Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (2024)

Table of Contents
The best wedding guest outfits for over 50s at a glance: The best wedding guest outfits for over 50s Midi wedding guest dress 1. Ghost Grace Satin Swing Midi Dress Pros Cons 2. Coast Lisa Tan Ruffle One Shoulder Dress Pros Cons 3. Nobody's Child Zora Long Sleeve Midi Dress Pros Cons Maxi wedding guest dress 4. Phase Eight Alecia Pleat Maxi Dress Pros Cons 5. ASOS Design Textured Satin Batwing Bias Waisted Maxi Dress in Green Pros Cons 6. Scarlett & Jo Curve Isabelle Abstract Print Maxi Dress Pros Cons Sparkly wedding guest dress 7. Whistles Sequin Keyhole Midi Dress Pros Cons 8. Phase Eight Becka Fringe Sequin Maxi Dress Pros Cons 9. Monsoon Elizabeth Embellished Maxi Dress Pros Cons Wedding guest jumpsuits 10. Monsoon Delia Drape Jumpsuit Blue Pros Cons 11. Phase Eight Short Sleeve Wide Leg Jumpsuit Pros Cons 12. Closet London Satin Wide Leg Jumpsuit Pros Cons Lace wedding guest dress 13. Monsoon Monica Lace Midi Dress Green Pros Cons 14. Kaleidoscope Cobalt Lace Dress Pros Cons 15. Phase Eight Senna Lace Midi Dress Pros Cons Two-piece wedding guest outfits 16. River Island Yellow Belted Blazer Pros Cons 17. Oasis Lace Sleeveless Co-ord Top Pros Cons Floral dress 18. Monsoon Floryn Floral Shirt Dress Pros Cons 19. Wallis Curve Floral Cape Midaxi Dress Pros Cons 20. Karen Millen Spring Floral Printed Hammered Satin Woven Midi Dress Pros Cons Can wedding guests wear colours? What should you wear with your wedding guest outfit? FAQs Top five tips on how to find the best wedding guest outfit: Where to buy the best wedding guest outfits for over 50s:
Ghost Grace Satin Swing Midi Dress
Coast Lisa Tan Ruffle One Shoulder Dress
Nobody's Child Zora Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Phase Eight Alecia Pleat Maxi Dress
ASOS Design Textured Satin Batwing Bias Waisted Maxi Dress in Green
Whistles Sequin Keyhole Midi Dress
Phase Eight Becka Fringe Sequin Maxi Dress
Monsoon Elizabeth Embellished Maxi Dress
Monsoon Delia Drape Jumpsuit Blue
Phase Eight Short Sleeve Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Closet London Satin Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Monsoon Monica Lace Midi Dress Green
Kaleidoscope Cobalt Lace Dress
Phase Eight Senna Lace Midi Dress
River Island Yellow Belted Blazer
Oasis Lace Sleeveless Co-ord Top
Monsoon Floryn Floral Shirt Dress
Wallis Curve Floral Cape Midaxi Dress
Karen Millen Spring Floral Printed Hammered Satin Woven Midi Dress

Wedding season is always an exciting one, but there’s one question that pops into your mind the moment that invitation arrives - what are you going to wear? Finding the perfect wedding guest outfit can be difficult. You don't want to upstage the bride but you do want to wear a flattering dress for mature women. Fear not, as Yours Deputy Style Editor, Cigdem Tanrioglu has found the best wedding guest outfits for over 50s out right now.

Known as the dress queen, Cigdem spends her days finding the perfect styles for women over 50. So much so, that she has even worked with the likes of Kate Garaway and Vanessa Feltz on photoshoots. In addition to this, Cigdem has spent years styling women spanning between sizes 6-26 on photoshoots, so it is fair to say she knows a thing of two about finding flattering, age-appropriate clothing on the high street.

