When people mention the word ‘wedding’, the mind undoubtably goes to a vision of a glorious summer affair. The next thought is the wonderful outfit we’ll wear— the style options are endless— but what at first seems like freedom can soon become a bit of a minefield. And with themes ranging from city chic to garden parties, via barefoot beach elopements and black-tie evening soirees, it’s no wonder we panic.
The solution? Why Harvey Nichols, of course.
I headed down there to handpick some of my favourite summer wedding guest dresses to share them with you here. My rule of thumb is to try to keep the hemline conservative; and remember, whether you’re in a church or not, you’re there to witness a ceremonial bonding for life. And, I promise, there are ways to stick to my rules and look sexy if that’s your goal!
City-Chic Weddings
SELF-PORTRAIT, Pleated chiffon and bouclé-tweed midi dress, £264
This blue dress by Self Portrait was the first look I picked out – and for good reason. In pretty pastel blue with a sprinkle of sequins, it was simply made to be a wedding-guest dress. It’s perfect for almost any wedding, but nails city chic in particular. The tweed fabric and structured blazer also make it multi-seasonal— so expect to get your wear’s worth out of this one.
LA DOUBLE J, Swing printed silk-satin maxi dress, £474
The vibrant print and silky feathers on this La DoubleJ dress make it so much fun. And that, combined with its demure maxi length and roomy silhouette, make this dress absolutely perfect for most guests. Equally as flattering on a Victoria’s Secret Angel as on the grandmother of the bride— and then some.
16 ARLINGTON, Maika feather-trimmed maxi dress, £447
I wouldn’t usually recommend wearing black to a wedding, but an exception must be made for this dress by 16 Arlington. Imagine wearing it to an evening wedding at Claridge’s and sipping champagne on the chequerboard floors of the foyer. Perfection.
Whimsical Countryside Weddings
BERNADETTE, Minnie floral-print chiffon gown, £695
This Bernadette chiffon cape-effect gown is a thrill to wear – and perfect for a whimsical countryside wedding. Any dress that capes over the arms will naturally cover whatever you want it to (a bonus for those of us who prefer our arms sheathed!) It also moves beautifully, making for gorgeous photos and fun on the dance floor.
BERNADETTE, Fran floral-print maxi dress, £735
This floral Bernadette number is probably my favourite of the summer wedding guest dresses I tried on. You can wear it loose as I have in the pictures, or gathered at the waist à la the model in the Harvey Nichols images (just click on the link to take a peek). It’s the fabric that I instantly fell for— and the fact that it’s backless makes it a little bit sexy too. This dress would also be suitable for a bump!
Sun-Drenched Destination Weddings
SOLACE LONDON, Adira plissé chiffon maxi dress, £470
Even if (like me) you typically shy away from tight dresses, please do still try this one from Solace London. There was something about the pleats, colour and cut that made it so comfortable. The lime green shade is also ideal for a sun-drenched destination wedding, where everyone and everything is so colourful. A guaranteed showstopper.
BEC & BRIDGE, Moon Dance strapless satin maxi dress, £265
This dress by BEC & BRIDGE is a guest go-to year upon year, and is excellently suited to a warmer climate. Its lack of straps allows you to feel cooler and freer, and prevents any strange tan lines if you’re standing in the sun for long periods. The thing I loved most about this dress is the backless detail and the clever horizontal strap that lets you wear a bra if you’d like. Plus, the bias cut allows the heavy fabric to hang in a very flattering way for many body types. I love this strapless number in every colourway— and this season’s new apple green is especially stunning.
ZIMMERMANN, Natura floral-print organza gown, £2750
A linen dress is just made for warmer climes— but is usually associated with easy, throw-on casualwear. Zimmermann changes the narrative completely, combining linen and gowns the way only a millennial Australian designer could. I love the shoulder detail of this dress, which *almost* justifies the price tag alone. If you wear this at a wedding this summer, be prepared to turn serious heads.
