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Ok, so you just got invited to a loved one's wedding, and you're super excited to celebrate the happy couple. The dress code says "co*cktail attire"—sounds simple enough, right? Well, with so many different styles and levels of formality in co*cktail dresses, chances are that you may be having a difficult time finding one that suits you best.
What do you wear to a co*cktail style wedding?
There's a big spectrum for co*cktail attire, but you'll want to start with a dress that's either knee or midi-length. Then, you of course want to prioritize being comfortable, according to stylist Grace Thomas. You'll also want to think about the venue the wedding will be at—a beach wedding will have a different vibe than one that's in someone's backyard or at a restaurant, for example.
Peep some of the best co*cktail dresses for weddings here:
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Most Comfortable co*cktail Dress For Summer
Sarin Mathews Off-ShoulderHigh Low co*cktail Dress
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3
Best Midi co*cktail Dress For Summer
KIRUNDO Sleeveless One-Shoulder Dress
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5
Most Elegant co*cktail Dress
R&M Richards Short Sleeve Embellished Sequin Gown
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6
Most Versatile co*cktail Dress
Fiemaoves Satin Silk Slip Backless Maxi Dress
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7
Best co*cktail Dress For A Garden Wedding
English Factory Puff Sleeve Color Block Maxi Dress
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9
Most Elegant Maternity co*cktail Dress
Kimi and Kai Maternity Mermaid Dress
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Best co*cktail Dress For A Beach Wedding
Floerns ShoulderTieMaxiDress
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What kind of co*cktail dress do you wear for each season?
What you want to shop for depends on the season in which the wedding you're going to is. For example, Thomas says that organic materials like linen and cotton are great for summer weddings, because they're super breathable and lightweight. For a fall or winter soirée, wedding stylist Lesley Brickman says you'll want to opt for thicker fabrics such as lace, velvet, silk, or satin.
Don't stress too much about the outfit, though—weddings are about having fun, after all! “Confidence is beautiful on a woman, no matter what your dress looks like," says Brickman. "Pull your look together with fun accessories, like a bold shoe, earring, or bracelet."
See below for the 23 best, most elegant co*cktail dresses for every type of wedding and season:
The halter neckline on this lightweight cotton dress provides the perfect silhouette for those of you who want to prioritize comfort. Brickman recommends the halter style for its ability to pull the eye upward and draw attention to your shoulders if you want to show them off, too.
Sizes: XS-2X
Length: Maxi
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Most Comfortable co*cktail Dress For Summer
Sarin Mathews Off-ShoulderHigh Low co*cktail Dress
2
Most Comfortable co*cktail Dress For Summer
Sarin Mathews Off-ShoulderHigh Low co*cktail Dress
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The off-shoulder neckline on this co*cktail dress is a little detail that makes it extra special. It’s made with stretchy cotton, so it'll be a comfortable option, and the ruffled asymmetric hem adds a touch of fun.
Sizes: XS-2X
Length: Mini-Knee Length
"A midi dress helps show off the legs and is a better option than an above-knee dress for a co*cktail dress code,” says Brickman. The one-shoulder sleeve and cinched waist add an elegant touch to this, too.
Sizes: XS-2X
Length: Midi
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Brickman loves a good sheath dress for those of you who really want to show off your gorgeous frame. This one boasts a form-fitting bodycon fit with a side slit that'll make it a bit easier to move around on the dance floor.
Sizes: XS-XL
Length: Midi
5
Most Elegant co*cktail Dress
R&M Richards Short Sleeve Embellished Sequin Gown
5
Most Elegant co*cktail Dress
R&M Richards Short Sleeve Embellished Sequin Gown
Now 41% Off
For an ultra elegant dress you can wear year-round, go for one in classic black. This sequined one features a cinched waist, fluttering sleeves, and some intricately embroidered designs.
Sizes: 4-22 (Petite options available)
Length: Maxi
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Most Versatile co*cktail Dress
Fiemaoves Satin Silk Slip Backless Maxi Dress
6
Most Versatile co*cktail Dress
Fiemaoves Satin Silk Slip Backless Maxi Dress
Brickman encourages her clients to take advantage of the cutout trend. Paired with an equally-trendy slip dress, this is definitely going to be one you can wear any season—simply pair it with a cardigan for the fall or winter wedding you RSVPd to.
Sizes: XS-XL
Length: Maxi
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7
Best co*cktail Dress For A Garden Wedding
English Factory Puff Sleeve Color Block Maxi Dress
7
Best co*cktail Dress For A Garden Wedding
English Factory Puff Sleeve Color Block Maxi Dress
Now 40% Off
For a modest garden wedding, Brickman suggests going big with your color, texture, and embellishments. “Modest does not mean boring,” she says. Think flirty florals, vibrant colors, sparkly beads and sequins. This wrap dress features puffed sleeves for volume and a bold color palette that’ll have heads turning.
Sizes: XS-L
Length: Maxi
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Best A-Line co*cktail Dress
Romwe A-Line Scalloped-Hem Dress
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Best A-Line co*cktail Dress
Romwe A-Line Scalloped-Hem Dress
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The square neckline is super trendy right now, according to Brickman. A great way to show off a little collarbone, this dress also features a stretchy polyester fabric for all-day comfort, and the A-line shape is going to look gorgeous while you twirl around on the dance floor.
