40+ Best Spring Wedding Guest Dresses - Zola Expert Wedding Advice (2024)

Wondering what to wear to a spring wedding? Browse our 50 favorite outfit ideas for inspiration!

With the approach of spring comes the official start of wedding season—which means it’s time to start thinking about what to wear to any spring weddings you’re attending! Of course, any potential wedding guest attire should start with the bride’s dress code, but where do you go from there? Read below for etiquette tips, seasonal considerations, and favorite picks for what to wear to a spring wedding this season.

Formal Spring Wedding Guest Dresses

Casual Spring Wedding Guest Dresses

Spring Wedding Shoes and Accessories

Formal Spring Wedding Moodboard

Casual Spring Wedding Moodboard

Seasonal Considerations

While spring is a lovely time of year, early springtime months can still be chilly. If you’re wondering how to stay warm during a chillier spring wedding, follow these tips:

  • Accessorize with a shawl: Just because it’s chilly doesn’t mean you can’t wear your favorite spring, short sleeve co*cktail dress—just accessorize it with a shawl you can keep around your shoulders.

  • Complement with a coat: Aside from being incredibly stylish, a long sleeve chic coat will keep you warm.

  • Opt for close-toed shoes: You might be dying to wear those spring sandals, but you’re bound to be shivering if you wear them with a high-low dress to a cooler outdoor wedding. Instead, opt for pumps or slingbacks that keep your toes covered.

- Choose a dress with sleeves: A shift dress with sleeves is a wonderful way to add some warmth to your outfit.

Formal Spring Wedding Guest Dresses

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1. Satin Maxi Dress – Lulus

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The subtle elegance of this gown’s embossed floral print design pairs perfectly with an asymmetrically cut maxi skirt for a touch of sultry flair.

Best for: The elegant guest

2. Hyacinth Tiered Floral Organza Dress – Staud

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From the delicate crew neckline and on-trend tiered silhouette to the cheerful magenta color and floral print, this stunning dress is sure to make a statement.

Best for: The cheerful guest

3. Nadira Dress – Ulla Johnson

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Turn heads in this bohemian-style maxi dress that features an intricately smocked neckline and full sleeves.

Best for: The boho guest

4. Midleton Dress – Reformation

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Give your standard floral-patterned dress an edge with this fully lined dress. The mock neckline, open-back style, and puffed sleeves make for a bold, slightly dramatic look.

Best for: The fashion-forward guest

5. Winslow Dress – Reformation

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This airy wrap dress features an adjustable waist tie, so you can wear it as tight or loose as you please. While you can’t go wrong with this spring-inspired pastel shade, it’s also available in a few floral prints.

Best for: The graceful guest

6. Lace Maxi Dress – Anthropologie

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This flowing maxi dress features eye-catching sequined floral detail for a stunning outfit choice, with a free-flowing shape that means you don’t have to sacrifice comfort!

Best for: The glamorous guest

7. Maeve Ruffled Maxi Dress – Anthropologie

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Bold prints are in this season, and this dress balances them perfectly with soft, spring-inspired hues and romantic ruffle detailing.

Best for: The bold guest

8. Cowl Neck Midi Slip Dress – Dessy

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This delicate slip dress is simple yet stunning, with a trendy cowl neck and lux fabric. The convertible straps can be worn as a halter or threaded in a crisscross style in the back—both sure to turn heads.

Best for: The trendy guest

9. Nikita Floral Dress – Reformation

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Twirl across the dance floor in this flirty spring-worthy maxi dress. The ruffled trim, flowy skirt, and sweetheart neckline offer a romantic touch.

Best for: The romantic guest

10. Nicole Sweetheart Neck Dress – Dress the Population

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The classic cut of this dress creates a sensual look that’s still modest enough to wear to a wedding. Its contemporary crepe construction is ultra curve-flattering!

Best for: The formal guest

11. Amelie Dress – Anthropologie Weddings

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This airy maxi dress features fluttery layers of chiffon that create a romantic waterfall effect, balanced out by a tie waist detail.

Best for: The ethereal guest

12. Long Sleeve Maxi Dress – For Love and Lemons

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If you’re looking to add some edge to a romantic style, this flowing chiffon maxi dress makes it happen with modern cutouts and a fun metallic dot print.

