What to Wear to a Fall Wedding as a Guest
Invited to a fall wedding? Browse through some of our favorite fall wedding guest dresses for all styles and body types
Fall is such a popular time of the year for having a wedding. You may find yourself getting invited to several weddings during the fall season, which could make it even more challenging to look in your closet for fall wedding guest dresses. When choosing your wedding outfit, there are so many different factors to consider. The formality of the event, the weather, the location, and more can influence your choice. But you can also look at each of these factors as clues to help you determine what to wear to a wedding in any season!
Deciding What to Wear as a Guest to a Fall Wedding
Picking what outfit you will wear to a fall wedding shouldn’t cause you any stress. To help, we’ve scoured our favorite online retailers for some fall wedding guest outfit inspiration for you to peruse. Just click on any image below and you will be directed to the exact site where you can get your shop on! (Amazing, right? You’re welcome!) Shop the products below for stylish dress options that are perfect to wear to a wedding in the fall season.
KEEP FORMALITY IN MIND
When deciding what to wear to a fall wedding, you’ll want to start by making note of the formality of the event. For black-tie weddings, you could choose between floor-length gowns or fall cocktail dresses. If the wedding is more of a laid-back or casual atmosphere, you would look overdressed in something so formal. Keep an eye out for style notes in the invitation or on the couple’s wedding website.
CHECK THE WEATHER
You’ll also obviously want to consider the weather. Make sure you wear something that will keep you feeling comfortable without sacrificing style. Fall weather can vary in temperature or rainfall, so keep inclement weather in mind. If you’re a guest at a fall wedding in an area that is known for being rainy or cold, the wedding will likely take place indoors. Because the weather in fall months can vary consider purchasing fall wedding guest dresses with sleeves. Be sure to consider the climate when deciding on fall wedding outfits in the September, October, and November months!
DON’T FORGET THE ACCESSORIES
In any season, choosing the right accessories will help complete your look and keep you comfortable. If you need to add a sweater, shawl, or jacket for extra warmth to your fall wedding guest dresses– don’t hesitate to do so. You should also take care to pick appropriate footwear depending on the wedding venue. If you have to navigate the lawn of an outdoor wedding, you don’t want to wear stilettos but may opt for a more stable wedge style or flats instead. Selecting proper accessories will ensure your comfort no matter the season!
Decoding the dress code
After receiving an invitation to a wedding but before you decide what to wear you should figure out if there is a dress code. The wedding invite may include a dress code at the bottom. It may say black tie, black tie optional, cocktail attire or even dressy casual. If no dress code is mentioned then you check on the couple’s wedding website for any dress code vibes or clues. Ask around at wedding showers or among the wedding party.
Another helpful way to determining the dress code is to pay attention the time of day, venue and whether the ceremony or reception is indoors or outdoors. Usually if the wedding is later in the evening, that is probably a good indicator it is a more formal wedding. Check out the wedding venue and see if it is at a fancy hotel or upscale place of business. Depending on the region of the country you live in, a casual fall wedding could take place outdoors because the weather and scenery is so beautiful. If so, that may change the formality of the event due to the elements. If you need more clues check out this helpful article all about wedding informal and formal dress codes.
Colors to Wear to a Fall Wedding
Another thing to consider when choosing what to fall wedding guest outfits is the color palette. Often, couples will incorporate their color scheme into their wedding invitations so be sure to look closely for clues.
Popular Colors to Wear to a Fall Wedding
Popular hues to wear to a fall wedding are rich and bold colors like maroon, burgundy, hunter green, mustard yellow, plum, navy blue, etc.
Fabrics For Fall Wedding Guest Dresses
Depending on the formality of the event, you could wear anything from breezy chiffon, to heavy lace, velvet, or even sweater fabric.
41 Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses
Find a selection of stylish and reasonably priced wedding guest dresses for fall weddings below!
Velvet dresses for Fall Weddings
Velvet One Shoulder Midi Dress
Baltic Born • $69
We love this velvet one shoulder midi dress. It would be the perfect fall cocktail dress for a wedding with this fabric and color. You’ll be cozy and seasonal!
Sheath Pleated Velvet Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $99
If you’re looking for cocktail dresses for a fall wedding check out this sheath. The scoop neckline is complimented by the beautifully hand-gathering starburst detail.
Barzano Mini Dress
REVOLVE • $178
In need outdoor fall wedding dresses as a guest? Consider this mini velvet dress. Perfect to pair with boots, booties or even wedges to completel the look and not get overheated or too cold!
Sweater dresses for Fall Weddings
Surplice Neck Drop Shoulder Belted Dress
This drop shoulder bow belted sweater dress is a fun spin on a fall formal dress. The bold color and unique design elevates a basic sweater dress to stand out among other fall formal wedding guest dresses.
Women’s Button Sweater Midi Dress
Nordstrom • $79
Sweater dresses are one of the most comfortable dresses to wear to a fall wedding because of the soft supple material. We love this stretchy midi dress boasting a cozy ribbed stitch.
Mock Neck Dolman Sleeve Sweater Dress
Target • $49.95
Effortlessly chic is the best way to describe this gorgeous mock neck sweater dress cut from soft organic cotton. Features dolman sleeves for a cozy fit, while a wide and stretchy rib knit waistband allows you to customize the fit perfectly to your body. Pair with boots and you have a knock out fall wedding outfit.
Floral or Patterned Dresses for Fall Weddings
Autumn wedding guest dresses don’t have to just be a solid color or fabric. You can still rock a beautiful patter or floral print even in the fall months. Here are some of our favorite patterned fall dresses for wedding guests.
Button-Front Floral Dress
Anthropologie • $180
Looking for aswoon-worthy fall dresses for wedding guests? Then consider this, bestselling silhouette adorned with a deep v-neckline, an accentuated waist, and buttons that cascade down the front for added everyday allure.
Pink Floral Pleated Maxi Dress
Petal and Pup • $119
Cut-outs can be allowed when shopping for fall dresses for weddings. Show your style in this maxi length dress with open shoulders and a beautiful floral print.
Floral Print High-Low Wrap Dress
Lulus • $84
Let the fall breeze be your dance partner as you sway along in the Lulus Wild Winds Burgundy Floral Print High-Low Wrap Dress! Taupe, green, pink, and purple floral print decorates lightweight, textured woven poly as it sweeps across a wrap bodice and short sleeves. Grab each color for a closet full of fall wedding guest dresses.
Bold Colored Dresses for Fall Weddings
When thinking about fall cocktail dresses, go beyond the basic black and metallic colors. Look to the changing leaves for inspiration. Shades of reds, oranges, purples and greens are all acceptable hues for fall wedding attire.
Flounce Sleeve Pleated Hem Dress
A deep green plus a flounce sleeve equals a the perfect fall wedding guest dress. This dress is ageless. These styles could work for young trendy 20 year olds or even be great fall wedding guest dresses for over 50.
Ruched Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $109
Feel like a greek goddess while wearing this formal wedding guest dresses for fall temps. Made from chiffon, this floor length dress features delicate sleeves with slits that flow down to the elbows as well as a flattering V-neckline and pleated waistline.
V-Neck Pleated Slim Midi Dress
Anthropologie • $180
If you’re lookin for fall outdoor wedding guest dresses, look no further. You’ll look just like a gem in this emerald pleated slim midi dress. Functional and fashionable.
What to Wear to a Formal Fall Wedding
If you’re invited to a formal or semi-formal wedding in the fall, you’ll likely want to choose a long dress or gown. Browse some of the options below for long, formal dresses for an autumn wedding!
Formal Fall Wedding Guest Dresses
Black Tie Elegance
If the wedding invite says Black Tie, then you have a lot of options when it comes to fall wedding guest dresses. It’s your chance to shop for velvet or lace gowns. You can play with classic silhouettes in deep rich jewel tones.
Moreover, as any Budget Savvy Bride reader knows we also encourage shopping your own closet for gowns that you can play up with accessories like jewelry or heels. Here are some choices that would work for a fall formal wedding.
Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Lulus • $99
Take a twirl and turn some heads in the Lulus Molinetto Navy Blue Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress! Lovely floral lace, over a contrasting black woven lining, falls from a plunging V-neckline, into a ruffled sleeveless bodice.
Lace Strapless Bodycon Dress
REVOLVE • $279
Want to hit all the buttons when it comes to fall wedding guest dresses? Check out this lace, jewel toned strapless number. You’ll look right off the runway.
Velvet Wrap Maxi Dress
Baltic Born • $84
This deep green mid weight velvet wrap maxi dress is actually perfect for all seasons but especially fall wedding season. You’ll rock this fall wedding guest dress in any weather.
Halter Silhouette Mermaid Maxi Dress
AW Bridal • $109.99
Did someone say pumpkin spice fall wedding guest outfit? The AW Steppe Dress is definitely for a guest who is interestingly sassy, welcoming, and fashion-forward.
Mermaid Lace Velvet Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $109
Gow with confidence wearing the Leela fall wedding guest dress. Made with luxurious velvet, her sweetheart neckline has a hand placed lace motif that drapes around to the back.
Glamorous Cocktail Attire
If the wedding invitation says cocktail attire then you have a bevvy of beautiful cocktail dresses for a fall wedding to select from. When considering fabrics think satin and silks. If you don’t already own a little black dress use this as an excuse to find the perfect little black fall wedding guest dress. But don’t shy away from navy blue! It makes a great color for the season.
Flutter-Sleeve Satin Slit Cocktail Dress
Anthropologie • $88
If you aren’t scared of slits then this flutter sleeve satin cocktail dress with a side slit is the one for you. It’s a great little black dress for your wardrobe when looking for fal semi formal dresses.
One-Shoulder Satin Cocktail Dress
Nordstrom • $74
A gracefully gathered front panel and asymmetric hem lend modern dimension to a luxe satin dress fashioned in a one-shoulder silhouette. We love this in a rich navy blue but it also comes in other colors.
Square Neck Slit Maxi Dress
Azazie • $55
Make a statement and turn heads in this show-stopping dress with a side slit – you’re sure to feel confident and beautiful all night long without showing too much skin.
Tea-Length Dark Blue Chiffon Evening Dress
What’s not to love about this tea-length dark blue chiffon evening dress with lace appliques? Add this one to your list of fall dresses to wear to a wedding.
Cocktail Hour Little Black Dress
Lulus • $64
It’s time to slip into the Lulus Cocktail Hour Black Sleeveless Tulip Mini Dress and order your favorite thing to sip on! It’s a wedding guest dress to fall in love with.
What to Wear to a Casual Fall Wedding
If the wedding is more casual or laid-back in atmosphere or vibe, consider one of these effortless and chic dresses to wear as a guest. For a more casual event, you could opt for a knee-length dress with stockings or tights if needed to keep warm. Pair your dress with close-toed shoes, and perhaps a sweater or wrap to keep your arms warm. Check out the carousel below for good dress options to wear to an autumn wedding with a more casual vibe.
Casual and Semi-Formal Outfits for Fall Weddings
Casual and semi-formal outfits for fall weddings can range from a maxi dress with long sleeves, to midi dresses, jumpsuits or a gorgeous full skirt with a blouse. Your options for fall wedding guest attire are wide open when the dress code is a tad more broad. Casual weddings lend themselves to dressed down sweater dresses with flats or booties. Like we mentioned earlier, don’t be scared of florals when it comes to a fall wedding guest outfit. They can really shine in the right color hue during this season.
Chic and Comfortable Options
Satin Sleeveless Mock Neck Maxi Dress
Lulus • $88
Feel like the Queen that you are in the Lulus Classic Elegance Wine Satin Sleeveless Mock Neck Maxi Dress! Just don’t outshine the bride at her fall wedding!
Velvet Green Maxi Dress
Azazie • $54
Is it velvet? Is it a maxi dress? Can you wear it as a fall semi-formal dress or to a casual wedding? Yes, yes and yes.
Jasmine Halter Midi Dress
ShowMeYourMumu • $178
This bestselling halter maxi is now in midi length! This midi is cut on the bias to give that perfect slip draping we’re all looking for when it comes to dresses for fall wedding guests.
Satin Cowl Neck Midi Dress
BirdyGrey • $99
A slinky midi-length fall wedding guest dress with light cowl neckline and intense shine in this stunning spice color is just what the fashion doctor ordered.
Shirred Lantern Sleeve Frill Neck Belted Dress
The color of this shirred lantern long-sleeved frill neck belted dress is what fall wedding guest dress dreams are made of. We can’t get enough of the subtle florals either.
Louie Pleated Midi Dress
BalticBorn • $78
This midi dress with the plunging V neckline and gorgeous peasant long sleeves with a puff shoulder pose as another option among dresses for fall wedding guests.
Floral Print Flounce Sleeve Ruffle Hem Belted Dress
The ruffle hem on this floral print flounce sleeve belted dress is what we love most about this dress. It’s a little extra touch that would be great for a casual wedding.
Black Floral Print Satin Maxi Dress
Lulus • $99
The Lulus Still the One Black Floral Print Satin Maxi Dress is a fall wedding guest favorite! Toss a black blazer or shawl over this number and you have another dress to add to your fall dresses to wear to a wedding.
One Shoulder Jumpsuit
PetalAndPup • $89
This one shoulder jumpsuit is a classic wardrobe staple perfect for any fall wedding guest. Featuring an adjustable thin strap and back invisible zip, you’ll be sure to leave a lasting impression!
Flutter Sleeve Jumpsuit
Kennedy Blue • $129.99
This a fun and flirty fall wedding guest jumpsuit featuring a super flattering, flowy top! This jumpsuit is the perfect outfit for a fall wedding,rehearsal dinner or bridal shower!
Trendy Looks for Fall Weddings
Finally, you can always use this as a chance to purchase a fun trendy look for the fall season. Consider purchasing a slip dress or buy a dress with a side slit that you normally wouldn’t wear anywhere else. Explore different waist styles and necklines. The B$B team is giving you a pass to have fun with your fall wedding guest dresses this season. You’re welcome!
Asymmetrical Neck Batwing Sleeve Satin Dress
Instead of wearing pastels, choose a color like this yellow to match the changing leaves. This asymmetrical neck batwing sleeve satin dress is a great way to rock a trend and fall classic hue at the same time.
Side Slit Midi Black Dress
PetalAndPup • $59
This stunning midi-length bodycon dress is perfect for any occasion! It features a cowl neckline, thin cami cross over straps and a front split for added elegance for your go to fall cocktail dress.
A-Line Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie • $99
For any girl looking for a modest fall wedding guest dress, Leonia is the perfect choice for you. She features a flattering square neckline, beautiful bishop sleeves that tie into a bow around your wrist, a leg slit, and a gorgeous bow that ties around your waist.
Trendy Tied Waist Flare Maxi Dress
Showpo • $89.95
Stun everyone with this fall wedding guest dress! This beautiful maxi dress features a V-neckline with a wrap bodice, long flared sleeves, thigh high split and a waist tie.
Angel Strapless Midi Dress
REVOLVE • $72
Simple and elegant but also so chic and trendy. This angle strapless midi dress in olive is a beautiful way to lean into the change of seasons.
Dresses for Outdoor Fall Wedding
If you are invited to an outdoor fall wedding and you aren’t sure what to wear to a fall wedding that is outdoors, consider the temps and terrain. Think about choosing velvets or satin fabrics that would be breathable about also keep you cozy after the sun goes down. Think about the landscape and go with orange or emerald hues to match the changing leaves. You may want to wear boots and grab a light jacket when picking out your perfect accessories for the day. Just don’t forget to take plenty of photos of the gorgeous outdoors all around you and your loved ones.
Mock Neck Pleated Dress with a Cape
Looking for a dress and coat in one? Grab this beautiful cape dress to keep warm and look high fashion at the same time. Comes in lots of fall colors like green, blue, red and even deep pink.
Long Sleeve Floral Boho Maxi
You’ll look like a cornucopia of fall colors in this boho deep v maxi dress. You’ll be comfortable and match the landscape in any outdoor environment in this flowy gown.
Solid Wrap Pocket Asymmetrical Hem Belted Velvet Dress
BloomChic • $38.80
Deep burgundy velvet covered with subtle floral motifs makes this dress the perfect fall wedding guest dress to wear to any outdoor venue. You’ll stay toasty and comfortable.
Velvet Romper
If you want to feel like your are wearing pajamas but look like a million bucks consider this velvet romper in a luxurious brown. Such a great option for an outdoor wedding. You can be in pants, stay warm and look glam!
Common Questions About Fall Weddings
What do guests wear at fall weddings?
We have covered the gamut of some of the best fall wedding guest dresses that are available. You’ve seen options in velvet, sweaters, chiffon and satin fabrics in rich jewel tones like orange and emerald hues. But the bottom line is to wear what makes your comfortable in your own skin and is a dress you like and love.
Can you wear light colors to a fall wedding?
You absolutely can wear light colors to a fall wedding. However, it is a great opportunity to rock some of those beautiful fall colors that don’t get nearly enough airtime. Some of our favorite colors for fall wedding guest dresses are in shades of orange, yellows, reds, greens and navy blues. When a dress color is labeled pumpkin, nutmeg or spice it’s hard not to want to wear it to a fall wedding.
Can you wear floral to a fall wedding?
Floral at a fall wedding is a great choice. Fall often evokes images of plaids but don’t let that stop you from looking for those beautiful floral motifs with deep rich colors. Floral isn’t just for spring and summer. If you look around nature you’ll see lots of floral blooms showing off so why can’t you in your floral fall wedding gueset dress.
If you’re still having trouble deciding what to wear to an autumn wedding, be sure to visit Pinterest where we are pinning fall wedding inspiration, outfit ideas, and more!
On a budget for your fall wedding outfit? Try using Rent the Runway to rent a gorgeous dress and even a fabulous coat for a fraction of the cost of buying new!
What to Wear to a Wedding by Season:
Check out our other guides to wedding attire style for every season by visiting the links below!
Related tags:
