Wedding season is here! Whether you're a bridesmaid or a wedding guest, summer weddings can be tricky — you want to be comfortable in warm weather, while still dressing appropriately. For some expert intel, we turned to our friends at The Dessy Group to see what bridal parties are wearing now. Cindy Dessy says, "The 'mix & match' trend continues to evolve for bridesmaids. We at Dessy have always been huge proponents of this, as it really allows the bride to create a unique look and feel for her bridal party. We see prints and solids mixed. Girls are choosing different lengths; interspersing midi, hi-low, and maxi within a group. It’s amazing, in that it really allows each member of the bridal party to wear exactly what makes them feel most beautiful. What could be better?"
Grab an aperol spritz and scroll on for tons of different options in this season's top colors, prints, and silhouettes, for every style and budget.
Black-Tie
The most formal dress code you're likely to see on a wedding invitation is "Black-tie." This generally means that the wedding will take place in the evening. Women are encouraged to wear floor-length gowns, and men should wear tuxedoes. A black-tie dress code is a fun reason to go all-out with your look! Think: sequins, blinged out accessories, and glam to the nines.
Dessy x Lovely Bride, Style Imogen
shown in hunter green
The halter neckline and emerald-colored satin scream sophistication.
Maybe it's our aperol obsession, but orange is our summer color crush.
This criss-cross halter neck and vibrant color will make jaws drop.
Adrianna Papell Platinum, Style 40416
shown in sage
Asymmetrical necklines were a huge trend this year at New York Bridal Fashion Week.
What's chicer than black lace?
Formal/Black-Tie Optional
Slightly less formal than black-tie, this dress code means a floor-length gown and a tuxedo aren't required. Women can wear a slightly less formal dress, and men can wear a dark suit and tie. If you'd like to go with a fun color, a cut-out gown, or a chic jumpsuit, this is the more appropriate dress code to do so.
A high slit, and ruching, and feathers, oh my!
For Love & Lemons, James Maxi Dress
Love is in the air, and in this romantic dress.
Amanda Uprichard, Karalyn Maxi Dress
We love this cottagecore-esque maxi dress for a barn or vineyard setting.
Camilla, Embellished Slip Dress
This gorgeous crystal-embellished silk slip dress will turn heads and keep you cool in the heat.
Mac Duggal, Amelie Floral Brocade Strapless Gown
With delicate brocade detailing, this voluminous gown makes a stunning statement.
Cocktail Attire
While formal attire isn't required, a cocktail dress code means you should still dress up. Men typically wear a suit and tie and women can wear a cocktail — or, as we like to call it, party — dress. Scroll on for some of our favorite dresses with shorter hemlines.
Reformation, Style Gloriana
shown in cyanotype
The hidden bustier is flattering and subtly sexy.
Aidan by Adrianna Papell, Green Fringe Midi Dress
Fun, flirty, fringe.
This draped cocktail dress with a cool buckle accent is effortlessly chic.
V. Chapman, Lily Dress
shown in sage
We can never say no to a ruffle.
The perfect LBD for summer weddings and date nights.
Casual, Tropical, or No Dress Code
A "casual" dress code or one that denotes "beach" or "tropical" attire means the wedding will likely be held outdoors and will be much more laid-back. A tee shirt and jeans probably isn't appropriate, but women can wear sundresses, and khakis and a sports jacket are perfect for him.
Solid & Striped, Delta Midi Dress
You will wear this smocked gingham midi dress over and over again this summer.
Show Me Your Mumu, Mina Midi Dress
This dress is just begging to be invited to a tropical destination wedding.
Farm Rio, Richelieu Midi Dress
You had us at puff sleeves and cut-outs.
Just imagine the golden hour photos in this dress.
This gorgeous mango-colored rib knit dress is perfect for a casual wedding and subsequent summer date nights.