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Brides / Brian Kopinski
Countryside weddings are as popular as ever these days—whether they’re set in an open field, a barn, or the family backyard. It’s not hard to see why so many couples choose to get married in nature—it makes for the dreamiest, most romantic backdrop. It can also infuse the wedding with a more laid-back feel, as guests mingle and dance under blue skies or a canopy of stars.
But just because a country wedding setting may feel more casual, it doesn’t mean you have the license to wear shorts and sneakers—make sure to double check the dress code before buying a new outfit. Sundresses and flowy cotton numbers are wonderful for a summer country wedding with a more relaxed dress code, while a more formal attire request may call for silks and satins. And florals, subtle lace details, and ruffles are always good ideas for a wedding in the countryside.
To help you find the perfect country dress for any formality, we researched and rounded up the best options available online. We made our final selection based on the quality of materials, style, price point, size range, and overall value. We also spoke with professional stylists Alison Bruhn, Stacee Michelle, and Kat Minks for their expert insight.
Read on for the best country wedding guest dresses.
Best Overall
Free People Maxi Dress
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Free People
Lace is a welcome addition to any country wedding guest’s dress, but if you’re not willing to commit to the all-over look, Free People has exactly the piece for you. Designed in the brand’s signature boho style, this maxi is incredibly detailed—from the cutout back to the tassel embellishments, it’s guaranteed to make a splash. It also comes in an amazing range of colors, so you can tailor your pick to whatever setting, weather, and dress code you’re working with.
Who It's For
The guest who loves a long, flowy dress in a variety of color options
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Rayon | Colors: 16
Best Budget
Lulus Loveliest Looks Dusty Blue Floral Jacquard Tie-Strap Midi Dress
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Lulus
Arrive in style with this whimsical dusty blue wedding guest dress from Lulu's to witness your friends exchange vows this season. Metallic silver and floral designs on a sweetheart neckline are the epitome of a country wedding guest dress. You can wear this dress for a wide variety of occasions after the wedding, and it will serve you well.
Who It's For
Anyone attending a spring or summer wedding
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Dusty blue, pink, black, white, emerald green
Best for Fall
World of Crow Midi Dress
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Madewell
We’re loving this caramel-colored frock’s romantic, rustic vibe—and the fact that it’s size-inclusive. With its thick straps, cinched waist, and A-line midi skirt, it will serve you well for a fall country wedding. Pair it with an elegant mid-season jacket to elevate the look and ward off any incoming chill.
Who It's For
The wedding guest looking for a dress with a simple style in a rich fall color
Size Range: XXS-4X | Materials: Cotton | Colors: Caramel brown
Best for a Casual Wedding
Mara Hoffman Cotton-Crepon Midi Dress
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Net-A-Porter
Mara Hoffman is such an incredible label: They consider the environment throughout the production process, so you know that each piece is kind to the planet. This dress is made from organic cotton and comes in sizes up to a 3XL, to better reflect body diversity. The crepon fabric makes it a slightly more relaxed number, perfect for a garden wedding that’s not overly formal—plus the poppy color will make you fit right in with the local flora.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for a lightweight, easy to wear dress in an organic cotton
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Materials: Organic cotton | Colors: Bright orange
Best Long Sleeved
Windsor Maxi Dress
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Windsor
For a chillier day out in the country, or if you prefer to have your arms covered to attend a wedding, this long-sleeved maxi dress from Windsor is just what you need. The floral print makes it an ideal pick for dancing around a field, as do the leg slit and flowy chiffon fabric. Pair it with strappy heels for a touch of glamour, or with cowboy boots if the dress code calls for ‘em.
Who It's For
A wedding guest who prefers a full-length dress in a light, flowy fabric
Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black, multicolored floral
Best Midi
Vince Camuto Midi Dress
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Dillards
Bruhn recommends this design as something that's a little dressy, but still really easy and comfortable. This halter chiffon dress is cinched at the waist before flowing out into an asymmetric pleated skirt that will float in the breeze. The multicolored floral print is perfect for spring or early summer in the country.
Who It's For
Anyone who loves an allover floral print that's ideal for spring and summer
Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Off-white, multicolored
Best Mini
Lulus Puff Sleeve Mini Dress
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Lulus
If you’re in the mood to wear a mini dress for a country wedding, may we suggest a bold and playful dress like this pretty option from Lulus. It would be especially fitting for an evening look, thanks to the silky jacquard fabric and shimmery embellishments, but you can definitely pull off the candy pink version for the daytime, too. We love this design paired with woven wedges or stiletto sandals.
