10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests
A wedding rehearsal dinner is the final pre-wedding event before the big day, and finding an outfit can be tricky.  The vibe can range anywhere from a casual rehearsal dinner at someone's home to a black tie affair at a nice restaurant. Once you figure out how formal or informal the rehearsal dinner, the dress code for the event will become clear. For example, a formal rehearsal dinner would likely call for dress pants and a dress shirt or a cocktail dress, while a more laidback BBQ would call for a sundress and a casual button down and chinos. If you're struggling with your rehearsal dinner attire, read below for some expert tips as well as a few of our favorite options for a variety of rehearsal dinner styles.
This edit of shoppable rehearsal dinner dresses. We've gathered a beautiful assortment of styles that'll suit a variety of venues, so all you have to do is click "add to cart."
Related shop - Rehearsal Dinner Outfits
10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests
Rehearsal Dinner dress for guests

Velvet Twist Knot Dress

Attending a winter rehearsal dinner? From the velvet material to the shiny teal blue hue, this dress perfectly encapsulates the season. Mix and match the dress with metallic heels.

10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests 

Green dress for wedding rehearsal dinner guest

Asymmetrical midi dress

Figuring out what to wear to a rehearsal dinner as a guest is similar to picking out a wedding outfit: Follow the dress code and don't upstage the happy couple. This fashionable midi dress has playful details (that asymmetrical hem!) but still feels elegant and reserved. The green hue makes it a fitting fall rehearsal dinner outfit for a guest.

10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests
Rehearsal Dinner dress for bridesmaid

Long-sleeve maxi dress

 Opting for a shorter length doesn't necessarily equate to a casual look. This understated maxi dress could easily pass for cocktail attire with the right shoes (think: strappy stilettos) and jewelry. Don't be afraid to go bold with a statement necklace or earrings. 

10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

When it comes to selecting a rehearsal dinner outfit, you should consider the event location, time of year and any dress code listed on the invitation. Lucky for you, we've found styles for every type of occasion and season that you can shop right now. Whether you're headed to a laidback event or a fancy affair, our edit includes casual dresses, cocktail dresses and formal frocks that all make for perfect rehearsal dinner attire.

When in doubt, Err on the side of dressy.

Experts say it's always better to lean towards a more formal rehearsal dinner outfit. My advice is that it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Keep in mind that you are going out to socialize and celebrate loved ones so bring your A-game and lean towards styles that are fun, festive, and seasonally appropriate. There are certain items of clothing that should be considered off-limits for a rehearsal dinner. Never be the guest that is too casual—jeans are off the list, as are sneakers. Its always better to opt for a tad too dressed up then to look sloppy.

What to Wear to a Rehearsal Dinner as a Guest

Stuck on what to wear to an upcoming wedding rehearsal? Read this guide for guests.

Do you dress up for wedding rehearsal?

Unless you've been specifically told otherwise, assume a wedding rehearsal is, at minimum, a business casual event. Ladies should wear a dressy, semi formal dress.

 

What to wear to wedding rehearsal dinner as a guest?

For formal rehearsal dinners (not black tie), men should wear dark suits and ties, and women should wear cocktail dresses or long gowns. For semi-formal rehearsal dinners, men should wear jackets, suit pants (or slacks) and ties, and women should wear cocktail dresses or pantsuits or dressy skirts and blouses.

If you were lucky enough to nab an invite to a wedding rehearsal, you might be wondering about wardrobe choices. There are a few things to consider when choosing what to wear to a rehearsal dinner. First things first, respect the dress code. "A dress rehearsal is an important event during a wedding and it can be formal, semi-formal, or even casual". If you're not sure what the dress code means or the couple hasn't announced one, don't worry. We've got all the best tips below to help determine just how formal the event is. Then, once you've got to grips with the guidelines, we've gathered the most stylish rehearsal dinner outfits for guests you can shop right away.

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10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

Rehearsal Dinner Attire You Can Shop Now

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10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

How to Dress for a Rehearsal Dinner as a Guest

The first thing you should look for before deciding what to wear to a rehearsal dinner is a specific dress code. If you're not sure where to find it (or the couple hasn't provided one), we've got some tips to help you out.

  • Check your invitation. The couple may have included a theme or dress code for your convenience. If not, you might still be able to do some sleuthing based on how formal the wording is.
  • Think about the type of celebration and the timing. An 8 p.m. sit-down dinner is a lot more formal than an afternoon brunch.
  • Consider the type of venue. If the event is taking place in a fancy country club, you should break out your best evening wear. If it's in the couple's backyard or at their parents' house, you can probably tone it down.
  • When in doubt, ask around. Feel free to contact the venue to find out if they have a dress code. As a last resort, you could also reach out to someone in the wedding party or a member of the couple's family (just try not to ask the soonlyweds—they've got enough on their plate).

