Wedding Guest Dresses For Every Season
Weddings are woven through the year, from coastal ceremonies in summer to ballroom receptions in winter. In Australia, where the seasons are distinct, climate and setting often guide how to dress as a wedding guest.
Fabric, length and colour palette shift with the season. This guide helps you choose wedding guest dresses that feel appropriate, attuned to the moment and grounded in timeless beauty.
Spring: Light Layers and Blooming Prints
Spring signals the perfect moment to embrace colour, airy fabrics and romantic detailing. Think flowy midi dresses, wrap styles and tiered skirts—ideal for outdoor ceremonies and long afternoons that stretch into evening. Soft hues like lavender, mint and blush reflect the optimism of the season.
Play with sleeve styles—from off-the-shoulder ruffles to dainty spaghetti straps. If the weather’s still unpredictable, opt for long sleeves in sheer or lace fabrics.
Recommended: The Bloom Silk Dress
Crafted from 100% Silk Crepe De Chine, this A-line dress features a fluid drape and an exclusive placement print in tones of blue, indigo, black and white. The gently gathered waist adds subtle shape, making it a versatile option for both daytime events and evening celebrations.
Summer: Breezy Fabrics and Bright Hues
Summer calls for breathable fabrics and bold prints. Sleeveless or short-sleeve dresses in cotton voile or linen blends feel fresh, while mid-length hemlines allow ease of movement. Tonal botanicals or geometric prints bring subtle depth.
Avoid white or bridal ivory—opt instead for neutrals, pale blue, yellow, rose or ochre. Dark tones can trap heat, so reserve black for evening events in air-conditioned settings.
Autumn: Rich Tones and Tactile Detail
Autumn weddings feel intimate and romantic, best matched with deeper tones and elevated textures. Choose mid-weight fabrics like wool crepe or satin-backed crepe that offer warmth without bulk. Dresses with pleats, draping or gathered details add interest.
Colours like olive, merlot, midnight blue, terracotta and mustard echo the seasonal landscape. If choosing a pattern, opt for tonal or abstract prints in muted palettes.
Recommended: The Thea Dress
With its modern silhouette and silk blouson sleeves, this fully lined dress offers refined coverage and soft movement—perfect for weddings that transition from afternoon to evening.
Winter: Jewel Tones and Statement Fabrics
Winter is the time to embrace structure and warmth. Fabrics like crepe, velvet and metallic knits lend presence. Look for full-length sleeves, high necklines and maxi hemlines for seasonal comfort.
Navy and black remain timeless, while jewel tones—emerald, ruby, sapphire—offer richness without overpowering.
Recommended: The Valeria Dress
Made from mid-weight metallic yarn, this regular-fit dress features a V-neckline, full-length sleeves and softly shirred side seams for flattering shape and gentle shimmer.
What else to consider when choosing a wedding guest dress
Time of Day
Daytime weddings call for shorter or midi lengths and relaxed styles. Evening events suit longer hemlines and structured silhouettes like columns, slips or fitted bodices.
Venue and Setting
Outdoor weddings favour breezy fabrics like cotton, silk or crepe. Indoors, structured materials like satin-back crepe or wool blends bring polish.
Footwear Tips
Uneven ground, grassy lawns or gravel paths make stilettos impractical. Opt for block heels, wedges or dressy flats for comfort and elegance.
Why choose Perri Cutten for your wedding guest dresses
A wedding celebrates romance—your outfit should reflect that same spirit. At Perri Cutten, our dresses combine modern refinement with timeless design, tailored for the confident Australian woman. Shop online or visit us in one of our seven boutiques and select David Jones locations. We also offer international shipping to New Zealand, the US, UK, Canada, France, Hong Kong and Singapore. From relaxed coastal ceremonies to formal city receptions, discover dresses for every celebration in the Perri Cutten collection.