Sizes: XS-2X
Length: Knee-Length
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Most Elegant Maternity co*cktail Dress
Kimi and Kai Maternity Mermaid Dress
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Most Elegant Maternity co*cktail Dress
Kimi and Kai Maternity Mermaid Dress
For moms-to-be who want to highlight their growing belly, Thomas recommends a bodycon dress, because the snug fit will hug your body while accentuating your gorgeous curves. This one even features a fun, flirty mermaid hemline in a classic silhouette that'll work in any season and practically any dress code or venue.
Sizes: XS-XL
Length: Maxi
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10
Best co*cktail Dress For A Beach Wedding
Floerns ShoulderTieMaxiDress
10
Best co*cktail Dress For A Beach Wedding
Floerns ShoulderTieMaxiDress
co*cktail attire for a beach wedding can feel a little confusing—do you go full boho vibes or more formal? That's why Thomas always loves a maxi-tiered dress in a fun floral print. You can't go wrong with it, and this one can easily be dressed up or down with the right shoes and jewelry, too.
Sizes: XS-3X
Length: Maxi
This classic slip dress has a super sexy cowl back and side slit that make it just a little bit unique—and at a super affordable price, too. Just don't forget the boob tape!
Sizes: S-XL
Length: Maxi
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Best co*cktail Wedding Dress For Fall
L'VOW Off-Shoulder Fishtail Dress
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Best co*cktail Wedding Dress For Fall
L'VOW Off-Shoulder Fishtail Dress
What's more classic than some ruffles and a fishtail hemline? This chic, elegant dress is super versatile and can work for nearly any type of wedding for years to come, but the thick polyester fabric and off-shoulder neckline are going to make it a perfect fit for a fall wedding.
Sizes: S-XL
Length: Midi
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Best Summer co*cktail Dress
Anne Klein Linen Cotton Midi Dress
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Best Summer co*cktail Dress
Anne Klein Linen Cotton Midi Dress
As mentioned before, Thomas is a huge fan of linen and cotton for a summer wedding. While the airy, lightweight fabrics usually come in baggy pants and flowy shirts, Anne Klein designed this uber elegant midi made with a linen-cotton blend. It's going to look amazing at that bougie beach wedding you're going to.
Sizes: XXS-3X
Length: Midi
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Best Winter co*cktail Dress
Mansy Batwing Sweater Dress
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Best Winter co*cktail Dress
Mansy Batwing Sweater Dress
Idk about you, but sweater dresses usually make me think of big, baggy, oversized loungewear, only to be paired with some fuzzy socks and a holiday movie. This batwing dress is definitely not that (though it's comfy enough to be). Just check the sexy v-neck and cute tie-waist. Pair with some cute booties and your winter wedding-ready.
Sizes: S-XL
Length: Knee-Length
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Best co*cktail Dress With Pockets
Dress the Population Catalina Fit and Flare
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Best co*cktail Dress With Pockets
Dress the Population Catalina Fit and Flare
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Don't want to carry a purse? No problem. This gorgeous fuschia fit-and-flare dress features pockets so you can focus all your attention on the dance floor without worrying about your belongings. It even comes in 14 colors, so you have tons of options.
Sizes: XXS-2X
Length: Knee-Length
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“An LBD (little black dress) is a staple everyone should have in their closet," says Thomas. "It’s extremely versatile and you’ll pull it out of your closet for so many occasions." She recommends getting one in a cotton fabric, like this one from Vince, so you can comfortably wear it year-round. Sure, it's a bit pricey, but it's one of those classic pieces you'll wear forever.
Sizes: XXS-3X
Length: Knee-Length
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Best co*cktail Dress For An Outdoor Wedding
AnotherChill Puff Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress
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Best co*cktail Dress For An Outdoor Wedding
AnotherChill Puff Sleeve Floral Maxi Dress
Cottagecore is a style that celebrates the rustic beauty of the countryside, and according to Thomas, it’s super popular right now. “A dress that speaks to this trend would be one with bold statement sleeves, is tighter in the bust, and has a looser skirt.” The pink color, floral pattern, and off-shoulder sleeves make it great for an outdoor summer wedding.
Thomas loves a good wrap dress, and this one features a removable tie-waist so you can customize your look with one of your favorite belts. Pair with sandals for a casual vibe, or some pumps and jewels for a more elegant look.
Sizes: S-2X
Length: Maxi
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Best Cotton Cutout Dress
ASTR The Label Cold Shoulder Cutout Cotton Midi Dress
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Best Cotton Cutout Dress
ASTR The Label Cold Shoulder Cutout Cotton Midi Dress
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“If you’re intimidated by the cutout trend, I suggest starting with a dress with micro cutouts.” The super small under-boob cutout on this dress is a great way to play with the trend, while the cotton fabric and off-shoulder sleeves make it a great summer option.
Sizes: XS-L
Length: Midi
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Best Silk co*cktail Dress For A Winter Wedding
ASOS Blouson Satin co*cktail Midi Dress
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Best Silk co*cktail Dress For A Winter Wedding
ASOS Blouson Satin co*cktail Midi Dress
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“Silk and satin are so chic and timeless that dresses made with them will never go out of style.” The puff sleeves add a touch of elegance, and the crisscross back is super trendy, too.
Sizes: 0-14
Length: Midi
Vivian Chung
Vivian is a Vancouver-based freelance writer who covers a wide range of topics, ranging from travel and outdoor adventure to food, and mental health and wellness. She's a curious wanderer with a thirst for adventure, and when she’s not writing, can likely be found lazing by a lake, hiking the forested trails of beautiful British Columbia, or on a mission for the next best donut. Through it all, she’s perpetually scheming her next getaway. Follow her adventures on Instagram.