What to Wear to a Wedding Rehearsal: Dos and Don'ts

Before you go splashing out on a nice new outfit, check out our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about rehearsal dinner dress code etiquette.

  • Can guests wear white to a rehearsal dinner? While the couple may not mind, it's better to play it safe. White is usually only worn by the to-be-weds for all pre- and post-wedding festivities. On top of that, there are a few other wedding colors to avoid, like pale pinks and soft neutrals, as these could be mistaken for white.
  • What about the wedding colors? As a general rule, the wedding colors should be reserved for the wedding party on the big day. Try to avoid accidentally donning the couple's carefully chosen palette.
  • Should you wear a jacket? That depends on the type of celebration. Keep in mind that your rehearsal dinner outfit should be less formal than what you wear to the wedding. If the big day is black tie, you will probably be expected to wear a semi-formal suit the night before. But, if the rehearsal is very casual (think: backyard barbecue), ditch the jacket and opt for something a little more relaxed.
  • What about a tie? Again, this depends on the formality of the occasion (and the venue). If the dress code is formal or semi-formal, a tie is expected. The good news is you can easily put on or remove one after you arrive if you're unsure.

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    10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests
    rehearsal dinner wrap dress guest

    Floral wrap dress

    Romantic shades of purple and floral patterns are a match made in heaven. This gorgeous midi will look just as stunning dressed up with heels for a cocktail party as it will when matched with a comfy pair of sandals in the couple's backyard. That said, the airy material and playful hemline feel most apt for a garden setting. 

    10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

    rehearsal dinner dress guest fall

    Bohemian maxi dress

    This bohemian maxi dress is another versatile pre-wedding dinner outfit that'll easily work for both casual and semi-formal events. Add heels and a statement pair of earrings for a late dinner, or stick to flats and minimalist accessories for daytime events. The best part? You can easily wear it again for dinner dates, girls' nights, and future wedding-related events.

    10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests
    rehearsal dinner dress guest summer

    Ruffled maxi dress 

    Bright earthy tones are popular when it comes to spring and summer rehearsal dinner outfits for guests (as long as it definitely won't be mistaken for white in pictures or in person). The ruffled hem and neckline detail on this sophisticated maxi dress brings an eye-catching element to an otherwise streamlined look. Embrace the season with nature-inspired jewelry, such as floral earrings.

    10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

    The Best Rehearsal Dinner Attire for Guests

    The night before the wedding is usually dedicated to the couple's closest friends and family, so earning a seat at the table means they really appreciate you, no matter what you're wearing. That said, it's nice to get dressed up every once in a while. Check out the best rehearsal dinner dresses, suits, and more for guests right here. 

    Lace cocktail dress

    If the wedding is black tie, then assume that the rehearsal dinner requires semi-formal or cocktail attire at minimum. This lace cocktail dress is a good pick for fancier celebrations. Plus, the versatile navy color makes it a trendy rehearsal dinner outfit for a guest year-round. 

    Sequin fringe dress

    When deciphering the rehearsal dinner dress code, take a cue from the wedding's overall vibe. If the couple's big day is set to be glamorous or Gatsby-inspired, this sequin fringe number is a stylish wedding rehearsal dinner outfit for a guest.

    10 Stunning Rehearsal Dinner Dresses for Guests

    Printed midi dress

    If you're really not sure how to dress for the rehearsal dinner, play it safe by choosing an outfit that walks the line between formal and semi-formal. Pair this  midi with a pair of heeled sandals or flats and you're good to go. 

     


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    About the
    author

    Sandhya Garg is a Project Runway fashion designer. She studied and specialized in women's fashion at London College of Fashion, UK and has worked at Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Liberty London, Alice Temperley to name a few.

    She has her own successful resort wear, vacation dresses, special occasion dresses, wedding guest looks, swim coverups label. While on Project Runway Season 13, she won 2 challenges and was fortunate to show her collection at Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week. The brand has been featured in Marie Claire US,Workshop at Macy's, Ftv.com, Elle Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Vogue online to name a few. 

    She designs limited edition high end printed spring dresses, casual resort attire and swim coverups. Beautiful prints are inspired from around the world to be worn during travel, resort stay or cruise holidays.

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