Do you have to wear a dress to a rehearsal dinner?

No, many other options are appropriate to wear to a rehearsal dinner outside of a dress. For example, you can also try a two-piece set, a semi-formal jumpsuit, or even silky trouser pants and a chic blouse.

What do you wear if the rehearsal dinner has a theme?

In some cases, the couple of honor will choose to have a theme for their rehearsal dinner—such as disco or western—as a fun way to kick off the weekend. If the invitation specifies a theme, try to find a dress you can wear post-event, so that you don't end up looking too costumey.

Is there anything I should avoid wearing at the rehearsal dinner?

Even though it’s not the actual wedding day, guests should avoid wearing white to the rehearsal dinner. Jeans should also be skipped unless otherwise stated. Other than that, the rehearsal dinner can be used as a fun way to show off your personal style.

24 Best Wedding Guest Rehearsal Dinner Dresses

wedding guest wearing sunglasses — Photo by Bottega 53 Studio

Before you're asked to celebrate a couple on their big day, you may be invited to a rehearsal dinner. This event is a smaller-scale celebration between the couple, the bridal parties, and close family and friends, usually taking place the evening before the wedding. And while this event may not be as formal as the actual wedding, it’s a memorable night and provides an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other more. Naturally, you can expect a lot of pictures to be taken, so of course, you’ll want to be sure you’re properly dressed for the occasion!

If you’re unsure of what to wear, there are a few aspects to consider when deciding on a look. To start, you’ll want to factor in the location, the time of day, and the season. Once you have those details ironed out, you may have a clearer idea of the type of outfit you should sport. Also, if there's no explicit dress code listed on the invite, it’s safe to default to semi-formal or cocktail attire. As the saying goes, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

At the same time, you may want to avoid anything outrageously embellished or sequined, and anything overly sexy. The rehearsal dinner is an intimate occasion, and the couple should be the center of attention. That’s not to say you can’t have some fun with your look, though! Just use your best judgment, and wear what you feel most confident and comfortable in.

What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner as a Guest

So ahead, read on for the best wedding guest dresses to wear to a rehearsal dinner, available to shop now.

Courtesy of ASTR The Label

View On Astrthelabel.com

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini

This mini dress can work for a semi-formal dress code, even with a shorter hemline. The padded shoulders are a fashion-forward touch, and the under-$100 price tag is hard to pass up.

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $248

Size: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

We love this midi-length dress from Reformation for an outdoor summer rehearsal dinner. The lightweight, viscose material will keep you cool no matter the humidity or temperature.

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $84

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Silk | Length: Midi

Lace is a romantic material that adds to any dress. Here, it’s used to create the tasteful cutouts on this midi, which comes in an array of colors.

Courtesy of Cinq a Sept

View On Cinqasept.nyc

Size: 00-14 | Materials: Silk | Length: Ankle-length

This fun, floral dress is perfect for a rehearsal dinner set in a tropical location. It’s the ideal balance between semi-formal and beachy.

Courtesy of ASTR The Label

View On Astrthelabel.com

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Ankle-length

Knit is a comfortable-focused fabric that can also look luxe, and this maxi dress confirms it. This look features a scoop neckline and is partially lined.

Courtesy of Something Navy

View On Somethingnavy.com

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Viscose, acrylic, wool, polyamide, polyester | Length: Floor-length

This 70’s-esque dress from Something Navy can be worn two different ways: As a V-neck with a keyhole cut-out and as a high neckline. It’s ideal for those looking for a go-to dress for wedding season.

Courtesy of Shopbop

View On Shopbop.com $229

Size: XS-L | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

Add a pop of color to the evening with this bubblegum pink midi dress from Amanda Uprichard. Keep your accessories simple and style with nude heels and gold jewelry.

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $105

Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Midi

Two-piece sets are an excellent option for the rehearsal dinner, especially this one from Reformation. The relaxed-fitted skirt features a cinched waist with pockets, while the top is a cropped style.

Courtesy of Bloomingdales

View On Bloomingdales $440

Size: XS-L | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

Sometimes less is more, as proven with this sleek cherry-colored midi dress. For a sweet touch, the open-back ties into a silky bow.

Courtesy of Saloni

View On Saloniworld.com

Size: UK4-16 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

Show off your style in this playful midi dress from Saloni. The bodice features the brand's iconic bow detailing, while the silhouette stays more on the conservative side.

Courtesy of ASOS

View On Asos

Size: 14-24 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

Expect shocked faces when you reveal that this number from ASOS is under-$80. The sophisticated silhouette and the stunning teal hue make this dress a showstopper that won’t break the bank.