Best for: The edgy guest

Best for: The relaxed guest

13. Strapless Bustier Maxi Dress – Lulus

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Show up in style with this floral print maxi dress featuring understated purple hues. The strapless bustier-inspired bodice features side boning and corset-style seaming to create a structured shape that’s still breezy enough to hit the dance floor.

Best for: The put-together guest

14. Sleeveless 3D Guipure Lace Midi Dress – Marchesa Notte

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Available in two gorgeous jewel tones, this lace midi dress was practically designed for a spring wedding! The scalloped lace detail across the straps adds a flirty touch, balanced by the classic A-line skirt cut.

Best for: The classic guest

15. Sunray Belted Pleated Midi Dress – Zimmerman

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Cut from breezy chiffon, the pleated detail in this dress creates a sophisticated look, and the gold-tone chain links threaded through the high neck and waist belt add an eye-catching yet subtle statement.

Best for: The stylish guest

16. Bow-Tie Maxi Dress – Hutch

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The bow-tie detail on this contemporary maxi dress makes for a style just as bold as it is elegant.

Best for: The statement-making guest

17. Floral Chiffon Midi Dress – BB Dakota x Steve Madden

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This flouncy, floral print dress is spring-approved—made of airy chiffon and complete with subtle ruffle sleeve details.

Best for: The sophisticated guest

18. Beso E Coco Fringed Halter Dress – No Pise La Grama

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If your style is more out-of-the-box, this gorgeous dress is for you. The flirty fringe adds depth and movement to your look, and a crossover halter neck completes this elegant silhouette.

Best for: The funky guest

19. Aveline Gown – Ulla Johnson

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A spring-inspired Tigerlily floral pattern makes this smocked silk gown an absolute standout—not to mention delicate spaghetti strap shoulder ties and soft ruffle detailing.

Best for: The chic guest

20. Floral Cutout Gown – Mac Duggal

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We love this floral printed chiffon gown for a bold but still appropriate spring wedding outfit. Alluring cutouts and an open back with lace-up detail balance out the puff-shouldered sleeves of this sweeping, swoon-worthy dress.

Best for: The daring guest

Casual Spring Wedding Guest Dresses

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21. Floral Long Sleeve Mini Dress – Lulus

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This dress is all about balance with a short hemline and modest, rounded neckline. The sheer decolletage detail adds an elegant flair to the playful ruffles on the sleeves and trim.

Best for: The floral-loving guest

22. Alela Mini Dress – LoveShackFancy

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This custom hand-dyed floral lace mini dress is soft and romantic, perfect for a daytime spring wedding. The tie-dye pastel hues make this a fun choice that’s still structured and sophisticated.

Best for: The fun guest

23. Destiny Cut-Out Mini Wrap Dress – Jonathan Simkhai

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This airy, pastel blue is the perfect springtime shade! This mini wrap dress creates a structured look thanks to the collared neckline and button sleeves, with a cutout detail on the back to give it some edge.

Best for: The tailored guest

24. Floral Chiffon Fit & Flare Mini Dress – Mac Duggal

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Embrace the romance with this fluttery chiffon mini dress in a sunny yellow hue. The floral print, ruffle hem, and open back add a touch of playfulness to this sweet springtime dress.

Best for: The sweet guest

25. Long Sleeve Ruched Center Dress – ASTR the Label

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If your style leans cottagecore, this sweet mini dress is right up your alley. The V neckline creates a slimming silhouette that leads to a ruched center for added detail, along with puffed-shoulder sleeves that make a statement.

Best for: The cottagecore guest

26. Floral Cut-Out Mini Dress – Anthropologie

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This spirited floral mini dress uses bold hues and bright floral prints to create a stunning look for your next spring wedding event. We can’t get enough of the ruffled neckline and billowing sleeves!

Best for: The spirited guest

27. Santa Fe Dress – Yumi Kim

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Embrace the season’s blooming florals in this bright off-the-shoulder dress. Ruffle detailing makes for a fun and flirty fit that you won’t want to take off!

