Getting a wedding invitation is thrilling — until you open your closet. It always feels like you never have the right dress for each wedding. I swear I have a closet full of dresses and somehow still end up buying something new every time. We all know weddings are expensive, but they are also expensive for guests! You have to spend money at the bridal shower, the bachelorette, then you bring money to the wedding in an envelope, and you still need to buy a dress! All of these options are under $150 to stay budget-friendly yet they don’t sacrifice style. Whether you’re dancing barefoot in the sand or sipping champagne in a grand estate ballroom, there’s a dress on this list made for you — and it won’t cost a fortune.
01.
Lulu’s
Dreaming in Color Pink Abstract V-Neck Pleated Satin Maxi Dress
This dress is perfect for the garden wedding you’re attending. With all the colors in this dress you will look incredible amongst the plants and flowers. The dress is lightweight satin, has a v-neckline and a padded bust, the back is open with straps that crisscross and lace up. The empire waist is extremely flattering and then the skirt is pleated. This A-line silhouette will glide along with you as you cruise through the garden. Did I mention that it is lined? Even better! Personally, I would pair this with a gold or nude wedge heel. If you are in a garden, you don’t want a stiletto heel that will sink into the grass with every step you take. If you need some extra lift, be sure to grab some sticky pads so that the open back stays classy!
02.
Fortunate One
Main Muse Plissé One-Shoulder Maxi Dress in Blue
This dress is going to do wonders for that Newport Mansion or sprawling New England estate wedding. The blue is even prettier than the sky! With a fit-and-flow silhouette you are going to look regal against the backdrop. I love the asymmetrical neckline paired with the attached scarf feature. This is a 2026 trend that has been seen across all events, and it is so effortlessly stunning. The gathered bodice and plisse skirt are very flattering features. This dress is lined and has a zipper on the side. I would wear a white heel and have my hair up or pulled back away from my face, so the front of the dress has its moment. When you hit the dance floor whip that scarf around and have fun!
03.
Selfie Leslie
Gelato Pearl Strap Halter Maxi Dress in Butter
You should absolutely grab this dress so you can have your Andie Anderson moment in the city – IYKYK. Butter yellow has been the it color of the season since 2025 and it certainly isn’t going anywhere. I chose this dress for a wedding in the city because it deserves all eyes on it. This maxi dress has a chic high halter neck and the back, the open back with the pearl embellishment strap? Divine. The dress has a side zipper and is not lined so be sure to wear skin-toned undergarments. For shoes this dress would look so fun with a heel that features tiny little pearls to compliment the back of the dress. The city has never looked so good now that you’re in it!
04.
Revolve – Runaway The Label
Kyree Maxi Dress in Marine Ombré
You lucky duck! You have a tropical wedding coming up and you are a few short months away from dipping your toes in that crystal blue tropical water and warm sand. You need this ocean-inspired ombré dress. Featuring a one shoulder strap this dress is light and won’t have you sweating in that already tropical heat. The opening in the front of the dress is super fun and edgy and face it, you want to have some airflow anyways! It has that “just stepped off a yacht” vibe and you are certainly vacation ready. I would pair this with a silver heel (no back – so you can kick them off easily during that sandy beach ceremony) and silver jewelry.
05.
ASOS
Halter Maxi Dress with Waterfall Ruffles in Lilac
You are going to look just like a mermaid in this whimsical ruffle maxi dress for that local beach wedding! This dress has a halter neck style, open back and ties at the top of the back giving you a fun bow moment. It also has a side slit amongst the ruffles cascading down the skirt of the dress – how fun! Personally, I LOVE a chiffon dress because the lightweight fabric is great for not wrinkling as fast as satin and if you sweat the material doesn’t stick to you like a second skin. As for styling, I love how the model has her hair up in a pony and accessorized with statement drop earrings. I would choose silver for my accessory and shoe color, but you do whatever makes you confident! Enjoy that beautiful ocean air!
There you have it — five gorgeous dresses for five different wedding vibes, all without the guilt of overspending. Because honestly, you’ve already done enough. You bought the shower gift, you paid for the bachelorette weekend, you signed the card and stuffed the envelope — you deserve to show up looking incredible without blowing your budget. Save this post for the next time that wedding invite hits your inbox!
