Backyard Wedding Guest Dresses

This season, it seems like all the wedding invites on our fridge have one thing in common: the dress code, garden party attire. We know what you’re thinking, “Florals for a wedding? Groundbreaking!” But don’t worry because VENUS has the most romantic and head-turning dresses perfect for every garden party or backyard wedding RSVP that are sure to leave even Miranda Priestly impressed.

The good news is there are no rules about upstaging the florist. Whether you’re the plus one, the mother of the bride, or just there for the cake (we don’t blame you!), here are our VENUS-approved style tips guaranteed to earn you best-dressed-guest status at your next garden party wedding.

Dress for the Weather

You can’t predict the weather, but you can plan for it. And hopefully the wedding planner did too. Stand out, rain or shine, in a Printed Wrap Dress. With a playful floral print and universally-flattering silhouette that cinches your waist, you’ll be giving anything but wallflower vibes. Whether you choose a mini dress, a midi or a maxi, we recommend a style with tank straps—a must-have for an outdoor wedding (along with bug spray and SPF). This way you’ll stay as cool as possible in the scorching sun, so no one will mistake your happy tears for sweat. But don’t forget to come prepared for that inevitable post- golden hour temperature drop with an effortless cardigan that’ll keep you celebrating well into the chilly evening.

Stick to the Dress Code

As a wedding guest, you have two jobs: follow the dress code and have fun! Garden party weddings are all about versatility. A backyard venue can be as casual as a backyard BBQ (sans cutoff shorts and flip-flops, of course) or as formal as a ballroom affair. Before you go getting overwhelmed, let us break down each of the three dress codes couples often land on:

Dressy casual
Semi-formal
Black-tie optional

Dressy Casual Attire for a Garden Party

While the contradictory name is downright confusing (is it dressy, or is it casual?!), this dress code requires that your outfit fall somewhere on the spectrum between dressy and not too casual. An easy trick to decipher what to wear is to consider the time of the event—the earlier the wedding, the less formal your attire should be. For a daytime wedding, a sundress like our Convertible Maxi Dress checks all the boxes. With its understated keyhole detail and flattering ruched bodice, it’s a total winner. Add an elevated spin with embellished sandals and a clutch that’s just big enough to store your essentials.

Semi-Formal Backyard Wedding Guest Dresses

When the invite says “semi-formal” think cocktail attire. This means dresses with a shorter hemline (no gowns) or a fun jumpsuit. Our top-selling Waterfall Maxi Dress is a perfect choice with its breezy draped silhouette and eye-catching halter neckline. Chic flats are an acceptable shoe option for a semi-formal wedding, and thank goodness, because nothing will kill your vibe as fast as heels that are sinking into the grass.

Black-Tie Optional

The word “optional” is key here. You don’t have to be quite as formal as an all-out black-tie affair, but there is one non-negotiable: your dress should be full-length. Use the venue as inspo for your look. A beautiful estate calls for an equally stunning statement piece like our Off The Shoulder Ruffle Gown that radiates elegance. A shoulder-skimming neckline and dramatic side slit in the skirt are the ideal details for a sophisticated celebration.

Dresses With Pockets

If you’re anything like us, your purse has a permanent place at the dinner table all night, while you kick off the conga line on the dance floor. That’s where dresses with pockets come to the rescue. Stealthily keep your essentials by your side so you can snap a photo or reapply your lip without sacrificing your front-row spot for the bouquet toss. From our more casual Button-Front Maxi Dress to our elegant Plunging Halter Maxi Dress, there are plenty of options that seamlessly combine fashion and function.

VENUS Picks

Now, you’re garden-party-wedding ready! Don’t forget to send in your RSVP, then check out our favorite picks below. And yes, we will be your date!

Shop More Fabulous Finds at VENUS!