Everyone has their go-to clothing brand for special occasions. But when wedding season rolls around, multiple events can mean many different looks, and it can be nice to switch things up. While shopping for outfits that fit within specific dress codes and styles can sometimes seem overwhelming, think of it as an opportunity to open yourself up to new labels you may not have tried otherwise.
Fashion stylist Elisabeth Kassab suggests looking for dresses on sites with a wide selection and reasonable shipping and return policies. That way, you can peruse and try on items without worrying about getting stuck with a dress you don’t want. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best retailers to shop for wedding guest attire; some you may know and love, and others may pique your interest for the first time.
Nordstrom is a go-to for a variety of apparel, accessories, shoes, and bags, but it's also a premier place to shop for wedding guest dresses. The selection of formal gowns is unparalleled, with brands and designers including Petal & Pup, Adrianna Papell, Mac Duggal, Dress the Population, Sachin & Babi, and so many more. You'll also be able to shop for coordinating jewelry and accessories, making the department store an ideal place to acquire your next wedding-guest look.
Browse the Wedding Guest page and filter by product type for an easy way to shop the selection of dresses. You'll find a selection of regular and plus sizes, and Nordstrom's returns process is speedy and simple.
Size Range: XXS-4XL, plus petite and maternity | Shipping: Free for all 50 states and Puerto Rico | Returns: Free within 30 days
Lulus is an affordable, trend-focused brand that's a treasure trove of special occasion dresses—all at affordable prices. We love the variety of styles, silhouettes, and sizes (XXS to 3X), so every guest can find something that speaks to their aesthetic. We’ve shopped the site for all kinds of events, and while it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, it helped us focus by offering filters for dress code, season, color, silhouette, and more. And when the design we had our eyes on was out of stock, the site suggested similar styles.
Once we had our dress, we finished the look with a pair of coordinating shoes and a cute clutch or purse for a one-and-done shopping experience. The shoes are also high quality (one of our editors had a pair of stilettos from the brand that lasted through all four years of college). Whether you’re looking for a casual dress or a gown for a black-tie wedding, Lulus has it all at affordable prices. Plus, the site offers free shipping for purchases over $50 and free returns within 10 days of delivery.
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: Free shipping over $50 | Returns: 30 days; free within 10 days of delivery, $4.99 plus $1.49 restocking fee per item after 10 days
Saks Fifth Avenue has offered luxury items and a customer-service-focused experience since 1924. Founded in New York City, the company is based on bringing consumers an expertly curated assortment of fashion and highly personalized customer service. It's safe to say that this still rings true today. Browsing Saks, you'll find cutting-edge and classic styles you can wear to any wedding—and you can bet the quality will be top-notch. In addition to bold dresses and sleek jumpsuits, you'll also find a wide range of gorgeous accessories to pair with your wedding outfit.
Size Range: 0-40; XXS-4XL | Shipping: $9.95 for orders under $100 | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery
From edgy, unconventional dresses to sophisticated designer gowns, Moda Operandi offers a bit of everything. Prices range from $59 to a whopping $119,000 for a single gown, which shows the site's incredibly diverse assortment of brands and styles, including emerging and veteran designers. The site breaks everything down into easy-to-shop categories and subcategories, and there are many gorgeous options for chic bags, shoes, jewelry, and more.
Size Range: 0-20 | Shipping: Starts at $10 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery
Known as one of the OG eco-friendly fashion brands, Reformation has made a name for itself within the millennial and Gen-Z communities. Its pieces are always one step ahead of the current trends, and it's a staple brand for anyone looking for a fashion-forward, on-trend look. Plus, with its focus on sustainable practices, you'll feel good about your purchases. The brand will even pay you to send in Reformation clothing you don’t wear anymore so it can use the fibers to make new clothes. We also love that it offers free shipping to all 50 states and free returns within 30 days.
Size Range: XS-3X | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery date
With hundreds of new drops daily, Revolve is always on the cusp of what’s new and trendy, especially in occasion-wear. And with so much inventory, you can always find a gorgeous dress on sale. Kassab loves Revolve because of its "wide selection and incredible shipping and return options.”
