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.
Best Versatile
Marcella Robin Dress
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.
Price at the time of publish: $106
Size: XS-XXXL | Materials: European Ponte | Length: Floor
Best Two Piece
Reformation Elena Linen Two Piece
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.
Price at time of publish: $278
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Linen | Length: Midi
Best Jumpsuit
Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit
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!
Price at time of publish: $595
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Full length
Best LBD
Reformation Lanelle Silk Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $248
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Mini
Best Colorful
Farm Rio Colorful Leaves Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $300
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi
Best For Beach Nuptials
Rococo Sand Lora Long Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $548
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Length: Ankle
Best Strapless
Lulus Make A Move Black Satin Floral Jacquard Strapless Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $82
Runs: True to size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Woven satin | Length: Midi
Best Animal Print
Majorelle Tabitha Midi Dress in Tan Leopard
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.
Price at time of publish: $218
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Rayon, Silk, Spandex, Nylon | Length: Ankle
Best Empire Waist
BHLDN Isabella Tiered Square-Neck A-Line Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $348
Runs: Large | Size: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester organza; nylon tulle interlining; rayon shantung lining | Length: Midi
Best Slip
VICI Cosmo Marble Print Satin Slip Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $68
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Print
Karina Grimaldi Tania Print Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $306
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-L | Materials: Cotton | Length: Ankle
Best Ruffles
Lulus In Love Forever Mustard Yellow Satin Lace-Up High-Low Maxi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $89
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best for a Formal Wedding
Mac Duggal Ruffle Tiered Floral Cut-Out Chiffon Gown
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.
Price at time of publish: $598
Runs: True to size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor
Best Ruching
Alice + Olivia Rue Floral Ruffle Maxi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $695
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best Floral
Lulus Remarkable Entrance Pink Floral Print Satin Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $84
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mid-calf length
Best Corset Detail
Showpo Andrina Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $80
Runs: Small | Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Midi
Best Ombre
Show Me Your Mumu Samba Midi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $348
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Length: Midi
Best for the French Chateau
Reformation Nadira Dress
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!
Price at time of publish: $278
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-22, petite available | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi
Best Black Tie
Mac Duggal Open Back High Neck Side Ruched Gown
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.
Price at time of publish: $398
Runs: True to Size | Size: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor length
Best Garden Vibe
Reformation Poppies Silk Dress
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!
Price at time of publish: $278
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Maxi
Best Red
Reformation Cassi Knit Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $148
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: TENCEL™ lyocell, Spandex | Length: Midi
Best for a Tropical Vibe
Sau Lee Farrah Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $450
Runs: True to Size | Size: 00-14 | Materials: Nylon, Spandex, Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Petite
ASOS Ever New Petite Asymmetrical One Sleeve Maxi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $208
Runs: True to Size | Size: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best Plus Size
Show Me Your Mumu Lady Corset Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $298
Runs: Slightly Large | Size: XXS-3XL | Materials: Cotton, Linen, Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best One Shoulder
Farm Rio Red Lucy One Shoulder Maxi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $330
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon, Viscose | Length: Maxi
Best Barbie-Inspired
Show Me Your Mumu Major Drama Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $278
Runs: Slightly Large | Size: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, Polyamide, Elastane | Length: Mini
Best For Tall Guests
ASOS Design Tall Tiered Midi Fringed Dress With Cross Back Detail In Orange
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.
Price at time of publish: $135
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Tie Dye
DISSH Tate Stone Tie Dye Sleeveless Maxi Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $160
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XXL| Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Length: Maxi
Best Slit Detail
For Love & Lemons Davis Gown
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.
Price at time of publish: $329
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best Modest
ASOS Hope & Ivy Kimono Sleeve Contrast Floral Maxi Dress In Pink And Red
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.
Price at time of publish: $100
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best Square Neck
Carolina Herrera Floral Fluted Midi-Dress
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.
Price at time of publish: $100
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Bow Detail
Alexis Lidia Dress
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!
Price at time of publish: $1,320
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS-L | Materials: Polyester | Length: Maxi
Best Kaftan
Free People Palm Shadow Maxi Kaftan
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!
Price at time of publish: $148
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.
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.