Wedding Guest Dresses

You’ll be happy to know that the wedding I’ve been shopping for is happening tonight, so I can finally stop inundating you with wedding guest dresses!

But I’ve tried a few more since I shared my last round of try-ons, and I thought I’d share them for anyone who is also shopping for a special occasion right now.

It might be helpful to know that the wedding invitation specified “cocktail or semi-formal” attire, so I’ve been trying to find a dress that walks the line between the two. I’m looking for something dressier than what I would wear to church, but since it’s a 3:00 PM wedding, I don’t want anything too sparkly or ornate.

For anyone curious about the difference between those dress codes, Adrianna Papell has a helpful guide that breaks it down: Decoding The Dress Code: Cocktail vs. Semi-Formal Attire.

If you’ve been following along, you’ll probably remember the green and yellow Donna Karan dresses I was considering for this wedding that I styled in this post.

Twist Waist Sheath (10) // Faux Wrap Sheath (10)

While both of those dresses were strong contenders, they each had aspects that bothered me, and I really wanted to find something that checked all my boxes.

The green dress is a beautiful color, and the clean lines, midi length, and side slit feel modern, which is important to me. But the higher jewel neckline and the knot detail that draws the eye to my midsection keep me from fully loving it. I feel like every time I stand up, I’ll be fussing with it to make sure it’s laying just right.

It also does a funny thing around the armholes where the fabric tends to bulge if I’m not standing perfectly straight, and I know I’d be hyper-aware of that all night.

The yellow one has an open neckline, which is my preference, but the tank style tends to make my top half look boxy, and the length falls in an awkward spot somewhere between knee-length and midi-length.

And while it’s a pretty color, I don’t think it has quite the same impact as the green. Plus, my daughter chose a yellow dress for the wedding, so that took yellow off the table for me.

A v-neckline is generally the most flattering on me, so I set out to find something with the clean lines and midi length of the green dress, but with a v-neck and in a bold, but not too bright, color. I don’t ask for much, do I?

Sadly, I didn’t find all of that in one dress.

It seems that most of the v-neck options available right now are the flowier styles that don’t tend to work as well on my frame. But I did find a few more options that are now in contention.

Petal and Pup Lisbeth Midi Women’s Dress

at Macy’s (M) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Crafted with a midi length, round neckline and short sleeves, this dress will flatter your figure in all the right places. A back neck opening with button close and invisible zip makes it easy to slip on and off, while non functional buttons provide a fun, flirty detail.

• Measurements: approximate length is 50 inches
• Material: Polyester
• Care: Hand wash

MY THOUGHTS: I believe one of you suggested this one, and I thought the print was really pretty, so I ordered it even though fuller skirts don’t usually work well for me. This one actually wasn’t bad because the silhouette still has fairly clean lines, and the ruching keeps the skirt from flaring out too much through the hips. The print is even prettier in person, too.

It has a higher neckline, but it’s not as high as the green one, and with the cut of the sleeves, I actually found the bodice quite flattering. In fact, this one would have shot to the top of the list if it had fit properly. Unfortunately, it was too small, and I couldn’t even get it zipped up in the back.

VERDICT: I sent this one back, and I didn’t bother ordering the large because I suspect the torso would be too long on me. That said, it’s a very pretty dress, and I can absolutely see it working well for someone else.

Donna Karan Sleeveless Midi Sheath Dress in Sangria Multi

at Donna Karan (10) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: A vivid sangria-toned print and sculpting scuba fabrication define this modern sheath dress with sleek sophistication

• Measurements: Length: 41 1/2″ 
• Material: 92% polyester, 8% spandex
• Care: Dry clean only

MY THOUGHTS: I was drawn to this dress because of the sleek sheath silhouette and the substantial scuba fabric, which is often a little more forgiving in a fitted style. I also thought the vibrant color palette and floral print were really pretty, although they may be a bit much for my understated sense of style.

I like the square neckline more than I expected to. Even though it’s not a v-neck, I found it more flattering than the tank style of the yellow dress.

That said, the length is awkward, hitting at the widest part of my calf, and it was too big overall, so I would have needed to order a size 8 and most likely have it shortened.

I might have been willing to do that until I took a look at the back and noticed the placement of the two flowers directly on my backside. Once I saw that, I couldn’t unsee it. (This is why I ALWAYS take photos of the back view when deciding on an article of clothing!)

