Wedding invitations rarely say much about what to wear, so it helps to know the unwritten rules. Here is how to choose a wedding guest dress that suits the dress code, the venue and the season, with designer options from Lexi, Winona, Nicholas, Nicola Finetti and more, all below RRP and shipped free by express post Australia-wide.
Start with the dress code
- Cocktail: a knee length or midi dress, or a dressy jumpsuit. This is the most common dress code for Australian weddings.
- Semi formal or formal: a midi or floor length dress in a richer fabric such as satin, crepe or lace.
- Black tie: a floor length gown. Save sparkle and drama for these.
- Not stated: aim for cocktail, and check the venue and time of day. An evening wedding calls for a more formal dress than a lunchtime one.
Browse all dresses on sale or filter by length, size and condition.
What to avoid
Skip white, ivory and cream, which are reserved for the bride. Be careful with very bright, attention grabbing colours that could compete with the wedding party, and if the invitation names a colour palette, work around it. When you are unsure, ask the couple.
Match the venue and season
- Garden or vineyard: flowing midi dresses and soft prints, with block heels so you do not sink into the lawn.
- Beach: lighter fabrics, and shoes you can walk in on sand or boardwalks.
- Church or ceremony in a place of worship: keep shoulders covered for the ceremony, with a wrap or jacket that you can take off for the reception.
- Winter weddings: richer colours like navy, emerald and burgundy suit the season well.
Think about comfort
You will be sitting, standing and dancing for hours. Choose a dress you can sit down in, move in and wear all day, with a hemline and neckline you will not need to adjust. Bring flats for the dance floor.
Why buy instead of hire
A designer dress is yours to keep, so you can wear it to the next wedding, a race day or a party. There are no return dates and no late fees. New with tags and pre-loved designer dresses are both well below RRP, and every dress is authentic. If you used to hire your dresses, see why buying can work out better.
Ready to choose?
Pick your size, check the condition shown on each dress and order with free express shipping. If you would like us to hold a dress for 3 days while you decide, get in touch.
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White Suede Lace Ambiguity - Navy Original price was: $429.95.$264.49Current price is: $264.49.
White Suede White Lace Ambiguity - White Original price was: $429.95.$264.49Current price is: $264.49.
Nicola Finetti Rebekah Top and Brianna Skirt Set Orange Cobalt Original price was: $668.95.$384.95Current price is: $384.95.
Lexi Frankie Dress Orange Original price was: $279.95.$189.95Current price is: $189.95.
