Wedding Guest Dresses 2025: Your Style Guide
And just like that, from the moment you've opened the invitation, it's already time to start planning what you're going to wear. Do you go for something subtle and elegant or something that makes a statement - without upstaging the bride (of course!).
The last thing we want is a fashion mishap, but don't worry, we're here to help. Let's get you sorted this wedding season with effortless styles, beautiful prints and elegant silhouettes, without breaking any of those unwritten wedding guest dress codes.
We've put together this guide with dress options for any kind of wedding you have coming up. Keep scrolling to find out what to wear (and not wear) to a wedding from Reina Maison!
What To Wear To A Wedding As A Guest
The clues are in the invite. Most wedding invites have semi-formal as their dress code but how formal to go can vary based on everyone's individual idea of what formal means. A great tip is to have a quick look at what the venue looks like to decide the level of formality you'd like to go for. For example, you may opt for a semi-formal look for an outdoor garden wedding compared to strict black tie for a grand hotel venue.
Here's a quick breakdown of wedding dress codes:
Black-Tie/Formal
This is as fancy as it gets. Black-tie events usually happen in the late afternoon or evening and call for formal floor-length gowns. There are some exceptions where a cocktail dress is acceptable and this is if they include 'black-tie optional' anywhere in the invite. It's slightly less formal but still dressed up enough to be considered formal.
Floral One Shoulder Evening Gown Puffed Sleeve with High Slit
Semi-Formal
Not as formal as black-tie but not as casual as a summer dress you'd wear on a brunch date, semi-formal is a balancing act of elegance, comfort and venue-appropriate attire. You can include floor-length dresses (not gowns) here and bring out the dressy midi dresses and cocktail styles.
Sleeveless Long Evening Gown Floral Shoulder V-Neck High Slit
Cocktail
Cocktail attire is the sweet spot for most weddings. Think knee-length or midi dresses in elegant fabrics. You can have fun with colours and prints here whilst still looking polished and put together.
Floral One Shoulder Evening Gown Puffed Sleeve with High Slit
Smart Casual
The trickiest one to interpret! Smart casual means you can relax a little but still need to look put together. A nice midi dress or a dressy jumpsuit works perfectly here.
What NOT To Wear To A Wedding
Let's get the obvious ones out of the way:
Don't wear white. Or cream. Or ivory. Or anything that could be mistaken for white in photos. This is the bride's day and her colour - leave it to her!
Avoid anything too revealing. Yes, you want to look gorgeous, but save the super short hemlines and plunging necklines for a night out with friends instead.
Skip the casual pieces. Even if it says casual on the invite, jeans and trainers are a no-go. Think 'elevated casual' instead.
Don't match the bridal party. If you know the bridesmaids are wearing blush pink, maybe choose a different colour palette to avoid any confusion in photos.
Dressing For The Season
Spring Weddings
Spring weddings are all about fresh starts and blooming gardens. This is your chance to embrace florals, pastels and light fabrics. A midi dress in a soft pink or lavender works beautifully, or go for a floral print if you're feeling more playful.
The weather can be unpredictable in spring, so having a lovely shawl or tailored jacket on hand is always a good idea.
Summer Weddings
When temperatures rise, so can your style. Summer weddings call for vibrant colours, tropical vibes and breathable fabrics. A flowing maxi dress in a bold colour like emerald or coral will have you looking effortlessly chic whilst keeping cool.
Beach weddings need special consideration - think lighter fabrics that won't weigh you down and shoes that can handle sand. A breezy cocktail dress is perfect here.
Autumn Weddings
Autumn brings those gorgeous rich tones we all love. Think burgundy, navy, burnt orange and forest green. This is the season for luxe fabrics like velvet and satin that add that extra bit of sophistication.
A midi or maxi dress in jewel tones paired with elegant accessories creates that perfect autumn wedding look.
One Shoulder Long Evening Dress Shimmer Fabric High Slit
Winter Weddings
Winter weddings are magical and call for a bit of drama. Darker colours like black, navy and deep plum work beautifully, or you can opt for metallics and shimmer for evening celebrations.
Don't forget a gorgeous wrap or faux fur stole to keep you warm during those outdoor photos!
Strapless Long Evening Gown Bow Accent with High Slit
Choosing By Venue
Garden Weddings
Garden ceremonies are wonderfully romantic. Floral prints and flowing fabrics work perfectly here - think feminine silhouettes that complement the natural surroundings without looking too casual.
City & Hotel Weddings
These venues tend to lean more formal. A structured cocktail dress or elegant maxi in sophisticated colours shows you understand the dress code. This is where sleeker silhouettes really shine.
Destination Weddings
Heading abroad for a wedding? Look for pieces that pack well and suit the climate. Wrinkle-resistant fabrics are your best friend here! Mediterranean wedding? Go for flowing linens and bright colours. Somewhere tropical? Lightweight fabrics are essential.
What's Trending For Wedding Guests in 2025
One-Shoulder Styles
One-shoulder dresses are everywhere right now and for good reason - they're flattering on everyone and add just the right amount of interest to your look.
Floral One Shoulder Ruffled Maxi Dress with Slit
Bold Colours
Forget blending into the background. 2025 is all about making a statement with rich, saturated colours. Deep reds, vibrant emeralds and bold cobalt blues are having their moment.
Off Shoulder Cocktail Dress with Ruffle Detail Satin Fitted
Elegant Metallics
A bit of shimmer is always welcome at weddings. Champagne tones, soft golds and rose gold add elegance without being over the top. Just keep it tasteful and you'll look perfectly polished.
Statement Florals
Florals are a wedding classic but this year they're bolder and more artistic. Look for oversized blooms and contemporary patterns rather than tiny prints.
The Finishing Touches
Your dress is just the beginning. The right accessories pull your whole look together.
Keep jewellery elegant - if your dress has embellishment, keep accessories minimal. If your dress is simple, this is your chance to add a statement piece.
Choose comfortable shoes - you'll be on your feet for hours, so make sure you can actually walk (and dance!) in them.
Bring a clutch that fits the essentials - phone, lipstick, tissues (for happy tears!) and maybe some blister plasters just in case.
Ready To Find Your Perfect Look?
The key to being a stylish wedding guest is finding something that makes you feel confident and comfortable whilst respecting the couple's big day. Whether you're drawn to timeless elegance or love following the latest trends, there's a perfect dress waiting for you.
Most importantly? Enjoy the celebration! You're there to witness something beautiful and create lovely memories.
Browse our collection of evening gowns and cocktail dresses to find your perfect wedding guest look for 2025.