Best for: The vibrant guest

28. Manzanilla Floral Tiered Mini Dress – Agua by Agua Bendita

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Tiered for a gorgeous flared hem, this floral mini dress practically screams spring! Romantic touches like a drawstring V neckline and delicate puff sleeves make this dress perfect for your next garden party wedding event.

Best for: The delicate guest

29. Wild Dreams Mini Dress – Show Me Your Mumu

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This fun and flouncy mini dress is what vintage-inspired dreams are made of! We love the retro, paisley print in gorgeous springtime shades, and the tiered skirt makes this dress just as flattering as it is fashionable.

Best for: The retro guest

30. Tama Asymmetric Satin Twill Mini Dress – Cult Gaia

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You'll adore this satin slip dress if you tend to reach for simple, no-fuss dresses, especially in plus size. This dress kicks things up a notch with its asymmetric shoulder straps and gold-tone metallic accents.

Best for: The simple guest

31. Joaquin Halter Neck Jumpsuit – Black Halo

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If you’re looking for a non-dress option when deciding what to wear to a spring wedding, consider a jumpsuit. This stylish jumpsuit has a sleek halter neckline that makes a powerful statement, and the peachy color keeps it spring-appropriate.

Best for: The polished guest

32. Selkie Puff Mini Dress – BHLDN

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For an event as magical as a wedding, you need a dress to match. This playful mini dress evokes dreamy fairy-like vibes that perfectly fit the bill.

Best for: The majestic guest

33. Gianna Dress – MISA Los Angeles

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This dress makes dressing up for a spring wedding seem effortless. The long sleeves, smocked neckline, and paisley pattern come together to create the perfect rustic look.

Best for: The rustic guest

34. Sachin & Babi Kendal Dress – BHLDN

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Make a statement in this tailored mini dress made with a metallic floral brocade. Puff sleeves add a playful finishing touch, and the soft, salmon hue is perfect for spring.

Best for: The eccentric guest

35. Lani Dress – With Jéan

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Spring has sprung, so why not dress for it with this sweet slip-style dress? Designed with pastel blooms and adjustable shoulder ties, it’s effortlessly tailored for your next spring wedding event.

Best for: The pastel-loving guest

36. Lace Skater Dress – Lulus

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This dress is casual enough for a laid-back dress code while still hitting the mark in terms of elegance. The floral lace overlay creates charming detail, and the halter neckline makes for a sophisticated silhouette.

Best for: The preppy guest

37. Haydn Dress – Petal and Pup

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We love this breezy dress for it’s mid-length sleeves and spring-worthy floral pattern. This dress is gorgeous while still being casual, and it’s versatile enough to wear again and again.

Best for: The whimsical guest

38. Rosa Floral Strapless Mini Dress – Agua by Agua Bendita

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You simply can’t go wrong with florals for spring—this dress is cut from cotton poplin, and has dainty ruffled trims that make for a wedding-approved style.

Best for: The lively guest

39. Halter Swing Mini Dress – Eva Franco

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A casual spring wedding dress code means more freedom to play around with fun colors and textures—enter this stunning swing dress. The textured floral detail is swoon-worthy! We think this dress would work great for your next bachelorette party, too.

Best for: The show-stopping guest

40. Rose Pink Long Sleeve Skater Dress – Lulus

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This rose-colored dress is perfect for your next outdoor spring wedding, especially if you think it could get chilly. The long sleeves will keep you warm while still looking chic.

Best for: The uncomplicated guest

41. Ivy Mini Dress – Anthropologie

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This one-of-a-kind dress is artful and contemporary, with unique colors and patterns and a stunning modern cut.

Best for: The artsy guest

Spring Wedding Shoes and Accessories

Once you find the perfect spring wedding guest outfit, your work isn’t finished yet—don’t forget shoes and accessories! The shoes and accessories you choose can help round out an outfit, and there are a few key considerations to remember to help you find the right items.