The online retailer carries reasonably priced brands like Bardot and BCBGeneration, along with higher-end brands such as Retrofête and Sau Lee. It is also fairly size-inclusive, with sizes from XXS to 4XL, and offers free shipping and returns.
Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free for a full refund within 60 days and exchanges within 90 days
Eloquii is a size-inclusive brand with fashionable options for every type of wedding. The company launched The Black Creatives Project (BCP), empowering Black creatives, business people, influencers, and professionals. It also offers tons of amazing accessories at a super affordable price point, making this a one-stop shop for the full wedding day look. Amazon also carries a great selection of Eloquii wedding guest dresses.
Size Range: 14-28 | Shipping: Based on merchandise total | Returns: Bridal returns accepted within 14 days; non-bridal returns within 30 days; $5 deducted
With tons of styles on the platform, ASOS is a trend-driven brand that offers dresses with modern, edgy twists—all at super affordable prices. They also have an inclusive collection, with options for all body types, including curve, petite, tall, and maternity, and sizes ranging from 00 to 26. They offer free shipping over $50 and free returns within 28 days of delivery.
Size Range: 00-26 | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery
For wearable, trend-focused pieces, look no further than Zara. From relaxed shift dresses to bejeweled minis, Zara has options for every style imaginable at prices you’ll love. It offers accessories, shoes, and even beauty products for all your wedding guests attire needs. Plus, there’s free shipping over $50.
Size Range: XS-XXL | Shipping: Free over $50 | Returns: Free drop-off at any store or $3.95 when returned within 30 days of shipment
The global online retailer Shopbop has made a name for itself amongst online fashion retailers for carrying over 1,000 top fashion brands. With new pieces added daily, the site always offers something unique. Plus, it has a selection of accessories, shoes, beauty, and bags to top off your look, and provides free shipping and returns. The retailer is also Amazon Prime eligible, which makes it even more convenient to shop.
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: Free worldwide | Returns: Free within 15 days of delivery
You're undoubtedly already familiar with this boho-inspired brand, best known for airy fabrics, asymmetrical hemlines, and free-flowing silhouettes. But did you know that Anthropologie has a great selection of occasion-wear? It features notable brands like Bronx and Banco, Mac Duggal, AMUR, and Cynthia Rowley, and we love that you can shop by dress code and body type to make your search even more accessible. Plus, there is free shipping on orders over $50.
Size Range: XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $50 | Returns: Within 30 days of purchase; free in-store returns and $5.95 on most mailed-in returns
Sachin & Babi features a wide selection of structured, glamorous, and stylish gowns for black-tie or formal affairs. It’s a great brand if you’re looking for a more conservative, elegant dress with a modern touch. We love the attention to embellishment and tailoring, with high-quality materials and design at the forefront. It is also size-inclusive, offering sizes 0 to 20 and free returns within two weeks.
Size Range: 0-20 | Shipping: Free on orders over $500 | Returns: Free within 14 days
Net-a-Porter is a one-stop shop for all things designer, especially occasion-wear. From red-carpet-worthy gowns to cocktail dresses, the online retail giant has a look for any wedding style with an expertly curated assortment of gorgeous styles straight off the runway. It also has an incredible assortment of shoes and accessories from top brands to finish your glamorous look. We appreciate its easy free shipping (over $150) and returns policy so you can shop without worry.
Size Range: Depends on designer | Shipping: Free on orders $150+ | Returns: Free within 28 days of delivery
If you’re unfamiliar with the British brand Rixo, you're in for a treat. This emerging label has a variety of wedding guest-appropriate maxi dresses featuring vintage-inspired silhouettes, bold prints, and bright hues. This is a shop for the color-obsessed—perfect for summer and spring wedding looks. We love that its sizing is inclusive, ranging from 6 to 24, and that it has a whole section for bridesmaids, mothers-in-law, and other wedding event looks. Note that because it’s an overseas brand, shipping will cost $18, and returns will be at your own expense.
Size Range: 6-24 | Shipping: $18 domestic | Returns: At your expense within 14 days
Cult Gaia is on trend at the moment, and for good reason. With exciting silhouettes, cool cutouts, and premium fabrics, each piece looks and feels like wearable art. With showstopping accessories to pair with it, you’ll be turning heads at the wedding. Shipping is free on orders over $150 and free returns within seven days.
Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free on orders over $150 | Returns: Free within seven days
Mac Duggal Design House is known for its luxe fabrics, intricate hand-beading, and feminine designs that create gorgeous statement outfits for wedding guests. From red-carpet-worthy gowns to relaxed, flirty pieces, there’s something for every size, shape, and preference at Mac Duggal. Gwyneth Paltrow, Carrie Underwood, Vanessa Hudgens, Kylie Jenner, Eva Longoria, and Khloé Kardashian are just a few celebs who have worn these looks.
Size Range: 0-30 | Shipping: Free | Returns: $12 within 14 days of shipment date
The sister site to REVOLVE, FWRD, has an incredible roster of top designers and elite brands, both veteran and up-and-coming artists. Its products are hand-selected by a team of experts, and they will also include authenticity cards and dust bags if available. Prices range from under $50 to over $11,000, and various styles and brands are featured. Plus, the brand has a super easy free shipping and return policy.
Size Range: 0-16 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days
A.L.C. makes incredible dresses that are considered classics with a modern twist. With gorgeous fabrics, thoughtful detailing, and flattering construction, everyone looks good in one of these gowns. We love that you can find a variety of styles, from dressy casual to formal gowns. Check out the dressy suit section for a more androgynous wedding guest look.
Size Range: XS-XL | Shipping: Free over $200 | Returns: $10 restocking fee within 30 days of receipt
Wolf & Badger is a B Corp-certified global marketplace for more than 2,000 independent brands specializing in sustainably and ethically produced products. Not only is it size- and budget-inclusive, but it also makes browsing simple and easy, with many categories to select from. We especially love that there’s a sustainability section, which includes several subcategories like “Organic,” “Low Impact,” “Non-Toxic Dyes,” and “Happy Worker,” so eco-minded shoppers can easily find garments that align with their ethical standards.
Size Range: XXS-5XL | Shipping: Free over $250 | Returns: Free within 14 days of receipt
Inspired by an island off the coast of Nantucket, Tuckernuck is a versatile marketplace with a sporty, classic, and preppy feel. With both in-house designs and curated pieces from hundreds of other designers, like Farm Rio, Rhode, and Ciao Lucia, Tuckernuck sells a wide variety of pieces from casual dresses to vacation-style formal gowns at various price points. We love that it's size-inclusive, has a generous free shipping and return policy, and offers a fun, boutique-style shopping experience.
Size Range: 0-40; XXS-4XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Free within 30 days of delivery
You'll find a selection of on-trend dresses at reasonable price points at Meshki. The site has a Wedding Guest page, which you can filter by ceremony type and formality. Most options are under $200, and many are under $100. In general, expect body-conscious styles that are showstopping yet elegant, with revealing details like cut-outs and plunge necklines. We especially love that Meshki offers different silhouettes in the same pattern, like this fun polka dot that comes in an asymmetrical mini and maxi dress option.
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Shipping: $9.99, or free over $130 | Returns: Within 14 days minus shipping
Staud first jumped on the scene for their fabulous accessories and bags, but has since scored high marks for their gorgeous, retro-inspired gowns. We love the beautiful details and unique tailoring of their gowns. Prices start at $100 and go well over $400, but you can expect quality fabrics that are made to last. You can shop for dresses on their website and filter by occasion, length of dress, price, color, and even sleeve length. Once you find your perfect dress, don’t forget to check out their quirky and fun handbag selection.
Size Range: 00-16 | Shipping: Free U.S. shipping on orders over $100 | Returns: Within 14 days; $10 restocking fee
If you're looking for a stunning designer gown, Bergdorf Goodman is the perfect retailer for you. Featuring brands like Badgley Mischka, Bottega Veneta, and Tom Ford, there are plenty of beautiful gowns to choose from. Keep in mind that with the designer label comes a higher price tag, typically between $300 and $8,000. Shopping is made simple with their Wedding Guest section, which you can sort by price, brand, color, and even sustainability. Additionally, you can find a selection of designer accessories, shoes, and handbags to complete your look.
