The perfect wedding-guest dresses for every type of ceremony

Whether it’a a city rooftop or a snow-capped celebration, winter weddings require a sartorial strategy. While your puffer jacket might keep you warm, it won’t exactly win you the best-dressed guest. Enter: Forever New. The womenswear retailer has a full range of wedding guest dresses to shop. Its long-sleeved midi dresses are both elegant and practical, offering enough coverage that you won’t catch a chill, with bold prints and chic silhouettes that will turn heads.

We’re loving the Allanah Mesh Midi Dress in blue: a maximalist, form-fitting mesh-jersey dress that flatters the figure, while keeping things modest with a high neckline. Petite guests, you don’t need to miss out. Opt for the Minni Petite Mesh Barot Midi. It’s edgy yet refined, complete with a back slit for dance-floor ease — and best of all, no hemming required. Then just throw a chic coat on for the commute: find our faves in our winter edit.

Sizes offered: 4–24

Florals for spring? Sure, not exactly groundbreaking (thanks Miranda Priestly), but always cute and very appropriate. Petal and Pup’s vibrant prints and breezy fabrics are made for warm-weather “I dos” under the sun. Opt for pastels, bow details, or hot pink hues that’ll pop in photos.

We’re swooning over the Betina Bow Front Maxi, a romantic floral number that’s ideal for daytime celebrations. Or take a bolder route with the Butterfields Strapless Mini in hot pink. It’s playful, punchy and made for the dance floor.

Sizes offered: 6–20

Been handed a dress code as precise as a Pantone swatch? St Frock has you covered. What began as a humble Bondi market stall is now a full-blown fashion destination known for bold prints, size inclusivity, and dresses that won’t break the bank. You can shop by narrowing it down to a certain print or colour for ease.

For cocktail-coded affairs, the Toulon One-Shoulder Maxi Dress in khaki with a rust leaf print is a flattering choice, featuring clever ruching and a sleek silhouette. After something more romantic? The Paris Dreamer Mini in blush tones is dreamy enough for the big day and versatile enough to wear again to a long lunch.

Sizes offered: 8–24

Escaping to the Amalfi Coast or a Grecian isle to watch your loved ones tie the knot? Meshki is your passport to style. Think slinky silhouettes, rich fabrics, and a definite European heiress off-duty vibe.

Top of our list: the Bex Strapless Slinky Maxi in icy blue, designed for sun-drenched clifftop ceremonies and champagne toasts under fairy lights. Or for evening elegance, try the Paige Strapless Velvet Maxi. With a corset waist and gathered detailing, it’s va-va-voom without compromising on comfort.

Sizes offered: XXS–XXXL

If the dress code says black tie, the dress should say, “main character energy.” Showpo’s occasionwear is perfect for those big, dramatic entrances, and size-inclusive to boot.

Our top pick? The Helaina Strapless Satin Midi, a luxe A-line silhouette that’s elegant, twirl-friendly, and lets your shoes shine. If you want to bring the drama, opt for the Emmary Tulle Maxi. It combines a structured bustier with floaty chiffon layers, making it ideal for sweeping through candlelit receptions (and catching the eye of a mysterious stranger).

Sizes offered: 4–20

Whatever the dress code or destination, the perfect wedding guest outfit makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate love in style. Just stay away from white – unless the bride asks otherwise, of course!

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