20 Formal Wedding Guest Dresses for Spring & Summer Weddings

Winter is in full swing here in New York, and as a wedding professional, I am already looking ahead to spring and summer, when warmth and love are in the air. If you’ve been invited to a wedding during this time, I’m sure you’re also looking ahead with some excitement. I have good news for you: now is the perfect time to start looking for what to wear, both so you can find your perfect dress and so you’re not worried about it as the wedding gets closer. 

Whether you’re just starting your hunt, or you’ve gotten ahead of schedule and have already been searching for some time, this blog of 21 guest dresses (with my stamp of approval) is for you. 

I’ve divided them up into four categories: Youthful, bold, classic, and dramatic. This way, you’re bound to find something you’re looking for. 

Youthful 

This section is dedicated to those looking to embrace the lighthearted, carefree whimsy of spring and summer with their guest attire. These dresses are fun and colorful, while maintaining an air of maturity befitting an adult. 

1. AQUA x Kerri Rosenthal Pleated Corset Gown in Pink Multi. 

Talk about fun! This ankle-length gown is perfect for when spring has sprung or when the bright colors of summer are calling your name. With a flirty A-line silhouette and a weight that can withstand the last of the winter winds, this dress is a season-wide winner. 

2. L’AGENCE – Elise Chain Halter Midi Dress in Sky

This dress redefines “youthful” as we’ve known it previously. This pattern is growing in popularity among young adults, and the relaxed fit is perfect for a beach wedding. It gives a cool, breezy, and laid back aura and makes me think of soaking up the sun. 

3. KIKA VARGAS – Taffeta Ava Maxi Dress in Red

A true red number this time, this taffeta maxi dress balances youthful whimsy with a mature silhouette. The neckline leaves just enough room for a gorgeous necklace and makes this dress wearable with almost any hairstyle. 

4. Mac Duggal – Pleated One Shoulder Chiffon Gown in Raspberry

I swear I saw this gown in a dream once. The warm purple color is incomparable, and the flowy fabric would work well with any sort of sparkly accessories. If you’re looking for something straight out of a fairytale or a daydream, you’ve found it. 

Bold

If the world were a photograph, I would say spring and summer increase the saturation. Every color and detail is heightened, and the world not only feels brighter, but richer. As such, a bold dress like one of these will match the season’s extravagant energy.

1. TUCKERNUCK – Floral Sequin Roxy Dress in Green

This dress is first up because it is the definition of bold. With its bright colors and unique sequin elements, it’s perfect for a wedding where guests are expected to go all-out with their individuality. 

2. Aje – Pandorea Layered Maxi Dress in Coral Clay

This dress speaks for itself. If you’re looking to make a statement, or measure up to the extravagant flowers and plant life in a lush garden wedding, this tiered chiffon extravaganza is for you. 

3. SAU LEE – Keilani Ruffle-Sleeve Maxi Dress in Red

This dress is a bit less detailed than its peers, but the bright orange-red color and form-fitting silhouette makes a statement. The ruffles add some extra personality, and the rest of the dress lends itself to a sleek look befitting multiple styles. 

4. L’IDEE – Opera Gown in Campari

If you’re looking for a dress that will flow in the warm breeze, look no further. This pleated gown has an ethereal feel to it, reminiscent of mermaids or tropical birds, which makes it perfect for a beachside or resort wedding. 

Classic

Never fear, for those of you looking for the tried-and-true, almost certain to work well, you’ve found your home. These dresses are simple and timeless with the familiar silhouettes we all know and love, but not at all lacking in individuality. 

1. Reformation – Frankie Silk Dress in Sage

This dress combines floral elements, a wedding guest dress trend that has withstood the test of time, with the light, flowy silk that’s all the rage right now. The thin straps and shade of green makes this dress perfect for a garden or terrace wedding, helping the scenery and the weather work for you. 

2. STAUD – Wayfaring Dress in Dark Chocolate

This understated number flows easily across the body, balancing formality with a laid-back feeling perfect for an evening of good conversation. Pair with a favorite pair of earrings or fruity cocktail and get ready to dance the night away. 

3. TUCKERNUCK – Dupioni Esme Dress in Green

Simple, sleek and accessory-friendly, this dress combines the volume of  a ball gown with the ease of a flowy sundress. Modest and light, this dress is perfect for any venue and could be combined with a shawl for any religious ceremonies. 

4. Reformation – Fallon Dress in Hothouse Rose

Adorable and simple, this lightweight georgette gown combines spring’s florals with summer’s flowy silhouette. As you walk, the ruffles will move out of the way to reveal your shoes, providing a perfect opportunity to wear a spectacular pair of heels. 

5. TUCKERNUCK – Zanzibar Artemis Dress in Blue and Black

You can never go wrong with a simple black dress, but with a trendy pop of color the same shade as a clear sky, this dress has its own personality. Pair it with a pair of slingback heels, and your confidence will be your best accessory.

6. Black Halo – Rosario One-Shoulder Ruched Maxi Dress in Black Motif

Another floral gown, this one sings of springtime and includes a unique asymmetrical neckline with ruched detailing to luxuriate in. Pair with an updo and a brisk evening, and this dress is sure to reach its full potential. 

Dramatic 

This group of dresses combines bold with classic, for those of you looking for something less detailed that can still keep up with the lush greenery and gorgeous sunsets this season has to offer. 

1. STAUD – Beaton Dress in Dark Chocolate

This dress is a perfect balance between thick velvet and light chiffon. With its deep cocoa and draping cowl neck, this dress is delectably on-trend and perfect for a breezy day or night.

2. Delfi Collective – Oriana Sleeveless Drop-Waist Satin Maxi Dress in Olive

I debated whether to put this one under Dramatic or Bold, but ultimately, the draping fabric of this gown allowed the dramatic to win over. This gown’s sharp, yellow-green color is chartreuse’s more muted sibling (and quite the popular choice right now), and its fullness makes it an extravagant ball gown of the modern day. 

3. Reformation – Camella Dress in Sangre

This deep red pleated gown is an eye-catcher for sure. Straight out of a modern adaptation of a classic stage play, this gown brings movement and elegance to the table and practically begs to be paired with a pair of ruby earrings. 

4. Reformation – Kastoria Dress in Golden Hour

This gown is for those looking for muted tones and all the elements of a dreamy ball gown. Another blend between genres, this mix of classical and dramatic can be worn with or without straps, allowing you a versatile, timeless look with flair. 

5. STAUD – Andrea Dress in Rouge

This stunning gown drapes over the body like expertly-placed decorations. With an off-shoulder neckline perfect for a short necklace, this gorgeous piece has more structure than its peers but still allows you to breathe easily in warm weather.