At this point in my life, I probably should already own a few designated wedding guest dresses. But the truth is I’ve only been to a few weddings and usually just rent something for the occasion. With another one coming up in May, I realized it’s time to start building a collection of formal attire—rather than scrambling for a last-minute outfit every time.
Naturally, I checked Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s knowing they always have a solid selection of elevated gowns—only to find that both are currently running Friends & Family 25%-off sales. Here are the dresses I’m eyeing as contenders for my Memorial Day wedding weekend in California.
Saks Fifth Avenue
Ramy Brook
Shauna Satin Strapless Open Back Midi-Dress
I love this for a colorful option.
Tanya Taylor
Maya Satin Midi-Dress
Halters are my favorite for a spring or summer wedding.
Ramy Brook
Benita Asymmetric A-Line Gown
Asymmetrical silhouettes always look so elevated.
Nicholas the Label
Arella Polka Dot Silk Halterneck Maxi Dress
Polka dots are a forever print in my eyes, but they’re also trending this season.
Nicholas the Label
Makenna Corset Midi-Dress
I’m obsessed with this sweet baby-blue hue.
Ramy Brook
Tatiana High-Neck Satin Gown
A high neck looks effortlessly put-together.
Nicholas the Label
Cory Corset-Waist Midi-Dress
Perfect for a black-tie event.
Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini
Duchesse Cocktail Dress
Kay Unger
Gianna Stretch-Crêpe Midi-Dress
This green shade is so fun and a bit more unexpected.
Vince
Scoopneck Slip Dress
Sometimes I prefer going classic with just a simple slip dress.
Nicholas the Label
Cory Corset-Waist Midi-Dress
I’m into the cut and corset waist on this one.
Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman
Satin A-Line Cowlneck Midi-Dress
You can never go wrong with a satin A-line.
Acler
Woodlake Satin Maxi Dress
Bloomingdale’s
Helmut Lang
Convertible Dress
This Helmut Lang dress is perfect to invest in while it’s on sale. And it’s convertible, so you can wear it as a minidress, too.
Norma Kamali
Strapless Side Slit Gown
You can’t go wrong with a dress from Norma Kamali.
DKNY
Exposed Seam Midi Dress
I’m into the unique stitching.
STAUD
Gramercy Boat Neck Dress
This Staud boat-neck might be the one.
Veronica Beard
Mavis Dress
I never knew red for a wedding was so divisive.
Lioness
Field of Dreams Off-The-Shoulder Maxi Dress
This dress has been all over TikTok.
Norma Kamali
Sleeveless Low Back Draped Gown
The draping and low back look so sophisticated.
Ciao Lucia
Severine Slip Dress
Ciao Lucia for less than $200?
RE/DONE
Halter Slip Dress
And this is a whole 70% off.
