If you’ve received a wedding invite in 2025, you’ve probably found yourself asking: “What does that even mean?” Gone are the days when weddings came with clear-cut wedding guest dress codes. “Black Tie.” “Cocktail Attire.” “Beach Formal.” Today, you’re more likely to see terms like “Dressy Casual,” “Garden Party Glam,” or worse—no dress code at all (we’re already panicking). Welcome to the era of undefined expectations, where dressing for a wedding is less about rules and more about personal style. And while that sounds freeing, it can also be frustrating! So what do you actually wear to a wedding now? Let’s break it down.
Why Dress Codes Are (Basically) Dead
ICYMI, weddings have majorly levelled up in the last few years. Backyard ceremonies, rooftop parties, elopements in the mountains—each one comes with a unique vibe, and many couples are ditching traditional dress codes in favor of open-ended suggestions. The result? Guests are left decoding what’s appropriate, stylish, and still comfortable enough to wear all day (and night).
But here’s the upside: it’s no longer about fitting into someone else’s mold. It’s about wearing what feels good—and looks even better.
The Wedding Guest Style Rules That Still Matter
Even though the rigid dress codes are gone, there are still some unspoken guidelines that can help you nail your wedding guest look:
- Dress for the season: Fabric and color matter more than ever. Think velvet and jewel tones in fall, satin and sage green for summer, or champagne and crepe in spring.
- Fit = confidence: You want to be comfortable enough to dance, sit, and eat cake (save us a slice)! Seek out breathable fabrics, adjustable straps, and styles that match your shape.
- Respect the aesthetic: Is the venue a barn? Ballroom? Beach? Use the setting as your guide.
Seasonal Dressing: What Works and When
One way to take the guesswork out of your outfit? Let the season lead:
- Fall Weddings: Luxe textures like velvet, satin, and crepe in colors like navy, rust, or emerald. Long sleeves or midi lengths work beautifully.
- Winter Weddings: Structured silhouettes, long sleeves, deeper tones. A navy-blue midi dress in satin is a timeless go-to.
- Spring Weddings: Florals, pastels, breezy chiffon, or champagne tones. Midi or maxi lengths offer elegance without going over the top.
- Summer Weddings: Lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton blends. Sage green dresses or floral midi styles are perfect for warm-weather weddings.
Try-On Flexibility = Game Changer
We’re all for online shopping, but one of the biggest frustrations guests face is not knowing how something will fit until it arrives. That’s why David’s offers try-on in-store, buy-online (or vice versa) experiences in the occasionwear space. You can browse hundreds of wedding guest styles online, filter by size, color, and season, then head into a local store to try them on IRL. Book an appointment to get dedicated help from an expert stylist!
Size Inclusivity is Key
Fashion doesn’t work if it only fits one type of body. David’s carries wedding guest dresses in sizes 0–30, with select styles available in petite, tall, and plus sizing. Whether you’re curvy, athletic, petite, or tall, there’s a style and a fit that’s made to flatter. And with real sizing data from over 10,000 women, the fit is not just inclusive—it’s truly accurate. You’re welcome.
Fabrics & Fits That Feel as Good as They Look
Today’s trending wedding guest styles include:
- Satin slip dresses with adjustable straps and flattering necklines
- Floral print midis that work for garden parties or outdoor venues
- Chiffon A-lines that offer movement and elegance
- Structured crepe dresses for formal occasions
Bonus points if they have pockets (and psst…many do).
Palettes That Work for Everyone
Some shades just work. Trending guest colors this year include:
- Navy Blue: It’s formal, timeless, and universally flattering.
- Sage Green: We love this soft, seasonal, on-trend hue.
All are available in a variety of cuts and sizes so you can find your shade and your fit.
The Takeaway: You’re the Dress Code Now
Weddings are more personal, relaxed, and inclusive than ever. That means the way you dress can be too. So, whether you’re browsing for a velvet midi in navy or a sage green wrap dress with stretch and support, the right outfit is the one that makes you feel incredible.
And with David’s, you don’t have to guess. Try it on, order it online, mix and match sizes, or find your perfect color—all in one place. Because when wedding guest dress codes are dead, the best thing to wear… is what fits you best!
