19 Midi Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style and Season

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Two woman wearing long semi-formal dresses outside

Photo by Janine Licare Photography

If you’re heading to a wedding with an unspecified dress code and are unsure of what to wear, look no further than the midi dress. For those unfamiliar with the term, a midi dress has a hemline that falls anywhere from two inches below the knee to right above the ankle. In other words, it’s the best of both worlds when it comes to occasion dressing. You get the glamour and elegance of a longer length without committing to an overly formal look. Most midi ensembles can also be dressed up or down easily, making them a versatile choice if you have multiple weddings to attend.

Midi dresses also work for just about any season and are an especially great choice for more casual fall and winter celebrations. When the temps start to drop, you’ll be thankful to have those few extra inches without the fear of looking over-dressed. However, one thing to note is that if you’re on the petite side, keep in mind that this style may look different for you. Midi dresses are generally made to hit mid-calf, so if you are a bit shorter, this length may fall closer to the ground.

While there are tons of midi dress options to choose from, we narrowed down our favorites for you to peruse. Scroll on for the top midi-length dresses for every dress code, style, and season. 

Best Ruffles

Reformation Kesia Dress

Reformation

Courtesy of Reformation

Runs: True to size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose

Sometimes all you need is some fun and flirty ruffles. Perfect for a daytime or evening wedding, this midi dress is sure to have you twirling from the second you step on the dance floor. 

Best Cut-Outs

Shona Joy La Lune Tie Front Bias Midi Dress

Shona Joy

Courtesy of Shona Joy

Runs: True to size | Size: 0-8 | Materials: Lenzing Ecovero, viscose

Cut-outs have been a major trend this year, and we love the way this midi dress elegantly incorporates the style. Plus, the airy sleeves add an effortless flair to the dress.

For a Tropical Wedding

Zara Printed Tulle Dress

Zara

Courtesy of Zara

Runs: True to size | Size: S-L | Materials: Tulle

The bright colors and halter-style neckline make this dress an instant winner for a tropical destination wedding. Style with loose beachy waves and a woven clutch.

Best Side Slit

Amanda Uprichard Mandy Midi Dress

Amanda Uprichard

Courtesy of Amanda Uprichard

Runs: P/XS-XL | Size: S-L | Materials: Capri polyester

Dubbed “the perfect wedding guest dress” on the brand’s website, this Amanda Uprichard midi dress is one you’ll be reaching for again and again. The flattering silhouette is the perfect mix of feminine and classic. 

Best Metallic Accents

RIXO Cheryl Ruffled Metallic Fil Coupé Midi dress

Cheryl ruffled metallic fil coupé silk-gauze midi dress

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

Runs: True to size | Size: UK 6-20 | Materials: Silk

This tiered midi dress is a stunning option for any formal or semi-formal wedding you may be attending. The metallic dot accents will catch just the right amount of sparkle for a unique look.

Best Ruched Detailing

Shona Joy La Lune Ruched Bodice Midi Dress

La Lune Ruched Bodice Midi Dress

Courtesy of Revolve

Runs: True to size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Lenzing Ecovero, viscose, poleyster

Let’s all take a minute to appreciate how gorgeous this midi dress from Shona Joy is. The bust cut-out and ruched detailing are subtle, yet eye-catching, details and the drawstring neck allows you to adjust the neckline easily. 

For a Garden Wedding

Reformation Alene Silk Dress

Reformation

Courtesy of Reformation

Runs: True to size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk

Nobody does wedding guest dresses quite like Reformation, and this midi proves it. From the tie straps to the elegant floral print, this dress is made to be worn to a garden wedding. 

Best Cowlneck

Standards & Practices Drea Cowlneck Satin Midi Slip Dress

Drea Cowlneck Satin Midi Slip Dress

Courtesy of Dia & Co.

Runs: True to size | Size: L-3X | Materials: Satin

Few things are more flattering than a cowl neckline. Exhibit A: this satin cowl neck midi dress from Standards & Practices. The forest green shade is especially great for festive winter nuptials.

For a Bold Color

Zara Wrinkle Look Satin Effect Dress

Zara

Courtesy of Zara

Runs: True to size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester

We love a bold shade for a summer wedding, specifically this striking blue hue. Style the midi with statement earrings and neutral heels for a look sure to stand out. 

Best Black Dress

Norma Kamali Slip Fishtail Dress

shopbop

Courtesy of Shopbop

Runs: True to size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex 

Many guests try to stay away from wearing black at a wedding, but for a semi-formal or formal dress code, it can definitely be pulled off. If you are leaning toward that shade, we suggest trying out this Norma Kamali fishtail dress.