Who It's For
The wedding guest who is looking for a dress that can take them from daytime to nighttime with ease
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon | Colors: Navy blue, orange, black
Best Denim
Veronica Beard Dress
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Saks Fifth Avenue
For a country wedding—emphasis on “country”—denim is more than appropriate. That doesn’t mean you should show up in daisy dukes, however, but an elegant midi dress like this one from designer label Veronica Beard is a lovely choice. The fabric is lightweight enough to work for mid-seasons or a mild summer day, and the long sleeves, matching belt, and tiered skirt elevate the look.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for an elevated denim dress
Size Range: 00-16 | Materials: Cotton | Colors: Light blue denim wash
Best Ruffles
ASTR The Label Wedelia Dress
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Revolve
We’re telling you—florals are where it’s at when it comes to country weddings, according to Bruhn. This is the expert’s pick for a romantic dress that’s perfect for twirling on the dance floor, but that also features a little structure from the cupped bust and darted bodice. The delicate rose print, ruffled straps and lace-up back make this sweet dress into a truly special piece of clothing.
Who It's For
The wedding guest who wants a structured dress with a feminine style
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Rayon, lyocell, nylon | Colors: Purple floral
Most Edgy
BHLDN V-Neck Gown
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Anthropologie
For an afternoon ceremony that turns into an evening party, Minks love the edgy feel of this bias-cut ruffled gown. The black option is gorgeous for a dressier countryside event, but the blue and lilac options will infuse a ton of personality into your ensemble. Pair it with black or metallic sandals to really make an entrance.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for a slip dress silhouette with added embellishment
Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Viscose, polyester | Colors: Black, blue, lilac
Best Bright-Colored
Show Me Your Mumu Smocked Dress
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If you can appreciate a pastel or muted color palette, but you feel most in your element in shocking brights, Show Me Your Mumu has got your back. This extra fun smocked, ruffled, tiered dress comes in candy pink, adorned with lively flowers in shades of fuchsia, turquoise, electric blue and apple green. We love that the straps are adjustable and can be tied into a halter, too.
Who It's For
Anyone who loves a fitted, smocked dress in a fun color
Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink floral
Best Stripy
Cupshe Ruched Maxi Dress
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Target
For a daytime country wedding in the middle of summer, a sundress is a wonderful choice. Cupshe is the perfect destination for affordable, hot weather-friendly wedding guest attire, and this dress doesn’t disappoint: The stripes may be a little beachy, but the sweetheart neckline and maxi skirt make it party-ready. This one would look lovely with flat sandals or wedges.
Who It's For
Anyone attending a summer wedding who prefers an affordable sundress
Size Range: S-XL | Materials: Cotton, polyester | Colors: Gray, white
Best Slip
AllSaints Bryony Rosalia Dress
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AllSaints
A summer wedding in the countryside calls for a dress like this one by AllSaints, which is both sophisticated and fun. The ombre sunrise light blue, gray, and rose petal designs draw attention to your every move, elevating your wedding ensemble to the next level of elegance. The slip dress, which is available in sizes 0 to 12, works well with any figure.
Who It's For
Anyone who prefers an elegant slip dress
Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Sunrise blue
Best Halter
Ieena for Mac Duggal Halter Neck Body-Con Gown
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Play "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles while you slip into this classic yellow halter top dress by Ieena. For the simple reason that you will radiate joy and major '70s glitz at your best friend's wedding. The open-back design, high thigh split, and figure-hugging body-con style are perfect for basking in the fresh air of the countryside. Complete your look with a pair of nude strappy heels and dangling earrings.
Who It's For
Anyone who loves a bright color and a body-hugging style
Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Marigold
Best Evening
JUMISEE Backless Draped Maxi Dress
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JUMISEE
Perfect for a wedding under the stars, this backless, draped maxi dress harkens back to the roaring twenties. The straps can be adjusted to your desired length and the dress is offered in a wide range of colors to complement your personal taste, from dusty blue to green to brown. To let the dress shine, wear your hair pulled back in a bun and accessorize simply with a dainty necklace and stud earrings.
Who It's For
The wedding guest who wants budget-friendly dress in an elegant style
Size Range: S-L | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 18
Best Low-Cut
H&M Oversized Tie-detail Dress
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Raglan-style balloon sleeves are a major selling point for this floral yellow dress. It's available in both regular and extended sizing, and its fluid silhouette looks great on all body types. You'll be ready to accept an invitation to a wedding in the country after seeing this one, thanks to the cuteness of the oversized v-neck and low-cut v-back, as well as the narrow drawstring details.
Who It's For
Anyone who loves a loose, flowy, feminine dress
Size Range: XS-4XL | Materials: Rayon, polyamide 15% | Colors: Light yellow floral
Best With Flutter Sleeves
Revelry Amelia Chiffon Dress
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Courtesy of Revelry
You'll be the belle of the country ball in this tiered and ruffled dress from Revelry. The short flutter sleeves add to the feminine style of this full-length chiffon dress. It includes a moderate V-neckline and built-in cups for a great fit. This light and breezy dress is available in over 50 colors and a wide range of sizes, suitable for any outdoor or country wedding.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for a lightweight dress in a romantic style
Size Range: 0-32 | Materials: 100% polyester chiffon | Colors: 56
Best Floral
Reformation Nadira Dress Pink Combo
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Anthropologie
If you love florals, you’ll want to consider the Nadira dress by Reformation. This midi dress has a sweetheart neckline and a sheath silhouette. The dress features adjustable shoulder strap bows, and the skirt flows gracefully from the fitted waist and bustier. Available in sizes 0 through 12, this dress is ideal for an outdoor summer wedding.
