Received a wedding invitation and wondering what to wear? You're not alone! Choosing the perfect wedding guest outfit can be surprisingly stressful. You want to look your best, respect the dress code, and avoid any fashion faux pas—all while celebrating the happy couple.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Australian wedding guests need to know about finding that perfect dress, from decoding dress codes to navigating seasonal considerations and colour etiquette.
Understanding Wedding Dress Codes
The invitation often provides clues about what to wear. Here's how to decode common wedding dress codes:
🎩 Black Tie / Formal
Think floor-length gowns or elegant evening dresses. This is your chance to go all out with sophisticated fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet. Formal jewellery and heels are expected.
Shop Formal Gowns →🥂 Cocktail / Semi-Formal
Midi or knee-length dresses work perfectly. Choose elegant fabrics and styles—think lace, chiffon, or structured designs. This is the most common dress code for Australian weddings.
Shop Cocktail Dresses →🌸 Garden Party / Smart Casual
Floral prints, lighter fabrics, and feminine silhouettes shine here. A pretty midi dress or elegant sundress is ideal. Comfortable block heels or wedges work well for outdoor venues.
Shop Garden Party Styles →🏖️ Beach / Casual
Flowy maxi dresses in light fabrics are perfect. Avoid anything too casual like sundresses you'd wear to the shops. Flat sandals are acceptable, but elevated styles still look polished.
Shop Beach Wedding Styles →Colours: What to Wear & What to Avoid
⚠️ Colours to Avoid
- White, ivory, cream, or champagne - Reserved for the bride
- All black - Can appear funeral-like (though acceptable for evening weddings)
- Anything too similar to bridesmaids' dresses - Ask if unsure
- Red - In some cultures, red is traditionally worn by brides
✨ Great Colour Choices
- Navy blue - Universally elegant and flattering
- Dusty rose or mauve - Romantic and wedding-appropriate
- Emerald green - Stunning and sophisticated
- Burgundy or wine - Perfect for autumn/winter weddings
- Soft pastels - Ideal for spring/summer celebrations
- Florals - Always appropriate for daytime weddings
Wedding Guest Dresses by Season
Summer Weddings (December - February)
Australian summer weddings call for breathable fabrics and lighter colours. Consider:
- Flowing chiffon or silk midi dresses
- Light linen styles in soft colours
- Floral prints that aren't too busy
- Pastel or jewel-toned options
Don't forget sun protection for outdoor ceremonies!
Shop Summer Wedding DressesAutumn Weddings (March - May)
Embrace richer colours and slightly heavier fabrics:
- Satin or velvet in burgundy, forest green, or navy
- Midi dresses with long sleeves
- Warm-toned florals
- Elegant wrap dresses
Winter Weddings (June - August)
Layer up while staying elegant:
- Long-sleeved dresses in luxe fabrics
- Deep jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, or ruby
- Velvet midi or maxi dresses
- Pair with a sophisticated coat or wrap
Spring Weddings (September - November)
Perfect for romantic, feminine styles:
- Soft pastels and pretty prints
- Flowy skirts and feminine details
- Lace or embroidered fabrics
- Fresh, garden-party inspired looks
Wedding Guest Dresses by Venue
Church Weddings
Modesty is key for religious ceremonies. Choose dresses that:
- Cover shoulders (or bring a wrap)
- Fall at or below the knee
- Aren't too low-cut or revealing
Winery or Vineyard Weddings
Popular in Australian wine regions, these venues suit:
- Romantic, flowing styles
- Earth tones and rich colours
- Comfortable heels (grass and gravel are common)
City/Hotel Weddings
Urban venues allow for more glamorous choices:
- Sleek, sophisticated silhouettes
- Bold colours or elegant black
- Statement accessories
Find Your Perfect Wedding Guest Dress
Browse our curated selection of elegant wedding guest dresses with fast Australian delivery.
Shop Wedding Guest Dresses →Accessories & Styling Tips
- Shoes: Match the venue—heels for indoor, wedges or block heels for outdoor
- Bags: A small clutch or elegant handbag in a complementary colour
- Jewellery: Elegant but not distracting—let the couple be the focus
- Hair: Consider an updo for formal weddings or soft waves for casual celebrations
đź’ˇ Final Tips
- When in doubt, slightly overdress rather than underdress
- Break in new shoes before the big day
- Bring a small emergency kit (safety pins, band-aids, breath mints)
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly
- Most importantly—have fun and celebrate the couple!
With these guidelines in mind, you're ready to find the perfect wedding guest dress that makes you feel confident and appropriate for the celebration. Happy shopping, and enjoy the wedding!