The best wedding guest outfits for over 50s at a glance:

Best timeless wedding guest dress for over 50s: Ghost Grace Satin Swing Midi Dress – Buy now on John Lewis
Best lace wedding guest dress for over 50s: Monica Lace Midi Dress Green – Buy now on Monsoon
Best wedding guest dress under £30 for over 50s: Kaleidoscope Cobalt Lace Dress – Buy now on Freemans

Cigdem explains why searching for an amazing wedding guest outfit over the age of 50 can vary compared to other ages. “Whether you’re the mother-of-the-bride or a family friend, you’ll want to find an outfit that is equal parts glamorous, elegant and demure. Furthermore, weddings are usually a very long day, so you need occasion wear that will see you through the pre-ceremony co*cktails right through to the carriages home, which is why comfort is key. And of course, you must always consider the dress code, time of year and location…oh and of course steer clear of anything white, we don’t want to upstage the bride afterall!”

So, get ready to watch your loved ones say ‘I do’ in style, as Cigdem spills the beans on the best wedding guest outfits out right now.

The best wedding guest outfits for over 50s

Midi wedding guest dress

“A midi dress is an occasion wear classic for a reason. They’ll work for weddings, birthdays and even a day at the races” says Cigdem. “Typically, a midi dress will end around the middle of your calf, which is great for over 50’s who want to have a little extra leg coverage without wearing a maxi style. The key is to opt for a dress shape that suits your body the best, whether that be a wrap dress, a tea dress or even a tailored dress.”
“If you’re considering a midi dress for an upcoming wedding, then try opting for a style with an A-line skirt and fitted waistband. This way, you will be able to create the illusion of a streamlined silhouette, as well as making your legs look longer then they actually are. Midi dresses are also great because they work with all types of shoes – so you can opt for a stiletto, a small block heel or even flat footwear depending on your comfort preference.”

Best timeless wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (21)John Lewis

If you want to invest in a gown that will work for any special occasion than look no further than Ghost’s classic satin tea dress. According to customers, this frock has stood the test of time thanks to its flattering fit and high-quality, weighty silky fabric, which is great for avoiding any wardrobe malfunctions on a windy day. Plus, as it is made with viscose, it is breathable and will keep you cool should you suffer with hot flushes.
Featuring a soft, capped angel sleeves which provide just enough coverage along with a figure-enhancing waistband, this classic tea dress will work for just about any body shape. The V-neckline is great for enhancing smaller busts, and can be worn with a cream silky camisole for a little extra coverage, while the floaty skirt skims perfectly over stomachs, hips and thighs. Best of all, it is available in 5 other shades – all you need to do is pick which one is best for you and add a pair of shoes.

Pros

  • Classic style can be worn for years to come
  • Made with viscose so feels breathable
  • Machine washable
  • Angel sleeves for extra coverage
  • Available in 5 shades

Cons

  • Central leg split may be too high for some customers
  • Expensive but worth the investment

Best ruffle detail wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (23)Debenhams

Price:

£134.10 (WAS £149)

Debenhams

For a modern take on a classic asymmetric dress, look no further than this dramatic ruffle style by Coast. This tangerine frock taken from Coast’s collaboration with milliner Lisa Tan features a statement high-low hemline, which gives you the benefit of being able to flaunt your legs without showing too much flesh.
The asymmetric hemline leads to a shape-enhancing waistband, while the pleated, ruffle shoulder detailing enhances an hourglass silhouette. Best of all, the frock is made with a stretchy, crepe like fabric, which ensures an excellent fit for every body type – in fact customers have been giving this dress 5-star reviews due to the excellent fabric quality with some claiming they’ll never need to buy another occasion dress. What’s not to love?

Pros

  • Stretchy, thick fabric
  • Matching hat available
  • On-trend ruffle detailing
  • Shape-enhancing waistband

Cons

  • Little arm coverage due to short sleeves

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (24)

Price:

£134.10 (WAS £149)

Debenhams

Best colourful wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (25)John Lewis

When it comes to dressing for a summer wedding, we believe that the brighter your dress, the better – and this emerald frock certain packs a colour punch. In fact, shoppers have raved about the standout shade along with the high-quality, breathable fabric which is formed from a blend of viscose and linen which is ideal for keeping cool in the heat.
Along with a versatile round neckline, this machine washable dress also features a square back which is high enough to cover your bra strap. The A-line design works to create a stunning hourglass silhouette by nipping you in the waist before skimming over your lower body, while the blouson sleeves provide plenty of arm coverage for the occasion. We recommend wearing with a pair of block heeled slingback shoes and a neutral coloured fascinator for an outfit that will be complimented all day long.

