What is a slip dress?

A slip dress is a slinky dress that often resembles an underslip (hence the name). Traditional slip dresses have a bias cut, are midi length, and have thin spaghetti straps with a fit that just hangs over the body. Additionally, they're usually made of silky fabric like silk or satin.

Are slip dresses appropriate for a wedding guest to wear?

Yes. Slip dresses are appropriate for wedding guests as they have such a classic feel. If you're worried about showing too much skin, look for a slip dress that doesn't have a plunging neckline or a slit, and opt for something ankle-length.

What do you wear with a slip dress?

A classic slip dress really doesn't need much added to it, so for a wedding, opt for heels and some jewelry. The advantage of buying these for a wedding is that you can also dress them down with a pair of boots or layer them with a t-shirt, so they can be worn for multiple occasions.

26 Best Wedding Guest Slip Dresses

wedding guest wearing a yellow slip dress — Photo by Sarah Falugo

Finding a dress that is sultry and sexy, without being too over-the-top, can sometimes be difficult. Enter the slip dress: both sleek and elegant, these chic frocks are a perfect choice for a wedding guest ensemble that stands out without stealing the spotlight. What's more, they have a timeless feel to them and give off an effortless sophistication feel that every guest aspires to have.

The slip dress gets its name because it closely resembles an underslip. Traditionally cut on a bias, slip dresses are usually relatively thin and closely fitted. While they're not an ideal option for someone looking to cover up more, they don't feel too overly revealing. Additionally, these styles are generally made of a sumptuous and flowing fabric like silk or satin, and are more versatile than they appear. If wearing one to a wedding, you can dress it up with heels and accessories, but you also have the option to wear it more casually with a shoe change and layering.

The best part? A slip dress can work in almost any season. Since they tend to use less fabric they typically work really well in warmer months, but any wedding guest could get away with wearing the style during the autumn or winter season.

To help start your search, here are some of our favorite slip dresses for wedding guests that you can buy now.

Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace

View On Graceloveslace.com

Size: XS-XXXL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Satin, recycled polyester, elastane

Slip dresses normally fall over the body while hugging curves. Though this ensemble has the ability to do that, it also has the option for a more defined waist with a sash that ties in the back. If you want a nontraditional slip dress, this is a beautiful option that comes in some lovely colors.

Courtesy of Hutch

View On Hutch-design.com

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Chiffon

Go bold with this brown zebra print slip dress, which is both fun and chic. The gathered neckline and the slit are fun plays on this classic style.

Amazon

View On Supesu.com

Size: P1-5 | Length: Tea length | Materials: Satin

Super silky and soft, this Supesu dress is a perfect option for a versatile basic you'll wear again and again. It has a looser fit that can very easily be dressed up or down and comes in six beautiful colors.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $100

Size: 00-16 | Length: Tea length | Materials: Viscose, elastane

Put a slightly different spin on the classic slip dress with this option. A criss-cross back keeps things interesting, and we love the sweetheart neckline in the front. The thicker straps also offer a bit more support than the traditional slim designs.

Reformation

View On Reformation $149 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $105 View On Anthropologie $298

Size: 0-12 | Length: Ankle length | Materials: Silk charmeuse

The longer length of this gown makes it feel appropriate for a formal or black-tie wedding, while the floral pattern keeps it fun and youthful. A straight neckline and center back slit are two other noteworthy details.

Courtesy of Etochs

View On Etochs.com

Size: 0-12 | Length: Knee length | Materials: Viscose, elastane

This chic option is a little different thanks to a more defined waist and a halter neck top. The side cutout is a subtle but fun addition and we love the minimal look of the deep clay shade, which manages to be a good fit for any season.

Courtesy of Supesu

View On Supesu.com

Size: P2- 4 | Length: Mini | Materials: Satin

Reminiscent of an actual slip, this dress truly lives up to its name. The mini length is best for a more casual wedding, and the dress comes in three different colors.

Quince

View On Quince.com

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: 100% Mulberry silk satin

This Quince dress gets rave reviews for how versatile it is and how luxurious it feels (despite coming in at a reasonable price point). While it's pictured with sneakers, this can easily be dressed up with heels, making it an excellent addition to a capsule wardrobe. It also comes in several colors and is a beautiful bias-cut option.

Courtesy of Lulus

View On Lulus $66

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Polyester, spandex

This one-shoulder spin on the classic slip dress feels modern and elegant. The slightly flared hem adds some dimension and the open back feels so sleek.

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $75

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Silk charmeuse

Bright pink and fringe? Count us in. This colorful slip dress is so much fun and would be perfect for a spring or summer wedding. The fringe at the hem is a unique detail that will stand out.

Courtesy of Aritzia

View On Aritzia.com

Size: 2XS-2XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Undeniably romantic, this loose-fitting slip dress features lace along the hem that really makes it resemble an undergarment. Super thin straps and a V-neck give it an added sultry feel.