Who It's For
A wedding guest who loves a fitted, romantic style dress
Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Floral
Best Lace
Hill House The Lace Ellie Nap Dress
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Hill. House
If you love lace, you’ll love the Lace Ellie Nap dress from Hill House, which is made entirely of sheer lace from top to bottom. We adore the ruffled shoulders and tiered scalloped hemline for an added romantic touch. You can style this sheer dress with your own slip or order one from Hill House in a matching color. The dress comes in six colors, but we’re partial to the botanical garden green for an outdoor or country wedding.
Who It's For
Anyone who wants a sheer dress with romantic details
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Nylon, cotton | Colors: Botanical garden, black, navy, white, pink, powder blue
Best for Summer
BTFBM Bohemian Tiered Maxi Dress
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Amazon
Looking for the ideal summer wedding dress? This short-sleeve dress will be your wedding guest dress of the season. The romantic ruffle sleeves, smocked waistline, and tiered skirt give the dress a feminine feel. This Amazon find is available in a variety of prints, like the floral blue-white that’s just right for a country wedding, and solid colors, including black, blue, and rose. It has a simple pull-on style that’s easy to wear, and it’s machine washable.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for an easy-to-wear dress with feminine touches
Size Range: S-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 21
Best Gingham
Phase Eight Evlin Gingham Square Neck Dress
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Courtesy of Phase Eight
When you’re dressing for a country wedding, you can’t help but think of gingham. This maxi-length dress from Phase Eight takes the countryside classic to a whole new level. The Evlin Dress has a casual style with puff sleeves and a square neckline, but it also has added touches like frill detailing on the sleeves and bodice. The peplum hem skirt adds the finishing touch to this country classic.
Who It's For
Anyone looking for a classic country dress
Size Range: 4-14 | Materials: Viscose, polyester, elastane | Colors: Navy, ivory
What to Look for in a Country Wedding Guest Dress
- Climate: “Since the wedding and/or reception could be outside or in an indoor/outdoor location, the climate dramatically influences the choice of what to wear as a wedding guest,” explains Bruhn. The good news: as long as you do your research, you’ll be able to put together a lovely weather-appropriate country wedding guest outfit, no matter the season. “If it is going to be warm outside, steer clear of silk dresses in solid colors, stay away from tight-fitting dresses in heavier fabrics, and look for lightweight, soft fabrics with plenty of movement,” Bruhn advises. We love the Mara Hoffman Sydney Belted Organic Cotton-Crepon Midi for a lightweight, breathable option. If you know the weather will be on the cooler side, choose a country wedding guest dress with long sleeves, like the Veronica Beard Kova Dress. Meanwhile, stylist Stacee Michelle shares her advice about dealing with unexpected chilliness. “Adding a blazer is a great way to elevate a sleeveless peasant dress and provide added warmth,” she explains. “A fitted turtleneck can also work underneath a sleeveless dress to make it suitable for cooler climates. Limited on space? Pack a scarf—it is the perfect lightweight travel accessory and easily stores in your purse when not in use."
- Dress Code: As with weddings in any other kind of setting, country weddings will have a certain dress code you should follow. “Whether the wedding is in a barn or a sophisticated vineyard, you can never go wrong with an elevated-casual ensemble,” says Michelle. “For a casual dress code, trade in your jeans for a nice airy maxi dress or jumpsuit for comfort and functionality. For dressier requests, continue to think of free-flowing silhouettes and incorporate fine (or costume) jewelry to elevate your countryside look.”
- Color and Country Elements: Choosing a color for your country wedding guest dress is your opportunity to have fun, and there aren’t many rules to follow here (although the no-white rule does usually still stand—sorry), but Michelle shares the following advice. “Choose light colors and fabrics for a daytime wedding and opt for darker tones during evening nuptials. The landscape is typically the base color palette for a country wedding, so I encourage guests to be inspired by the natural elements—flowers, mountains, sky, water, or fall foliage—when selecting an outfit,” she says. Include country elements like materials, patterns, and ruffle silhouettes. If you're looking for a floral country wedding guest dress option, we love the Reformation Nadira Dress which has an allover floral design.
Why Trust Brides
Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness, and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. In order to write this article, Iris drew on her knowledge of fashion and spoke to bridal styling experts Stacee Michelle, Kat Minks, and Alison Bruhn for their insight on the best dresses to wear to a country wedding.
- Stacee Michelle is a wardrobe stylist and fashion insider based in Charlotte, NC.
- Kat Minks is an award-winning event designer and stylist based in Minnesota.
- Alison Bruhn is a New York City-based expert stylist and co-founder of The Style That Binds Us
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