Pros

  • Made of a breathable blend of viscose and linen
  • Long sleeves for coverage
  • Universally flattering fit
  • Can be re-worn more casually with flat sandals

Cons

  • Low cut back may not be suitable for all customers

Maxi wedding guest dress

If you need to up the glamour factor, then you may want to opt for a maxi dress. “A floor-length, maxi dress is best for those extra formal, black-tie occasions” explains Cigdem. “This is because they usually create a rather dramatic, show-stopping look – making them a great alternative to a short co*cktail dress that you may have worn in previous years. Most maxi dresses feature a floaty skirt, which will allow plenty of air to flow and keep you feeling cool – especially if you’re prone to hot flushes.”
“Avoid looking dowdy by investing in a contemporary style luxe-looking fabrics such as satin or chiffon – anything in jersey will instantly look less formal and will be less flattering for your body. I also recommend looking out for small details which will elevate your look, such as an embellished belt or a modern print.”

Best maxi wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (27)Phase Eight

Get ready to fall in love with one of Phase Eight’s most in demand dresses right now – the Alicia dress. Combining an elegant pleated, faux-wrap shape with dreamy blouson sleeves and a delicate 3D floral belt, this pale blue beauty has been labelled as perfect for weddings by reviewers – and we couldn’t agree more.
Not only does this stunning gown offer a figure-flattering fit, but it also has an easy-to-use concealed size zip and is fully lined too. Made with recycled fibres, this soft-to-touch dress will ooze seriously luxurious when paired with a metallic clutch bag and a simple sparkly necklace. And if that wasn’t enough, it is also available in a petite fit, which is ideal for those under 5”4. Trust us, when we say this best-selling beauty will have looking and feeling great throughout the entire occasion.

Pros

  • Fully lined
  • Features optional 3D floral belt
  • Figure-flattering faux wrap style dress
  • Blouson sleeves for coverage
  • Easy-to-use concealed zip fastening
  • Available in petite and main range sizing.

Cons

  • Expensive but worth the investment if you can afford it
  • Dry clean only

Best wedding guest dress with sleeves

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (29)Asos

Price:

£65

Asos

If sparkles and prints aren’t your thing, then why not try something a little more simple, like this zesty maxi dress by ASOS. Featuring an elegant round neckline, which is ideal for anyone looking for a little more coverage, this plain dress will look absolutely fabulous when paired with a statement necklace and a fun fascinator or hat.
The bias-cut skirt and concealed back zip fastening is perfect for creating a streamlined silhouette, especially when paired with some great shapewear. However, our favourite things about this gown are the stunning batwing sleeves which are ideal for anyone who feels a little self-conscious about their arms. And with a price tag of just £65, you won’t be breaking the bank to look great -what’s not to love?

Pros

  • Versatile round neckline
  • Batwing sleeves for arm coverage
  • Luxe-looking satin style finish

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (30)

Price:

£65

Asos

Best plus size wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (31)John Lewis

Contrary to belief, florals are not the only print suitable for summer weddings. Take this stunning abstract print gown as a prime example, with customers raving about how the vibrant colours received plenty of complements when worn at weddings. Not only will this multicolour wonder make you look and feel great, but it also means you can accessorise with any colour shoe and bag, so you can keep switching up your look with every wear.
Along with the stunning colour, women were wowed by the gown’s incredible fit, which has been created especially with curvy bodies in mind, making it a great option for curvier shoppers. From the wide, elasticated waistband and floaty A-line skirt which work together to emphasise the smallest part of your body to the soft angels sleeves which prove just enough coverage. Meanwhile, the wrap-style V-neckline offers plenty of coverage for larger busts. The best thing about this stunning style? You can pull it on – meaning there is no need to faff around with zips or buttons.

