We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.
1. A sophisticated long-sleeve midi dress elevated with a faux wrap bodice, so you can shimmy and two-step your way around the dance floor feeling totally confident that the girls won't spill out as you do.
Promising review: "This the absolutely best dress. The material is the perfect drape and it's lined. I get tons of compliments and looks when I wear this dress. I have the black and the boysenberry." —Charlotte D
Get it from Eloquii for $109.95 (available in sizes 14–28 and seven colors).
2. A satin cowl-neck midi dress just perfect for whenever you need to gussy up for a wedding that calls for a semi-formal 'fit. Plus, reviewers rave about how comfortable and easy to move in it is!
3. A simple faux-wrap dress to keep you comfortable during those summer outdoor wedding receptions when the weather turns out to be much hotter than anticipated. 🥵 Whether you choose to pair this with heels or flats, you'll look and feel great dancing the night away at the reception.
Promising review: "I bought this to wear to a wedding, and it was perfect. It's clingy where you want it to cling, and it drapes where you want it to drape. I love that it's so simple, yet so cute. As soon as I tried it on for the first time, I ordered another one. I did wear a cami underneath to cut down on the cleavage, but that is an easy fix, and I wear one with most dresses already anyway. This is really the perfect shape and style of dress for me." —Annie Maim
Get it from Amazon for $31.99+ (available in sizes 14–26 and in 33 colors, patterns, and sleeve-lengths).
4. An off-the-shoulder smocked dress that has a bodycon silhouette with a LOT of stretch, so you can be comfortable through all the festivities and still look incredible. Plus, the ruffled mermaid hem is perfect for spring!
Promising review: "Looks great! Simple but sexy. Got this to wear to a wedding and it looked great!...I wore some light shape wear under it so I would have any underwear lines. Was super comfy and has a lot of stretch for dancing and eating." —Cady Holmes
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in sizes S–4X and in 28 colors/patterns).
5. A stretchy, strappy open-back maxi dress in case, IDK you have to fly out to Greece for your best friend's wedding and need a stunning, lightweight option that still meets your I-had-to-book-an-international-flight-to-see-your-nuptials budget. Someone might just have to "object" to how you managed to look so good and spend less than $40!
Promising review: "This dress is absolutely stunning! Love how flowy it is, the bohemian look, and how sexy the back of the dress is. Received so many compliments. Perfect dress for a vacation. Bought it for my trip to Bali and couldn’t be more pleased." —Carolina Orozco
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and in 28 colors).
6. A lace cocktail dress featuring a high neck that makes for a very sophisticated black-tie look, even though the hemline is above or just at your knees. 🤭
Promising review: "This dress was PERFECT for my friend's wedding. I saw a similar dress on another site at almost double the price, and I decided to take a chance on this. I am SO glad I did! It fit perfectly — it wasn't too tight or uncomfortable. I love that it's classy but still fitted and has the slit in the back for flair. I may even buy it in another color!" —Lauren Pearman
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in sizes 4–12 and in two colors).
7. An elegant tie-strap lace dress just perfect for early summer weddings with its pastel hue and delicate lace details. Don't be surprised when the bride pulls you to the side and asks you where you got this dress from!
Promising review: "Fit like a glove! I was shocked at how well this dress fit! The tie straps make it easy to adjust to your body. I usually need extra support in the chest but I didn't even need to wear a bra with this dress! Highly recommend." —Bethany M.
Get it from Lulus for $98 (available in sizes XS–XL).
8. A long-sleeve mini dress with an eye-catching square neckline and ruffled hem, so you can look fantastic in semi-formalwear for your next outdoor wedding.
9. A tiger-print dress for a ✨ fierce ✨ wedding guest style just perfect for the ceremony and reception, whether it's local or a destination affair. Plus it's made with cotton, so you'll be comfortable as ever no matter the weather!
Promising review: "Adorable dress — I love the print and it’s just the right thickness for the summer. I get the feeling it runs a little small in the top so I think it would be a good idea to order a size up if you need space there." —Heather Gallagher
Get it from Babita Tex on Etsy for $61.99 (available in sizes S–XL, yellow, blue, black, and white).
Babita Tex is a small business boutique, specializing in unique Indian-inspired apparel and accessories.
10. A velvet V-neck maxi dress that effortlessly meets the happy couple's request of formal attire, and you'll look stunning throughout the evening, even after you've kicked off your shoes to do the Electric Slide at the reception.
