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Shopping for a wedding guest outfit can be such a tricky thing to navigate. Of course, it’s an honour to be included in such a special day, but that also comes with a certain responsibility to turn up as your best self.
First, you have to consider the vibe that the happy couple wants, trying your best to discern whatever “formal”, “cocktail party glam”, or, heaven forbid, “just wear what makes you comfortable” is supposed to mean to them.
Then you have to work out your budget, crunching the numbers against the cost of things like any accommodation you’ve got to pay for, and gifts you might want to send the soon-to-be-wedded pair.
And then there’s the weather to consider. Spring and summer tend to be more popular wedding dates, which means most wedding guest dresses are designed accordingly: cue the floral patterns, bright colours, and short/strappy/no sleeves.
But people get married year-round, and you don’t want your teeth chattering to drown out the vows. If you’ve got any autumn weddings coming up, these eight long-sleeved dresses will help you fight that chill in the air and look great too.
1) ASOS DESIGN Petite ruched bust scoop long sleeve maxi dress in olive
With its scooped neck and velvet detailing, this little number gives Ella Enchanted, Y2K Renaissance Fair in the best possible way.
2) Blue Balloon Sleeve Zendaya Midi Dress
I’m a huge fan of the statement sleeves and the bow on the back on this little blue dress. And the best part? At the time of writing, it’s on sale for better-than-half-price. So you’d better move fast!
3) Jamila Cold Shoulder Maxi Dress
Whoever said you can’t wear black to a wedding is just plain wrong. Classy and sexy at the same time, this maxi dress positively screams ‘evening do’.
4) Nobody’s Child Polka Dot V-Neck Blouson Sleeve Midi Tea Dress
Polka dots are very hot right now, having been seen on everyone from Kaia Gerber to Charli xcx of late. This dress takes the trend to a 70s-esque place that feels classic and modern at the same time.
5) Lovers and Friends Simone Dress
Fun and flirty, this velveteen dress is sure to keep you cosy in chillier weather. It’s also great for the upcoming festive party season.
6) Escala V-Neck Maxi Dress
The plunging neckline, statement shoulders, and bold colour of this dress is a bit of a throwback to the era of 80s/90s power dressing, and I’m all about it.
7) Autograph Cupro Rich Cape Detail Mini Dress
Yes, this might stretch the definition of ‘sleeves’ a little far, but this cape dress is so undeniably chic that it more than deserves a place on this list of fall-friendly wedding ’fits.
8) Nobody’s Child Velvet Bandeau Bow Detail Mini Dress
The elegance of the bandeau neckline and the playfulness of the bow combine to make a dress that strikes a great balance between adorable and chic.