While Australia braces for dark mornings and cold temperatures, a lucky few are heading to the Northern Hemisphere in search of some sun. A European summer hardly needs an excuse, yet many Aussies still find themselves travelling overseas for a summer wedding. Meanwhile, we have only just begun making space in our wardrobes for cold-weather clothes, and many of our favourite labels are prioritising knits over linens. But if you know where to look, you can still find the perfect wedding guest outfit — especially if you do not feel like rewearing the dress from the last ceremony.
From garden parties to chic cocktail receptions, European weddings can take place in almost any setting. On a hunt to discover the best looks for guest dressing, I noticed few trends continue to dominate: flowing maxi lengths, soft floral prints and the colour of the moment — butter yellow.
Best for a Beach Wedding
Significant Other Eaden Maxi Dress, $395
Just like Australia's beach destinations, European seaside spots tend to call for a similar look. Think relaxed silhouettes, draped detailing and effortless shapes — the kind of dress you could comfortably wear without shoes on the sand. Perfectly suited to the setting is Significant Other's Eaden Maxi Dress, a flattering pull-on style with adjustable tie-back straps. It is fully lined, meaning it will not turn sheer in the sunlight, and crafted from breezy linen to keep you cool when the temperature rises. Come Australian summer, you will likely reach for this statement dress time and time again — making the fairly steep price tag feel a little more justified.
Best for a Vineyard Wedding
Meshki Dakota Chiffon Maxi Dress, $239
Did someone say Italy? I have lost count of how many people have mentioned the dreamy hills of Tuscany as their wedding destination. If you are lucky enough to be attending this kind of celebration, consider it the perfect excuse to really dress up. Meshki's Dakota Dress ticks all the right boxes, with a softly sheer finish (thankfully it comes with a slip), a removable scarf and even multiple ways to wear it. It is delicate, flattering and looks far more expensive than its $239 price tag suggests.
Best for a Garden Wedding
Sheike Sicily Maxi Dress, $179.99
Outdoor celebrations call for a touch of colour. But rather than relying on a single shade, I have found a maxi dress that delivers both print and colour in one. Perfect for a long lunch setting is Sheike's Sicily Maxi Dress, designed with a square neckline, delicate spaghetti straps and a flowing silhouette. Its lightweight fabrication means you will not spend the afternoon overheating, while the flattering design makes it easy to dress up if the occasion calls for it. Just add gold jewellery and strappy sandals — though if you are navigating grass, skip the heels altogether.
Best for an Island Resort Wedding
Forever New Isra Printed Strapless Maxi, $239.99
An island resort wedding calls for a luxe-looking dress that travels well — something you can pack into a suitcase without worrying about endless creasing or ironing on arrival. Tropical-inspired prints are an obvious choice for this kind of dress code, so I took a deep dive in search of floral styles that feel a little more under-the-radar. Luckily, I came across Forever New's Isra Printed Strapless Maxi, which embraces the floral theme while still feeling understated. Designed with a body-skimming bodice, softly draped skirt and strapless neckline, it is a style that should keep you relatively cool in humid temperatures. And at $239.99, it feels like a particularly savvy find.
Best for a City Wedding
TOJHA Lana Dress, $360
If the wedding invite calls for cocktails at a chic rooftop reception, chances are you are searching for a dress to match the sleek setting. During one of my many scrolling sessions on The Iconic, I came across a TOJHA style that rises perfectly to the occasion. The Lana Dress feels sleek and modern, with a fashion-forward silhouette that needs little more than minimal accessories to feel event-ready. Perfect for a black-tie or formal dress code, the clean lines make it especially suited to city venues where most guests tend to dress up. It is also timeless enough to wear well beyond wedding season, making the investment feel a little easier to justify.