For shoes, you’ll want to look for something that’s both stylish and versatile so you can wear them more than once. Comfort is also an important factor—no one wants to be relegated to the dinner table while everyone else is on the dance floor because of a painful pair of shoes. Here are some helpful tips when choosing your shoes:

  • For outdoor weddings, avoid stilettos—they’ll sink into the grass or sand. Opt for a chunky or wedge heel instead. We love these stylish wedge sandals by Staud, especially when paired with a v-neck dress.
  • For something versatile, go for heeled sandals in a nude color. These strappy nude-heeled sandals will match just about everything! You can even wear them to a black-tie event.
  • For a formal spring wedding, avoid flat sandals, unless you’re the bride or bridesmaid. Even if it’s just an inch, something with a heel is more appropriate. The ankle strap on these sandals adds more comfort.
  • For a casual spring wedding, high heels aren’t a requirement, but flip flops are definitely out. It is a wedding, after all!

Last but not least, finish everything off with some dazzling accessories. There’s tons of room to play when it comes to accessorizing, from cute clutches to statement earrings and necklaces. Whether you’ll be an early summer wedding guest at a relaxed garden wedding or are considering highly formal dresses, follow these tips before you shop:

  • For purses, a small, handheld clutch is a no-fail option. You don’t want to lug a huge purse around! Opting for a neutral white, cream, or metallic color is best for versatility, but no color is off limits—like this spring-worthy lavender clutch.
  • For jewelry, statement earrings are having a moment and work well if you’ll be sporting an updo. Anything goes, from bold colors to pearls! We love these shimmery tassel earrings or these bright colors-blocked earrings if you want to make a statement.
  • For formal weddings, less is more when it comes to jewelry. A simple pearl necklace looks incredibly elegant with a lace dress, and a simple pair of stud earrings work well if you’re wearing your hair down with an off-the-shoulder dress.

Zola: Your Place for Wedding Guest Attire

Deciding what to wear to a wedding can be tricky. However, what matters most is that you find something you love, especially if you’re the mother of the bride. As long as you stick to the couple’s dress code, finding the perfect winter wedding guest dress doesn’t have to be complicated. For more tips on party dresses and wedding guest etiquette, Zola has all the expert advice you need, from how to give a wedding speech to what to write in your wedding card.

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As a fashion enthusiast and expert, I have an extensive background in the world of fashion, particularly in the area of wedding attire. I have closely followed the trends and etiquette associated with spring wedding guest attire, and I have a deep understanding of the concepts related to formal and casual spring wedding guest dresses, spring wedding shoes and accessories, as well as seasonal considerations.

When it comes to the formal and casual spring wedding guest dresses, I am well-versed in the different styles, cuts, and colors that are suitable for various types of spring weddings. I understand the importance of choosing the right outfit based on the bride's dress code and the overall theme of the event. I have valuable insights into the latest trends in spring wedding attire, including the use of floral prints, pastel shades, and statement details such as ruffles, sequins, and lace.

In terms of spring wedding shoes and accessories, I have a keen eye for pairing the perfect footwear and accessories with different dress styles. I understand the importance of comfort, style, and versatility when it comes to selecting the right shoes for outdoor or formal spring weddings. Additionally, I have a strong grasp of how accessories such as clutches, jewelry, and statement pieces can elevate and complete an outfit for a spring wedding.

Furthermore, I am knowledgeable about seasonal considerations for spring weddings, particularly in addressing the challenge of staying warm during potentially chilly early spring months. I can provide valuable tips on accessorizing with shawls, choosing dresses with sleeves, and opting for close-toed shoes to stay comfortable and stylish at a spring wedding.

With my expertise in these areas, I am well-equipped to provide comprehensive information and guidance on what to wear to a spring wedding, covering all the concepts used in this article.

40+ Best Spring Wedding Guest Dresses - Zola Expert Wedding Advice (2024)

FAQs

What should a woman over 40 wear to a wedding? ›

It's best to choose darker or more vibrant hues that complement the wedding theme, and avoid anything that may appear too attention-grabbing or revealing. Don't wear anything too casual, such as jeans or sneakers. Even if the wedding is outdoors or in a more relaxed setting, it's still important to dress up!

What color should guests wear to a spring wedding? ›

When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding guest outfit, the time of year can have a big impact on what color you wear. In addition to following the dress code, consider the season when picking out your wedding guest look. For spring weddings, opt for light colors like pastels, whites, or light blues.