Needless to say, this dress immediately went into the discard pile.

VERDICT: Maybe the flower placement would be different on another dress, but I also didn’t love how the print didn’t line up at the back seam. Between that and the alterations it would have needed, I decided this one wasn’t worth pursuing.

Adrianna Papell Ruched Asymmetric Crepe Sheath Dress in Camellia

at Nordstrom & Zappos (10) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Modern and polished, this stretch-crepe sheath frames the face with an asymmetrical neckline and flatters with softly ruched waist detailing. A side slit eases the knee-grazing skirt so you can move comfortably from work events to showers and celebrations.

• Measurements: 42″ from center back neck to high point of hem
• Material: 95% polyester, 5% elastane
• Care: Machine wash, line dry

MY THOUGHTS: I thought this one had potential until I wore it downstairs to get a second (and third?) opinion from Paul and Becca. They both immediately revolted.

Becca’s immediate reaction was, “WHAT is going on?” and Paul just shook his head and said, “You look like a highlighter.”

I mean, yes, there is a lot going on at the neckline, and the length is a bit awkward, but that can be altered, and I actually thought the color was pretty, although maybe brighter than what I want for this event.

I also liked the off-center placement of the front slit, and I felt like it was flattering through the midsection—an area that has bothered me on several of the other dresses. I think that’s because the ruching is gathered into a simple vertical seam, which keeps the design clean and streamlined rather than adding extra bulk through the middle.

But with that visceral reaction from the peanut gallery, this immediately became a hard no.

VERDICT: I’ve already sent this one back.

Adrianna Papell Crepe Draped Overlay Dress in Precious Peri

at Zappos (10) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Classic and modern elements make this dress the perfect style. It features a V-neckline, a sleeveless bodice, and a cascading overlay. The draped details give this style a faux-wrap dress look.

• Measurements: 39″ from center back neck to high point of hem
• Material: 95% polyester, 5% elastane
• Care: Dry clean only

MY THOUGHTS: As I’m looking back at this one, I’m trying to remember why I immediately discarded it. I didn’t even wear it downstairs to get a second opinion.

It’s a really pretty shade of blue, and the neckline is quite flattering. It does wrinkle a bit across the back over my bra, and it’s a smidge longer than I typically prefer, but I don’t mind that just-below-the-knee length because it still shows the shape of my calves.

I think what ultimately put me off was the way it drapes through the midsection and that side panel detail. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I feel like that’s where my eye goes when I look at the dress.

It also does that thing where the armholes are cut in a way that highlights the loose skin many of us tend to get there as we age. In fact, now that I think about it, the highlighter-pink dress did the same thing, which was another reason I didn’t push back when my peanut gallery gave it a thumbs-down.

One thing I appreciated about the green dress was that it didn’t do that at all. The fabric around the armholes completely covered that area, which was definitely a point in its favor.

VERDICT: I still have this one hanging on my rolling rack, but I think it’s going back.

DKNY Women’s Sleeveless Side Ruched Sheath Dress

at Macy’s (8) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8) // Skylar Ball Mesh Bag c/o

PRODUCT DETAILS: Clean, confident styling comes alive in this DKNY dress, featuring a V-neckline and ruched bodice for added dimension and shape. A sleeveless cut and scuba crepe fabric work together to create a smooth, structured silhouette that wears comfortably.

• Measurements: 38″ from center back neck to high point of hem
• Material: 96% polyester, 4% spandex; lining: 100% polyester
• Care: Dry clean only

MY THOUGHTS: Okay, last one! This dress fits beautifully, there’s no doubt about that. The fitted sheath silhouette highlights my curves without clinging, and the proportions are perfect. (So many of the dresses I’ve tried were discarded because the bodices were too long. Being short-waisted makes this surprisingly tricky.) The v-neck is flattering and not so deep that I feel inappropriate leaning over to hug someone, and the armholes provide good coverage.

It checks almost every box, and there’s no doubt that this is the style of dress that looks best on me. The problem is that I’ve worn so many versions of this dress over the years that I just can’t seem to get excited about it. The visible back zipper also feels a bit dated.

Part of what’s keeping me from loving it is the length. If this were a midi length with an off-center front slit like the green dress—and maybe in that same green color, lol—I think I would love it.

