selection of structured, glamorous, and stylish gowns for black-tie or formal affairs. It’s a great brand if you’re looking for a more conservative, elegant dress with a modern touch. We love the attention to embellishment and tailoring, with high-quality materials and design at the forefront. It is also size-inclusive, offering sizes 0 to 20 and free returns within two weeks.

Size Range: 0-20 | Shipping: Free on orders over $500 | Returns: Free within 14 days

This Australian online fashion retailer has about 2,000 dresses on its website, and over 100 new styles are released weekly. It offers exclusive in-house designs and over 80 local and international brands, including Lioness, WeWoreWhat, and Runaway the Label. Most are priced under $100, so the options are fashion-forward and cost-efficient.

Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $100 | Returns: $14.95; return within seven days for a refund; return within 21 days for store credit

With bold, bright colors and classic silhouettes, Amanda Uprichard is a go-to brand for summer and spring occasion dresses. We love that it offers dresses for various dress codes, like gorgeous silk designs for more formal events. With free shipping, returns, and many subcategories to make your search easier, this brand makes shopping a breeze.

Size Range: S-XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 14 days of shipping date

If you have a full calendar of weddings this year, consider renting a dress (or two) from Rent the Runway. This online service allows you to lease designer clothing for one-time wear, an excellent option for those without extra closet space to spare. If you’ve never rented, here’s how it works: You’ll select a delivery date one to two days before you need the item and keep it for four to eight days total. A free backup size is included in every order to ensure a proper fit. We especially love that reviewers can post photos in the dress so you can get an idea of how it may look. And if you love a style, you can choose to purchase it at a discount.

Size Range: Varies depending on brand | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free for rentals (return date in your confirmation email), $5.95 for purchases within seven days

Zelie for She is a BIPOC-owned Los Angeles brand specializing in fashion-forward, uniquely designed plus-size clothing. Its dress and set selection runs from 1X to 3X and is perfect for any wedding style, but especially for individuals with unique fashion expressions. Each design is available for a limited time, making whatever you buy more special. The looks are also reasonably priced, with most coming in around $100 to $150.

Size Range: 1X-3X | Shipping: Free on orders $150+ | Returns: No refunds; exchange or store credit within 10 days of delivery

Net-a-Porter is a one-stop shop for all things designer, especially occasionwear. From red-carpet-worthy gowns to cocktail dresses, the online retail giant has a look for any wedding style with an expertly curated assortment of gorgeous styles straight off the runway. It also has an incredible assortment of shoes and accessories from top brands to finish your glamorous look. We appreciate its easy free shipping (over $150) and returns policy so you can shop without worry.

Size Range: Depends on designer | Shipping: Free on orders $150+ | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery

Luxury sleepwear brand Sleeper has ventured into new territory with its versatile dress collection. Its easy-to-wear linen dresses are an excellent option for outdoor summer weddings, and its beautiful slip dresses are ideal for various dress codes and venues. Plus, many designs are bump-friendly, so mothers-to-be take note. Do note it has a more restrictive shipping and return policy, with $15 shipping under $350 and return cost at the buyer’s responsibility.

Size Range: XS-3XL | Shipping: $15 standard, or free on orders over $350 | Returns: Within 14 days of receiving your order (and at your own expense)

Imagine a place where you can buy brands including Valentino, Stella McCartney, and Zimmermann for half off. Sounds too good to be true? Online retailer The Outnet—sister site to Net-a-Porter—makes this dream a reality. If you’re searching for a designer dress for a black-tie wedding without a ridiculous price tag, The Outnet is your best bet. It features tons of subcategories to hone in on your desired style and look.

Size Range: 00-16 | Shipping: Free on orders over $100 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery

If you’re unfamiliar with the British brand Rixo, you're in for a treat. This emerging label has a variety of wedding guest-appropriate maxi dresses featuring vintage-inspired silhouettes, bold prints, and bright hues. This is a shop for the color-obsessed—perfect for summer and spring wedding looks. We love that its sizing is inclusive, ranging from 6 to 24, and that it has a whole section for bridesmaids, mothers-in-law, and other wedding event looks. Note that because it’s an overseas brand, shipping will cost $18, and returns will be at your own expense.

Size Range: 6-24 | Shipping: $18 domestic | Returns: At your expense within 14 days

With collections designed in Paris, Stockholm, and Los Angeles, & Other Stories offers various styles, from relaxed sundresses to luxe-looking slip dresses. Its dress selection is very wearable and its pieces are sure to be closet staples. Prices are reasonable, ranging from under $60 to around $500. With accessories, shoes, and bags available, you can shop the entire look. The brand also offers super generous free shipping and returns, making shopping worry-proof.