Promising review: "The quality of this dress is impressive!! It's so soft, and the color is absolutely beautiful!! (I ordered the color burgundy) I took the time to read quite a few reviews myself before buying it, and a lot of them said it ran small, and to order the next size up, SOOO GLAD I DID BOTH!! As an added bonus, the dress is machine washable, in cold water on delicate setting, on its own, lay flat to dry! So very pleased with this purchase!! It’s the best one I’ve made on Amazon yet! lol." —Cecilia Durkee
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes 0–30 and in eight colors).
11. A mini shift dress just perfect for twirling till the sun comes up on the dance floor celebrating your bestie's nuptials. This lightweight dress boasts a an abstract print and deep V cutouts on the front and back, so you look and feel good from ceremony to last call.
Get it from Impressions for $52 (available in sizes S–3XL and in navy and olive).
Impressions is an Arkansas-based woman-owned boutique serving up stylish apparel that can fit your budget.
12. A belted cocktail dress — the solid faux wrap top and ruffled hi-low skirt will make a stylish statement and keep you comfortable from pre-ceremony standing to last call on the reception dance floor. Not to mention, the skirt style will offer some height even if you need to give your feet a break halfway through the reception.
Promising review: "I love this dress! Just what I was looking for. Super soft material and light weight. I am self conscious of my arms so I love the sleeves. I have an hourglass figure and feel it accentuates the curves in the right places. I recommend ordering if you’re on the fence." —Jessica
Get it from Amazon for $41.99 (available in sizes S–2XL and 14 styles).
13. A strapless satin dress, which makes a perfect gown if you need to gussy up for a *very* special occasion, without stealing the show from the bride.
Promising reviews: "Ordered this last minute for a formal event and let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised! It runs true to size... a MUST-BUY!" —Ryan
"My new FAVORITE wedding guest dress. This dress was soooo perfect for our friend's summer wedding...The material is so thick and beautiful. I received sooo many compliments in this dress." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $51.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and in 24 colors).
14. An under-$30 floral midi dress with a "smoking hot" bodycon design that makes a big statement *and* looks like you put in a lot more effort than you actually did.
Reviewers say it runs small and recommend sizing up for the perfect fit!
Promising reviews: "The dress is body hugging in a good way. I bought my size based on the measurements provided by the seller and the dress fit great. It is stretchy, but the dress holds its shape well. I like the fit so much that I will be ordering this dress in other colors." —Julia Sandoval
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 14 styles).
15. A wrap V-neck swing dress that's simple, and yet so so so elegant thanks to a pleated skirt. Not to mention, the thick shoulder straps are just perfect for hiding the straps of your favorite supportive bra, so you can dance all night long without worrying about a nip slip while fist pumping to "Shots" by LMFAO featuring Lil' Jon.
Promising reviews: "I wore this dress for New Year’s Eve and I felt like a million bucks. It was comfortable and affordable!! I received several compliments and I look forward to wearing it again. All the colors were beautiful but I settled on rose gold. It didn’t wash me out at all and the fit was perfect!" —Heather
"I bought this online for my little brother’s disco themed wedding! It is just as it looks, and the fit was perfect (following the size guide). It is well-made and high quality! Not a single sequin out of place by the end of a night of dancing! My only complaint is that it was rough on the insides of my arms to rub on my sides all night… but it wasn’t horrible. Now I’m searching for another excuse to wear it!" —Andrea MacFarlane
Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes XS–3X, 16–18 plus, and 45 colors and fabrics).
16. A tapas-themed dress for anyone who loves a pop of color no matter the occasion. This dress is so striking people will be coming up to you all night long after the ceremony to shower you with compliments. Even better if the wedding requires hopping on a plane to a new destination!
Promising review: "Dress of my dreams. I was hoping I didn't love this dress as much as I did because now I have to fill my closet with all things Lisa Says Gah <3. Love love love." —Annie M.
Get it from Lisa Says Gah for $188 (available in sizes XS–3XL).
Lisa Says Gah is a woman-owned boutique designing unique and sustainable retro-inspired apparel.
17. A satin asymmetrical A-line gown designed with a corseted bodice and serious leg split that is just ready for being seated front row at NYFW, but will still look great sitting (or standing) at your BFF's nuptials.
Promising review: "UNBELIEVABLE!!!!! This is truly the most gorgeous, well-made, perfect quality, stunning gown we could have EVER purchased. Compliments for my daughter all night...BRAVO to the dress maker and the company for excellent customer service! Couldn’t be happier! :)" —Kelly Brock
Get it from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in sizes 0–26 Plus and 35 colors)
18. An embroidered tulle dress just ideal for all those weddings your friends and family have packed your spring schedule with, and it's lightweight, so you can wear it comfortably all day long: from your reception seat to the dance floor.
