We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A beautiful high-neck mermaid-style gown if you're looking for a formal option that, TBH, you could definitely wear again (and again) in the future. This pretty dress keeps it simple up top while adding some fun flair with a flouncy side slit — perfect for dancing with the whole wedding party at the end of the night.
Promising review: "LOVE LOVE LOVE this dress. You can see why it's a bestseller — which tempted me not to buy it because who wants to show up in the same dress and I felt a little self-conscious with the fit. But after ordering numerous dresses (and everyone I showed the images picked this dress) I finally decided to just own it and I'm glad I did. I helped at the venue before, during and after the wedding and it was super comfortable for hours. Slipped bathing suit pads in the top for coverage with no problem with them being visible due to sheerness. Wore biker type undergarments on the bottom. Order this one." —Kris G. Morris
Get it from Amazon for $58.99 (available in sizes S–XL and in 10 colors).
2. A breathable chiffon pleated off-the-shoulder option begging to be packed for that destination wedding you're counting down the weeks to. The movement of the ruffles anytime you walk or dance will be simply *chef's kiss*.
You can wear this on the shoulders too!
Promising reviews: "Loved this dress for a wedding I attended! Fits amazing, super flowy and fun! The purple is the perfect shade! Loved that the shoulders actually stayed down on the arms, never had a problem with them riding up. Paired with a pair of cheetah pumps, I’d wear this to every wedding!" —Kat Stuckey
"I got sooo many compliments on this dress and I felt super comfortable and stylish while wearing it! I got the blue one and it's the perfect color for the beach or summer event. The material is lightweight and it moves gracefully while you walk. You can wear off the shoulder or on the shoulder." —Kristy and Norris Hartog
Get it from Amazon for $37.60+ (available in sizes XS–XL, four styles, and 41 colors).
3. An off-the-shoulder dress with an adorable scalloped eyelet hem and off-shoulder sleeves that'll let your skin breathe. It's nice enough for a wedding, but casual enough for all sorts of warm weather adventures. (Time to ~manifest~ yourself in this on a cruise ship with the wind in your hair ASAP.)
Promising reviews: "Bought this dress to wear to a friend's wedding. I honestly didn’t have high expectations after paying only $33 for it, but let me tell you I loved everything about this dress, from the color to the material to the way it fit. This definitely exceed my expectations. I bought a 1X in this and it fit perfect. I am ordering a few more colors I love it that much!" —Nina Camacho
"I took a chance and ordered based on reviews. Always taking a risk ordering plus-size online especially an unfamiliar brand, but I’m glad I did. I wore this on an evening dinner cruise. It was such a comfortable dress. It stays off the shoulder pretty well. I was happy with this dress and the price." —Lydia B.
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes XL–4X and in 21 colors)
4. An elegant off-the-shoulder gown perfect for pairing with some eye-catching statement jewelry for a look that's classic and beautiful without being "too much" for a wedding.
Promising review: "Great fit and material was stretchy. Slit was great and not too high. It was elegant but not too over-the-top for a formal wedding. I wore a medium and it was perfect." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 14 colors).
5. A casual short-sleeve maxi dress with a high waistline and soft, stretchy fit — no uncomfortable seams or restricting fabric to distract you when you're trying to catch up with all of the friends you haven't seen since high school and introduce yourself to new people.
Promising review: "I love this dress. The length is perfect; it does not drag on the ground. The top part of the dress fits snug and the bottom flows, just like the picture. I can't wait to order the other colors. I have ordered other dresses from Nemidor in the past and I am always satisfied with the quality." —Dina Grubbs
Get it from Amazon for $33.99 (available in sizes 14–26, short or long sleeves, and 28 colors/patterns).
6. A gorgeous polka-dot halter dress if you're looking for plenty of coverage up top but some fun, flowy action below, with an asymmetric ruffled skirt that'll show off your lower legs. Some reviewers even belted it for added shape, and it'd pair well with a wide-brimmed hat if the ceremony is outside!