Size Range: 0-18 | Shipping: Free U.S. shipping on orders over $300 | Returns: Within 30 days, with $9.95 fee
This female-founded Australian brand has made shopping for wedding guest dresses seamless and fun. You can shop by dress code, including black tie and cocktail, along with venue, such as garden or destination wedding, and even by season. They even offer a “bump-friendly” section for pregnant moms-to-be. Reasonably priced around $200 and up, you can expect to find a range of gorgeous gowns with impeccable styling. Whether your style is classic and minimalistic or fun and playful, you are sure to find the perfect gown.
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Shipping: $30 for Express shipping in the U.S. | Returns: Within 14 days minus shipping
City Chic offers a wide range of gorgeous plus-size gowns in extended sizes that fit and flatter your curves. They offer affordable dresses perfect for black tie weddings, those with a coastal vibe, or floral dresses perfect for a garden wedding. You can easily sort by price, color, and size, and they also offer a great selection of mother-of-the-bride dresses. Keep an eye on your favorite dress, as they frequently have huge sales of 50 percent or more off.
Size Range: 10-28 | Shipping: Free for orders in the U.S. over $100 | Returns: Within 30 days with $7.95 label fee
What to Look for in Wedding Guest Dresses
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Dress Code: “Definitely pay attention to the invitation to see if the dress code says black-tie or not,” says Kassab. “You don’t want to show up wearing a cocktail dress to a black-tie wedding.” Black tie means formal attire: gowns, floor-length dresses, and nothing too revealing. “If you are attending a black-tie wedding in the spring or summer, I would go for a floor-length dress in the pastel family,” Kassab suggests. Cocktail attire is semi-formal and stylish but not overly extravagant. Wear a knee-length or slightly shorter dress or even a jumpsuit and dress it up with accessories, shoes, and elegant handbags. For a beach or destination wedding, the dress code is typically more relaxed and casual. Look for a tropical dress, which can be any length and in a light, flowy fabric (linen is a popular choice), paired with dressy sandals or wedges. The dressy casual dress code is more relaxed but strives for sophisticated comfort, such as a casual dress, or skirt and top, accompanied by ballet flats or kitten heels.
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Shipping and Return Policies: Check the shipping and return policy of all places you're considering buying a wedding guest dress. “Make sure you order from somewhere with great shipping and returns," affirms Kassab. "If your options don’t work, you won't be stuck."
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Season: Pay attention to the season when shopping for your wedding guest dress (both in color choice and fabrics). Think rustic autumnal colors like browns, burnt orange, burgundy, and deep greens for fall weddings and winter events, and go for a thicker material like velvet, brocade, satin, or vegan leather. For summer and spring, Kassab says, “It’s always nice to see some color and have fun with your wedding looks." Opt for bright, vibrant colors like pinks, purples, and blues, and go for breathable and flowing fabrics like linen, chiffon, lace, silk, and cotton.
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FAQ
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Yes! “I think if you get a classic style and color, you can wear it to multiple weddings," says Kassab. "There are so many different ways to style a dress like this that it can look different depending on the accessories."
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Kassab recommends that any wedding guest avoid wearing white. "This also goes for colors that can be mistaken for white, like a light beige, nude, or silver,” she adds.
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How much you should spend depends on your budget and comfort level. Wedding guest dresses can range from around $50 to thousands of dollars, depending on brand, materials, construction, and embellishments.
“If it’s something simpler and timeless, you could get multiple wears. I would invest more," explains Kassab. "But if it’s a bold color or printed piece that you know you will only wear once, you may not want to break the bank."
Why Trust Brides
Chelsea Frank has been a lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on several topics, from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. BRIDES contributor Dagmara Cintron is a native of New York City living in Los Angeles. She contributes to several publications covering emerging Latina artists, fashion, local L.A. stories, and more. Having been in the fashion digital space for over seven years, she has scoped top products across the fashion, beauty, and home space. As a fashion copywriter, she is passionate about shopping and finding the best deals.
Elizabeth Kassab is a stylist and personal shopper based in New York City and Michigan.
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