Cocktail wedding guest dresses for the vows and the dancing

Covered up for the vows

Ceremonies come first, and some churches still expect your shoulders covered. That’s where the beige satin wrap midi earns its place. Long sleeves, a V that the wrap keeps in check, and a smooth surface with a soft sheen. Nude pumps, gold earrings, hair pinned up. It’s from our summer line, so think June weddings.

For a wedding in the cold months, the emerald velvet midi with a high collar and a thin tie belt is our pick, and the soft velvet keeps you warm on a chilly day. You can wear it to the office on Monday with a black blazer. On Saturday, swap the blazer for a light scarf over your shoulders and add gold earrings. Silver tends to disappear on that green.

Hair up. The collar wants it.

After dinner, when the band starts

Once the speeches end and the lights drop, a shorter cocktail wedding guest dress in satin or velvet is a lot easier to dance in than anything long, and nobody’s stepping on your hem. The red satin slip mini sits on spaghetti straps, and the neckline dips into a deep V. No sleeves at all, which helps in a packed, warm hall. You’ll need a strapless or stick-on bra for it. Over the top, an oversized black blazer for the walk outside.

The emerald velvet mini on thin straps is the winter version of the same idea. Throw a short faux fur or a jacket on for the ride there, then leave it at the coat check.

Planning to dance all night? The emerald pleated midi moves when you do, and the folds catch the light under the dance floor lamps. Short sleeves, round neck, a hem that covers the knees. In November, layer a fine black turtleneck under it and wear a long coat over everything.

A green lurex midi works too, if sparkle’s more your thing. Wear matte shoes with it, ankle boots on a steady heel or knee boots, because the fabric already shines.

Want the full picture for every part of the day? Our wedding guest dresses for any dress code cover ceremony, reception and everything between.

Frequently asked questions

What does cocktail attire mean on a wedding invite?

A knee-length, midi or dressy mini cocktail wedding guest dress in a festive fabric. If you’d like more cuts to compare, see our cocktail dresses for parties.

Will black look too somber at a wedding?

Not at an evening reception. Add gold jewelry and shoes with some shine, and browse our black dresses for wedding guests.

Which colors should a guest leave at home?

White and ivory. Those belong to the bride.

How do I check the size on a wrap?

Measure your bust. The tie sorts out the waist, and our sizes go XS to XL.