Promising review: "I love this dress. The cut is super cute, the fabric comfortable and soft. I love the tie neck and the way it shows off the shoulders! I wore it a bit of a drop waist to give it a little flapper style, throwing in pearl strands and super cute shoes and lace socks. It was perfect for a wedding we attended at a winery. I did not wear the tie belt that day, but it would be great as a belt, or adorable as a head band or around a pony tail. Totally recommend. :)" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $12+ (available in sizes S–3XL and in 18 colors).
7. A lightweight, open-feel lacy tunic dress giving off a sliiightly witchy vibe so you can play the role of the cool, ~mysterious~ guest in the corner.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this dress! I purchased it for an evening event; normally I only wear T-shirt dresses, but needed something a bit dressier. It really looked so cute on. It was incredibly comfortable, nice and loose, but the shorter length kept it from looking frumpy. It was still long enough that I didn’t have to worry about moving around, though. It hangs nicely, has a nice weight, and is surprisingly warm. Love the crocheted arms, beautiful, but not so delicate I had to worry about them. For the black dress, I did not have to wear a slip underneath, as it is lined and I did not find it to be see through at all. I would totally consider getting this in a lighter color for spring/summer. You cannot beat it!" —A Abbott
Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes S–L and two colors).
8. A cross-neck halter-style gown with ruching at the bust, a fitted waist, and a high slit that'll have you feeling ~confident~ without stealing the show.
Note: Reviewers say the shade pictured above is more of an emerald green than the photo appears! There's not much stretch, so reviewers suggest sizing up if you have bigger hips/thighs.
Promising review: "Wore it to a wedding and loved it. The material is super beautiful in person. I will say it runs a little small and I had to get it tailored but I think it was worth it. So many compliments on the dress!!" —emily g.
Get it from Beginning Boutique for $99.99 (available in sizes 0–12; available in four colors).
9. An 100% chiffon tie-back mini dress that'll make you feel like a princess, with three-quarter lantern sleeves (which can be worn up or off-shoulder), a ruched bust, and smocked waist. I mean, forget the wedding — you'll probably end up wearing this all spring and summer long.
Promising reviews: "It’s soooo cute and I got so many compliments at the wedding we went to. I am a bigger-chested girl and it fit just right. I’m a shorty and it wasn’t too long. So comfy too. It’s a must-get! May get it in a few other colors eventually." —Emily Tomas
"I LOVE IT!!! The waist part of this dress is everything. I’m an absolute sucker for poofy sleeves. I love that they’re gauzy and translucent. Dress has a slip attached inside for the body part. I can wear this any day my mood needs elevated!" —R
Get it from Amazon for $39.49 (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 20 colors and prints).
10. A ruffled, flowy smocked-bust midi dress with a look that says, "I vacation in Cape Cod sometimes." It'd be so perf for a beachy or countryside wedding where you want to look nice but casual and be totally comfy all day long.
Promising review: "This summer dress is a must have! I must have worn it at least once a week all summer long. It’s so comfortable and the material is breathable, even on humid days. The pockets are ideal and the flutter-cap sleeves couldn’t be cuter. I ordered a large for just a little better wiggle room and glad I did because it fits perfectly. I wore it with white sneakers, sandals, and espadrilles so it’s very versatile." —Nikki Scott
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes 0–12, six styles, and 17 colors/patterns).
11. A boatneck tea dress so you can rock your Audrey Hepburn-inspired style while celebrating the day of love. Though it's a thicker material, the sleeveless design and flared skirt help keep this dress from becoming a total sweat fest, and it's versatile enough for wearing to work, church, ~tea parties~, and other dressy events as well.
Promising reviews: "This is my THIRD color of this dress this summer. I have worn all three to weddings, and strangers were stopping me to compliment me on my dress. Classy, fun, and timeless. Don't skip the petticoat and you'll bring down the house!" —Jessica L Redding
"Perfect for a summer wedding. Lightweight. It was a great dress for twirling on the dance floor. I added a red belt and shoes for that pop [of color]. Bought the petticoat for underneath, but decided to go without since it was such a hot day. The dress still flares well without it. I could see it being snug if you have a large chest, but it was fine for me." —m
Get it from Amazon for $29.49+ (available in sizes XS–20 Plus and in 14 options)
12. Or a vintage-style halter dress designed with a corset back you can adjust for maximum comfort at any given point — like when you need to make room for more tasty hors d'oeuvres.
