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Spring and summer wedding can present a challenge for wedding guests wondering what to wear. Even if the weather is predictable (which it so often isn’t), you’re contending with sweltering sun, chilly air-con or the rapid day-to-night drop. Wedding guest dresses are one shopping obstacle to surmount, but whether or not to bring a jacket or wear a closed-toe shoe is another.
To help us out with our wedding guest styling quest, I tapped the expertise of the marie claire Fashion Editor, Sophia Stamellos.
But Seriously, What Do I Wear To A Wedding in 2026?
When it comes to Australian weddings in 2026 and 2027, marie claire Fashion Editor, Sophia Stamellos, says the dominant trends are lingerie-style slip dresses, sleek black gowns and fun, clashing prints.
“Sleek black dresses will always look great at a wedding.”
— Sophia Stamellos, marie claire Fashion Editor
“Sleek black dresses will always look great at a wedding,” Stamellos says, adding, “Look for interesting shapes, draping and good fabrics to really elevate.” Plunging necklines, Grecian drapery and sleek lingerie inspired dresses are the current trends in formalwear.
For those opposed to black at a wedding, Stamellos says we are seeing a revival of “fun prints and shapes, particularly pattern-clashing and animal print for fun, party-ready nuptials”.
The Best Wedding Guest Dresses, 2026
When it comes to accessories, Stamellos says “simple but cool” accessories will dominate.
“The arm cuff can elevate a sleek look without overcomplicating it,” she says. “This adds a fun flair and isn’t a typical choice for most.”
When it comes to bags for weddings, Sophia says “look to vintage”. “Think ’90s-style beaded, satin, drawstring and glo-mesh styles,” she says. “A trip to the thrift store could be the final step in completing your outfit or if you are more of an online shopper eBay and Etsy are flooded with options.”
Finally, when it comes to shoes, Stamellos recommends looking for something with a bit of interest, even if the shoe is still a minimal pump. “We are seeing a lot of sculptural heels on the runway—a great talking point for a look!”
What To Wear With A Black Wedding Guest Dress
When wearing a black wedding guest dress, get creative with jewellery, accessories and texture to add some interest. “Don’t play too far into blacks; this is where you can add a pop of colour with a great clutch bag,” explains marie claire Fashion Editor, Sophia Stamellos.
She recommends looking to the Freya Gown by Australian designer Beare Park, a halter design with gathered detailing around the hips. “Let the neckline do all the talking by adding a cuff or earring to the look,” she says.
BEARE PARK
Freya Gown
SAINT LAURENT
Goya 95 crepe slingback pumps
LIFFNER
Tassel Satin Bag
PANDORA
Organically Shaped Open Bangle
What To Wear With A Slip Dress For Wedding Guests
Due to the simplicity of a slip dress, you can dress it up or down depending on how your wedding dress code. For black tie, look for styles that are floor length, and pair with minimal gold or sterling silver jewellery and a classic heel. For cocktail affairs, you can go for mid-length lacy slip dresses with a more creative heeled sandal.
“Saint Laurent has been showcasing lace trim dresses for a few seasons, which have made it on to the red carpet” Stamellos says. “Think: elevated night gown.”
ANINE BING
Magnolia Lace-trimmed maxi dress
STUDIO AMELIA
Pierre 50 Heel
BILLINI
Lilith Clutch Bag
REFORMATION
Regin Jacket
What To Wear With Colourful Or Patterned Wedding Guest Dresses
More is more for this kind of dress,” says Stamellos. “Lean right into prints and patterns by adding a beaded bag, and anchor the look with a classic pump.”
If you’re searching for inspiration, head to Pinterest. “Look to the archive of brands like Roberto Cavalli and Versace for great inspiration for these looks,” advises Stamellos.
RAT & BOA
Sabine Dress – Red
EDWARD MELLER
Cresta60 Slingback Pump
OLGA BERG
Shar Mesh Convertible Bag
SAINT VALENTINE
Flat Shell Mini Hoops