I do like that the ruching is pulled into a simple vertical seam. It’s elongating and doesn’t create extra bulk through the midsection. And while I’m still partial to that green, navy is always a good color for me. This is a particularly pretty navy, too. It’s bright enough to stand on its own and not be mistaken for black.

My daughter thinks it should be shorter, but if anything, I’d want it longer, not shorter. I actually like the knee length for this event, if it isn’t going to be a midi. It feels ladylike and flattering.

So yes, despite my reservations, this one is definitely a contender.

VERDICT: Despite my reservations, this one is definitely a contender.

And if you’re wondering where I landed, I still haven’t made a final decision. The wedding is tomorrow, and it’s currently between the green dress and the navy one. I’ll probably decide when I get dressed and see which one feels right in the moment.

Everyday Dresses

In the meantime, let’s move on to some much more casual options. A few of these were gifted, and a few I ordered to try. They aren’t all my typical style, but I thought they were worth sharing in case one of them works for you!

Sadie mini dress in embroidered linen

c/o J.Crew (M) // Sam Edelman Calla 2 Sandal (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: An easy throw-on-and-go dress with a twist. This effortless style has scarf-inspired ties at the shoulders for a relaxed and refined feel. It’s perfect everywhere from summer mornings to dinner alfresco.

• Measurements:
• Material: 100% linen.
• Care: Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: I really love the red embroidery on the white linen, and this shift dress just screams summer to me.

The scarf-inspired ties at the shoulders are a bit fussy for my taste, but they’re a cute detail. It also has quite a high neckline, which I found a little awkward, although that may just be a me problem. Overall, I think it’s really cute.

As an aside, I also love these sandals with the pearl embellishments.

VERDICT: I’ll pass on this one, but I think it’s a really fun summer dress for the right person.

Scallop-trim mini dress in ramie

c/o J.Crew (M) // Sam Edelman Calla 2 Sandal (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Light, breezy and perfect for everything post-beach. This short-and-sweet dress combines an effortless fit with intricate details like a layered scalloped trim and pretty pointelle stitching.

• Measurements:
• Material: 100% ramie
• Care: Machine wash

MY THOUGHTS: This one is also super cute, but it’s a bit too short and too babydoll-ish for my comfort zone. I thought maybe the black color would make it feel a little more like me, but even with that, I just can’t see myself reaching for it. The scalloped eyelet trim and pretty pointelle stitching are really nice details, though.

VERDICT: This one’s not for me, but I can definitely see the appeal.

100% Organic Cotton Gauze Sleeveless Swing Dress in Khaki Gingham

at Quince (M) // Vince Piper Slide Sandal (8) // Quince Handwoven Pouch Crossbody Clutch

PRODUCT DETAILS: With an effortless look and flowy shape, our 100% Organic Cotton Gauze Sleeveless Swing Dress is a must-have for your warm-weather wardrobe. 

• Measurements: Length: 35.25″ in size small
• Material: 100% organic cotton
• Care: Machine wash cool using mild laundry detergent, tumble dry low or hang to dry.

MY THOUGHTS: A few of you asked about this cotton gauze version of the Quince Linen Swing Dress that so many of us have and love, so I ordered one to try, and it’s really nice! It has the same easy fit, it’s fully lined, and the cotton gauze fabric is soft, breathable, and easy to wear. I also really like this khaki gingham print.

VERDICT: Definitely holding onto this one. In fact, I may wear it to church on Sunday.

Women’s Merino Travel Dress

at Unbound Merino (M) // Sam Edelman Calla 2 Sandal (8) //

PRODUCT DETAILS: Seamlessly transition from day to night with comfort, versatility and performance. Made from a Merino wool blend so breathable and soft, you’ll never want to take it off.

• Measurements: 44″ long
• Material: 84% Merino wool, 12% nylon and 4% spandex
• Care: Machine wash warm gentle, turn garment inside out, lay flat to dry in shade

MY THOUGHTS: I’ve been intrigued by this merino wool travel dress for some time. Every time the ad pops up in my Instagram feed, I consider ordering it, so with a trip to Paris on the horizon (yes, I’m finally getting to Paris!), I decided to give it a try.

At first glance, it looks like a plain black dress, but there’s more to it than that. Merino wool is an amazing travel fabric because it’s lightweight, breathable, and packs like a dream. It helps keep you warm in cool weather and cool in warm weather, and it naturally resists odors, so it can be worn multiple times between washes.

My husband swears by his Unbound Merino t-shirts. He always travels with several and rewears them over and over again, which cuts down significantly on how much he has to pack. (And if you do need to hand-wash something, it dries quickly.)

This dress is designed to be highly versatile, easy to dress up or down, and a true workhorse in a travel wardrobe, so I decided to put it to the test.

First, here’s how it looks on its own with flat sandals. I thought my days of wearing more body-conscious styles were over, but this one is surprisingly forgiving. The fabric skims without clinging, and it’s incredibly soft and lightweight.

That said, I would want to wear some type of light shapewear underneath to avoid visible lines, so I still need to experiment with a few options. I was wearing these Spanx shorts in these photos, but they’re fairly high compression. The Wacoal Body Base Shorty might be a better choice.

Here’s how it looks with heels, so you can see how easily it transitions from day to night.

Dolce Vita Galae Heels Whiskey Jelly (8) // Dolce Vita Wood Beaded Bag // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

My biggest complaint is the length. It lands in that in-between zone where I wish it were either a little longer or several inches shorter.

I also tried it with a couple of jackets, and I think they work in a pinch, although I really prefer the dress on its own.

Splendid Lounge Denim Jacket (M) // Quince Linen Jacket (M)

It would also be cute styled with a sweater draped over the shoulders, and if it were a cardigan, I could always put it on if I needed an extra layer. I wish I’d thought to try that look.

VERDICT: I think I’m going to keep this one. The length isn’t my favorite, but I can see it becoming a real workhorse in my travel wardrobe. I may look into having it hemmed to just below the knee, although I can also see how the extra coverage could be helpful at times. For now, I think I’ll leave it as is.

Ezra Maxi Dress in Light Fawn Paisley

c/o Splendid (M) // Dolce Vita Mylee Heels (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: An easy maxi dress designed for special plans. With a fluid drape and allover print, this lightweight summer dress moves effortlessly from daytime events to dinner and beyond.

• Material: 52% Viscose 30% Polyester 18% Nylon
• Care: Machine wash cold

MY THOUGHTS: This dress came from Splendid, and I think the print is so pretty. It does fit me a little oddly around the armholes, so I’m not sure if that’s a sizing issue, a design issue, or a me issue. Otherwise, though, I really like the cut and the clean lines. And in theory, the deep v-neck and bra-friendly straps are a nice feature.

Even though it’s long and flowy, I actually think the overall silhouette works well on me. I guess that’s because of the empire waist and the way the dress flares from just under the bust, where I’m narrower, rather than from the midsection, where I’m wider, like so many full-skirted dresses do.

VERDICT: I think I’ll pass on this one. I really like the print and the overall design of this dress, but the fit through the top isn’t quite right for me. It’s also dressier than I really need right now.

Maggie Poplin Midi Dress in Navy

c/o Splendid (M) // Splendid Asher (8)

PRODUCT DETAILS: Clean and structured through the bodice, this dress falls into an easy, full skirt. The shape feels classic, with subtle detailing that keeps it refined.

• Material: 97% Cotton 3% Elastane
• Care: Machine wash cold

MY THOUGHTS: And here’s one more that kind of surprised me! I rarely wear a skirt this full, but the way it has pintucks that extend from the waist through the hips before flaring out actually works better on me than I expected. The top is pretty, too, with the button-front bodice and subtle split-neck detail.

It’s made from a nice-quality cotton poplin with just a hint of stretch, and the classic navy is really pretty for summer. I styled it first with flat cognac leather T-strap sandals for a more casual look.

And here’s how it looks with the Dolce Vita Mylee Heels if you want the option to dress it up a bit.

VERDICT: I don’t know that I’d ever reach for this dress since it’s a bit outside my comfort zone, but I do think it’s a really nice option for someone who enjoys a fuller skirt silhouette.

And there you have it… more dresses than I ever wanted to try on in the span of a few weeks! I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Stay In Touch

If you liked this post, be sure you’re signed up for my email newsletter. In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox.

I would also love for you to join my JLS Fashion Insiders Facebook Group! This is a friendly place to discuss all matters of fashion and style with other women, share your outfits, get advice, and stay up to date on all the happenings in our community.