Promising review: "I am so very happy with this dress. I wore it to a friend's wedding and got so many compliments! It fits as expected per the size chart, but since the back is ruched elastic with a corset-type tie, you can adjust this to your liking. I did wear this dress with a petticoat, but it can be worn without. It is well-made and a good medium-thick material, but still breathable for warmer weather." —Lauren R.
Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 44 colors/patterns).
13. A ribbed, one shoulder cutout dress that'll have you looking *so* chic when you stand to give your speech during the reception — you'll look so good, no one will even notice if you're nervous.
14. A stunning high-neck option with beautiful lace detailing across the bodice for a very classic look. This could easily work as a bridesmaid's dress, but it'd be perfect for any wedding with a more formal vibe even if your only role for the day is crying during the vows and chowing down at the reception buffet.
Promising review: "Simple but elegant dress that was comfortable. The fabric had a bit of give, which helped to make it fit well. This dress is worth the price and shouldn’t be feared as 'too good to be true.' With all the color options, I think it’s great for prom, wedding parties, and evening events." —LindsayMc
Get it from Amazon for $63.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and eight colors).
15. A soft, stretchy off-the-shoulder bodycon dress you might be tempted to wear to not just one, but *multiple* weddings on your calendar for this year, considering you can sport it three ways: off the shoulder, on one shoulder, or fully strapless. Hey, when those wedding invites start piling up, it's too expensive to buy a new dress for every one!
Promising review: "BUY THIS DRESS! This dress is AWESOME! I thought some people had to be exaggerating, lol, but I was proven wrong. It is light and cool. It is comfortable, doesn't ride up, and you can easily dress it up or down. It fits perfectly! I absolutely recommend this dress to anyone!" —Destiny
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes L–3XL and eight colors).
16. An embroidered baby doll dress perfect for a boho-inspired wedding — and thanks to its breathable cotton fabric, you'll feel blissfully breezy all day.
This is a hand wash–only item!
Promising review: "I ordered this dress for my friend's backyard wedding. She wanted everyone to have fun, but different styled dresses. I ended up loving this boho dress. SO many compliments!!! The only regret I have is...I wish I would have taken the reviews to heart about it running big. I would have loved for this dress to be a little more snug!" —Haley
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes S–2X and in 10 colors).
17. A ruffled layer–top gown that'll make you feel like an absolute jewel, both at this upcoming wedding and any other black-tie events on the horizon.
Promising reviews: "I love this dress! The wedding I’m going to is beach formal attire. I went with a burgundy color because of the color scheme for the wedding. This dress is a must-have! It’s maxi dress–type comfort with a bit of semi-formal style. I’m only 4’11 and with some heels there’s about an inch still on the floor. It’s not stretchy and a bit snug to get over my bust, but it fits perfect!" —Ari Sauce
"I was looking for a dress for engagement pictures and happened to come across this dress. At first I was not sold by the model's picture but after looking through the photo reviews I decided to take a chance on it, and it did NOT disappoint. This dress is flowy, elegant, and the prettiest powder blue color. It would also be a great bridesmaid dress option in my opinion!" —Ashlie
Get it from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in sizes 4–26 and in 19 colors).
18. A colorful lantern-sleeve rainbow midi dress if the bride's answer when you asked about the color scheme was just "bright colors...anything goes." Perfect for vibrant spring and summer weddings, this pretty number will have you feeling like the star of your own personal rom-com — hey, people meet at weddings all the time, you know.
Mr. Water New York is a New York-based Etsy shop filled with unique, stylish, and sometimes vintage-inspired pieces.
