Receiving a wedding invitation is all fun and games until it comes to finding the perfect dress. Enter hours of scrolling through countless websites and questioning whether spending hundreds on a high-end option is justifiable. But now, shoppers need to look no further than the supermarket, thanks to retailers introducing wedding-ready collections.
Among the shops heading the change is Tu at Sainsbury's, with the shop launching a new collection for the wedding season filled with soft pastels and vibrant floral patterns. Tesco's F&F is also ahead of the curve, introducing a selection of wedding-ready dresses for £40 and below. Given its recent style transformation, it's perhaps little surprise that M&S has also upped its offerings for the wedding season ahead, with a selection of designs guaranteed to draw compliments. We've handpicked the best dresses on offer at supermarkets that are perfect for the big occasions - and cost £65 or less.
The 17 Best Wedding Guest Dresses to Snap Up from Supermarkets Now
Marks & Spencer
- Lace Cutwork Detail Midi Column Dress - Be bold in M&S's yellow midi dress this wedding season.
- Floral Appliqué Mini Shift Dress - Update your special-occasion wardrobe with this shift dress.
- Satin Jacquard Ruffle Detail Dress - This pink slip dress is an elegant pick.
- Floral Round Neck Midaxi Column Dress - This is the perfect, flattering choice for shoppers who prefer long sleeves.
- Jersey Sleeveless Draped Midaxi Dress - Simple but effective, this jersey dress will get plenty of wear beyond the wedding.
Tu at Sainsbury's
- Yellow Poplin Shirred Sleeveless Midaxi Dress - This shirred dress comes in multiple colourways.
- Blue Stripe Bohemian Layered Cami Mini Dress - Pair this dress with wedges for a chic wedding guest look.
- Orange & Green Stripe Midaxi Cami Dress - Tu's striped cami dress is a solid choice for anyone looking to stand out from the crowd.
- Light Blue Broderie Detail Sleeveless Smock Dress - This dress looks good - and it's made from 100 per cent cotton.
- Light Yellow Polka Dot Print Midaxi Dress - This dress is currently on sale, down from £24.
F&F at Tesco
- Beaded Halter Neck Mini Dress in Olive - This chic option from F&F is ideal for weddings in the later summer months.
- Pure Cotton Split Hem Sleeveless Midi Dress in Chocolate - This £25 dress is made from 100 per cent cotton.
- Sleeveless Square Neck Midi Dress in Yellow - Shopping for a dress on a budget is made easy with this striking yellow frock.
- V Neck Tiered Strappy Maxi Dress in Brown - Look and feel your best in this strappy maxi dress.
- Pure Cotton Embroidered Tie Strap Midi Dress in Pink - With a gathered waist, this is a flattering choice this wedding season.
George at ASDA
- Navy Multiway Sleeveless Maxi Dress - Go bold in George's navy maxi dress.
- Plunge Sleeveless Satin Maxi Dress - Look every inch the stunning wedding guest in George's satin maxi dress for just £26.
It comes after Tracy Mudd, an expert at The Wedding Travel Company, revealed what ensembles must be avoided at weddings. One of the most common errors, according to Mudd, is taking the dress code too literally without considering the location - something she notes is particularly common among older guests.
'For those over 50, the focus is often on choosing outfits that feel stylish, comfortable and appropriate for the setting. Breathable fabrics, good tailoring and practical footwear can make all the difference, especially at destination weddings,' she tells the Daily Mail. 'Ultimately, dress codes are a guide, but comfort plays a key role in enjoying the day.'
As we move into spring and summer, heavy fabrics and structured silhouettes can quickly become uncomfortable, particularly in humid conditions. Footwear can also prove tricky, especially at outdoor venues or on cobbled streets. One key rule to keep in mind? While lighter shades can work beautifully in warmer climates, white is generally best avoided unless the couple has stated otherwise.
'A simple rule is to steer clear of anything that could be mistaken for bridal or part of the wedding party,' Tracy adds. Black tie is the most formal dress code, calling for floor-length gowns and tuxedos. Think bold colours, embellishment and red carpet-worthy glamour. However, it's important to avoid anything too revealing.
Tracy explains: 'Where people get it wrong, especially abroad, is choosing heavy or restrictive outfits. Lighter fabrics and more breathable styles usually work better while still keeping the look formal.' Formal attire typically suggests a full-length or midi dress, or a smart suit. The challenge, according to Tracy, lies in finding something that looks elegant while still working for the setting. 'It's about balancing style with comfort, particularly for long days or warmer weather,' she says.
A formal dress code is also a great opportunity to experiment with silhouettes. Plunging necklines and open backs can work well for weddings in grand hotels or restaurants, while a more modest approach is better suited to church settings. Slightly more relaxed than formal, cocktail dress codes allow for shorter dresses or lighter tailoring, but the look should still feel polished and occasion-ready.
'The main mistake is going too casual,' Tracy notes. Strappy necklines, prints and embellishment are all welcome. If your outfit feels appropriate for evening drinks, you're on the right track.
