15 Black Tie Summer Wedding Guest Dresses You’ll Absolutely Love

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What Does “Black Tie” Really Mean for Wedding Guest Dresses?

When you see “black tie” on a wedding invitation, it’s your cue to dress to impress—elegantly and formally. For women, this typically means:

• Floor-length gowns are the gold standard. Think elegant silhouettes, luxe fabrics like satin or chiffon, and flattering cuts that feel elevated but comfortable.

• Dark, rich colors like navy, black, emerald, and burgundy are classics, but for summer weddings, softer hues like blush, lilac, or even bold jewel tones work beautifully—especially when styled right.

• Minimal but polished accessories help pull the look together—opt for sleek heels, a clutch, and delicate jewelry.

• Skip anything overly casual, like short sundresses, loud prints, or anything too revealing. You want to look refined and event-appropriate.

In short: black tie is your chance to wear something you might not get to wear often—so go all in on glamour, with summer-ready details that still respect the formality.

15 Black Tie Summer Wedding Guest Dresses You’ll Love

1. Ramy Brook - Hansel Rosette Satin Slipdress

Perfect for beachside black tie weddings.

This satin slip dress provides a sleek look with its minimalist design. The lightweight fabric makes it suitable for coastal venues where comfort is key.

2. Show me Your Mumu - Jasmine Halter Maxi Dress

Ideal for destination weddings.

The halter neckline and flowy skirt provide a relaxed yet formal look, suitable for tropical or beach venues. Available in multiple colors.

3. Anthropologie - Mare Mare Emmy Satin Corset Maxi Dress

Timeless piece for any formal event.

Olive green is the perfect color for a summer black tie wedding, while the satin fabric ensures you stay cool and comfortable.

4. Meshki - Frances Strapless Bow Maxi Dress - Black

Sophisticated choice for evening events.

The strapless design adds allure, while the flowy fabric ensures you remain cool during nighttime receptions. Bow detail on the back adds to the elegance.

5. Peppermayo - Imani Maxi Dress - Pink

Affordable elegance.

Perfect backless dress for black tie summer weddings, featuring a rose detail on the front.

6. Reformation - Anaiis Silk Dress

Ideal for hot weather and outdoor ceremonies.

Crafted from lightweight silk, this dress offers a breezy feel perfect for warm climates. Its elegant silhouette ensures you stay cool without compromising on style. And to answer the question, "Can I wear florals to a black-tie wedding?" - this kind you can!

7. Katie May - Surreal Gown

Stylish and timeless.

If you are fan of the black dress, that you can wear on many different occasions, this dress is for you. Timeless, stylish and chic.

8. Rat & Boa - Giovanna Dress

Perfect for destination or coastal black tie weddings.

With its vibrant color options and sleek design, this dress is both eye-catching and suitable for formal settings.

9. Amazon - Black Tie Ruffle Dress

Stylish and budget-friendly.

This dress features a flattering ruffles and lightweight fabric, making it a comfortable choice for warm-weather weddings.

10. Oh Polly - Scarf-Detail Strapless Gown in Spring Green

Fresh and elegant - perfect for black tie garden weddings.

This strapless maxi dress in vibrant spring green is a breath of fresh air for any summer formal event. The clean neckline and flowing silhouette strike the perfect balance between refined and relaxed, making it ideal for outdoor ceremonies or garden receptions.

11. Babyboo - Maliyah Maxi-Dress

Elegant and breathable—ideal for summer black tie weddings.

The Maliyah Maxi Dress in Plum Brown offers a sophisticated silhouette perfect for formal summer events. Its rich hue adds depth, while the lightweight fabric ensures comfort in warmer temperatures. The dress's design provides a flattering fit, making it a versatile choice for various wedding settings.

12. Lucy in The Sky - Pearl Dress

Ethereal elegance for summer black tie weddings.

This light blue maxi dress exudes sophistication with its open-back design and delicate pearl detailing. The flowing silhouette and soft hue make it an ideal choice for warm-weather formal events. Its timeless style ensures you'll make a graceful statement at any upscale celebration.

13. Club L London - Eva Black & White Bardot Bow Detail

Dramatic and polished—perfect for evening black tie weddings or modern city venues.

This striking black and white Bardot maxi dress is designed to turn heads at any upscale celebration. With its sculpted bodice, oversized bow detail, and thigh-high split, it’s a bold choice for fashion-forward guests. Ideal for black tie weddings held in elegant hotel ballrooms, art galleries, or urban rooftops.

14. ASOS - Eva Black & White Bardot Bow Detail

Romantic and breathable—ideal for summer black tie weddings.

This ethereal blue maxi dress by Lace & Beads offers a dreamy silhouette perfect for formal summer events. The delicate waterfall ruffles add movement and grace, while the lightweight fabric ensures comfort in warmer temperatures. Its timeless design makes it a versatile choice for various wedding settings, from garden ceremonies to elegant evening receptions.

15. L'IDEE - Black Tie Gown

Radiant and breathable—ideal for evening summer black tie weddings.

This gold shimmer gown by L'IDÉE offers a luminous silhouette perfect for formal summer events. The structured pleats add a touch of sophistication, while the lightweight fabric ensures comfort in warmer temperatures. Its timeless design makes it a versatile choice for various wedding settings, from elegant evening receptions to upscale garden ceremonies.

Whether you're attending a chic city soirée or a romantic garden celebration, these dresses prove that black tie and summer can absolutely go hand in hand. From breathable fabrics to timeless silhouettes and statement details, there's a perfect pick for every kind of guest and every kind of venue. Just remember—when you feel confident and comfortable, you’ll look effortlessly elegant.

For more wedding guest attire ideas, check out this page.