Promising review: "I don’t ever write reviews but had to because this dress is literally EVERYTHING!! It’s so pretty and the fabric is high quality. I just wish for more occasions to wear it!!" —Norah Barnes
Get it from Amazon for $59.99+ (available in sizes 0–28 Plus and in 13 colors).
19. A rainbow-inspired midi dress with adorable puff sleeves and a sophisticated square neck — no more struggling over which color won't make you look like a bridesmaid or event staff. The solution? Wear every color!
Promising review: "I absolutely love this dress!! I get so many compliments when I wear it and it’s truly one of a kind." —Victoria Kennedy
Get it from Mr. Water New York on Etsy for $89 (available in sizes S–XXL).
Mr. Water New York is an Asian American- and woman-owned fashion brand delivering unique apparel that makes a big statement.
20. A puff-sleeve mini dress because it delivers a super chic style with a square neckline and adjustable sleeves that can be worn on or off the shoulder. If the occasion calls for a new dress, but your budget has barely any room to spare, this will do the trick without spending lots of your hard-earned cash!
Promising review: "It’s super cute, comfortable, and I received a ton of compliments on it. I ordered a medium but could have gone with a small. Ordering another color, because I liked it so much." —Amber Nelson
Get it from Amazon for $45.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 23 colors and patterns).
And get a VERY similar version in plus sizes (L–4X) for $39.99 (available in seven colors).
21. A one-shoulder smock dress that combines stretchy comfort and style, so you don't have to worry about feeling stuffed and uncomfy after sitting through the ceremony, feasting during the reception, and taking a quick dance break for cake and photos. 😅
Promising reviews: "Love this dress! Will be buying other colors! Super stretchy. I climbed A LOT of steps in Italy and this dress stretches so well. You can bend your knees and move your legs easily. If I had a baby bump I think that would easily fit in the dress too LOL. But it was also form-fitting, didn’t feel loose. Great length for not worrying about anything riding up." —Kat R
"I did size down from a large to a medium after reading the reviews. This dress is very forgiving. The stretch and material was comfortable. I had to pack it for an out of town wedding. It DOES NOT WRINKLE! It can be wadded up in a ball and still look the same. The weather was very warm and the sweat did not show through, which is another bonus. I received so many compliments. This dress was perfect for me!" —TMo
Get it from Amazon for $37.99 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 22 colors/patterns).
22. A summer-ready cotton dress designed with elegant flutter sleeves and a sophisticated A-line silhouette, so you can sip your ice cold beverage during the post-ceremony cocktail hour in style. Just trust me, that you won't have any time to relax because everyone will be rushing over to compliment your outfit!
Promising review: "I absolutely loved this dress. Bought this one and two others off Amazon for family pics and this one was the winner. I was so glad I wore it too because the pics came out perfect. If you have a large chest it might be an issue but I’m 36A so I had no issues. This could easily be dressed up and would make a great Easter, wedding guest, or summer party dress." —Lindsey
Get it from Amazon for $41.65 (available in sizes S–XXL and in 22 colors).
23. A pleated midi dress, so you can be the perfect wedding guest in sophisticated style thanks to a simple bow at waist and three-quarter sleeves to keep you comfortable, because we know sometimes the AC is on full blast during those summer wedding ceremonies. BTW, it has pockets!
Promising review: "I have an evening wedding to attend and I bought this dress on a whim. I am so glad I did! It is a nice heavyweight dress. The cut is perfect on me as I am short waisted and the waist and belt hit at just the right spot. I love the pockets. Overall, it is worth every penny and more!" —Susan Stark
Get it from Amazon for $42.99+ (available XS–3XL, short and long sleeves, and 44 colors and patterns).
24. A slinky slip dress in case the name of the game is "layering" and you want to look your best even if the spring weather is chillier or more unpredictable than ever. There's a reason the slip silhouette will literally never go out of style.
Up above (on the right) is BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly, and she owns this dress in black. She loved it so much...she wore it over and over again until buying a SECOND ONE in Spiced Burgundy during Black Friday sales last year!
Get it from Aritzia for $118 (available in 15 colors and sizes 2XS–1X).
25. A must-have evening gown that boasts an asymmetrical shoulder design and ruched bust, which means you don't need to wear a bra unless you want! Not to mention the over the shoulder flowy train that's giving major red carpet energy!
