How many outfits do I need for a destination wedding?

That depends on a few factors. “Request the itinerary as early as possible and be realistic about the variety of outfits you’ll need beyond wedding guest attire — breakfast and lunch looks, swim and resort wear, touristy outings, workout clothes, sailing, golf and/or activity gear,” advises Kosich. If there’s no itinerary slated, you can err on the safe side by planning for around four events, says Kosich. “Wedding commitments typically include up to four organized events (welcome party, rehearsal dinner , wedding, post-wedding brunch ), not including any planned group activities or smaller bridal party gatherings,” she says. “Spend time curating looks from your closet, then fill any gaps with new purchases that are sure to be worn again.”

Can I get more creative with my outfit at a destination wedding?

Yes! It’s fun to incorporate the destination and local cultural influences into your guest attire, as long as you are respecting the wedding couple and their dress code. For some creative inspiration, Kosich suggests trying a “fun, flirty romper for any event leading up to the wedding, then a jumpsuit on the big day.” If you’re looking to save packing space, you can even try “convertible garments that are multi-purpose and make packing easier—a swimsuit that doubles as a bodysuit paired with a statement skirt or a convertible dress worn as a frock by night and skirt by day.” We love a two-piece like Reformation Elena Linen Two Piece , because you can wear it as a set to the wedding but then the pieces separately throughout the rest of your travels. You can also experiment with accessories to add a dash of something special. “Consider statement headwear for an extra pop and splash of style—a Panama hat, fedora or a fascinator suitable for a formal tropical affair,” Kosich says.

What shoes are best for a destination wedding?

Stylish meets sensible, says Kosich. “Many destination weddings have beach ceremonies with 5-star resort receptions, so pick a stable shoe that can effortlessly transition between a myriad of settings—cork wedge, platform espadrille, raffia block heel,” says Kosich. “Or, consider a shoe change from ceremony to gala if your evening bag can accommodate.”

The 33 Best Destination Wedding Guest Dresses of 2024

Women wearing Show Me Your Mumu Samba Midi Dress on a beige background — Brides / Amelia Manley

Destination weddings are all the rage, and for good reason. They’re part wedding, part vacation, and a chance to see the world with all your best friends and family. Sign us up!

But with all the extra events surrounding the wedding day, you may be overwhelmed deciding what to pack. “The top considerations for dressing for a destination wedding are the location, the weather, the venue of the event, time of day, and season,” says Tiffany Moss, resort wedding manager at Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.

And “given the rapid-fire sequence of parties, activities and outings, every event requires a different look—each smashing (no pressure),” adds fashion stylist Elizabeth Kosich.

So how do you find room in your suitcase for all your outfits? It’s all about packing the right clothes for the climate, dress code, and weather. To help you travel in style, we found the best wedding guest looks to wear for every breezy, beautiful destination wedding event.

Our Top Picks

Best Versatile:

Marcella Robin Dress at Marcellanyc.com (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Two Piece:

Reformation Linen Two Piece at Reformation ($84)

Jump to Review

Best Jumpsuit:

Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit at Revolve (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best LBD:

Reformation Silk Dress at Reformation ($124)

Jump to Review

Best Colorful:

Farm Rio Colorful Leaves Midi Dress at Farmrio.com (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best For Beach Nuptials:

Rococo Sand Long Dress at Revolve (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Strapless:

Lulus Make A Move Black Satin Floral Jacquard Strapless Midi Dress at Lulus ($86)

Jump to Review

Best Animal Print:

Majorelle Midi Dress at Revolve (See Price)

Jump to Review

Best Empire Waist:

BHLDN A-Line Midi Dress at Anthropologie ($348)

Jump to Review

Best Slip:

VICI Slip Midi Dress at Vicicollection.com (See Price)

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What To Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Marcella

View On Marcellanyc.com

This little black dress is the type of versatile style that you can wear to so many different types of destination weddings. We wore it to a wedding at a French chateau and despite being crammed in a carry-on, the European ponte fabric didn’t wrinkle at all and the stretchy fabric was extremely comfortable. The fitted silhouette shows off your figure without being too sexy. A side slit and one shoulder neckline elevate the otherwise simple design. All you need to add is some jewelry and some good shoes and you will stun in simplicity.

Size: XS-XXXL | Materials: European Ponte | Length: Floor

Reformation

View On Reformation $84

Linen is the perfect breathable fabric for hot and humid climates. This two piece linen number is a cute yet smart choice for those hot and humid tropical destination weddings. The top features adjustable straps and a straight neckline, and the bottoms feature a back slit and front pockets. We absolutely love the look in “avocado” for a nod to the tropics, but the black and white colorway is très chic.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Linen | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve View On Retrofete.com $595

This bold and beautiful jumpsuit is for the wedding guest who’s ready to make a statement. Featuring a bold lime green colorway, this full length jumpsuit features a hidden back zipper closure, crisscross back straps with tie closure, and a super sexy plunge neckline. We just love how the plissé fabric falls!

Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Full length

Reformation

View On Reformation $124

This dress is simple yet chic. Crafted from 100 percent silk charmeuse fabric, it features back smocking, an off-the-shoulder silhouette, and pleated details. It has a mini length and is designed to be fitted. We love it styled without necklaces to really emphasize that gorgeous open neckline.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Mini

Farm Rio

View On Farmrio.com

For the guest who never shies away from a bold look, this colorful leaves midi dress is just what the stylist ordered. Featuring angel-wing three-quarter sleeves, a plunge neckline, an open back with button closure, and a vivid abstract leaf print, this vibrant look is effortless, comfortable, and fabulous.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve

This dress is the perfect blend of airy, flowy, and chic with a silhouette suitable for a relaxed beach ceremony. Crafted from viscose sateen fabric with a high-side seam slit, it features a crisscross halter neck and back clasp closure, with flirty bodice cut-outs that keep things cool.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Ankle

Lulus

View On Lulus $86

This strapless dress is not only super-cute, but also incredibly cool thanks to its metallic floral brocade design. It's a piece you can wear to a formal, semi-formal, or cocktail attire wedding.

Runs: True to size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Woven satin | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve

If you love a bold animal print, this gorgeous tan leopard number is sexy, sophisticated, and sure to make a statement. It features off-the-shoulder styling with non-slip silicone lining to stay put, underwired cups, and ruched details throughout for a flattering fit. Plus, it has a bit of a spandex for comfy stretch.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Rayon, Silk, Spandex, Nylon | Length: Ankle

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $348

The BHLDN Isabella Midi Dress is so whimsical! It features bold blooms, an empire waist, square neckline, and fairytale-style shoulder ties. The tiered skirt is made from polyester organza with nylon tulle interlining that flows freely from the body. It runs large, so size down for the ideal fit.

Runs: Large | Size: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester organza; nylon tulle interlining; rayon shantung lining | Length: Midi

VICI

View On Vicicollection.com

Featuring a midi length, flattering V-Neckline, and wire bust, this gorgeous marble print polyester satin slip dress is sexy and sophisticated without being overly fussy. It has a side slit for good airflow, and a back lace up tie closure that gives it a little something extra. Note that this might not be the best pick for big-busted gals as it runs small on top.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve

This gorgeous palm tree print dress is a total showstopper. It features a keyhole cutout with a halter neck and a ruffled skirt that flows beautifully away from the body. Made from 100 percent cotton, it’s perfect for sweltering locales.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-L | Materials: Cotton | Length: Ankle

Lulus

View On Lulus $89

This sleek woven satin dress features crisscross adjustable straps, a lace-up back, and a wrapped maxi skirt that cascade into flouncy ruffles. It’s super flattering on a variety of body types, since the wrap defines the waist without being too restrictive and then flows freely, leaving plenty of room for hips.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

RUFFLE TIERED FLORAL CUT-OUT CHIFFON GOWN

Courtesy of Mac Duggal

View On Macduggal.com

If you're planning to attend a formal destination wedding, we absolutely recommend this chic choice. The dramatic ruffle shoulders will make for an incredible photo moment, to boot.

Runs: True to size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor

Alice + Olivia

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $278

Alice + Olivia's sleeveless Rue maxi dress feels edgy yet feminine. It has embroidered eyelet detailing, three-dimensional ruffles at the skirt, an elegant empire waist and ruched detailing at the front. It also features a plunging V-neck and an open square back with an allover black and floral print.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi

Lulus

View On Lulus $68

Made from sleek woven satin with a feminine red, pink, and green floral print, this dress has adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit and a surplice neckline. It also features a fitted bodice top with light gathering at the waist, flowing into a midi skirt with a front slit.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mid-calf length

Showpo

View On Showpo.com

Looking for that perfect corset detail to create a snatched waist? Featuring a corset bodice with paneled boning seams, a slight cowl neckline, and a high-low tulip skirt with a front split and faux wrap, this flattering number is great for all body shapes. It also has adjustable straps for a more customizable fit.

Runs: Small | Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Midi

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $348

How fun is this sequin halter dress? Featuring a sunset-inspired ombre of orange, pink, and yellow sequins, you'll be sure to sparkle and shine at golden hour. It also has a sultry side slit and just a bit of spandex weaved into the fabric for some comfy stretch. This one is the perfect dress for a party on the beach.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Midi

Thereformation

View On Reformation $84

Made from lightweight georgette fabric with a dry handfeel, this classic Reformation style comes in the most perfect “Countryside” colorway for a whimsical French countryside affair. It features back smocking, tie straps, and a flattering sweetheart neckline with a midi hem. Note that this dress comes in Petites and Plus Sizing!

