Tropical ocean breezes, salty sea air, sand between your toes. We’re not just talking about any tropical vacation here … no, we’re specifically referencing beach weddings. Whether you’re headed to the Bahamas or Tulum, choosing the perfect attire is almost as important as your friends’ nuptials themselves. (Hey, we said almost.) If that invite says you’re booking a plane ticket for sandy shores, it’s time to hunt for the best beach wedding guest dresses. Breezy and flowy dresses are the name of the wedding game here—as long as you follow the dress code, obviously.
What are the rules for a beach wedding, anyway? “The dress code for beach weddings tends to fall into one of three buckets—beach formal, beach cocktail, or beach casual,” says Jilian Becker, lead planner at We Do Events. “While beach weddings can lean more casual, guest attire isn’t too different than any other outdoor wedding. You’ll want to consider the formality of the wedding, the venue, the weather, and the time of the day.”
The best part about beach wedding guest attire? You can definitely have fun! We chatted with wedding and event planners to answer your burning questions for choosing the right dress and rounded up 13 beach wedding guest dresses that are totally sand-and-sea worthy.
In This Article
The best beach wedding guest dresses, at a glance:
- Best tropical print: Farm Rio, Pink Banana Leaves Sleeveless Maxi Dress, $295
- Best cutouts: ASTR the Label, Noya Dress, $178
- Best midi: Lulus, Peak Party Vibe Satin Tiered Tie-Back Midi Dress, $79
- Best one-shoulder: Atsu, Sally Bow Midi Dress, $248
- Best floral: Show Me Your Mumu, Garden Midi Dress, $188
- Best mini: More to Come, Makaela Babydoll Dress, $78
- Best ruffles: Mac Duggal, Ieena High-Low Ruffle Gown, $398
- Best backless: Misa, Rosalia Dress, $470
- Best lace: Merokeety, Floral Lace Maxi Dress, $80
- Best linen: Banana Republic, Lisa Linen Midi Dress, $220
- Best slit: Reformation, Winslow Dress, $348
- Best high-neck: BCBG New York, Sleeveless Halter Tiered Maxi Dress, $128
- Best pleated: Petal & Pup, Cali Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress, $99
What to look for in a beach wedding guest dress
“Beach weddings can range from nautical to tropical, casual to formal,” says Kathryn Barron, senior coordinator at Tessa Lyn Events in Southern California.“There are many options and it is really up to the couple to decide what theme or vibe they want to lean into.” Before shopping, ask yourself the following questions:
How formal is it?
If you’re wondering how dressy you need to get, be sure to check out the invite. “Wedding guest dresses are greatly dictated by the theme and formality level of the wedding, both of which should be clearly communicated by the couple on their invitation or wedding website,” Barron says.
What shoes do I wear?
Since you’ll likely be outdoors, avoid shoes that will sink into the sand. Opt for strappy flats, colorful flats. “Leave the stilettos at home and opt for chunky heels or sandals,” Becker says. You can even go barefoot if the occasion calls for it.
Is the dress practical?
Even if the wedding is more formal, you can loosen up a little. Flowy, breezy, lightweight dresses are ideal—and, bonus, they pack much easier in a suitcase! Think fabrics like chiffon, organza, linen, and silk. “Steer clear of heavy fabrics, such as velvet, wool, and brocade,” Barron recommends.
That being said, you can certainly have fun with your dress choice. Bold colors, vibrant prints, tropical flowers, cutouts, and one-shoulder dresses are all appropriate. “We tend to see a lot more pattern at beach weddings,” Becker says. While you can choose a dress with a shorter hemline, longer silhouettes like midi dresses and maxi dresses will make a sultry statement. If ever there were a time to leave that LBD at home, it’s a beach wedding!
And, we’re sure this goes without saying, but just in case—leave the white dress at home. That’s still only appropriate for the bride.
Ready to say yes to the beach wedding guest dress? We thought so!
Shop 13 of the best beach wedding guest dresses
Best tropical print: Farm Rio, Pink Banana Leaves Sleeveless Maxi Dress — $295.00
Available sizes: XXS-XL
No one does tropical prints quite like Farm Rio. While they have printed gown upon printed gown to choose from, we’re head over heels (and banana peels) for this one with a vivid banana leaf pattern. The halter silhouette has string ties at the neck with leaf-shaped ends, a subtly fitted bodice, and a subtle open back with crisscrossing ties. The long, tiered skirt hits right at the ankle, so you can show off your strappy flats. All we can say is, thank you, Farm Rio. There’s no denying this is the dress for someone looking to make a statement at a destination beach wedding.