Pros

  • Specialised curve fit in sizes 12-28
  • Pull on style eliminates faffing with zip or button closures
  • Figure-flatting elasticated waistband
  • Fully lined

Cons

  • May feel too long for petite customers

Sparkly wedding guest dress

Fancy making a real statement at your next occasion? Then Cigdem advises you get ready to shimmer and shine in an embellished wedding guest dress. “In my opinion, sparkles have no age limit, so if you’ve been invited to a black-tie event or perhaps you simply want to shine on the dance floor then a sparkly dress is the one for you.”
“When it comes to finding the best sequin dress for over 50s, I recommend considering a few key things:
1. The cut of the dress – just with any other frock, you want to make sure the actual cut and design is suitable for your body shape. If you want to flatter curves then opt for a tea dress if you want to create the illusion of an elongated body then go for a tunic option or if you want to create curves then look towards a wrap style.
2. The quality of the sequins – keep things feeling classy by investing in quality sequins that will shimmer on the dance floor, rather than falling off.
3. The accessories – avoid looking over the top by keeping the rest of your outfit simple. When it comes to sparkles, remember less is more. If you really want to spice up your embellished frock then consider a statement lip colour rather than bedazzled jewels.”

Best bargain wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (33)Whistles

Price:

£99 (WAS £199)

Whistles

For a universally flattering frock that you can wear during wedding season as well as festive season, then look no further than this bargain buy from Whistles which is currently half price. Available in a gorgeous shade of aqua blue, the embellished frock has been labelled by customers as a perfect style for special occasions. Why? Well because it features demure long sleeves, an elegant V-neckline and of course, plenty of sparkles.
Available in both a regular and petite fit, the bias cut frock will look incredible when paired with simple nude footwear and a basic fine chain necklace which will instantly elevate your entire look. Plus it is made with responsibly sourced sequins, meaning you’ll be doing your part in shopping sustainably. Sounds great to us!

Pros

  • Made with sustainably sourced sequins
  • Fully lined
  • Features long sleeves for coverage
  • Currently on sale with 50% off
  • Available in petite fit

Cons

  • Made with polyester so you may feel hot in it (depending on the weather)
  • Back zip fastening may be hard to do up alone

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (34)

Price:

£99 (WAS £199)

Whistles

Best belted wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (35)Phase Eight

Get the party started in style with Phase Eights fabulous fringed frock. Perfect for embracing head-to-toe sparkles, this fantastic find features delicate sequinned tassels, which will glisten as your body moves. In addition, this sleek column style comes with an optional self-tie belt, which can be used to nip you in at the waist, or can been removed for a looser fit.
Not only does this frock look fabulous, but it is also made with responsibly sourced and recycled fabrics. We love this dress as it will allow women to shimmer whilst feeling elegant – simply pair with nude heels and you’re good to go.

Pros

  • Made with recycled fabrics
  • Optional self-tie belt
  • Fully lined

Cons

  • Short sleeves may not be suitable for all customers
  • The dress could feel heavy to some due to embellishments
  • Expensive but worth every penny

Best sheer wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (37)John Lewis

Price:

£140 (WAS £175)

John Lewis

Yes, mature women can wear sheer dresses for a special occasion! The trick is to opt for a style that features some kind of coverage-providing lining, like this stunning style by Monsoon. The embellished dress features a slip style dress which can be worn underneath providing a seriously elegant look. In fact, several customers have gone back to the website to explain that the embroidered detailing was perfect for weddings.
The beaded beauty has been designed with elegant flutter sleeves for even more coverage, while the defined empire-line waist band creates the illusion of a streamlined silhouette. We also adore the V-shaped back and round neckline, which will look incredible when paired with an up-do hair style. Finish the look off with a simple metallic clutch bag for a truly timeless outfit.

Pros

  • Figure-flattering design
  • Elbow length sleeves for coverage
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Dress may feel heavy due to beading
  • Back zip fastening may be tricky to do up alone

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (38)

Price:

£140 (WAS £175)

John Lewis

Wedding guest jumpsuits

If dresses aren’t your thing, then you’re in luck as Cigdem has a great alternative. “When shopping for a wedding guest outfit, why not try a stylish jumpsuit? These all-in-one wonders are brilliant for creating a more contemporary, modern outfit. Essentially a jumpsuit provides the ease of wearing a dress along with the benefits of wearing trousers. For example, if you’re feeling self-conscious about any varicose veins, a clever jumpsuit will have them covered so you can look and feel great. I’m personally a big fan of a tailored style as these will create a luxe-look with minimal effort.”
“The only downside about wearing a jumpsuit is that you’ll have to remove the entire item in order to use the bathroom. So try to invest in a jumpsuit with an easy-to-use fastening such as a side zip or front buttons, otherwise you may need to ask someone to help you do up a back zip fastening.”

Best statement wedding guest jumpsuit

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (39)Monsoon

Price:

£66.50 (WAS £95)

Monsoon

Stand out from the crowds for all of the right reason with this stunning statement jumpsuit from Monsoon. Available in a stylish shade of blue, this pull-on jumpsuit is crafted from a figure-flattering slinky fabric which feels soft to touch.
However, the true star of the show has got to be the dramatic asymmetric cape, which casually covers upper arms without the restriction of sleeves. Not only is this comfy jumpsuit guaranteed to receive plenty of compliments, but according to customers it will also have you feeling seriously fabulous. Team with metallic heeled sandals and a bold look for a truly show-stopping look.

Pros

  • Cape detailing provides coverage
  • Pull on design which easy to put on and take off
  • Soft to touch

Cons

  • Made from polyester so isn’t as breathable as others

Best tailored wedding guest jumpsuit

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (41)Marks & Spencer

Stop the press: we’ve found the ultimate figure-flattering jumpsuit out right now. Not only does this stunning green jumpsuit feature a chic concealed zip fastening at the back, but it is also designed with an adjustable wrap-style belt, which enables you to cinch in your waist to your heart’s desire. Plus, Phase Eight’s offering is made with 100% recycled fibres, so you know you’re doing the planet some good too.
While most customers loved the flattering fit of this jumpsuit, several customers did mention the leg length was a little long. We recommend bringing it to your local tailor, who will be able to adjust the length for your needs. Try styling this versatile frock with a pair of sparkly sandals, a metallic clutch and a statement hat for an unforgettable wedding outfit.

Pros

  • Gorgeous green colour suits most complexions
  • Adjustable side belt
  • Flattering V-neckline

Cons

  • Zip may be hard to do up without assistance
  • Leg length may be too long for some customers

Best wrap style wedding guest jumpsuit

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (43)John Lewis

Get ready to channel some quality street chic with Closet London’s offering. Spun with light and airy viscose, this simple-yet-vibrant jewel tone jumpsuit will become your go-to for wedding season and can even be worn once the festive period rolls around.
Featuring wide legs and floaty elbow-length sleeves, this kimono-inspired self-tie belt will nip you in at all of the right places to create an impeccable hourglass silhouette. We also love the V-neckline, which will looks great on any bust size. And the best bit? It features pockets so you can keep your essentials nearby at all times. What’s not to love?

Pros

  • Made with breathable viscose
  • Features pocket
  • Self-tie belt

Cons

  • Satin fabric may be too bold for some customers

Lace wedding guest dress

“A lace dress is a wedding guest classic for a reason,” advises Cigdem. “This timeless texture is brilliant to stepping up the elegance factor and is a brilliant alternative to sparkles or embroidery for those over 50. We are currently seeing a rise in sheer-styles on the high street and catwalk. Opting for lace frock provides the same trend-led benefits of wearing a sheer style whilst adding a little extra coverage – essentially it is the grown-up way to wear the trend.”
“Lace dresses tend to look best in bold colours, so have fun and ditch the traditional navy and black tones – and of course steer well clear of anything white or cream, nobody wants to upset the bride on the big day.”