Promising review: "Very soft/silky feel of the fabric!! It’s perfect for hot summer weather and the design reminds me of watercolor painting. There’s another layer of fabric underneath so it’s great if you want to go braless or have issues with see-through clothing. Shipping was SUPER fast; I didn’t expect the dress to come until next week and it came in a few days after placing my order. Def will buy from here again!!" —Guadalupe
Get it from Mr. Water New York on Etsy for $89 (available in sizes XS–XXL).
19. A cheery floral fit-and-flare dress giving slightly retro vibes. Reviewers say the soft linen and viscose material is super lightweight, perfect for a warm-weather wedding — though *imagine* how darling it'd look with a cropped cardigan thrown over for added warmth, if needed.
Promising reviews: "Very cute! Nice linen type fabric. I was nervous about the fit because I have large boobs and button front is questionable. But it’s a perfect fit! The smocking in the back gives a little, so no button gaps. There are also seams on the bodice that give it a nice shape. It's a little longer than I thought but great for windy days or sitting in the park on a blanket, etc. it’s so cute I came back to see if they had another color way to buy. Recommend for summer days!!!" —Bonnie
"Exactly as described, super-fast delivery. I was looking for a print sundress for those too-hot-to-live summer days, and this is it. Pretty print, flexible smocked back, very cool and breathable linen/viscose-blend woven fabric. Nothing like it in the big-box stores. Kudos!!!" —Julie H.
Get it from ModCloth for $89 (available in sizes XS–4X; some sizes may be out of stock).
20. A versatile tunic maxi dress if you'd rather not spend the day feeling restricted or always worrying if you're going to accidentally flash everyone if you bend over. ~Accessorize~ to your heart's content — and when the wedding's behind you, break this out on pretty much any average day for a comfy-cute vibe.
Promising review: "This actually fit very well. It can be dressed up with accessories or worn casual. The quality of the material was nice and the fabric allows your skin to breathe. I wish this same dress came with a V-neck." —jacqui k
Get it from Amazon for $23.79+ (available in sizes L–5X and 18 colors/patterns).
21. A sweet little open-back dress with long but lightweight lantern sleeves and dreamy ruffles. It'll be hard to resist twirling down the aisle to your seat in this gorgeous number — maybe just save it for the dance floor.
Promising review: "This is such a beautiful dress! The medium was a little loose in the body but perfect length-wise. Still was very comfortable. I got a lot of compliments! It was made with a good quality material. The under-skirt was nice and thick so you couldn't see through it. I wore short black shorts underneath in case it was windy at the wedding. I paired it with knee-high boots also from Amazon!" —Noel Cossaboon
Get it from Amazon for $25.95+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 40 styles).
22. A splurge-worthy wrap dress that's wedding elegance at its finest, and you'll be looking for excuses to wear it again and again. Its open-back design includes adjustable straps to help secure the deep V-neckline at the front, and the dress flows freely from the waist with a flirty slit that'll let you show a little skin if you like.
Whimsy + Row is a woman-owned, California-based small business that specializes in eco-conscious fashion, using locally sourced, upcycled, and low impact materials.
Get it from Whimsy + Row for $248 (available in standard sizes XXS–XL with nine colors). Also available in plus sizes 1X–3X with three colors.
23. A V-neck faux-wrap dress with gorgeous ruched detailing and a tie at the waist that gives this pretty piece such a lovely shape. It's just *begging* to be paired with a statement necklace to really bring this wedding-ready look together.
Promising review: "The dress fit as expected. I wore this to a wedding (the first time meeting many of my fiancé's family) dressed up with some nice gold jewelry, clutch, and shoes. I got tons of compliments from everyone. My guy LOVED this dress on me. It held up after washing on delicate and dry on low heat." —N Gear
Get it from Amazon for $19.90+ (available in sizes S–XL and 24 colors)
24. A mesh-sleeve bodycon dress that's basically business in the front and back, and party on the sides — seriously, could those sleeves be any more stunning? With a crew neckline and knee-length cut, it offers plenty of coverage if that's what you're going for, but the embellished bell sleeves add such a fun detail that'll be drawing eyes (and compliments) all day long.