Material: 60% cotton, 40% vicose
Colors: 1
- Unique print
- Adjustable halter ties
- Breezy open back detail
- Pretty tiered skirt
- Only one color available
- On the pricier side
Best cutouts: ASTR the Label, Noya Dress — $178.00
Available sizes: XS-XL
The floral print, the side cutouts, the ruffles, the lace-up back, the side slit … this gown by ASTR the Label is one that just ticks so many boxes. The print is delicate and feminine yet still eye-catching, and the flowy organza fabric will swish from the sand to the dance floor. While it features many sexy elements, including those side cutouts, lace-up back, and a plunging V-neckline, it doesn’t veer into inappropriate territory. A crisscrossing banded front, wide shoulder straps, and a concealed back zip complete the look.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 1
- Pretty floral print
- Interesting back lace-up detail
- Unique design features throughout
- Modest slit
- Limited sizing available
- Only available in one color
Best midi: Lulus, Peak Party Vibe Satin Tiered Tie-Back Midi Dress — $79.00
Available sizes: XS-2X
Honestly, the name says it all. This Lulu’s dress is the epitome of peak party vibes, thanks to its deep V’s at the front and back, multiple tiers, and a tied sash at the back. It comes in three colors, including royal blue, bright yellow, and an extremely Barbie-friendly hot pink. The luxe satin shimmers and shines from ceremony to the cocktail hour. It’s finished with a pleated, banded waist detail and concealed back zip. If you want to be the life of the beach wedding, this is the dress for you.
Material: Shell: 100% polyester, Lining: 88%polyester, 12% spandex
Colors: 2
- Various beachy colors
- Pretty tiers
- Sand-friendly midi length
- Hand-wash only
- Not bra-friendly
Best one-shoulder: Atsu, Sally Bow Midi Dress — $248.00
Available sizes: XXS-3X, with petite and plus sizes
Sway, sashay, and dance the night away in this one-shoulder dress by Atsu. Whether you choose the splashy blue-and-white floral, the fun red-and-white polka dots, or one of the pretty solid hues, this dress is one to watch on and off the dance floor. The single spaghetti strap is adjustable, and the oversized angled bow at the bodice gives it a fun touch. A long maxi skirt with a wide-tiered ruffle and side zip finish the look. We also love that it comes in regular, petite, and plus sizing. Beach weddings, here we come.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 4
- Inclusive size range
- Multiple colors and prints
- Lined with a swingy skirt
- Fun oversized bow detail
- Adjustable strap
Best floral: Show Me Your Mumu, Garden Midi Dress — $188.00
Available sizes: XS-XXL, with other colors available from XXS-3X
Show Me Your Mumu has tons of gorgeous floral dresses that are totally beach wedding-worthy. This one gets our vote as much for the lively print as for the midi silhouette and sweet finishing touches. It features a square-cut neckline, smocked back, adjustable tied shoulder straps, and a midi length with a sexy thigh-high slit. It’s accented with self-ties at the waist and a tiered ruffle hem. In addition to the “Miss Malibu” print, it’s also available in seven additional colors and patterns, including two other florals and a variety of pretty solids.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 8
- Size inclusive, although some prints have more sizes available than others
- Sexy side slit
- Adjustable tied shoulder straps
Best mini: More to Come, Makaela Babydoll Dress — $78.00
Available sizes: XXS-XL
Don’t feel like donning a maxi dress? Good news—with this More to Come stunner, you don’t have to. It’s designed in lightweight chiffon, with draped off-the-shoulder straps and a front bow detail. Non-slip silicone grip lining at the neckline helps keep it in place even through sweaty dancing, and it’s finished with a hidden side zip.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 1
- Affordable
- Flattering off-the-shoulder straps
- Pretty bow detail
- Comfortable mini silhouette
- Silicone grips in neckline prevent slipping
- Must be hand-washed
- Some sizes may be sold out
Best ruffles: Mac Duggal, Leena High-Low Ruffle Gown — $398.00
Available sizes: 0-16
When you want a dress that’s a total showstopper, this Mac Duggal gown is the one to reach for. Whether you choose pastel pink, light blue, or lemon yellow, it’s replete with resplendent details that will make your outfit as noteworthy as the bride’s (but without showing her up, of course). A plunging V-neckline, wide shoulder straps, and side cutouts are appealing enough—then it’s finished with a distinctive high-low hem and accented with trailing ruffles. We love the subtle ’80s-inspired shimmer, too. Pair this gown with a chunky heel and a small clutch to finish the look.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 3
- Distinctive high-low silhouette
- Pretty ruffle trim and sexy side cutouts
- Size inclusive
- May need to be hemmed
- Must be spot cleaned or dry cleaned
- Pricey
Best backless: Misa, Rosalia Dress — $470.00
Available sizes: XXS-XL
Searing beach temperatures call for showing skin in ways that still feels elevated. Enter this dress by Misa, which has a plunging V-neckline and low square back that reveal just enough. It’s crafted in midweight cotton that has the texture of beach-appropriate linen, and it’s between a midi and maxi length, hitting right above the ankles but below the calves. The vibrant floral pattern infuses this frock with tropical flair. It’s finished with an elastic banded waist for a touch of structure.
