If you’re looking for a floor length wedding guest dress, you’ve come to the right place! Jessica wrote to us in our Ask Emmaline inbox last week and I’m brimming with excitement to share the formal gowns I discovered for her to wear.
Did I add a few to my own cart? Yes, but this isn’t about me, it’s about Jessica. :)
Long story short, she’s heading to a formal wedding in November and is unsure what kind of dress she should wear to it. She writes,
“Dear Emmaline, I am attending a November wedding for a family friend and I’m not sure what to wear. I know the dress code is formal, so I’m guessing it should be a floor-length gown? Is that right? Do you have any suggestions of long elegant dresses for wedding guests? I’d love something in navy blue or black, but I’m not picky. What color dress should I wear? Thanks for your help!”
Great question, Jessica! For starters, I love that the dress code is given on the invitation, which leaves you with less questions when it comes to what to wear. It’s so much easier when the dress code is provided.
Here are some tips on what to wear so you’re right on track.
What Length To Wear to a Formal Wedding?
For a formal wedding, you’re perfectly right: a floor-length gown is ideal.
You’ll pair the look with formal heels, jewelry, and an evening bag.
Formal Wedding Colors to Wear: November
As far as colors go, you’re right in line with black or navy blue; colors for the fall season like emerald green, burgundy, rust orange, marigold, brown, gold, etc. are all great color choices. You really can’t go wrong!
And with your hints of black or navy blue as favorite colors, I got to work to do some digging to find the best dress you can wear. In this list you’ll find perfect long elegant dresses to wear to the wedding and look your very best.
Let’s get started!
1. Magenta Velvet Maxi Dress with Deep V-Neckline, $99
This gorgeous shade of red makes a perfect formal gown for fall. The velvet material is ideal for this time of year! By Lulu’s.
2. Long Elegant Velvet Dress with Sequins, $99
What a gorgeous style! The neckline here is unique and sophisticated, with just a small sections of sequins for a little added sparkle. I love it in hunter green, but you can find other colors here.
3. Floral Velvet Strapless Gown, $119
What do you think of a velvet floral pattern? This strapless gown brings the elegance to a whole new level in a dress that will make a gorgeous fashion statement. Dance the night away in comfort and style! Get it here.
4. High Neckline Formal Gown in Black, $89
For a formal occasion like a reception, you’ll feel elegant in this floor length gown in black with a high neckline. So sophisticated! Get it here.
5. Elegant Green Maxi Dress in Satin, $89
I picked this dress because I love how it gathers at the floor in a beautifully sumptuous pool of satin! It’s a gorgeous color in emerald green and features an elegant neckline and strappy back. Available here.
6. Emerald Green Pleated and Tiered Maxi, $110
Wear this glamorous green dress with elegant pleats allover. I love the soft, flowy chiffon and the open back on this dress. Available here.
7. Long Sleeve V-Neckline Dress in Navy Blue, $104
Do you want a long sleeve dress? Wear this to the wedding and be comfortable yet elegant in a floor length v-neckline dress with soft and billowy long sleeves. By Lulu’s.
8. Ruffle One-Shoulder Black Gown, $91
If a black dress is what you’re after, this is one of the most elegant styles out there! I love the ruffle one-shoulder detail. Get it here.
9. Blue Pleated Maxi Dress with Cut-Outs, $129
Ooh, this dress is made for dancing! You mentioned navy blue, so I picked this color, but the red and light blue are also beautiful contenders! Wear this dress and you’ll be one of the best dressed guests at the wedding! Get it here.
10. Mock Neck Black Satin Maxi, $88
A high neckline or mock neck is the epitome of elegance when it comes to formal evening gowns. This dress has it all: black shiny satin, a long floor length silhouette, a mock neckline, and sleeveless style. Love! By Lulu’s.
11. Billowy Sleeve Navy Blue Gown with Sleeves, $88
Rock the reception in this glamorous long sleeve wedding guest dress in navy blue. It’s also available in black here.
12. Hunter Green Flaring Mermaid Maxi, $89
I really like this dress as an option because the color is gorgeous and unique, plus the flared out skirt adds a bit of drama to your wedding guest ensemble. If you prefer it in black, you can see it here. The off-the-shoulder neckline is gorgeous, too! Available here.
Ok, that should do it! These twelve dresses are a great launching point to help you decide what to wear to the wedding. And if you want more options, this page has a bunch of great suggestions.
Thanks so much for writing! Have fun at the wedding, you’re going to look great!
xo
Emma
formalwedding guest dress
Emma Arendoski
Emma is the CEO of Emmaline Bride, The Handmade Wedding Blog, published author, leading wedding expert, and wedding planner. Read her latest book: The Inspired Wedding. Wife, mother, coffee lover. Follow on Instagram and at Emmaline Baby for baby + kids inspiration.