Size Range: 0-12 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days

Sandy Liang’s unique dresses guarantee you'll never get caught twinning with anyone this wedding season. From satin, cut-out mini dresses to dramatic tulle midis, this brand is for guests who aren’t afraid to take fashion risks. We love that it also has a bridal section, including veils, and offers accessories, including handbags, jewelry, and hair pieces, to complete the look. Do note that shipping is $10, and there are no refunds, just exchanges at your return shipping expense.

Size Range: XSS-L | Shipping: $10 domestic, or free on orders over $300 | Returns: No refunds; exchanges within 14 days of purchase are at the customer’s expense

This Australian line is known for its boho-chic, ultrafeminine, super-sophisticated dresses. If you plan on attending a beach wedding, this is one brand you want to take advantage of. With clever color combinations, powerful prints, and smart detailing, there’s a reason celebs and influencers love this brand. It does not have a drop-down menu for sorting price points, but offers easy subcategory options for dress codes, time of day, color, size, and length.

Size Range: S-L/0-4 | Shipping: $10, or free on orders over $500 | Returns: Free within 15 days

Femininity and elegance are at the core of each Needle & Thread dress. The British brand has a stunning collection of embellished, sophisticated evening gowns that are perfect for a formal or black-tie wedding. We love that it has a whole wedding section for guests, the mother of the bride, flower girls, and bridesmaids. It also simplifies shopping with subcategories like length, color, size, and more. Note that shipping and returns will be around $10 each.

Size Range: 0-20 | Shipping: $9.95 for orders under $350 | Returns: $10 within 14 days of delivery

Cult Gaia is on trend at the moment, and for good reason. With exciting silhouettes, cool cutouts, and premium fabrics, each piece looks and feels like wearable art. With showstopping accessories to pair with it, you’ll be turning heads at the wedding. Shipping is free on orders over $150 and free returns within seven days.

Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $150 | Returns: Free within seven days

Mac Duggal Design House is known for its luxe fabrics, intricate hand-beading, and feminine designs that create gorgeous statement outfits for wedding guests. From red-carpet-worthy gowns to relaxed, flirty pieces, there’s something for every size, shape, and preference at Mac Duggal. Gwyneth Paltrow, Carrie Underwood, Vanessa Hudgens, Kylie Jenner, Eva Longoria, and Khloé Kardashian are just a few celebs who have worn these looks.

Size Range: 0-30 | Shipping: Free | Returns: $12 within 14 days of shipment date

Although Birdy Grey is known as a hub for bridesmaid dresses, it also offers a great selection of wedding guest dresses and accessories that are elegant, classy, and super affordable. All dresses are under $100. Choose from various colors and fabrics, and even get free swatches to ensure you love the color and texture. Shipping rates vary, and returns will cost you a $10 restocking fee, but exchanges are free.

Size Range: XS-3XL | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on the items in your cart, shipping speed, and destination | Returns: 45 days to return eligible items; $10 restocking fee for each item returned at a returns bar, with an additional $2 processing fee for items returned by mail; exchanges are free

The sister site to REVOLVE, FWRD, has an incredible roster of top designers and elite brands, both veteran and up-and-coming artists. Its products are hand-selected by a team of experts, and they will also include authenticity cards and dust bags if available. Prices range from under $50 to over $11,000, and various styles and brands are featured. Plus, the brand has a super easy free shipping and return policy.

Size Range: 0-16 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days

The ultra-romantic, sensual, and elegant gowns at Australian label Alamour are perfect for black-tie and formal affairs. With bold colors, feminine silhouettes, beautiful draping, delicate lace, and intricate sequin embellishments, Alamour The Label is for guests who want to feel sexy and sophisticated. We love that it offers a wide variety of pieces at various prices, and that they feel and look more expensive than they are. The site also has a robust sale section for discounted gems.

Size Range: XXS-5XL | Shipping: Free over AUD 250 | Returns: Free within 30 days

If you never want to wear the same dress as another guest, put Modatrova on your radar. With an incredible eye for unique, distinctive emerging brands, this retailer carefully curates each piece to ensure you are always the best-dressed guest. Each piece is shipped directly from brand partners, so shipping info varies.

Size Range: Varies by brand; typically XS-XL | Shipping: Varies by brand/item | Returns: Within seven days of receipt

A.L.C. makes incredible dresses that are considered classics with a modern twist. With gorgeous fabrics, thoughtful detailing, and flattering construction, everyone looks good in one of these gowns. We love that you can find a variety of styles, from dressy casual to formal gowns. Check out the dressy suit section for a more androgynous wedding guest look.

Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free over $200 | Returns: $10 restocking fee within 30 days of receipt

Wolf & Badger is a B Corp-certified global marketplace for more than 2,000 independent brands specializing in sustainably and ethically produced products. Not only is it size- and budget-inclusive, but it also makes browsing simple and easy, with many categories to select from. We especially love that there’s a sustainability section, which includes several subcategories like “Organic,” “Low Impact,” “Non-Toxic Dyes,” and “Happy Worker,” so eco-minded shoppers can easily find garments that align with their ethical standards.

Size Range: XXS-5XL | Shipping: Free over $250 | Returns: Free within 14 days of receipt

Inspired by an island off the coast of Nantucket, Tuckernuck is a versatile marketplace with a sporty, classic, and preppy feel. With both in-house designs and curated pieces from hundreds of other designers, like Farm Rio, Rhode, and Ciao Lucia, Tuckernuck sells a wide variety of pieces from casual dresses to vacation-style formal gowns at various price points. We love that it's size-inclusive, has a generous free shipping and return policy, and offers a fun, boutique-style shopping experience.

Size Range: 0-40; XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery

You'll find a selection of on-trend dresses at reasonable price points at Meshki. The site has a Wedding Guest page, which you can filter by ceremony type and formality. Most options are under $200, and many are under $100. In general, expect body-conscious styles that are showstopping yet elegant, with revealing details like cut-outs and plunge necklines. We especially love that Meshki offers different silhouettes in the same pattern, like this fun polka dot that comes in a halter midi, asymmetrical mini, and maxi dress option.

Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: $9.99, or free over $130 | Returns: Within 14 days minus shipping

You might not get a lot of use out of a wedding guest dress, which is where rental sites come in. Nuuly is a clothing rental subscription service that allows you to rent six styles per month for $98. Shipping and returns are free, so it's an easy, cut-and-dried way to find a stylish option for wedding season. You'll find bridal favorites from designers like Katie May, as well as contemporary brands like WAYF and Free People.

Size Range: Varies by brand | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free

What to Look for in Wedding Guest Dresses

  • Dress Code: “Definitely pay attention to the invitation to see if the dress code says black-tie or not,” says Kassab. “You don’t want to show up wearing a cocktail dress to a black-tie wedding.” Black tie means formal attire: gowns, floor-length dresses, and nothing too revealing. “If you are attending a black-tie wedding in the spring or summer, I would go for a floor-length dress in the pastel family,” Kassab suggests. Cocktail attire is semi-formal and stylish but not overly extravagant. Wear a knee-length or slightly shorter dress or even a jumpsuit and dress it up with accessories, shoes, and elegant handbags. For a beach or destination wedding, the dress code is typically more relaxed and casual. You can wear any length of dress in a light, flowy fabric (linen is a popular choice) and pair it with dressy sandals or wedges. The dressy casual dress code is more relaxed but strives for sophisticated comfort, such as a casual dress, or skirt and top accompanied by ballet flats or kitten heels.
  • Shipping and Return Policies: Check the shipping and return policy of all places you're considering buying a wedding guest dress. “Make sure you order from somewhere with great shipping and returns," affirms Kassab. "If your options don’t work, you won't be stuck."
  • Season: Pay attention to the season when shopping for your wedding guest dress (both in color choice and fabrics). Think rustic autumnal colors like browns, burnt orange, burgundy, and deep greens for fall and winter events, and go for a thicker material like velvet, brocade, satin, or vegan leather. For summer and spring, Kassab says, “It’s always nice to see some color and have fun with your wedding looks." Opt for bright, vibrant colors like pinks, purples, and blues, and go for breathable and flowing fabrics like linen, chiffon, lace, silk, and cotton.
FAQ
  • Can I wear the same dress to more than one wedding?

    Yes! “I think if you get a classic style and color, you can wear it to multiple weddings," says Kassab. "There are so many different ways to style a dress like this that it can look different depending on the accessories."

  • What styles/colors should I avoid as a wedding guest?

    Kassab recommends that any wedding guest avoid wearing white. "This also goes for colors that can be mistaken for white, like a light beige, nude, or silver,” she adds.

  • How much should I spend on a wedding guest dress?

    How much you should spend depends on your budget and comfort level. Wedding guest dresses can range from around $50 to thousands of dollars, depending on brand, materials, construction, and embellishments.

    “If it’s something simpler and timeless, you could get multiple wears. I would invest more," explains Kassab. "But if it’s a bold color or printed piece that you know you will only wear once, you may not want to break the bank."

Why Trust Brides

Chelsea Frank has been a lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on several topics, from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. Brides contributor Dagmara Cintron is a native of New York City living in Los Angeles. She contributes to several publications covering emerging Latina artists, fashion, local L.A. stories, and more. Having been in the fashion digital space for over seven years, she has scoped top products across the fashion, beauty, and home space. As a fashion copywriter, she is passionate about shopping and finding the best deals.

  • Elizabeth Kassab is a stylist and personal shopper based in New York City and Michigan.

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