Promising review: "I bought this dress and four others for the inaugural balls. This one fit like a dream! I had it hemmed but otherwise, it fit well and I had compliments all evening. The dress is so classy and elegant. I can't wait to get a different color and have it on hand for other events. Definitely a go-to option for black tie affairs! I got the size based on the bust and it fit great!" —Destiny Decker
Get it from Amazon for $86.99 (available in sizes 0–30 and in 28 colors).
26. A bandage halter dress — it's so elegant, all you need is the perfect strapless bra (if you wear one at all), some really gorgeous earrings, and a pair of comfy, yet fabulous pumps. When the bride asks you for the dress deets, don't gatekeep!
Promising review: "This dress is PERFECT! I got compliments on the dress all night. I already knew it would be snug, but with the length and fishtail detail, it was very classy for a wedding. The material and zipper are sturdy and thick. I always buy dresses from this seller, and they never disappoint!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $68.99 (available in sizes XS–XL and 22 colors).
27. A must-have midi dress designed with tie-straps for a delicate touch and a leg slit to add a dash of flirty on top. No one will even notice how hard you're crying at the reception because they'll be too busy complimenting your style from across the aisle.
28. A show-stopping one-shoulder dress that shows off your curves in all 👏 the 👏 right 👏 ways! It's designed with a little bit of stretch for comfort and ruching along the bodice for a bodycon effect.
I own, not one, but TWO of these dresses (in acid lime and black onyx), and now I will probably get a third because there were only three colors when I bought mine. I love this dress — it looks SO good and is so so so comfortable, even on sticky hot summer days. I wore mine for my birthday because I had to make a statement, and I'm pretty sure I saw Robyn from RHOP in the same dress during season 8, IYKYK.
Promising reviews: "I absolutely love this dress, I need it in every color! 😍 I ordered it for a wedding and it fits true to size and was a hit! I received compliments from everyone. I wore a strapless bandeau and shape wear spank shorts as undergarments, it was a perfect fit! 😉❤️" —Pearl H.
"It keeps its length without riding up...great material and beautiful color. I get compliments whenever I wear it! I wore it (brown color) to a fall themed wedding and a fall gala. The length can be adjusted to below the knees or above (for me anyway)." —Jade J.
Get it from Eloquii for $109.95 (available in sizes 14–32 and five colors).
29. A vintage-inspired A-line dress in case you want to embrace those '50s and '60s vibes by stepping out in a pleated skirt just perfect for twirling and two-stepping on the dance floor all night long.
Some reviewers rec wearing it with a petticoat underneath for extra poof. Check out BuzzFeed's full write-up on this dress.
Promising review: "This dress exceeded my expectations! It's so pretty. The belt is removable, so it can be worn however you want — tied in the front, back, or even the side. The top fits so nicely and I'm very happy!" —Harmony A.
Get it from Amazon for $34.69+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and in 40 colors/patterns).
30. A chiffon party dress — it's giving bohemian floral, which is perfect for the next outdoor wedding on your summer schedule because it seems like *everyone* is getting married this year, and your outfit options need to match your budget.
Promising review: "This dress is SO CUTE! It is the perfect summer dress for special events. It is light and airy. It does have some stray thread and isn’t perfectly sewn but you can’t beat the price. I can’t wait to wear this dress to a summer wedding!" —Santanna
Get it from Amazon for $43.54+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 32 styles).
31. A one-shouldered faux-wrap dress just perfect for a warm weather wedding (indoors or out) where you need to look sophisticated *and* chic, but also there's a selfie station calling your name.
32. A floor-length gown designed with a ruffled off-shoulder neckline and high slit, so all you have to worry about is which pair of pumps to choose and show off!
Promising review: "LOVE this dress. Wore this to my sister’s wedding in the Dominican Republic. I received many compliments and I didn’t feel squished... it was perfect with heels, a little long without. I had room to dance, it felt airy, I loved how it fit. Really happy with this one!" —Kathryn Tamondong
Get it from Amazon for $57.98+ (available in sizes 0–30 and in 31 colors)
33. A maxi-length dotted sun dress just perfect for attending that July wedding you've been invited to, which you already know will be a scorcher. At least you'll look hot, too. 🥵
Promising review: "I love love love this dress! It looks great, feels good, and I got tons of compliments. It's a little tight in the bust, but I'm big-busted. It still fit. I wore a thin-strap black bra and the straps didn't show. It would be fine to wear without a bra or a strapless bra — it's not sheer. The skirt is full and swishy. The slit up the leg is not obvious — it's just right." —Piper Winifred
Get it from Amazon for $40.99 (available in sizes S–XL and 11 styles).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.