Material: 100% cotton linen
Colors: 1
- Breezy fabric
- Bold, colorful print
- Loose, comfy fit
- Pricey
- Only one color available
Best lace: Merokeety, Floral Lace Maxi Dress — $80.00
Available sizes: S-XXL
Want to be lovely in lace? This Merokeety floor-length gown is made for you. It features an allover lace overlay, which is accented by crocheted trim at the V-neckline and bodice. The hem has scalloped detailing and is long enough that you can either go barefoot or wear simple flat sandals. We love the short flutter sleeves and subtle cinched waist, and the fact that it comes in a whopping 18 different colors, including mint green, hot pink, and lavender. If you’re looking for a slightly more covered-up dress for a beach wedding, while still feeling cool in the heat, this is the one for you.
Material: 65% nylon, 35% rayon
Colors: 18
- Wide variety of colors
- Pretty lace overlay and flutter sleeves
- Fully lined
Best linen: Banana Republic, Lisa Linen Midi Dress — $220.00
Available sizes: XXS-XL (also available in Petite)
Easy, breezy, elegant—that’s linen in a beachy nutshell. “For a beach casual wedding, opt for linen,” recommends Becker. You’ll want to reach for this Banana Republic midi dress, thanks to its subtly relaxed silhouette, V-neckline, and the aforementioned lightweight linen, of course. We love the cutouts and the halter style that allows for an open back.
Material: Shell: 100% linen; Lining: 100% viscose rayon
Colors: 2
- Machine washable
- Lightweight, breezy linen
- Easy, flattering fit
- Only two colors available
- Pricey
Best slit: Reformation, Winslow Dress — $348.00
Available sizes: XS-3X
When it comes to wedding guest dresses, we’d be remiss not to include an option from Reformation. With its flattering wrap silhouette, deep V-neckline, and elbow-length sleeves, the Winslow dress is worthy of an RSVP. The lightweight georgette flows effortlessly and we love that it’s also available in plus sizes. But it’s the thigh-high slit that’s the real star of the show here. It’s at once elegant and sexy, and makes this dress one to watch all evening long. Consider yourself on the best-dressed wedding guest list.
Material: 100% viscose
Colors: 8
- Sexy side slit
- Adjustable wrap silhouette
- Available in plus sizes
- Reformation handles basic alterations in-house free of charge
- Variety of colors and prints
- Not all sizes available in certain colors
- Runs long
Best high-neck: BCBG New York, Sleeveless Halter Tiered Maxi Dress — $128.00
Available sizes: XS-XL
The best way to show off your shoulders at a beach wedding? With this halter dress from BCBG New York. The full-length silhouette features the aforementioned halter, which buttons at the back neck, and a beamingly bright yellow floral print upon luxe, lightweight satin. The fitted bodice opens up to a multi-tiered skirt, and is finished with sash ties at the waist. Looks like true love.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 1
- Beautiful floral print
- Midi length sand-friendly
- Pretty tiered hem
- Limited sizes available
- Hand-wash only
Best pleated: Petal & Pup, Cali Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress — $99.00
Available sizes: XS-XL
Perfect in pleats … yes, that’s completely the case when it comes to this shoulder-baring, midi-length gown from Petal & Pup. The saffron hue and luxe, shimmering satin are ultra-glamorous, while the relaxed, flowing silhouette keeps it casual enough for more relaxed beach weddings. The wide shoulder strap has adjustable string ties to cinch it slightly, too. Greek goddess? Yes, please.
Material: 100% polyester
Colors: 1
- Beautiful pleated design
- Relaxed, flowy fit
- Adjustable ties at the shoulder
- Less size options
- Must be hand-washed
- May run large
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.
