There are those certain frocks that make a statement. You know, the ones you strategically decide to wear for taking full advantage of the professional photographer. (Hey, selfies don’t always cut it.) The harsh reality is that those beautiful numbers usually end up in the back of your closet, never to be seen again. Don’t let your cocktail attire become a ghost of dresses past. Instead, find one that works for weddings, work, nights out and everything in between.
The Wedding Guest Dresses You’ll Wear Over and Over Again
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Ruffled Halter
The dramatic neckline is great for formal wear, but the unassuming color and midi length make it suitable for work (especially when tucked under a leather jacket or blazer).
Ulla Johnson ($345)
![orange cold shouler wedding guest dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/orange-cold-shouler-wedding-guest-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Cold-shoulder Midi
Quickly jazzed up with contrasting statement earrings or dressed down with pointed flats.
Sejour ($129)
Sleeveless Knit
Modest enough for the boardroom, pretty enough for a ceremony.
Milly ($225)
![saloni off the shoulder dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/saloni-off-the-shoulder-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Off-the-shoulder Midi
Sure, it’s a lot of pattern. But the playful colors work well beyond weddings. Think: Bridal showers, baby showers and graduation brunches alike.
Saloni ($625)
![fit and flare red dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/fit-and-flare-red-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Fit-and-flare Mini
The flared hem is right on trend for summer, but the deep hue will transition well into winter.
Felicity & Coco ($118)
Strapless Maxi
If you have a wedding in Capri, you need this dress. Ditto if you’re in New Jersey and just want to pretend like you’re vacationing in Capri every weekend.
MDS Stripes ($575)
![intermix hi low dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/intermix-hi-low-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Layered High-low Dress
The flirty layers will keep things breezy on a sweaty dance floor or a subway platform.
Intermix ($365)
![cece floral maxi](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/cece-floral-maxi.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Floral Maxi
Pair over a little white T-shirt and they’ll be none the wiser.
Cece ($97)
![adrianna papel fit and flare dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/adrianna-papel-fit-and-flare-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Structured Sleeveless
The bold pattern may be striking, but it’s easily toned down with a cardi.
Adrianna Papel ($150)
![one shouldered dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/one-shouldered-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
One-shouldered Mini
Attention-grabbing scallops and a simple silhouette make this a cotton number a win-win.
Saloni ($425)
Flutter Sleeve Mini
Flirty and fun for a daytime wedding and all too easy to throw on before work.
Donna Morgan ($118)
![black long dress](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/05/black-long-dress.jpg?fit=680%2C390)
Trapeze Dress
You really can’t go wrong with a waist-cinching neutral anytime, anywhere.
T By Alexander Wang ($495)