Best lace wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (45)Monsoon

Price:

£135

Monsoon

We’re going to be bold and put this statement out there: we think we may have found the best lace wedding guest dress ever with Monsoon’s latest offering. Available in 4 shades, this A-line dress has had customers falling in love with the figure-flattering fit, with one 72-year-old reviewer explaining that her husband couldn’t stop complimenting her while she wore the dress.
Featuring a lace-detail, peplum style top, the dress will nip you in at the waist before elegantly draping over your lower body, creating the illusion of a long, streamlined silhouette. Team with a cropped jacket for some extra coverage, or show off your arms by wearing the capped sleeve gown alone – either way you are guaranteed to be the second biggest star of the show (after the bride, of course). And if blue isn’t your colour, this fully lined frock is available in 3 other shades.

Pros

  • Defined waist
  • Fully lined
  • Easy-to-use zip fastening
  • Available in 4 colours

Cons

  • Dress may be too long for petite customers
  • Sizing comes up a little small so you may need to size up

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (46)

Price:

£135

Monsoon

Best wedding guest dress under £30

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (47)Freemans

Price:

£25 (WAS £45)

Freemans

If you’re trying to be more frugal, then Freeman's bargain lace option is the occasion dress for you. Crafted with a lace-like fabric, this chic pencil dress is perfect for weddings, christenings, birthdays and everything in between and has received outstanding reviews from customers, who have said they’d happily re-purchase in other colours.
As well as being fully lined, the stunning cobalt dress also features a concealed zip fastening at the back, along with elegant sheer sleeves and a panel hem. The fitted cut of this gown is brilliant for enhancing curves, but for those feeling a little body conscious, we suggest wearing a pair of supportive shapewear knickers underneath. Finish off the look with nude heels and sparkly earrings for a truly timeless look.

Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Fully lined
  • Flattering waistline
  • Elegant capped sleeves

Cons

  • Zip may be difficult to do up alone

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (48)

Price:

£25 (WAS £45)

Freemans

Best red wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (49)Phase Eight

Yes, you can wear red to a wedding! The age-old myth that you should steer clear of scarlet shades has been forgotten about, so why not embrace this on-trend colour with a luxe-looking lace frock? Not only is Phase Eight’s offering fully lined, but it also features stylish, sheer puff sleeves which are perfect for balancing out a pear-shaped figure.
The bust-flattering V-neckline comes up high enough avoid flashing too much flesh, while the concealed zip means nobody will be able to see the dress’ fastening. We recommend teaming with light pink accessories for a truly romantic look.

Pros

  • Fully lined
  • High-V-neckline provides plenty of coverage
  • Features puff sleeves for coverage
  • Flattering faux-wrap design

Cons

  • Zip up back may be difficult to do up alone
  • Expensive but worth every penny

Two-piece wedding guest outfits

If you struggle to find a dress that suits your body shape, then it may be time to look for a clever co-ord or matching set. “Co-ords are big news right now, and they couldn’t be easier to wear for a special occasion” says Cigdem. “I personally love a co-ord as you can mix and match sizes. For example, I usually wear a size 10 top but a size 14 bottom, so shopping for a dress can get tricky. However, with a co-ord I can purchase each part in the suitable size, providing the perfect fit!”
“When it comes to co-ords for a wedding guest outfit, you have two options: a sleek tailored suit or a sweet skirt and top duo. Essentially, it is best to pick a co-ord that suits your style and complete the outfit accordingly.”