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve $130

Size: XS-L | Length: Tea length | Materials: Viscose, polyester

Most slip dresses feature thin, almost nonexistent, spaghetti straps. However, this one has a flutter trim on the straps that make it feel a bit more feminine and unique.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $100

Size: 0-16 | Length: Ankle length | Materials: Polyester

If you're looking for a bit of texture, opt for this jacquard slip dress which offers just enough design without being overwhelming. A high slit, criss-cross back, and ankle-length hem makes this a beautiful and glamorous option.

Courtesy of Shopbop

View On Shopbop.com

Size: 0-8 | Length: Tea length | Materials: Silk, nylon

This very romantic dress is a beautiful option for any guest who really wants to stand out. A soft pink shade, a floral design, and interesting lace off-the-shoulder sleeves are all one-of-a-kind details.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Bhldn $150

Size: 0-26 | Length: Tea length | Materials: Velvet

Most slip dresses are made of some variation of silk and/or satin, which can make them feel like they don't fit for a winter wedding. This Jenny Yoo number is made of plush velvet and is perfect for cooler weather. In darker shades that feel vampy and cool, this is a unique option.

Courtesy of Reformation

View On Reformation $90

Size: XS-XL | Length: Ankle length | Materials: 100% silk charmeuse

It's not often you find a slip dress with a halter neckline, but this one works. The neckline and sea blue color make it feel undeniably summery and fresh.

Courtesy of Windsor

View On Windsorstore.com

Size: XS-L | Length: Tea length | Materials: Crepe

Since this one is made of stretchy crepe fabric, rather than silk or satin, it's a bit more form-fitting and sultry. However, coming at under $40 it's a dress that you can't beat.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $74

Size: 2-12 | Length: Ankle length | Materials: Viscose, polyester

An asymmetric neckline and side slit make this dress so interesting to look at. The cowl neckline is beautiful and the blue hue allows it to stand out even more.

Courtesy of Aritzia

View On Aritzia.com

Size: 2XS-2XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Chiffon

Lightweight and airy, this unique slip dress is ideal for a tropical wedding—even the floral pattern feels perfect. A smocked bodice and keyhole front keep it a bit more on the casual side.

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve $352

Size: XS-XL | Length: Floor length | Materials: 100% silk

Is it just us, or does this gown give off major How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days vibes? The bright yellow color and flowing charmeuse fabric, along with an open back, means you'll really stand out.

Courtesy of Shopbop

View On Shopbop.com

Size: 00-16 | Length: Knee length | Materials: Silk, rayon

Does this dress look like a nightgown? Maybe, but it's definitely a very chic nightgown. The Chantilly lace trim and the shorter length make this one fun and flirty.

Courtesy of Revolve

View On Revolve $336

Size: XXSXL | Length: Floor length | Materials: Viscose, nylon, satin

Slip dresses are typically a midi length, but this one is ideal for a black-tie or black-tie optional wedding with its floor length style. The light pink is romantic and sweet, and we love how simple and gorgeous it looks.

Courtesy of Hatch

View On Hatchcollection.com

Size: XS-XL | Length: Tea length | Materials: Polyester

Your style doesn't have to change just because you're pregnant. This gorgeous sunny yellow slip dress is made to fit a growing belly and will leave you looking chic... and glowing.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $40

Size: XXS-XXL | Length: Knee length | Materials: Polyester, spandex

Can't decide between a classic wrap dress and a slinky slip dress? Choose this one, which is a combination of both in a romantic pink hue.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $425

Size: 2-14 | Length: Ankle length | Materials: Polyester

This floral slip dress would work well with a more casual wedding. It's not too casual or basic, but it's also not too overdressed. Comfortable and versatile, this is a nice option for your closet.

Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace

View On Graceloveslace.com

Size: XS-XXXL | Length: Tea length | Materials: 95% recycled satin

This classic option is more sustainable than most, made with 95% recycled satin. On top of that, it's a beautiful bias cut in a gorgeous metallic shade that is ideal for the cooler months.

What to Look for in a Wedding Guest Slip Dress

Slip dresses are typically slinky and silky, cut on a bias with a more versatile feel. If you're looking for a slip dress for an upcoming wedding, focus on something that can easily be dressed up. Midi or tea-length styles are great go-to choices, but for something more traditional, look for pieces that come in a solid color. For something more unique, look for features like a defined waist, a different neckline, or embellished straps. If you're going to a more formal wedding, opt for a long slip dress that resembles a gown.

FAQ

What is a slip dress?

A slip dress is a slinky dress that often resembles an underslip (hence the name). Traditional slip dresses have a bias cut, are midi length, and have thin spaghetti straps with a fit that just hangs over the body. Additionally, they're usually made of silky fabric like silk or satin.
Are slip dresses appropriate for a wedding guest to wear?

Yes. Slip dresses are appropriate for wedding guests as they have such a classic feel. If you're worried about showing too much skin, look for a slip dress that doesn't have a plunging neckline or a slit, and opt for something ankle-length.
What do you wear with a slip dress?

A classic slip dress really doesn't need much added to it, so for a wedding, opt for heels and some jewelry. The advantage of buying these for a wedding is that you can also dress them down with a pair of boots or layer them with a t-shirt, so they can be worn for multiple occasions.

Why Trust Us

16 Tea-Length Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Style and Season

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Romper, Insider, Forbes, Redbook, and Refinery29.