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- Wedding Guest Attire
A roundup of styles that will allow you to feel bold, confident, and absolutely comfortable.
In a world where designers are continuing to push the boundaries when it comes to skin-barring silhouettes, it can be hard to find a dress that aligns with your comfort level, or possibly your personal values, especially as it pertains to formalwear. For wedding guests, in particular, finding a conservative ensemble in a sea of risk-taking looks can be extremely hard—but that doesn't mean it's entirely impossible. While modesty can mean different things for different types of people, individuals shopping for a modest wedding guest dress are usually searching for a look that allows them to feel bold, confident, and absolutely comfortable in their own skin. And whether that's wearing a conservative gown that completely covers your arms and legs, or donning a vibrant long sleeve mini dress, there's no right or wrong way to dress modestly for a wedding, as long as you're adhering to the couple's overall theme and dress code. So, for those searching for a modest wedding guest dress to wear to an upcoming celebration, we've rounded the top styles available to shop now. Read on for more. Our Top Picks For a Winter Wedding: Best Jewel-Tone Option: Most Vibrant: For a Festive Wedding: Eywasouls Malibu Damnia Printed Stretch Jersey Maxi Dress at Net-a-Porter (See Price) Best Vintage-Inspired: Best Metallic Option: Dima Ayad Belted Two-Tone Brocade Gown at Net-a-Porter ($630) Most Affordable: Size:XXS - XL |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns For guests planning to attend a winter wedding, this ribbon sleeve Norma Kamali gown is one to consider. While modest and demure in the front, it does boast an open-back design and side leg cut out for those who are okay with showing a little skin. Size:XS - L |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns For lovers of jewel-tone ensembles, look no further than Caroline Constas's Allonia gown. A perfect choice for fall and winter nuptials, this beautiful dress would effortlessly fit in at a celebration with a black-tie or formal dress code. The 27 Best Formal Wedding Guest Dresses Size:XS - XXL |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns This long sleeve gown takes a modern approach to a modest style as it features a plunging neckline, a bright fuchsia hue, and a small side slit. If this dress fits your aesthetic, take a cue from the styling lead and pair yours with strappy black sandals and chandelier earrings. Size:XS/S & M/L |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns with 28 days of receipt Attending a wedding with a festive theme? This ‘70s-inspired Eywasouls Malibu dress would be the life of the party. Keep in mind, however, that it does have an open-back design which shows a bit of skin. Size:UK 2 - 20 |Length:Ankle |Return Policy:Free returns with 14 days of receipt There are so many details to love about this one-shoulder dress. Made with a floaty georgette fabric in a paisley print, we can absolutely see it being worn at a summer, destination wedding. Size:FR 34 - 46 |Length:Mini |Return Policy:Free returns with 28 days of receipt If you're open to sporting bare legs, we absolutely recommend this stunning Lavin cape mini. Style yours with strappy heels and a statement purse for a one-of-a-kind wedding guest look. You can even pair it with tights if you'd prefer a more conservative look. The 18 Best co*cktail Dresses for Wedding Guests of 2024 Size:XS - XXXXL |Length:Midi |Return Policy:Free returns with 28 days of receipt For a fashion-forward look, try this metallic brocade dress from Dima Ayad. It boasts a loose silhouette with a boat neck for a comfortable fit, and wide short sleeves to keep you cool during the warmer months. Size:00 - 4 |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns with 28 days of receipt First showcased during Zimmermann's Spring '23 'Wonderland' show, this maxi dress is ideal for guests with unique tastes. Pair it with strappy heels for a formal touch or black boots for an edgy aesthetic. Size:S - XL |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Varies on a case-by-case basis If you want a full-coverage design but prefer to wear pants, consider this jumpsuit from Payal Khandwala. It's beautifully made with handwoven silk, and specifically tailored to fit a range of sizes and body silhouettes. The 41 Best Places to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style, Season, and Budget Size:0 - 14 |Length:Floor |Return Policy:Free returns with 28 days of receipt Bold and dynamic, this ASOS maxi features tons of personality from the lilac hue to the cowl neck and animal print design. The best part? Guests can purchase this dress for under $100. As mentioned above, modesty varies from person to person, so when shopping for this style of dress, it's important to hone in on your personal style and opt for looks that feel most comfortable for you. Looking to show a little skin? A long sleeve gown with a slightly open back might be a great option to consider. Interested in a more conservative design? Select a long sleeve gown that features a bold hue or pattern to truly make a statement. No matter the approach you choose to take, as long as you're in alignment with your personal beliefs and the wedding dress code, you'll be the best-dressed guest at every celebration. FAQ Is it required to dress modestly to a wedding? While guests should avoid wearing outfits that are too revealing, it's not required to wear modest attire, unless specifically requested by the couple. What type of dresses are appropriate to wear to a wedding? Wedding guests should base their attire on the dress code designated by the couple. For instance, if attending a black-tie wedding, long formal gowns are an appropriate choice for this type of celebration. Attending a casual backyard affair? Feel free to don a floral maxi dress to match the occasion. What type of attire is inappropriate to wear as a wedding guest? While this can vary from wedding to wedding, generally speaking, wedding guests should avoid donning hues that match the bridal party, attire that is too casual, pieces that are overly flashy and overly revealing, and, most importantly, anything white. The 41 Best Places to Buy Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style, Season, and Budget What to Look for in a Modest Wedding Guest Dress