Wedding Guest Dresses & Gift Ideas

With so many weddings postponed last year, it’s no surprise that weekends are full of nuptials now! If our stack of invites and save-the-dates are any indication, there is no end in sight for the celebrations. Well pass the cake, because I’m here for all the love!

One of the biggest requests lately has been for wedding guest dresses this Fall, and I’m always game for the chance to slap on bright lipstick and a set of lashes, so I’m thrilled to do some sourcing for you! My first stop for event dresses is always Nordstrom. I view them as the Goldilocks of department stores… great quality, but plenty of affordable options.

They make event shopping so easy, too, with a full Wedding Shop section HERE, and another dedicated to wedding guests HERE. From there, they break down the options by casual, cocktail, and formal, and you can even filter for specific colors and price points.

My goal for wedding guest style is to find that sweet spot of classic, snazzy, a touch of sexy, and comfortable enough for cake. I mean dancing.

Lace Jumpsuit | Pumps | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses

This jumpsuit was an immediate YES for me…s o chic and unexpected, in a deep navy with beautiful lace detailing. The belted high waist and wide leg creates a long and lean silhouette, and the crepe material has just enough stretch for a comfortable, flattering fit.

It’s fairly long (perfect for tall girls), but easily altered with a simple hem. I love that it works for so many occasions, and the classic shape never goes out of style.

Fit Tip: I’m wearing a 2, and hemmed it one inch.

Lace Jumpsuit | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses

It does require a strapless bra, and I added these Spanx for a smoother fit through the hips and bum. Just like Dolly Parton said in Steel Magnolias, “I haven’t left the house without lycra on these thighs since I was 14!” 😉

Lace Jumpsuit | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’

Lace Jumpsuit | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses

Lace Jumpsuit | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses | Dining Room & Decor Sources HERE

Speaking of lycra, let’s chat undergarments. Most special occasion styles require something a little different than every day bras and undies. My most worn is the stick-on NuBra, which provides coverage, shape, and pretty significant lift! It’s great for strapless, racerback, and backless styles.

This strapless bra is a great option, too, especially for larger chests (it’s Mama Sugarplum’s fave, too). As for undies, I fluctuate between Bliss Undies and Hanky Panky Thongs, depending on the style of the outfit. But no one needs to see those.

NuBra | Strapless Bra | Mid-Thigh Shapewear | Not Pictured: Bliss Undies & Hanky Panky Thong

Another gorgeous option is this lace and embellished number, in my favorite fit-and-flare silhouette. The color is so perfect for Fall and Winter, and it’s dressy enough for just about every level of cocktail and evening event.

It’s fully lined to the mid-thigh in a sleek and stretchy material that actually helps smooth, with a sassy plunging neckline. I love longer lengths for cooler months too, since I prefer to go bare-legged.

Fit Tip: I’m in my usual size XS, but it’s a touch snug. So if you’re in-between or busty, I’d go up one.

Lace Fit & Flare Dress | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Similar Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses

The artistry of the lace and sequins is so beautiful, and it has the prettiest subtle shimmer. You really can’t miss with any of the dresses from this brand, particularly in this silhouette.

Lace Fit & Flare Dress | Drop Earrings | Similar Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’

Lace Fit & Flare Dress | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Similar Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’

Lace Fit & Flare Dress | Drop Earrings | Similar Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’

Now that you’re all dolled up, I can’t let you show up empty-handed! Nordstrom is also a great source for incredible wedding gifts, and can send them gift wrapped directly to the newlyweds’ door. Here are a few fail-safe options…

one. Wine Chiller // two. Our Place Always Pan Set
three. Monogram Cheese Board Set // four. Le Creuset Casserole Platter
five. Monogram Wine Glasses // seven. Le Labo Santal Candle
eight. Porcelain Essential Oil Diffuser // nine. Throw Blanket
ten. Electric Kettle // eleven. Kate Spade Photo Frame (25% off!)
twelve. Organic Cotton Sheet Set // thirteen. Digital Photo Frame

Lace Fit & Flare Dress | Pumps | Drop Earrings | Chain Bracelet | Lipstick in shade ‘Velvet Underground’ | Wine Glasses

And of course, this dress has attended more weddings than Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn! I absolutely adore it, and it always feels sexy, but appropriate, no matter the venue. If you need a warm layer, this faux fur is gorgeous, and this one is fun, too.

Do you have any weddings and dressy celebrations on your calendar this season? Do you have a go-to dress for all your events, or do you like the chance to grab something new?

[More Wedding Guest Dress Options]

*All photos taken by the darling and talented Audrie Dollins. This post is created in collaboration with Nordstrom and ShopStyle, but all product selections, styling, and poorly-placed false eyelashes are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum and its sponsors!*