Promising review: "I wore this dress to a wedding and received so many compliments. It fit like a glove...The sleeves are beautiful with the flower appliqués; some of the flowers have gold on the edges of the petals. The gold was subtle yet added a little something extra. The fabric is thick and has some stretch to it. People actually asked me what designer the dress was (it was a very very nice wedding in The Hamptons). Shein A La Amazon lololol." —Heather R.
Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in standard sizes XS–L and five colors/styles). Also available in plus sizes (L–3XL) for $29.99+ (available in six colors/styles).
25. A fairytale-worthy lavender swing dress so you can show up looking like an absolute goddess, with sleeves as flowy as the skirt for a mesmerizing effect as you move around.
Loud Bodies is a woman-owned small business that specializes in ethically produced sustainable clothing of all sizes.
Promising review: "I love this dress!! It’s my new go-to for special occasions. The fabric is soft and very wearable, and the fit is amazing (I provided my measurements with my order, and Patricia customized the items to fit me perfectly). If you need a cocktail / party / special occasion dress, I recommend this one. Worth every penny (and more)!" —Cynthia
Get it from Loud Bodies for $127.50 (originally $170; available in sizes XXS–10X and with or without pockets, as well as in custom options for no extra charge).
26. A tie-neck cocktail dress if you're not afraid of rocking ruffles from head to toe — well, in this instance, they end about mid-thigh. Chic and fun all at the same time, this dress is basically a compliment magnet, so maybe *don't* wear it if you don't want other guests asking you where you got it all night.
Promising review: "This is a very beautiful fashion-forward dress. It looks just like the picture states. I wore it to a wedding and received many compliments. Please note, the dress is not a stretchy material. Although I ordered a size up, I would suggest ordering one or two sizes up if you would like the dress to fit loose or fall closer to your knees because it’s very short." —Quinna LaMark-Smith
Get it from Amazon for $36.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in four colors).
27. A super soft tie-neck maxi dress with lovely keyhole detailing and a long beautiful silhouette that drapes gracefully.
Promising review: "I know you may be contemplating, but buy the dress!!! It’s ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!! I wore it to a wedding and got so many compliments." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes L–3X and seven colors).
28. A dreamy floral wrap dress that might just be the embodiment of spring in a single piece of clothing, because those florals and pastel shades are just heavenly. Looking at it makes me want to go run through a field of daisies without a care in the world.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this dress! Comfortable, airy, well made, and perfect for a spring wedding, church, or a nice gathering! Absolutely recommend!" —Taylor Tidwell
Get it from Amazon for $42.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and 31 colors/prints).
29. A breathable, handcrafted linen dress perfect for a more casual wedding when you still want to look cute without overdressing. Reviewers rave about its high-quality craftsmanship and elegant simplicity.
The linen is pre-washed and softened! The seller can also make custom alterations to the piece free of charge, like adding length, excluding the pockets, making the arm holes bigger, or changing the color, although these make the dress non-returnable or refundable.
BTW — Linen Fox is a small biz that's been hand-making every piece of clothing out of 100% linen from Kaunas, Lithuania, since 2014.
Promising review: "The dress is gorgeous! It has such an effortless but put-together feel. I love the color (I got terracotta) and the fabric is soft and lays beautifully. It arrived ahead of schedule (took five weeks to get to me in the Midwest) and fits as expected. It hits about 2 inches above the knee — just as I hoped! The pockets lay perfectly and are at just the right height. I couldn’t be happier!" —Jennifer Taylor
Get it from Linen Fox on Etsy for $86.41 (available in sizes XXS–XXXL and in 22 colors). Shipping is free, though note that shipping can take several weeks (estimated arrival is indicated on the listing).
30. A floral vintage-inspired dress with long sleeves and knee-length design, perfect for those unpredictable spring days that range from chilly to warm, depending on the hour. The lightweight materials and flowy skirt will allow for breezy airflow, and the flowery patterns are just so darling.
