We Test Before You Purchase: Stylish Wedding Guest Attire for Every Dress Code

      Our “We Try Before You Buy” series is designed to relieve the stress of shopping by reducing the number of trips you make to the Post Office each month for returning unsuccessful online orders. We test out new seasonal purchases and styling concepts so that you don’t have to, and this month, our editors have curated a range of wedding guest outfits that are worth considering this season. Spring is officially here, and wedding season is just around the corner. Your local mail carrier probably has a pile of wedding invitations in hand, and some might be headed your way. If this is the case, your immediate thought is likely, “What should I wear?” Weddings, like many formal events, come with a dress code—a set of rules to ensure you are appropriately dressed. Take it from a fashion editor: arriving at an event either over- or, even worse, under-dressed is never a good situation. Some common etiquette includes steering clear of white—this is a clear no unless stated otherwise. There may be requests for a specific color or theme, so pay attention and enjoy yourself; this day is also for you. However, be sure not to overshadow the bride—show your style and personality, but let the couple enjoy their special day. The season or location may affect your outfit choices, so consider the weather and plan accordingly to avoid wearing the wrong attire.

      In our newest edition of “We Try Before You Buy,” we aimed to explore some outfits suitable for wedding guests with various themes in mind. Whether you’ll be attending a beach wedding in the Balearics, a quaint town hall ceremony, a charming countryside celebration, a late-night reception, or an elegant black-tie event, we have something for you. Our editors have shopped and styled each outfit and have picked out additional options for you to browse, ensuring you meet the dress code and feel your best. We understand how challenging it can be to find the right outfit, so our guide is packed with tips and tricks, from modest dressing options and suiting styles (I adore a two-piece) to various dress cuts and advice on footwear and accessories. We also explored some rental choices, which are perfect for those wanting to try something new without going over budget. Dressing up should be enjoyable, and there’s no better reason to celebrate than attending a wedding.

      Regardless of the direction you choose or the type of wedding you’re going to, scroll down for our editors' reviews of some of the best options available to shop or rent now.

      **The Reception-Only Wedding**

      "Always the wedding guest, never the bride. Until it’s my turn to walk down the aisle, I’ll seize every ceremony as an opportunity to wear the most glamorous piece in my wardrobe and enjoy a day of dressing up. This season, Realisation Par’s Lila Dress in a captivating red floral print, aptly titled ‘Rosa,’ has caught my attention. This style embodies a flirty and feminine vibe, with the slightly sheer silk crepe fabric adding a touch of sensual elegance to an otherwise classic shape. The round neckline and frilled cap sleeves add a playful, youthful element, making it feel like an upgraded version of a dreamy nap dress—soft, romantic, yet a bit more sophisticated. Pair it with classic black pointed-toe stilettos, gold accessories, tortoiseshell glasses, and a swipe of red lipstick to complete the look. Next stop? The reception, cocktail in hand, ready to celebrate love." - Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer

      **Shop the Realisation Par Lila Dress:**

      Réalisation Par

      The Lila - Rosa

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      Light Pink Rose Print Corset Midi Dress

      Self-Portrait

      Floral Lace Cocktail Dress

      Rat & Boa

      The Sirena Dress

      "Famed for its exceptional dresses, Reformation was my initial choice when looking for a standout wedding guest dress. From their impressive collection, I refined my selection to the Ciana satin dress, a form-fitting maxi with long sleeves and a gentle scoop neckline. Given the occasion and the fact that I'm attending the reception only, I embraced the evening vibe with a longline silhouette. While some floral dresses can seem quite daytime, the darker color of the print combined with this silhouette elevates it to a more formal realm while still nodding to the brighter spring and summer seasons. As the dress claims the spotlight, keep styling simple with neutral or tonal heels and a small clutch for quick touch-ups. It’s incredibly comfortable while maintaining that fitted look, so you won’t need to adjust straps while dancing the night away." - Florrie Alexander, Shopping Editor

      **Shop The Reformation Ciana Dress:**

      Reformation

      Ciana Satin Dress

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      Reformation

      Veria Silk Dress

      Reformation

      Kastoria Dress

      Reformation

      Oren Silk Dress

      **The English Countryside Wedding**

      "It was a delight