If you’re 40 years and above and planning to attend a wedding in the near future, finding the ideal wedding guest dress can be overwhelming. You want to appear classy and elegant, yet also avoid dressing inappropriately or choosing an uncomfortable outfit. For guidance and inspiration, explore this blog article on wedding guest dresses.
So what outfits strike the perfect balance between comfort and style? That’s where we come in. Below, we delve into 10 wedding guest dress styles specifically tailored for women aged 40, 50, 60, and above. Additionally, for a comprehensive guide on choosing the best fall dresses for the mother of the groom and bride, including insights on four trendy fall colors, visit this detailed article. I have also shared my thoughts and answers on some commonly asked questions:
- How to dress classy for wedding guest?
- What do older people wear to weddings?
- What should an older woman wear to a wedding?
- What should a 60 year old woman wear to a wedding?
How to Dress Classy for Wedding Guest

If you want to dress classy as a wedding guest, there are a few key points to consider. First and foremost, always adhere to the dress code if one is specified. For example, for a black-tie wedding, a floor-length evening gown would be most appropriate. For a selection of elegant gowns and other wedding-appropriate attire, check out the options available at Kennedy Blue.
Secondly, use the wedding location as a guide. For example, if the wedding is being held in a ranch, you’d choose something rustic but elegant. Another tip to help you achieve a classy look is to accessorize. Whether it’s a vintage necklace or a sequin purse, adding accessories takes your look up a notch.
What Do Older People Wear to Weddings?

For older individuals, comfort should be the number one priority when choosing wedding guest outfits. While snug-fitting clothes can be appealing, it’s essential they are also comfortable to wear. For helpful tips and ideas, particularly for spring weddings, check out this guide on 15 spring classy outfits for guests, which provides valuable insights on how to dress both formally and comfortably for the season.
Part of this comfort also stems from picking an outfit that matches the season. So if the wedding is being held in winter, you’d choose wedding guest dresses made with heavyweight or warm materials. On the other hand, a summer wedding calls for lightweight and breathable fabrics.
What Should an Older Woman Wear to a Wedding?
It can be hard to find the perfect wedding guest outfit as an older woman. But with a few tips, this selection process won’t be as difficult.
One tip that helps is choosing the correct length. Ideally, you should pick a dress that’s knee-length, midi or maxi. Anything shorter than this and you’ll be drawing a lot of attention to yourself. Similarly, avoid clothes that are too tight or revealing.
What Should a 60 Year Old Woman Wear to a Wedding?

As an older woman, you might be struggling to find an outfit for the upcoming wedding. Here are a couple of ideas you can try:
- Fit-and-flare dresses
- Jumpsuits
- Pant suits
- Tunic-style dresses
- Cape dresses
Wedding Guest Dresses for Older Women

Wedding Guest Dresses for Women Over 60
Are you struggling to find the perfect dress for an upcoming wedding? If you’re particularly looking for styles that are flattering for women over 60, you’re in luck. For a selection of elegant and suitable wedding guest dresses, explore the options available at The Reformation. Their collection is known for combining style with comfort, perfect for any wedding occasion.
1. Fit and Flare Dresses
This style of dress fits snugly at the bodice then flares out at the skirt.
Fit and flare dresses are perfect for women over 60 as they help to accentuate one’s waistline without being uncomfortable. Furthermore, the flared skirt helps to add movement , creating a flattering silhouette.
2. Maxi Dresses
If you’re looking for an outfit that balances style and comfort, a maxi dress is your best bet.
Weddings typically involve numerous hours of celebrating, starting from the main ceremony to the reception. Maxi dresses allow you to have as much fun as you want without feeling restricted.
3. Jacket Dresses
This is the kind of outfit where a jacket is designed to go with a particular dress. When paired nicely, jacket dresses can help you make a bold fashion statement.
They’re particularly suitable for older women who don’t want to show off their arms and shoulders- which is often the case with this age group.
4. Sleeveless Dresses With Form-Fitting Blazer/ Cardigan
Don’t want to go full on with a jacket dress? Then you can also wear a snug fitting dress and then layer it with a stylish blazer, jacket or cardigan.
This Studio Cupro Cardigan by Torrid would go well with pretty much any wedding guest dress. It’s light, meaning it doesn’t weigh you down. Plus, it adds a subtle, elegant touch to your outfit.
Wedding Guest Dresses for Women Over 40

5. Sheath Dresses
Just because you’re 40 doesn’t mean you have to give up on snug dresses. Sheath dresses, for instance, are an excellent choice for women of this age group. They are form-fitting yet not excessively tight, ensuring comfort while flattering the figure. They are especially suitable for women with hourglass figures. For a variety of sheath and other guest dress styles that cater to this aesthetic, take a look at the selection at AW Bridal. Their collection offers elegant choices that align well with these preferences.
6. Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses hug around your entire body (comfortably) while helping to accentuate your waistline. This design makes them fit for women of all body types.
The icing on the cake is that they come in different styles too, enabling you to choose one based on your tastes and preferences. For instance, if you want a more flattering look, you’d go for a wrap dress with a V-neck. And if you’re looking for sophistication, consider a two-tone wrap dress.
7. Tiered Dresses
If you’re attending a wedding in summer, a tiered dress is a fantastic choice for women aged 40+ years. It’s super comfortable and stylish enough for such special occasions. That said, there are a few things to keep in mind to be able to pull off this look.
For one, choose bold colors over florals and neutrals. The latter give off a bit of an “old-lady” vibe, which takes away from their cheery design. Secondly, go for short or medium-length tiered dresses over maxi. Maxi tiered dresses can make you look frumpy rather than stylish.
Alternative Wedding Guest Outfits for Older Women

While wedding guest dresses are a classic choice for older women, there’s room for non-traditional options if dresses aren’t your preference. For those seeking alternatives, Azazie offers a variety of stylish and comfortable choices. Their collection includes not only dresses but also other elegant outfits suitable for any wedding, providing plenty of fashionable options for everyone.
8. Jumpsuits
Want to look glamorous without having to wear a traditional dress? If so, jumpsuits are the perfect alternative.
They look chic and offer just as much comfort as wedding guest dresses tailored for older women. Plus, they’re extremely versatile, allowing you to choose one that matches your style. From halter neck to cowl neck, long-sleeved to off-shoulder varieties – the options are endless.
9. Trouser Suits
Contrary to popular belief, trouser suits aren’t just for office wear. A stylish trouser suit made from a light fabric like linen can be perfect for parties and celebratory occasions. What makes trouser suits particularly appealing for older women is their versatility. You can opt for a matching set or mix and match individual pieces, like pairing wide-legged pants with a coordinating top and blazer. For those looking for affordable options in both trouser suits and dresses, Torrid offers a diverse range of choices that won’t break the bank while still offering style and comfort.
10. Maxi Skirt with Top
If you don’t want to ditch the concept of wedding guest dresses entirely, a maxi skirt with top is the closest version. My favorite thing about this look is that it’s very flexible; literally anyone can pull it off regardless of age.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there’s no clear-cut answer to what older women should wear to weddings as guests. This decision depends on several factors, such as the season, proposed dress code, location and more. That said, you’ll want to look for outfits that feel comfortable while still being stylish. Examples of these include fit-and-flare dresses, maxi dresses, wrap dresses, jumpsuits among others.
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