Promising review: "I purchased this as a last-minute dress for a wedding. It was snug above the waist, but not snug enough where I was uncomfortable or have no movement. It fit perfectly!! The material is not cheap, it’s a nice, soft material, and you can have confidence it won’t fall apart in the washer or anything! Love it. I’ll probably buy another one in a different pattern." —Liz Garcia
Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in sizes S–XXL and 28 patterns).
31. A backless spaghetti strap dress that'll keep your arms and your legs free for some serious ~moving and grooving~ on the dance floor when they start playing your jam. *And* it has pockets!
Promising review: "Y'ALL. I do not have enough good things to say about this dress. This is the second one I've bought in a different color and it does nothing but impress. It is knee length so no accidental flashing, has adjustable straps that cross in the back for a great fit, and HAS POCKETS. It can be dressed up or down, I wore it to a wedding as well as to an afternoon of winery hopping. It's THAT versatile!" —Alex to Falex
Get it from Amazon for $38.90 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 23 colors).
32. A cowl neck stretchy satin dress with a *stunning* shine to it. The best part about this dress is just how customizable it is: You can keep it in a shorter style or have it customized to be a maxi length, along with all sorts of other sizing personalization.
Smart Glamour is a small business run by Mallorie Dunn that sells size-inclusive clothing.
Get it from Smart Glamour for $75 (available in sizes XXS–15X and 14 colors; sizing customization available at additional cost).
33. A wonderfully versatile baby doll dress — kick it up a notch with some jewelry and heels for an effortlessly cute wedding guest look, then rock it more casually with booties or sandals on other days.
Promising review: "I wanted a cute little black sun dress to wear for a birthday celebration weekend. Perfect, it was comfortable, and it’s versatile. You can wear it with cute sandals (wedges), Birkenstocks, Chuck Taylors, etc." —K. Foy
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 44 colors).
34. Hill House's iconic Ellie Nap Dress that comes in the most *darling* range of colors and patterns, including dreamy florals and plaids. It would make a perfectly adorable wedding guest 'fit, not to mention an unbelievably comfy option — after all, as the name implies, this dress is cozy enough that you can even sleep in it.
If you're between sizes, it's recommended that you size down!
Promising review: "100+ reviews and it selling out on each launch sort of speaks for itself. This is just the perfect dress, for literally anybody! There is not a single day that goes by that I'm wearing one and I don't get a compliment from someone. You can dress them up or dress them down. You can nap in them, then put some heels on and wear it out to dinner! They are so easy to wear. As a person who can't stand wearing a lot of clothes, these are essential to my wardrobe. You cannot go wrong with this dress. Every drop I say I'm going to order something different and I just wind up with more Ellies. You think you shouldn't order another one because you already have one or two? ORDER IT! In all the colors and prints! As for sizing, remember to size down." —Karina
Get it from Hill House for $150 (available in sizes XXS–XXL and 22 colors/prints).
35. Or a shirred maxi option with pretty ribbon-tied straps, a comfortable stretchy bodice, and a flowy skirt with tiered ruffles at the bottom. This is one you *might* just be tempted to grab in multiple shades and just wear...all the time.
Promising reviews: "I ordered the light purple to wear to a wedding and other events and absolutely love it! It fits true to size and is very comfortable, even on extremely hot and humid days since it is a thinner, flowy material. (It is not see-through due to lining, though!)" —Sarah Munson
"Very light and airy dress! Super comfortable. I’m 5’2, and it wasn’t too long at all. It’s super easy to dress it up or down. I got lots of compliments on it." —lexi
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 31 colors/prints).
36. And last but not least: An A-line skater dress with fluttering sleeves and a flared skirt, available in some seriously gorgeous pastel and solid-colored shades. It'll give you full range of movement all day, whether you're helping set up beforehand or planning to bust a move in front of the DJ that evening.
Promising review: "This is the best little cocktail dress ever! I attended an outdoor summer wedding in New York State and I was so comfortable in this dress. It fits perfectly and swings when you dance. So many compliments on this $35 dress. I will be ordering different color dresses moving forward!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and 18 colors).
When no one's approaching the dance floor yet and the bride tasked you with getting the party started:
