The leaves are changing, and there’s a refreshing crispness in the air. There’s definitely something romantic about early autumnal sunsets and dark star-scattered skies. It’s no wonder weddings in the fall are a favorite for a lot of happy couples. In fact, September and October top the list of popular nuptial months. Are wedding invitations already inundating your inbox and mailbox? When it comes to women’s wedding guest attire, don’t let the strapless numbers from summertime give you the cold shoulder. We’ll cover what to wear to a fall wedding so you’ll be picture-perfect and ready to dance the night away. It’s a night full of love, both for the betrothed and your ensemble. Now that’s something to raise your glass and toast to.
What To Wear to a Fall Wedding: Essential Color Do’s and Don’ts
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that some of the greatest color inspiration comes from nature. Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons for a wedding. The leaves are turning rich hues of red, orange, yellow and brown that evoke a feeling of warmth and coziness. Throughout the day, the sky changes from brilliant blue to smoky gray, then a watercolor wash of shades by sunset. Take a page out of Mother Nature’s handbook and infuse this cornucopia of color into your fall wedding guest attire.
Not sure what colors to avoid when deciding what to wear to a fall wedding? There are actually very few. It’s a commonly known fashion faux pas to wear bridal white as a guest. Reserve this color for the bride and groom. Proceed with caution when wearing hues closely tied to the wedding party. You want to stand out in the best way possible instead of looking like the entourage. Cultural Indian wedding ceremonies save red for brides and avoid black frocks. Otherwise, it’s a green light for whatever colors fill you with joy.
For formal and black-tie wedding dress codes, opt for classic neutrals like toasted almond, navy blue and black. If color adds pep to your step and complements your amazing personality, seek out seasonal tonal trends. Rusty red, bold orange, golden yellow and sage-saturated green are fall favorites year after year. Get the most out of your fall wedding guest attire by picking a hue that flatters your skin tone. Then, accessorize from there. We’ll dive deeper into our top picks later. Seasons change, and so do you. There’s no better time than a fall wedding to experiment with a kaleidoscope of color.
Fresh Fall Wedding Guest Dresses
Ladies, wondering what to wear to a fall wedding? Look no further than the one-and-done classic dress. With so many silhouettes, you can find the perfect frock for you. From short and sweet to floor sweeping maxis, you can’t go wrong with your favorite dress style. Here are a few on-trend options to set your sights on before making your final fall wedding guest dress decision.
Curious What to Wear to a Wedding in the Fall? Opt for Dresses with Sleeves
For colder climates, a dress adorned with sleeves is a no-brainer. This style is a must if you prefer to keep your arms covered or you’re heading to a conservative cultural wedding soiree. Another perk of long-sleeve picks? You can leave the layers at home. A cottagecore-inspired tiered dress in fall hues with billowy statement sleeves is a dreamy choice. Here is how to accessorize your dress: Slip into a pair of chunky heeled sandals, and tuck your lip gloss and phone into a vegan leather clutch. Loose, beachy curls level up your look and complete your end-of-summer romantic aesthetic.
Pile on the Fall Wedding Fun in a Midi Dress
While considering what to wear to a fall wedding, go for a feminine dress that falls somewhere in the middle. The middle of your leg line, that is. A midi dress is the sweet spot between a short frock and a long gown. Midi dresses are versatile for both casual wedding affairs and semi-formal wedding events. Pick a solid midi in a timeless, fitted silhouette. Shake things up by choosing one that features an interesting neckline. Dare to bare in a one-shoulder or halter neck style, or fall in love with a sweetheart neckline. Instantly elevate your look with classic nude pumps that you can wear year-round. They also help to lengthen your frame, so it’s a win-win. Pick a pair of statement earrings and step out in an effortless style.
Make the Most of Your Attire in a Maxi Dress
You’ve checked the weather forecast, and a cold chill is setting in for the day of the nuptials. So, what do you wear to a wedding in the fall when the weather is less than desirable? A maxi dress has you covered—literally. Select a maxi with a pop of print for casual celebrations. Dainty florals or nature-inspired prints will give your dress a much-needed update for the season. Going to a wedding with a formal dress code? Opt for a floor-grazing gown in a rich satin material. Pair both options back to your most comfortable heels, and choose a delicate chain necklace to add shine to your look.
What to Wear to a Casual Fall Wedding
Another thing to consider as you decide what to wear to a fall wedding is the to-be-wedded’s venue. Is your presence requested at a casual, yet on-trend barn wedding? You’ll definitely want your wedding garb to lean more relaxed and laid-back. Try a wrap-style midi skirt over a bodysuit. Get your “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” on by completing your look in cowboy boots to reflect the rustic theme. Keep a denim jacket or grandpa cardigan on hand if the propped open barn doors present a brisk breeze.
When deciding what to wear to a casual fall wedding at an event center, choose a comfortable, yet elevated women’s knit jumpsuit. A wide-leg jumpsuit is a seasonally friendly and flattering option. The looser fit combined with a high-rise belted waistline elongates your leg line. The key to wearing wide-leg pants or jumpsuits is in the inseam. Your nuptial-ready selection should just graze the floor. This will give you more room for additional height when deciding on the shoes to pair with your jumpsuit. If the weather is on the mild side, go with a cropped style that hits at the ankle. Embellish your outfit with strappy sandals and a stack of gold bracelets that shimmer as you move.
What to Wear to a Fall Outdoor Wedding
With the mercury on the thermometer heading south this season, you’ll want fall wedding guest attire that keeps you cozy. This especially rings true for outdoor venues. Wondering what to wear to a fall outdoor wedding? If you are going to a soiree at a glitzy rooftop setting, seek out women’s separates in structured, thick fabrics. Think wool-blend pants paired with a silky cami-style blouse and oversized blazer. Patent leather loafers surround your feet in comfort, whether you are socializing or shimmying to whatever the DJ is spinning.
If textures top your must-wear list, pick a plush, crushed velvet that screams autumn. Leaf your worries behind because this luxurious fabric will keep you warm under the Harvest Moon glow. Wear a shift-style velvet dress over opaque tights and ankle booties at a backyard wedding. Stick with thick heeled shoes to avoid accidentally aerating the lawn. Heading to an elegant fall estate wedding? Level up your look by choosing a regencycore style maxi dress draped in ruffles. Balloon or puffy sleeves will have you feeling like you’ve stepped off the “Bridgerton” set.
Autumnal Layers and Accessories to Top Off Your Look
If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s unpredictable fall weather. The daytime might be sunny and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while by night, it’s cloudy and cold. Stay covered and comfy by adding a layering piece when deciding what to wear to a fall wedding. Ladies, not sure where to start? For outdoor fall weddings, choose a layer that offers a little more insulation—a teddy coat or wool blazer are both great options here. For indoor festivities, a lightweight cardigan or twill trench coat offers an elevated layering option with a collegiate fashion twist. Perfect for quickly popping outside for fresh fall air and to take in the view.
Now that you’ve got your fall wedding guest attire down, let’s focus on your accessories. There are so many types of bags to choose from. A cute clutch can add a pop of color to complement your ensemble. Or, pick a small crossbody packed full of texture with laser-cut designs or natural wicker materials. Create a dimensional look by pairing a textured handbag with beautiful baubles. A stack of bangles or layered necklaces in various metals polish up your outfit and offer a touch of shine. Pair them all together, et voilá. You’re ready to pop the bubbly and take part in the wedded bliss.
Ready to fall into this season’s best wedding guest attire? Our style experts are waiting to take your seasonal wedding wear to the next level. Take your style quiz, order a Fix and don’t forget to ask your stylist for fall-friendly wedding guest options. Sit back and relax while we send five items you can try on comfortably at home. Shipping and returns are always free.
