13 Perfect Dresses (and 7 Foolproof Outfits) to Attend a Summer Wedding

This floaty dress with a cape overlay begs to be twirled all night on the dance floor. Plus, with its flattering shape (a tie at the waist keeps it from swallowing you up) and cool olive tone, we suspect this piece will become a year-round closet staple long after it's pulled wedding-guest duties.

A midi is a good way to go for summer gatherings; its mid-calf hem is more formal and polished-looking than a short sundress, but not as hot and cumbersome as a maxi. Slip into this perfectly flirty, vintage-inspired frock, embellished with delicate buttons and tiny textured polka dots, for any summer wedding. One look at it, and we can already taste the cucumber margarita—served in a mason jar, of course.

Fresh flowers are one of the lushest parts of a wedding celebration, and there’s no reason you can’t let your look get in on the fun. With a slightly cinched waist and wide legs that make it easy to bust a move (did you practice the Milly Rock?), this sweet jumpsuit is a winner for weddings.

If you’ve got a summer wedding in a not-so-summery location, don’t ruin a good dress by throwing a boring cardigan over it. Instead, rock a long-sleeve but eye-popping look like this one. Its fresh bursting-with-color print, swing above-the-knee shirt, and saucy braided belt make this dress by Australian brand Gorman a fabulous addition to your summer wardrobe.

When in doubt, reach for a wrap. Or, in this case, a breezy, sunny, happy version of the classic wrap dress. This super-flattering, softly ruffled gown with a fun high-low skirt gives off that elusive effortlessly chic vibe (even if you’re all giddy nerves inside). You'll look like a tall glass of water while you float up to the lemonade bar for a refill.

Turn heads in a sassy yet sophisticated dress splashed with big, bold flowers. The floaty layers will feel cool in the summer heat (though you may still find yourself using your wedding program as a fan) and the appealing design will look fresh and fashionable in photos.

With an incredible off-the-shoulder outfit, you don’t need any frills. This super-chic minimalist jumpsuit has all you need to impress: a lovely color and a simple shape with a touch of drama. While you’re shopping, keep in mind that the reviews suggest you order one size up from your usual.

This sweet sleeveless dress conjures up all of our visions of a laid-back afternoon soiree or a chic barn wedding. We can already picture posing next to the peonies or cooling off with a popsicle in one hand and a watermelon sangria in the other.

Plan to spend hours on the dance floor? Optimize your twirling with a chiffon dress. This A-line by Rachel Parcell is Americana at its finest, with a vintage vibe that’s perfect for dancing under the twinkle lights.

Lace is a great go-to for any summer wedding. This crochet-lace midi (sized especially for tall women) has an airy, graceful feel, thanks to a gorgeous powdery blue hue—it looks extra-stunning on darker skin tones—sexy off-the-shoulder neckline, and intricate overlay.

You can’t go wrong with a (not-so-simple) sheath dress. Forget the chunky accessories with this one; its bright color and dramatic single shoulder are all the flair you need to make a statement.

Whether you're mingling with passed apps and a hibiscus punch at cocktail hour or whooping your heart out for the sparkler sendoff, you'll feel comfy yet polished in this lace number by Eliza J.

We’ve all got that wedding where looking fabulous is a top priority. Channel your inner Gatsby party girl and strut into the place in swishy gold fringe—it’s the biggest statement you can make short of sporting a big white gown.