Courtesy of Free People

View On Revolve $89

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi

You can never go wrong with a classic slip dress. This satin-effect number from Free People comes in a beautiful cider hue that’s perfect for a crisp fall evening.

Courtesy of Petal + Pup

View On Petalandpup.com

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: High-low

High-low dresses are a go-to for semi-formal occasions, as it’s a great balance between dressy casual and formal. This particular navy shade is versatile and will stun at any rehearsal dinner, no matter the season.

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve $209

Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Maxi

House of Harlow x Revolve's Edessa dress encompasses semi-formal, boho-chic to a "T". Style your look with loose waves and gold hoops.

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve $153 View On Nordstrom $123

Size: 0-10 | Materials: Viscose, silk | Length: Midi

Fall for this floral midi dress from AllSaints. The ruched bodice and asymmetrical hemline will turn heads without taking any attention off the couple.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Size: 00-26 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini

We can’t take our eyes off this one-shoulder mini dress, which features an asymmetrical hemline and a metallic finish. It’s an incredibly chic look, plus the pullover style makes it easy to wear.

Courtesy of Bec and Bridge

View On Becandbridge.com

Size: 6-16 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Length: Maxi

Cut-out dresses aren’t going anywhere soon, and this eye-catching number, from Bec and Bridge, features asymmetrical detailing and ruching. It’s so on-trend that even Gigi Hadid was recently seen sporting the look.

Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $198

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Ankle-length

The pastel colors in this spring dress make for an elegant, early evening ensemble. Style with strappy heels and a blush-colored clutch to complete the look.

Courtesy of Free People

View On Freepeople.com $200

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi

This mini dress makes a statement without being overly flashy. The delicate 3D flower embellishments add a unique touch to this trendy shift dress.

Courtesy of Dia & Co

View On Dia.com

Size: 10-24 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Maxi

The wrap dress is a classic silhouette that will never go out of style, as it is universally flattering on almost any body type. This maxi option from Adorne features a pink floral pattern that blends nicely with the black for an evening look.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $345

Size: 0-12 | Materials: Recycled polyester | Length: Midi

For a more casual rehearsal dinner, we suggest opting for this tiered midi dress from Ganni. It’s made entirely from recycled polyester, so it’s definitely a purchase you can feel good about making.

Courtesy of & Other Stories

View On Stories.com

Size: 0-12 | Materials: Linen, rayon, lyocell | Length: Midi

What can we say, we love a puff sleeve and especially love this option from & Other Stories! This fitted midi features a subtle puff with a square neckline and a wrap-style skirt.

Courtesy of Net-a-Porter

View On Etsy $346 View On Modesens.com

Size: 000-16 | Materials: Silk | Length: Ankle-length

This effortlessly chic dress from Ulla Johnson is one you’ll want to reach for again and again. It’s an investment piece that is well worth the price tag.

Amazon

View On Revolve $252 View On Nordstrom $129 View On Neiman Marcus $215

Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Midi

We are eyeing this Norma Kamali dress for a formal rehearsal dinner. Style with a pair of chandelier earrings and a statement clutch for an unforgettable look.

What to Look for in a Wedding Guest Rehearsal Dinner Dress

As we mentioned earlier, taking into account the location, timing, and season can help determine the best look if no explicit dress code is stated. For example, if the rehearsal dinner is being held at a bar or small restaurant, you may want to opt for a pard-back look, while more formal events will lean more towards cocktail attire. Also, since this is a “dinner,” it will likely be held in the evening, which will definitely impact the style of dress you choose to wear. For a “golden hour” dinner, semi-formal sundresses are a great option, but if the dinner starts later in the evening, you’ll want to skip out on the bright florals. Lastly, budgeting for another outfit can get expensive, so when shopping for a rehearsal dress, it may be cost-effective to find a look you can wear again.

FAQ

Do you have to wear a dress to a rehearsal dinner?

No, many other options are appropriate to wear to a rehearsal dinner outside of a dress. For example, you can also try a two-piece set, a semi-formal jumpsuit, or even silky trouser pants and a chic blouse.
What do you wear if the rehearsal dinner has a theme?

In some cases, the couple of honor will choose to have a theme for their rehearsal dinner—such as disco or western—as a fun way to kick off the weekend. If the invitation specifies a theme, try to find a dress you can wear post-event, so that you don't end up looking too costumey.
Is there anything I should avoid wearing at the rehearsal dinner?

Even though it’s not the actual wedding day, guests should avoid wearing white to the rehearsal dinner. Jeans should also be skipped unless otherwise stated. Other than that, the rehearsal dinner can be used as a fun way to show off your personal style.

21 Trendy Wedding Guest Dresses for a Welcome Party

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.