Best wedding guest suit

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (51)River Island

Get ready to meet your squeeze of the day – this lemon co-ord, which will features a waist-cinching tie up blazer. A chic tailored suit is an excellent alternative to a wedding guest dress. Why? Well because they’ll allow a little more styling freedom whilst ensuring you still look fabulously formal. We recommend wearing this zesty style with a neutral toned blouse, but a sequinned shell top will work just as well.
The belted blazer features a modern wrap design along with front pockets and notch lapels. In addition, the traditional button fastenings have been added so you can wear the blazer without the belt should you wish to do so. Best of all, you can easily re-wear this two-piece to the office or a fancy dinner. Fancy even more value for money? Try mix and matching the blazer and trousers with wardrobe basics during your day to day life – the possibilities are endless.

Pros

  • Optional self-tie belt
  • On-trend colour
  • Fits true to size
  • Can easily be re-styled

Cons

  • Dry clean only

Best wedding guest skirt

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (53)Debenhams

Price:

£29.50 (WAS £59)

Debenhams

Wearing a co-ord doesn’t always mean wearing a suit - a skirt set will look just as great. This lace skirt and top make the perfect pair for a formal event thanks to it’s striking blue shade and feminine ruffle detailed skirt. The fully lined midi skirt is crafted in a lightweight fabric which will keep you feeling cool even in the hottest temperatures, while the A-line shape will flatter women with wider hips. Meanwhile the simple shell top can be slipped on and secured with the single button fastening for a perfect fit.
We mostly love this sweet skirt set due to its versatility – the matching top will look great with a pair of jeans, while the skirt can easily be re-worn with a basic t-shirt or blouse for an easy weekend look. However, when wearing for a wedding, we recommend opting for the full set teamed with a blazer, heels and a colour pop lip.

Pros

  • Made with breathable fabric
  • Versatile outfit can be re-worn for years to come
  • Show-stopping blue colour
  • Great for wearing with a cropped blazer

Cons

  • Short sleeves may not be suitable for all customers

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (54)

Price:

£29.50 (WAS £59)

Debenhams

Floral dress

“Now we can’t talk about wedding guest outfits without discussing this truly timeless print.” Cigdem tells us. “There’s no need to feel like you have to stick to dowdy ditsy prints over the age of 50. If anything, this is the time to have more fun with your florals so try looking out for exotic style botanical prints, especially if you’re attending a beach wedding, or even something more on-trend like an oversized floral print.”
“When it comes to wearing florals, I always advise women over 50 to stick to simple shapes, luxe-looking fabrics and most importantly to keep the rest of the outfit simple. There’s no need to add statement jewellery or a beaded clutch. Plain, metallic accessories will instantly elevate your look and add a more modern edge.”

Best shirt-style wedding guest dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (55)Monsoon

For a feminine, floral frock look no further than this blooming lovely find from Monsoon. Featuring a stunning printed cascade of flowers, this chic shirt dress is the perfect mix both dressy and demure, making it a great option for a summer wedding. In fact, several customers gave the gown a 5-star reviews, each commenting on the stunning print and colour.
The button-up top means you’re able to control the amount of cleavage on show, while the defined waistband works to show off your figure. Ideal for pear-shaped women, the fully lined pleated skirt will skim over hips and thighs, and looks impeccable when paired with a fun fascinator. Worried about showing off your arms? Well luckily this fantastic frock even has blouson, cuffed sleeves which add to the overall floaty look – talk about coming up roses!

Pros

  • Tummy flattering A-line pleated skirt
  • Blouson sleeves for coverage
  • Button up top can be adjusted as desired
  • Fully lined

Cons

  • Made from polyester so may not feel as luxe as others
  • Buttons may feel fiddly

Best wedding guest dress that can be re-worn

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (57)Wallis

Price:

£58 (WAS £65)

Wallis

There’s nothing worse than buying a dress for an occasion and never wearing it again, right? Well luckily, Wallis’ offering is so versatile that you can easily dress it up with glitzy heels and re-wear throughout the summer with a pair of flat sandals or trainers– talk about getting your money’s worth!
Featuring a curve-flattering wrap neckline, this fully lined frock is perfect for making a subtle statement thanks to its dramatic cape sleeves. The swishy A-line skirt skims effortlessly over curves, while the self-tie belt will cinch you in at the waist for that perfect hourglass figure.

