Wedding season is here, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the details of destination weddings, you’re in the right place! I’ve put together the ultimate destination wedding guide, packed with styling tips and shopping inspiration for Country, Beach, and City celebrations. From my favorite beach wedding guest dresses to navigating the casual bend of outdoor venues – you’ll find everything you need right here.
Don’t know what to wear to this year’s summer events and weddings? Utilize Los Angeles Personal Stylist Meg Gallagher’s women’s styling services for your next destination wedding, special event or party look.
Trending Wedding Guest Dresses for 2025
If you’re looking to stay stylish as a wedding guest in 2025, here are a few trends to consider:
1. Color: Sunshine Yellow, Baby Pink, Powder Blue and Chocolate Brown
2. Print: Polka Dots, Stripes and Animal Print
3. Dress Details: Halters, Capes, Gathered Details, Bows and 3D Rosette Appliqué
In the Country or Garden: Outdoor Wedding Guest Dresses
A wedding in the forest, country, outdoor property or garden calls for light, airy outfits that can hold up in the weather. Delicate jewelry like lockets and coin necklaces work well for the more played down vibe of a country wedding.
For Dresses: Go for a softer, more relaxed look with delicate details like dainty prairie or floral prints, lace, ruffles, and light, spring-inspired color palettes.
For Shoes: Terrain should be the biggest factor when it comes to your shoes. Chunky heels, mary Janes, kitten heels, embellished flats and upscale flat sandals are best for avoiding shoes sinking into dirt and grass!
For Cover Ups: Delicate cardigans and lightweight pashmina scarves pair perfectly with the country wedding aesthetic!
The Country Wedding Edit
Beach or Resort Weddings: Beach Wedding Attire for Women
Beach formal wedding attire can be tricky to define, especially for guests unfamiliar with the blend of elegance and laid-back coastal vibes. When selecting beach wedding guest dresses, aim for styles that reflect the mood of the setting: think sophisticated, vibrant, and effortlessly breezy. Bold colors, tropical prints, or soft pastels inspired by the sea and sky are perfect for creating a beach-appropriate look that still feels polished. Keeping thematic beach elements in your accessories is a sure way to keep your outfit within the vibe; subtle beach-inspired accessories such as shell or pearl jewelry, woven clutches, and dressy sandals that are comfortable for walking on sand or grass.
For Dresses: Incorporate tropical elements like flowy silhouettes, light and bright colors, seashell/pearl/starfish embellishments, bold patterns and ruching.
For Shoes: Depending on if your wedding is directly on the beach, at a resort or simply at an event space nearby, you’ll need to adjust your outfit accordingly. A dramatic evening sandal is ideal for resorts and event spaces. For a wedding on sand, opt for a chunky heel, platform or upscale flat wrap sandal.
For Cover Ups: Lightweight sheer evening dusters/kimonos, or draped pashmina scarves are the perfect way to cover up without smothering your outfit!
The Beach Wedding Edit
In the City: Urban Chic Wedding Guest Dresses
Urban city weddings offer the perfect opportunity to embrace a more fashion-forward, edgy style. Unlike beach or countryside weddings, city wedding guest attire can lean into sleek silhouettes, bold accessories, and modern fabrics. Think tailored jumpsuits, minimalist slip dresses, or structured midi dresses in rich tones or striking prints. Black, jewel tones, or metallics are all chic and appropriate for a city setting, especially for evening ceremonies or rooftop receptions.
For Dresses: Structural elements, shiny metallics or sequin, polkadot prints and deep powerful colors like black, navy and red are all game for a night in the city!
For Shoes: Think dramatic heels and high heeled mules. If heels aren’t for you, opt for still-fabulous kitten heels or party-ready crystal mesh flats.
For Cover Ups: Top your dress with a black blazer, a dramatic sweeping sheer cape or a silk/organza duster.
The City Wedding Edit
