Wedding Guest Dresses That Don’t Try Too Hard |RIHOAS

The Wedding Guest Edit: How to Nail the Dress Code

Let’s be honest: decoding a wedding invite can feel like solving a riddle. Is "Beach Formal" a real thing? Can you actually wear red? We're here to simplify it. Our collection focuses on pieces that respect the occasion but still feel undeniably you—because the best guest is a comfortable one.

Curated by Code & Vibe

Black-Tie & Formal
Tradition says floor-length, but we say: read the room. If you’re not into gowns, a sharp, architectural tea-length dress in velvet or heavy silk often makes a stronger statement.

The Edit: Browse our Black-Tie dresses. We focus on rich fabrics that do the heavy lifting for you—so you can skip the over-accessorizing.

Cocktail Attire
The most flexible code on the list. This is where you can have fun with hemlines and necklines. A structured midi is always safe, but don't be afraid of a playful slit or an asymmetric cut.

Insider Tip: Since your shoes are on display with Cocktail dresses, choose a pair you can actually stand in for 5 hours. (We’ve all been the guest carrying their heels at midnight—don't let it be you.)

The Outdoor Factor (Casual & Semi-Formal)
Backyard vows and beach ceremonies are romantic, but they are logistical minefields for your wardrobe.

The Strategy: Skip the stilettos and the heavy satins. You need movement. Our Semi-Formal and Casual Dresses use breathable blends that handle humidity and wind without clinging. Look for flowy silhouettes that let you navigate grass and sand with dignity.

A Few Rules of Thumb

The Color Question
By now you know to avoid white. But be careful with pale silver and blush pink, too—in aggressive flash photography, they often wash out completely.

Our Advice: Deep jewel tones (think emerald, navy, burgundy) are fail-safe. They look expensive in person and photograph beautifully in any light. Check out our Fall Guest Edit for these richer palettes.

The "Sit Test"
It sounds basic, but it’s crucial. You will be sitting, eating, and dancing. If a dress looks amazing standing up but cuts into your ribs when you sit, it’s not the one. We prioritize fabrics with a hint of stretch or tailored drapes to ensure you’re not counting down the minutes until you can unzip.