Best Smocked

Eloquii Smocked Dress

Eloquii

Courtesy of Eloquii

Runs: True to size | Size: 14/16-26/28 | Materials: Rayon

Add a little flounce to your step with this midi dress. While the bodice has a bodycon silhouette, the bottom of the dress features a ruffle hemline that’s sweet and stylish.

Best Bead Detailing

Reformation Marixa Silk Dress

halter dress

Courtesy of Reformation

Runs: True to size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Silk

While this dress may appear to be a regular floral midi dress, look a bit closer. The neckline is embellished with pearl beaded detailing, which sets this dress apart from other similar styles.

For a Spring Wedding

Likely Rosanna Dress

violet midi dress with side cut outs

Courtesy of Shopbop

Runs: True to size | Size: 00-14 | Materials: Cotton

If you’re attending a spring wedding, may we propose this number from Likely? The midi dress is made from eyelet woven material and features cut-outs along the bodice and a tiered skirt. Plus, the lavender color could not be more perfect for a beautiful spring day.

Best One Shoulder

Lulus So Flirty One Shoulder Dress

Lulus-so-flirty-burgundy-one-shoulder-cutout-asymmetrical-dress

lulus

Runs: True to size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex

This burgundy one-shoulder dress from Lulus is a chic and sophisticated option for a wintertime wedding. And priced at under-$100, it truly cannot be beaten.

Most Whimsical

RIXO Gio Red Pandy Dress

RIXO

Courtesy of RIXO

Runs: True to size | Size: XXS-3XL | Materials: Silk

For a colorful and eye-catching wedding guest dress, we love this RIXO midi number. The bright poppy print will fit in perfectly at an outdoor summer wedding. Not to mention the puff sleeves, which add a dose of whimsy to the look.

Best Jewel-Tone

Herve Leger Bandage Midi Dress

green bondage dress

Courtesy of The Outnet

Runs: True to size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex

Another exceptional option for a winter wedding is this iconic midi dress from Herve Leger. Made from a thicker material, it's perfect for when the weather turns a bit chilly.

Most Stylish

Zhivago Bond Midi Dress

revolve dress

Courtesy of Revolve

Runs: True to size | Size: S-L | Materials: Polyester, spandex

Make a statement in this bright fuschia midi dress, which features padded shoulders for a fashion-forward and bold look. Style with gold accents and a slicked-back ponytail. 

For a Backyard Wedding

Camila Coehlo Claudia Midi Dress

Midi Dress

Courtesy of Revolve

Runs: True to size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester

This easy-to-wear midi dress from Camila Coehlo is perfect for a casual outdoor wedding. The ribbed fabric makes for a comfortable option for you to show off your best dance moves.

For a Beach Wedding

Likely Katerina Dress

Runs: True to size | Size: 00-14 | Materials: Crinkled chiffon

This breezy midi is truly ideal for beach celebrations. Between the side cutouts, knee-high slit, and ruffle details, we see this ensemble on the sandy shores of a destination wedding.

What to Look for in a Midi Wedding Guest Dress

When shopping for a midi dress to wear to a wedding, keep in mind the dress code. For example, does it state semi-formal attire? If so, focus on fabrics and necklines, as styles made from materials like silk, satin, viscose, and tulle will naturally appear dressier than ones made from jersey or cotton. Cowlneck midi dresses are also incredibly elegant for a semi-formal or formal wedding, no matter the season.

However, if you are attending a casual outdoor wedding, your midi dress search may look a tad different. In this case, search for looks that have more flow to them (similar to a sundress). And as mentioned before, midi dresses are a great choice for weddings that don’t state a dress code.

FAQ
  • What shoes should I wear with a midi dress?

    You can wear any type of shoes with this length, but keep in mind that since it falls above your ankles, it can be a fun opportunity to show off a unique pair of heels. Whether it’s a bold color or a chunky heel, this can be a chance to add a bit of personality to your look!

  • Where can I shop for a midi dress?

    Luckily, just about every brand carries midi dresses, so you shouldn't have a hard time searching for one that suits you. Reformation, Lulus, and Revolve are all great places to start your search, and they have options for every dress code. 

  • Can I wear a midi dress to a black-tie wedding?

    While midi dresses can definitely be dressed up, guests should stick to floor-length gowns for black-tie weddings. If you are set on wearing a midi dress and know others attending the wedding, consult them to see if yours would be appropriate for the occasion. 

About the Author

Contributing writer Melony Forcier is a recent graduate starting her career path in beauty and fashion journalism. Before graduating, she interned with both Boston Magazine and Foundation PR. Additionally, she served as a fashion editor for Boston University's lifestyle magazine, The Buzz.

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