Wedding Guest Dresses From Nordstrom
Need a Dress to Wear to That Wedding? Nordstrom Has One For Every Dress Code
The way we see it, the proverbial question of "What do I wear?" can be either really fun to answer or really stressful — especially when there's a wedding involved. Luckily for you, we at POPSUGAR take a whole lot of pleasure in narrowing down the best options for everything from your body type to your budget. This time around, we're doing a deep dive on our favourite retailer to find the perfect dress for every Summer wedding scenario. Nordstrom has never failed us in the past, so we knew it would come through. Looking for something apropos for a formal evening affair? We found just the one. Or maybe you need something that will still look good after three trips to the dessert bar. Yup, there's one for that too. We promise our picks ahead will help make dress shopping anything but stressful (and maybe even fun).
1 When the Invite Says "Black Tie"
We get it — wedding dress codes can be downright confusing. If your invite requests black tie attire, a formal, floor-length gown is the way to go. Instead of opting for typical black, a sheath gown ($358) in a shimmery silver metallic is cool and unexpected but still elegant. Bonus: it also works for a Winter wedding.
2 When the Couple of Honor Is Throwing a Cocktail Fete
From birthday blowouts to glamorous get-togethers, this particular couple is notorious for hosting the best parties, and now, they're throwing the most important one of all: their wedding! This celebration deserves your most fabulous party dress, like this off-the-shoulder ruffle mini dress ($75). It's flirty and fun, and perfect for getting down on the dance floor.
3 When the Beach is the Venue
A beachside wedding often means you can opt to wear something a little more casual. This floral print dress ($170) channels tropical vibes with bold splashes of color and an easy, breezy silhouette.
4 When the Theme is All White
All-white weddings are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason: just look at the pretty photos they yield! If the couple asks you to come dressed in your freshest whites, try an off-the-shoulder dress ($85). The breezy linen fabric contrasted with the sultry silhouette means it can easily be dressed up with fancy heels or down with casual sandals depending on the dress code and venue.
5 When the Party Doesn't Start Until After Dark
Got an evening ceremony and reception on the books? This long-sleeve midi dress ($190) falls on the formal side, but feels entirely fresh thanks to the layers of romantic ruffles, sheer sleeves, and asymmetrical cut. Plus, you can count on the rich forest green hue to stand out in a sea of black.
6 When It's a Casual Daytime Affair
For something a little more casual, like a daytime garden ceremony followed by a cocktail-style reception, you can't go wrong with a breezy maxi dress ($59) that features a feminine floral print and playful cut-outs. Paired with heeled sandals, it strikes the right balance between relaxed and festive.
7 When You Want to Wear Black But Also Stand Out
Black is always a reliable color choice for wedding guest attire — but that doesn't mean your dress needs to be boring! If you go the LBD route, experiment with statement-making accents. This ruffle sleeve mini dress ($128) brings the drama with exaggerated sleeves and a sharp square neckline.
8 When You Don't Understand What the Dress Code Means
Cocktail attire, festive attire, destination formal . . . what does it all mean?! If you're still scratching your head over what to wear, a pleated maxi dress ($595) fits right in across multiple dress codes. It's classic and sophisticated, but the cheerful palette adds a touch of whimsy.
9 When the Meal Is Buffet Style
From food trucks to dessert buffets, all-you-can-eat-style reception dinners are gaining in popularity. If you know food will play a big part at the event, plan ahead and wear a dress that combines form and function in one. The luxe fabric and gold hue of this velvet wrap dress ($153) looks evening appropriate, but the adjustable wrap style won't feel constricting, even after going back for seconds (or thirds).
10 When It's a Destination Wedding
Flying halfway across the world to see two of your favorite people tie the knot is always a good time. Packing for the trip? Not so much. While you can always dress to match the location, cut the stress (and your luggage space) in half by opting for a clever two piece gown ($299) that you can wear together and separately. Pair the embroidered blouse with high-waisted trousers for the rehearsal dinner and then bring out the tulle skirt the next day for a showstopping effect.