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-22, petite available | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

Mac Duggal

View On Macduggal.com

This satin dress is the perfect balance between black tie formality and summery comfort. It features a side slit, halter neck, and open back for breathability and airflow (perfect for those black tie weddings in hot and humid climates), and ruched detailing at the waist to create a gorgeous shape.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor length

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $348

Crafted from beautiful 100 percent silk, this garden-themed dress features adjustable straps, a v-neck neckline, back buttons, and side cutouts to show off that sexy waist! We love this style in any of the colorways/patterns for a garden-themed destination wedding—they all look so dreamy and whimsical!

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Maxi

Reformation

View On Reformation $148

Drawing from 1950’s inspiration, this little red dress is versatile, simple, and sleek, with the bold red color left to do the talking. It features non-adjustable straps, a straight neckline, and a side slit for a bit of airflow. The Eco Rib fabric is a stretchy ribbed knit with a soft handfeel that’s easy to pack and won’t wrinkle easily.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: TENCEL™ lyocell, Spandex | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve

We are living for this tropical orange and pink dream dress! Made from nylon and spandex for a bit of comfy stretch, this ruched midi dress hugs your body in all the right places. And in case you didn’t know, wrinkles won’t show up in this ruched, mesh fabric. Plus, the colorful tropical flowers work for a variety of destination wedding locations.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 00-14 | Materials: Nylon, Spandex, Polyester | Length: Midi

ASOS

View On Asos $94

For petite guests who love the maxi dress look, this long dress is specifically for shoppers 5’3 and under. Made from polyester chiffon, this flowy floral number features a side slit, a one-shoulder neckline, and a cut-out detail at the waist. It’s great for those climates that aren’t too hot or too cold.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $298

This super feminine dress is sweet, romantic, and perfect for a French or Italian destination wedding. Featuring delicate floral tiers, a maxi hem with side slit, and a waist-cinching corset bodice, this dress is serving whimsical wedding guest goddess! It’s available up to size 3XL and looks amazing on a variety of body types.

Runs: Slightly Large | Size: XXS-3XL | Materials: Cotton, Linen, Polyester | Length: Maxi

Farm Rio

View On Farmrio.com

Featuring a dramatic one shoulder style with a long sleeve, this bold choice is great for the tropical destination wedding. It has an invisible zipper at the side seam, and the fabulous tropical bird and flower print cascades down to the maxi length hemline.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon, Viscose | Length: Maxi

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $278

She’s… destination wedding guest Barbie! This micro mini dress features a princess seamed bodice, an exaggerated off-the-shoulder poof detail, and a Barbiecore pink taffeta colorway that’s bold and fun. It has a side zipper and smocked back for ease when putting it on and off. Do note that this dress runs slightly large.

Runs: Slightly Large | Size: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, Polyamide, Elastane | Length: Mini

ASOS

View On Asos $98

For the tall guest who struggles to find adequately long dresses, this made-for-height number is a total steal! It features a 1920's-inspired fringed design, sweetheart neckline, zip-back fastening, and a back slit for breathability. It comes in a beautiful orange colorway, from sizes 0-16.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

DISSH

View On Dissh.com

Featuring a lightweight, stretchy, and stunning stone tie dye mesh knit fabrication, this sleeveless maxi dress features a high cowl shaped neckline, ruching detailing at the side, and a back vent. We love that, due to the nature of tie dye, each garment is slightly unique in its color variation.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XXL| Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Length: Maxi

Revolve

View On Revolve

Crafted from 100 percent recycled polyester, this showstopping dress features a hidden back zipper closure, adjustable shoulder straps, back hook and eye closures at bralette band, and a floral tulle embellishment at shoulder. The exposed boned bralette is both supportive and sexy, and the draped fabric at front and back flows freely into a front slit. There’s a lot going on here, and we love every inch of it. And, you can’t beat the hot pink.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled Polyester | Length: Maxi

ASOS

View On Asos $100

Whether the destination is a more conservative culture or you simply prefer to be more covered, this chiffon maxi dress is will do the trick—without being too heavy and hot. It has a high neck, long flowy sleeves, a ruched waist, and a fun print that can work in a variety of venues.

Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi

Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $1,004 View On Bergdorfgoodman.com

Summery, bright—and yes—a splurge, this iconic Carolina Herrera floral dress is so cute, we had to put it on the list! It features a fluted skirt, sleeveless tank style straps, a midi length, and a flattering square neckline. It works for a variety of dress codes and venues and will become a closet staple for years to come.

Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, Polyester | Length: Midi

Revolve

View On Revolve

Featuring a gorgeous “desert indigo” colorway, this dress is suitable for a variety of destinations. It has a hidden back zipper closure, front button loop accents, and a halter neck tie closure. We love the attached waist tie that forms a cute bow tie in the back!

Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-L | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi

Free People

View On Freepeople.com $148

This major maxi kaftan is super comfortable and chic for a laid back destination wedding ‘fit. It features an oversized, billowing style with an open back with ruched detailing, a v-neckline, relaxed long sleeves, and a gorgeous palm print. One size fits most!

Runs: Oversized | Size: One Size | Materials: Viscose | Length: Maxi

What to Look for in Destination Wedding Guest Attire

Dress code: The wedding couple should indicate the dress code on the invitation. If they’re having a tropical island destination wedding, you can usually get away with a nice dress you’d wear to a resort dinner. “Island dress codes mean bright colors, fun patterns and exotic prints,” says Kosich. “From florals to botanicals to jungle motifs, the more decorative the better. Also consider animal exotics like a python, or an ombré that simulates a sunset.” We like this one from Show Me Your Mumu.
Climate: While many associate destination weddings with beachy, tropical climates, a destination wedding can be anywhere! From Cancun to Italy to Bali to Morocco, what you choose to wear should reflect the local climate and aesthetic. Do some research on the temperature and humidity levels for the location you’re traveling to (paying attention to the time of year, as well!) to help you decide on which dress to pick. “Warmer climates can be challenging to dress for because the days are very hot and can be humid, while evenings can be cooler and you will need a light coverup,” says Moss. When in doubt, bring a light jacket or shawl.
Fabric: For hot and humid climates, “pack breathable, natural fibers that work well for day — linen, cotton, gauze — and lightweight fibers with drape for night — rayon, silk, chiffon,” says Kosich. “Avoid clingy fabrics without airflow and layered looks that add bulk.” You also want to prepare for the wrinkles that are inevitably going to come from traveling with your outfit. “Humidity will help smooth out some wrinkles but not all, so budget time for a quick, light iron or enlist housekeeping services to keep your head-to-toe look fresh, sharp and polished,” says Kosich. We also suggest packing a handy portable steamer; they’re the perfect solution for ensuring you can smooth out wrinkles easily and on the go. You can also try to stick to wrinkle-resistant fabrics like polyester and knits, like in Reformation Cassi Knit Dress.

FAQ

How many outfits do I need for a destination wedding?

That depends on a few factors. “Request the itinerary as early as possible and be realistic about the variety of outfits you’ll need beyond wedding guest attire — breakfast and lunch looks, swim and resort wear, touristy outings, workout clothes, sailing, golf and/or activity gear,” advises Kosich.
If there’s no itinerary slated, you can err on the safe side by planning for around four events, says Kosich. “Wedding commitments typically include up to four organized events (welcome party, rehearsal dinner, wedding, post-wedding brunch), not including any planned group activities or smaller bridal party gatherings,” she says. “Spend time curating looks from your closet, then fill any gaps with new purchases that are sure to be worn again.”
Can I get more creative with my outfit at a destination wedding?

Yes! It’s fun to incorporate the destination and local cultural influences into your guest attire, as long as you are respecting the wedding couple and their dress code.
For some creative inspiration, Kosich suggests trying a “fun, flirty romper for any event leading up to the wedding, then a jumpsuit on the big day.” If you’re looking to save packing space, you can even try “convertible garments that are multi-purpose and make packing easier—a swimsuit that doubles as a bodysuit paired with a statement skirt or a convertible dress worn as a frock by night and skirt by day.” We love a two-piece like Reformation Elena Linen Two Piece, because you can wear it as a set to the wedding but then the pieces separately throughout the rest of your travels.
You can also experiment with accessories to add a dash of something special. “Consider statement headwear for an extra pop and splash of style—a Panama hat, fedora or a fascinator suitable for a formal tropical affair,” Kosich says.
What shoes are best for a destination wedding?

Stylish meets sensible, says Kosich. “Many destination weddings have beach ceremonies with 5-star resort receptions, so pick a stable shoe that can effortlessly transition between a myriad of settings—cork wedge, platform espadrille, raffia block heel,” says Kosich. “Or, consider a shoe change from ceremony to gala if your evening bag can accommodate.”

Why Trust Brides

Chelsea Frank has been a comedy and lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on a number of topics from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. Follow her on Instagram @chelseafrank.

Tiffany Moss is a resort wedding manager at Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.
Elizabeth Kosich is a fashion stylist based in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The 25 Best Beach Wedding Guest Dresses