Pros

  • Fully lined
  • Machine Washable
  • Affordable price point
  • Available in up to size 28

Cons

  • Made from polyester so may not feel as luxe as other fabrics

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (58)

Price:

£58 (WAS £65)

Wallis

Best wedding guest pencil dress

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (59)Karen Millen

Price:

£161.85 (WAS £249)

Karen Millen

Believe it or not, you don’t have to wear a floaty frock in order to wear floral prints. In fact, this botanical bias-cut style is absolutely ideal for a formal affair. We adore the designer-inspired oversized flower print, which will pair perfectly with navy shoes and a navy clutch bag.
Made with 100% breathable viscose, which will keep you cool during a hot day, this formal frock features three quarter length balloon sleeves along with soft draping skirt. The universally flattering round neckline features tiny pleats, proving a little extra space for larger busts while the button back fastening adds an extra elegant finishing touch. We predict that you’ll be receiving plenty of complements in this beauty.

Pros

  • Made with 100% breathable viscose
  • Flattering bias cut fit
  • On-trend oversized floral print

Cons

  • Bias skirt may require shapewear for a better fit

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (60)

Price:

£161.85 (WAS £249)

Karen Millen

Can wedding guests wear colours?

If you’re wondering if you can wear certain colours to a wedding then you’re in luck as Cigdem explains, “You should definitely embrace wearing colours when attending a wedding. Of course, white, ivory and shades of cream are off limits, otherwise the sky (or rainbow) is the limit.”
“For a summer wedding, why not embrace vibrant tones to brighten up the day even more? Patels are a brilliant option for spring weddings, while deep burgundy and berry shades will look beautiful at an autumnal or winter event.”

What should you wear with your wedding guest outfit?

So you’ve found the dress, but what’s next? We ask Cigdem for her top tips on completing your wedding guest outfit. “When you’re getting ready for the big day, there are a few things that you should have ready to complete your look. Firstly, start from the inside out by investing in some shapewear. Even if you aren’t body-conscious, wearing great shapewear will instantly streamline your silhouette, making your outfit fit in a more flattering, elegant way” advises Cigdem.

“Once you’ve got your outfit on, you’ll need to look into your accessories. If you’re attending a formal wedding, then you may want to invest in a stylish hat or fascinator){href='https://www.yours.co.uk/life/fashion/wedding-hats-for-guests/)' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}. Keep things looking chic by opting for a matching colour or a more neutral tone.”

“The next thing to consider is a great formal jacket. A stylish blazer is usually a safe option for providing a little extra coverage during religious ceremonies and will also keep you feeling warm at the end of the night. Finally, you’ll want to ensure you’re wearing a stylish pair of shoes that will feel comfortable all day and night. If you’re able to, a pair of heels are usually best when trying to create a formal outfit, however there are plenty of brilliant flat shoes around right now which would look equally great. If in doubt, opt for a nude or metallic shoe which will work with every occasion dress, jumpsuit or co-ord.”

FAQs

Top five tips on how to find the best wedding guest outfit:

Do not wear white - white is usually reserved for the bride unless specifically told otherwise.

Buy an outfit that you feel great in - confidence is key.

Make sure your outfit fits the body you have and not the one you want to have in the future.

Wear something comfortable, but not casual - weddings are formal events and the dress code is usually smart.

Similarly to wearing white, do not wear black - black is seen as a colour of mourning.

Where to buy the best wedding guest outfits for over 50s:

Want to look for your wedding guest or Mother of the Bride/Groom outfit? We've listed a few of our favourite places to shop when it comes to finding the perfect outfit for such a special occasion.

Wallis

Marks and Spencer

Hobbs

Coast

Monsoon

Phase Eight

John Lewis

Debenhams

Stephanie Anthony is the Deputy Digital Editor at Yours. Having worked across a variety of topics, from travel and food to pharmaceuticals, she also has a particular interest in mental health and wellness having studied biosciences at University.

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us

Stylish and flattering wedding guest outfits for over 50s (2024)
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