What to Wear This Wedding Season

As wedding season ramps up, figuring out what to wear can feel like cracking a code. But it’s all about following a few key rules: steer clear of white (that’s the bride’s territory), aim for an ensemble that complements rather than competes for the spotlight and stick to the two P’s: pretty and practical.

Your outfit should also be ready to keep up with the festivities, so you’ll want to pick something that you know you can wear all day. And then you need to consider the fabric and silhouette: How does it look after sitting in it for a long time? Will it be comfortable after a second helping of cake? What about dancing? The list goes on!

Different venues will also call for different criteria to consider: no trailing trains for sandy beach weddings or long light-coloured garments for garden gatherings — just think about the grass stains!

But fret not. We’ve put together a trusty round-up of wedding guest dresses to buy in Canada, for whatever wedding season has in store.

Ever New Elle One-Shoulder Midi Dress

What *exactly* does one wear to a daytime wedding where sky-high heels are not an option? Outdoor events in the heat of summer call for breezy natural fabrics like linen, interesting silhouettes like this one-shoulder cut and a midi-length that pairs seamlessly with slim strappy sandals or classic espadrilles.

Bookmark this wallet-friendly Ever New number for your next farm nuptials or garden vows — the lush garden pattern is too fun to pass up.

Belle the Label Maya dress

If How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days was remade today, I’d like to think this could be a modern contender for Andie’s iconic yellow dress! Boasting the unforgettable buttercup yellow colour and daring back, but iterated in a midi-length design in a stretchy yet sculpted viscose material, this is the practical version for those who rather spend their night dancing without the fuss of a full-length skirt.

Simons scarf neck maxi satiny dress

Nothing is more classic than a black dress. Starting with a straight-fit silhouette in a soft, satin material, the dress carries an element of surprise with a billowy scarf detail, adding dimension to the overall look.

Complete the look with accessories — we’re in favour of the Pandora Essence line as it features asymmetric shapes that nod to the construction of this garment. Chef’s kiss!

Park & Fifth Camden dress

Canadian brand Park & Fifth is beloved for their highly wearable (and re-wearable) bridesmaid dresses, but have you peeped their wedding guest options? We’re partial to this silky bias-cut strapless dress that comes in seven colours and patterns and has a cheeky partially open back.

Esmé New York satin kaftan dress

For folks who are in favour of dressing modestly, this kaftan is calling your name. Not only is this garment one size fits all, with options for varying heights, in addition to a size 18+ option to get the most accurate fit, the style also comes in a wide range of gorgeous colours.

Versatile and flattering, it could very well be the dress for anybody — and any occasion!

Smythe halter maxi-dress

Animal print is in, and no, it’s not just limited to street style. Live up to your “party animal” reputation with this printed maxi-dress.

The collar detailing and full skirt give it an elevated look, and while it can be dressed up for traditional wedding venues, we envision it tossed on for spontaneous elopements. Vegas, perhaps?

Reformation Lilia dress

It’s not a wedding round-up without Reformation — they are the spot for contemporary occasion wear, after all. Be the bride’s something blue, and blow the wedding party away with this number.

While the cowl neck is trendy, the classic cut of the dress assures you won’t look back at photos from the occasion in ten years and cringe. Now that’s timeless!

Oak and Fort ruffled maxi-dress

This style is sure to ruffle up some feathers — in a good way, of course! Featuring a bias cut, adjustable straps and a side slit, this dress has beloved wedding guest dress features freshened up with a vibrant green colour and ruffle detailing.

Sézane Wanda dress

Hot weather calls for a hot dress, and there’s nothing better than a fiery red hue. With its asymmetrical design crafted from jacquard fabric, we envision this dress at a destination wedding — say a town in the south of Spain — complemented by a beachy sun-kissed glow.

Pro tip: Remember to get a vibe check on wearing red with the hosts, as the colour can clash with Indian, Chinese and South Asian Muslim wedding traditions.

Lisa The Label Cupid bow dress

Isn’t it romantic? The dress is named Cupid bow, making it extra fitting for a wedding setting. Featuring a drop waist in a pale pink colour and topped off with an oversized pink bow, this dress is unapologetically frilly and feminine.

Style with a pair of show-stopping shoes to really tie the look together, we love these ones from Maguire.

Cecilie Bahnsen Black Ruth Midi Dress

Operating at the intersection of ready-to-wear and couture, this black dress may look like an everyday staple, but the luxe construction is what sets it apart. Featuring a full-tiered skirt and intricate tie detailing in the back, this dress is exquisite.

Perfect for those who champion finding beauty in the ordinary or live for everyday luxury, especially those who want to purchase a special dress for more than one wear.

Amazon floral midi corset dress

For when you need a dress for a wedding in a pinch, this option is great for folks in the middle of a Bridgerton binge or anyone who is loving the milkmaid dress trend.

According to reviews, the tie-up corset in the back is forgiving, allowing for fit adjustments, which is essential when shopping online! And apparently, this dress is also a dupe of a beloved House of CB style.

Dynamite Adelle open back slip midi-dress

Get the slick look that silk provides, on a budget. This dress features a satin-like material with a scoop neck and adjustable straps, setting it up to be universally flattering and a great base to infuse personal style through accessories. It comes in this icy blue, but if you’re looking for a pop of colour, you can shop the slinky style in aqua blue and a rich rust brown.

Maje cutaway silk maxi-dress

Maximilaists in Maje? It just makes sense. With its funky design and flowy silhouette, this dress is favourable for free-spirited fashion enthusiasts. Despite its white base, this dress is 100 per cent wedding guest-approved, with the colourful pattern keeping it in the clear of looking at all white.

Ideal for a beach or boho wedding, where perhaps the traditions aren’t so strict in the first place.

With files from Jennifer Berry