The 9 Best Timeless Little Black Dresses for Wedding Guests in 2023

By
Sophie Moore
Sophie Moore
Sophie Moore

Sophie Moore is a former Brides editor and current contributing writer. With over five years of experience in bridal, she is an expert on all things fashion.

Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Updated on November 15, 2022 05:14PM
little black dress

Courtesy of Cult Gaia

Popularized by Coco Chanel in the 1920s, the little black dress has long been a closet staple. This iconic piece is beloved for its versatility, timeless aesthetic, and flattering silhouette. What's more, no matter the occasion, a little black dress never feels out of place. So, if you’re looking for a tried and true outfit that will carry you from one wedding season to the next, consider adding a little black dress (or two!) to your wedding guest wardrobe.

The beauty of a little black dress is that it goes with everything, and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the wedding's dress code and locale. LBDs also come in endless variations from simple silhouettes with classic necklines to body-hugging mini dresses with subtle embellishments. Plus, a classic black dress can endure the test of time making it a smart investment for years to come.

Whether you're attending a modern city wedding, a formal celebration, or seaside nuptials, read on for the best little black dresses every wedding guest will want.

01 of 09

Best for Dancing: Lulus Island Time Black Ruffled Midi Dress

little black dress

Courtesy of Lulus

This flouncy number from Lulus is perfect for twirling around the dancefloor. Thanks to a ruffled bodice and hemline this LBD feels playful yet elegant and is designed to move when you move. Follow the styling lead and go monochromatic with a black clutch and sunglasses.

02 of 09

Best for Making an Entrance: Taller Marmo Piccolo Ubud One-Sleeve Feather-Trimmed Crepe Mini Dress

feather dress

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Make an entrance in this captivating dress from Taller Marmo. It boasts an elegant one-shoulder neckline and is trimmed with wispy feathers for an eye-catching look. Play up the '70s-inspired silhouette with a pair of fun pumps and a metallic clutch.

03 of 09

For a Spring Wedding: Reformation Bridgton Linen Dress

Bridgton Linen Dress

Reformation

Crafted from breezy linen and boasting details like an exquisite off-the-shoulder neckline, flowing skirt, and thigh-high slit, this LBD is a divine choice for a spring or summer wedding. Pair with wedges and loose waves for a casual wedding or sleek pumps and shoulder-grazing earrings for a more formal affair.

04 of 09

Best Mini Dress: Lovers and Friends

black dress

Courtesy of Revolve

Channel your playful side with this little black mini dress. We love how the mock neck silhouette and tie closure highlight the shoulders and draw attention to the beautiful open back.

05 of 09

Most Beachy: Waimari Alicia Shirred Guipure Lace Mini Dress

black dress

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

A LBD crafted from lightweight fabrics, like cotton and airy lace, is always a smart idea for a summer wedding. We love this breezy guipure lace dress complete with a flattering shirred waist and eyelash trim for a wedding set against a seaside or countryside backdrop.

06 of 09

Best Subtle Sparkle: Mango Asymmetric Neckline Dress

Mango-asymmetric-neckline-dress

Shop Mango

This dazzling number is covered in shimmering rhinestones and is crafted from soft and comfortable velvet. We love it for a formal wedding dress code that calls for a little glamour and sparkle.

07 of 09

Most Unexpected: Nookie Adore 2Way Strapless Dress with Detachable Bow

Nookie Adore 2Way Strapless Dress with Detachable Bow

Revolve

If you're not one to shy away from a statement-making piece, then this Nookie dress definitely deserves a spot in your closet. It features a larger-than-life detachable bow that has party written all over it.

08 of 09

Most Versatile: Lulus Much Love Black Swiss Dot Long Sleeve Tie-Front Mini Dress

black dress

Courtesy of Lulus

If you're looking for a dress that can easily be worn to a wedding or post-work event, go for this timeless silhouette from Lulus. This simple style acts as a blank canvas and can easily be dressed up or down. For a semi-formal wedding, we love it with stilettos, shoulder-grazing earrings, and a sleek updo.

09 of 09

Most Retro: Reformation St. Louis Velvet Dress

black dress

Courtesy of Reformation

This eye-catching dress is sure to make you stand out in a sea of wedding guest outfits. Plus, the 1980s-inspired bubble hem adds the perfect amount of whimsy to the structured silhouette.

What to Look for in a Little Black Dress

When it comes to picking out the perfect little black dress for a wedding, make sure it's season-appropriate and adheres to the dress code. For weddings that call for cocktail attire, a little black dress is always a smart and stylish option and can easily be dressed up or down. For winter weddings, opt for silhouettes that are a little longer and crafted from warmer fabrics or feature embellishments for a festive look. And if you're wondering if you can wear a LBD to a summer wedding, the answer is yes. Mini and midi silhouettes crafted from lightweight fabrics like linen, cotton, and lace are great for spring or summer weddings and can easily be styled with colorful or neutral accessories.

FAQ
  • Can I wear a little black dress to a wedding?

    What you'll wear to a wedding is largely decided by the dress code, but, generally speaking, a little black dress is appropriate to wear to most weddings.

  • Can you wear a little black dress to a casual summer wedding?

    Absolutely! Little black dresses in breezy fabrics like cotton and linen feel especially appropriate for warm-weather nuptials.

  • What colors go with a little black dress?

    The biggest perk of a LBD is that it goes with everything. Those who want a bold look so should go for colorful and statement-making accessories, while those with minimalist tastes should consider monochromatic accents and delicate jewelry.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

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