Can you overdress for a black tie wedding? ›

Traditionally a black tie wedding takes place after 5:30 p.m., necessitating evening attire like a tuxedo or long gown. It's fancy and you can't really be too overdressed (just don't wear a floor-length white gown)," she says.

What is Montana formal? ›

If the invitation states “formal” or “co*cktail”, men can wear a nice dress shirt and suit pants while ties and jackets are optional. Women should wear a co*cktail dress and there is no rule for length.

How to dress classy over 40? ›

Invest in high-quality basics like well-fitting jeans, crisp white t-shirts, and classic blazers. Experiment with bold prints, bright colors, and trendy accessories to add interest to your outfits. Try mixing and matching different textures and fabrics to create unique and personalized looks.

Is it OK to wear black to a spring wedding? ›

Though it's technically OK to wear black at any time of the day, Aleece says it's better suited for late afternoon and evening weddings in the fall and winter, along with formal and black tie weddings in the early spring.

Is it inappropriate to wear black to a spring wedding? ›

Can you wear a black dress or ensemble to a wedding? In short, yes, but the key is in the styling. You want to avoid looking like you dressed for a funeral, and your outfit should feel like it was chosen with a special occasion in mind!

What should a guest wear to a spring wedding? ›

Semi-Formal Spring Wedding

Think of semi-formal attire as wedding guest default mode. If the invite doesn't specify how to arrive, reach for a classic co*cktail dress or a simple floor-length dress in your favorite color. Pair with a statement smoky eye and a nude lip for a fail-proof semi-formal look.

What colors not to wear to a black tie wedding? ›

Generally, white is off limits no matter what the wedding dress code is, but it's especially off limits at a black tie wedding. This includes any hues on the white spectrum—off-white, cream, ivory, eggshell, vanilla, etc.

Can I have bare legs at a wedding? ›

For example, is it more correct to wear panty hose to a wedding? It should LOOK like you're wearing stockings. So if your legs are toned, tight and tan, sure go barelegged. Of course, you're still going to want to use a nice tinted moisturizer or leg makeup just to make sure everything is nice and even.

Can I wear a knee length dress to a black tie wedding? ›

Black-Tie Optional or Formal

While this is still an elevated event, men are not required to wear a tuxedo (although it's encouraged). A dark suit is acceptable. Women are more than welcome to wear a floor-length dress, but if you prefer a dressy, knee-length co*cktail dress, then feel free.

What is Mountain Chic? ›

A mountain chic wedding guest wardrobe is a combination of nature-inspired elements, comfortable silhouettes and a color palette in harmony with the beautiful outdoor surroundings.

What is mountain chic wear? ›

Nothing screams 'Mountain Chic' like cowboy boots, boho dresses, rustic jewelry, and leather handbags with a touch of Western styling.

What is Montana chic attire? ›

Mountain chic fashion could include a simple but fashionable dress. In the summer, this includes Chelsea boots, but in the autumn and winter, it includes dark jeans with a turtleneck and leather lace-up boots. However, mountain co*cktail attire suggests something less formal than a black tie.

What should a 58 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

One of my go-to outfits is a classic midi-length dress made with a soft, flattering fabric in a color that complements my skin tone. Don't forget to pair your ensemble with tasteful accessories such as statement jewelry, a stylish clutch, and comfortable yet chic footwear.

Can a female guest wear black to a wedding? ›

"Black is the most versatile and flattering color for any woman to wear. But because black absorbs heat, if you wear it to a beach wedding you'll want to wear a light fabric." If you are going to a less formal affair and your go-to color is black, "check the length and the cut of the dress," says Avrumson.

Can a woman guest wear black to a wedding? ›

“Can you wear black to a wedding? You definitely can!” says bridal stylist Anny Choi. “The rule feels antiquated. Black is a great staple option that you can rewear to different weddings.

Should a female guest wear black to a wedding? ›

"When wearing black to a wedding, keep the outfit in line with the dressiness of the bridal party and wedding as a whole," she said. As long as the event calls for a particular level of formality and you won't upstage the couple or the wedding party, it's safe to wear black to the wedding.

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