There is no reason that shopping for a wedding guest dress should be more difficult than shopping for any other occasion, but every time I sit down to think, finding the perfect style feels like an impossible shame. I have several weddings on my calendar this year, which means I’ve been spending a lot of time finding a dress to wear for each of them, taking into account the season, setting, and dress codes for the invitation. Today, however, I’m diving into the top wedding guest trends of the moment.
We’ve already reported on the biggest fashion trends to be aware of for 2026 brides, but now it’s time to discuss the trends shaping that. tourists will wear to weddings this year. There are already several themes emerging, from trendy colors that define standout dresses to personality-driven accessories to wear with them, these are all elements that define the winning wedding guest look this year. After analyzing the broad wedding trends, dress trends for 2026, and chatting with wedding stylist and fashion editor Corinne Pierre-Louis and bridal stylist Kennedy Schmidt.
Consider Skipping: Scarf Necklines
“Neck scarves are all over the place lately (for brides and guests alike), and I think the trend has started,” says Pierre-Louis. “As we move into the wedding season of 2026, I’d like to see guests lean towards other silhouettes, like a soft off-the-shoulder neckline, which is a great alternative.”
Top wedding guest trends for 2026
Light Color
If there’s one trend we’re seeing a lot at weddings right now, it’s bright, bold colors. The year 2026 as a whole is already being defined by this explosion of high traffic—from the runways to our everyday clothes—and now it’s the same with our event wear. “Instead of the usual black dress,” explains Pierre-Louis, “guests choose bright colors like yellow, blue, green, and playfulness that feel more fun. Weddings should be joyful, and color helps tell that story.” Of course, there is a practicality to it as wearing anything in white or ivory should be avoided while many brides choose an off-black dress code to add color to their wedding photos. “Whether it’s colorful flowers or sharp color blocking,” says Schmidt, “it brings personality and freshness to a traditional wedding guest outfit.”
Rachel Gilbert
Laira Beaded Satin Midi Dress
Another Important Thing
Devlyn Sheer-Overlay Gown Exclusive
Christopher Esber
Ripple Draped Gown
A revolution
Alli Silk Dress
MANGO
Satin dress with flared sleeves
Christopher Esber
Orion Ruched Sweater Dress
Built-in Hardware
Of course, not all wedding guest looks need to be loud (especially not to overwhelm the bride), and a few trends that are on the rise right now are built-in hardware. It’s all about sleek silhouettes and backgrounds, which, with the addition of one sculptural detail, are simple but never boring.
Nocturne
Halter-Neck Draped Maxi Dress
On Sept
Enez Bangle Halter Neck Midi Dress
H&M
Draped-Detail Jersey Dress
Amazing Drag
Each season, there’s always an inevitable crossover between what’s trending on the runways and in the wedding space, and flared dresses are a clear trend for both this year. “Architectural dresses are having a big moment,” confirms Schmidt, “especially at black-tie weddings. Sleek drapes, exaggerated shapes, and couture-inspired construction make these dresses feel modern, directional, and almost like wearable art.”
Tove
Gai Draped Chiffon Maxi Dress
KALLMEYER
Victoria Draped Stretch-Jezi Maxi Dress
The Third Form
Fall Away Maxi Dress
SIEDRÉS
Nesta Draped Devoré Chiffon Maxi Dress
Secret Sexy
Yes, that’s right, sexy is back—with gusto, of course. “The dresses for the wedding guests have become very interesting, but in a high-class way,” affirms Pierre-Louis. That not only looks like skimming body silhouettes, but also with open backs, subtle and subtle cutouts that show a little skin in a high and subtle way. Taste is the key word here—”don’t wear something to someone’s wedding that you might also wear to the club,” adds Pierre-Louis.
COLLEEN ALLEN
Open-Back Jersey Turtleneck Gown
MANGO
Oversized Open Back Dress
SPORTMAX
Illuminated Satin Maxi Dress
A revolution
Dovie Knit Dress
Fragments of Personality
“Guests have a lot of fun with fashion,” explains Pierre-Louis. “They rely on bold styling, vintage finds, and statement accessories that match the location (ie, a seashell clutch for a beach wedding).” In 2026, it’s all about these statement pieces, but especially bags that are unique, full of personality and instant conversation starters. One note of Pierre-Louis’ style? “Please, please make sure your personal style is still in line with the couple’s dress code. Memorable is good, but not if you’re wearing a skimpy dress to a black tie event.”
Marlies Grace
Marlies Clutch
Lizzie Fortunato
La Isla Gala Beaded Bag
SIMKHAI
Marion Metal Shell Clutch
Win.
Fish Top Handle Bag
Two-piece sets
Don’t be afraid to go out of style—right now, two-piece sets are skyrocketing in popularity, and they’re a cool way to make sure no other guests wear them.
A revolution
Astrid Two Piece
MANGO
Asymmetrical Lace Lingerie Top
MANGO
Straight Satin Pants
A revolution
Effie Silk Two Piece
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