It’s that time of year again—wedding season. The warmer months ahead mean that your calendar is probably jam-packed with upcoming nuptials (I myself already have four on the calendar this year). As exciting as these ceremonies are, they can also be a bit stressful when it comes to picking out a wedding guest outfit.
Think about it—there are so many elements to consider: What’s the dress code? Is it on grass? What won’t make me sweat in the 90-degree heat? Will this look good with my date’s outfit? It’s enough to make your head spin. Luckily, though, we’ve landed on a few brands that always come through with chic styles to choose from, plus a range of formality options to boot. From the label with the absolute best wedding shoes for every type of ceremony terrain to the new brand guaranteed to earn you compliments, below are the nine best brands for wedding guest outfits.
“Though this photo wasn’t taken at a wedding, I have indeed worn this structured, strapless black SIR dress to one. It’s pretty much the perfect dress, not just for weddings, but for all formal and semi-formal occasions. And it doesn’t stop with just this dress. I have plenty of SIR dresses, all of which would be appropriate and chic for ceremonies both big and small, black tie and casual.” — Eliza Huber, editor
“Khaite makes some of the most gorgeous dresses on the market at the moment, pretty much all of which are appropriate for weddings. Though they are pretty pricey, I know from experience that you’ll want to wear them again and again, making the splurge more than worth it.” — Huber
“I’ve been to a handful of weddings this year and I feel like I have it down to a science. While for the majority of my formal events I try to keep a good collection of timeless dresses I can wear again and again, I approach wedding guest dressing differently. For a friend’s wedding day, I’m expected to wear a statement number that will be remembered fondly for years to come. Cult Gaia never disappoints in this category and I’ll be wearing it at 2 out of 3 weddings this year, with the bride’s approval of course.” — Mayhew
“I’m nowhere near planning a wedding but I still like to daydream about my very own special day. If I could pick one brand that all of my guests and bridesmaids would be required to wear it would have to be Shona Joy. The brand is most known for putting a modern take on classic silhouettes which is something all fashion editors love. In just a week after I’m writing this, I will be standing up in one of my best friend’s weddings wearing one of their dresses which is so exciting.” — Sierra Mayhew, associate editor
“Australian label Ajé is known for its intricate detailing, experimentation with color, and unique silhouettes. Each piece is guaranteed to make you stand out (in a good way!)”
“The perfect slip dress does exist—and it’s made by Australian label Bec and Bridge. With a range of luxe fabrics, colors, and lengths, these dresses are begging to be worn to a wedding, whether it’s as a guest or a bridesmaid. You can even style them under a blazer long after the ceremony to get even more wear out of them. Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner wore the brand in their friend’s wedding last year, just saying.”
“My party shoes have almost always been from Zara. Even my wedding shoes (for all five events) were purchased from Zara, and I don’t regret a thing about it. They didn’t cost a fortune, were comfortable, and I wore them dozens of times long after my big day. I’ve tried a few designer party shoes in the past and ended the night with blisters and sore feet. Maybe I have yet to try the right pair of designer heels but Zara hasn’t let me down thus far, so I’m staying loyal for now.” —Yusra Siddiqui, associate fashion editor
“The dress selection at Sau Lee feels fresh and unique—and their fun pieces are ideal for everything from weddings to birthday parties and special occasions. I’ll always find something that catches my eye.” — Judith Jones, senior market editor
“I am obsessed with the simple, sleek dresses Reformation has for all occasions. Their selection of classic silk and flirty floral prints is the perfect variety for year-round events. They have a large selection and affordable options if you’re like me and have lots of upcoming weddings on the docket.” — Copelyn Bengel, associate shopping editor
