The most popular time for a wedding is summer or fall, with the months of September and October being the most popular times, after June. I am an October bride. Fall is the perfect time for a wedding because the summer heat and storms have relented, giving way to beautiful weather.
Odds are in favor that you may receive an invitation to a fall wedding. And then comes the big dilemma- what to wear as a fall wedding guest?
What to Wear As A Wedding Guest
First, let’s look at some general rules for dressing for a wedding. Always follow the dress code if specified.
For even the most casual of weddings, it’s a time to step out of your daily routine and attire and wear something just a step above unless the invitation specially says jeans and shorts are okay. Beach or farm weddings sometimes allow for this.
Regardless, I’m probably going to opt for a dress that fits the dress code of the wedding, even if it’s casual dress code. Dressing up shows respect and support for the couple.
A wedding is a social event where you are seen by others so you should want to put a little effort into your attire. It is a formal event so don’t get too casual.
Regardless of the season, make sure you know the dress code for the wedding you are attending. Also consider the location – indoors, outdoors, sand, grass, etc. -when choosing your attire and the shoes you wear. Traditional heels aren’t a good choice for the sand or the grass. Also consider what part of the country you are traveling to. Southerners are much stricter about traditional rules, such as not wearing black to a wedding.
A little black dress has become acceptable for a wedding in any season, so if you can shoulder the judgment that might be cast, go ahead and rock that black dress.
Outfit Ideas For a Fall Wedding Guest
For a fall wedding, consider jewel tones in textured or heavier fabrics like lace, silk, satin, or velvet. Dark florals reflective of the fall season are also appropriate. If you are invited to a fall wedding where the dress code is semi-formal (cocktail dress) or dressy casual, here are two options that would likely fit the dress code.
A Floral Dress in Fall Colors for the Wedding Guest
A flirty little dress in a fall color like maroon with grey and pink flowers is appropriate. This dress features a ruffle hem and ruffle sleeves.
It’s got just enough sass to make you stand out in a crowd, but it’s not going to take the attention away from the bride or the wedding couple. You will look and feel confident and be ready for the dance floor at the reception.
This Lark and Ro dress from Amazon features a faux wrap in the front, There is a whole dress underneath and the ruffle hem panel ties at the side to create a wrap look.
The material is polyester but good quality and a perfect weight for fall. The dress is lined. You may have to size up one to two sizes as it runs small. It was super tight across the hips so while it’s flattering to a curvy figure, curvy ladies need to size up.
Keep accessories to a minimum and let the floral print make a statement for a fall wedding. I paired this dress with Kendra Scott earrings and grey snakeskin pumps. If you are attending an evening wedding or the temps are cooler, pair this with an elegant pashmina wrap or top is with a suede or (faux) leather moto to make it a little edgy.
This dress makes another great option for a fall wedding guest dress. I wore the tropical print dress to a wedding last year during the summer. The fit and flare style is flattering to many body types. It comes in a fall floral and some solid jewel tones.
Shop more fall floral dresses:
A Solid Jewel Tone Dress Option for A Fall Wedding
A solid jewel tone dress like this teal silky dress with tie waist belt is also a good option for a dress to wear as a fall wedding guest. Just make sure you are not wearing the same colors as the wedding party if you choose a solid option.
You can wear this dress with or without the belt. It’s a lightweight material but the sleeves are a plus for fall. And look how gorgeous those sleeves are. They have elastic but they are not uncomfortable and the sleeves billow over the elastic.
This dress flows and moves well and was designed for comfort. It runs true to size. I paired it with block heel sandals (similar) and Kendra Scott crystal drop earrings. A leopard clutch works well with the solid dress.
Shop more jewel tone dresses:
Finding a dress to wear as a fall wedding guest does not have to be difficult, but it can take some time.
Shop ahead of time so you can try everything on and even wear the dress for a bit around the house to make sure you are comfortable in it. No matter how gorgeous the dress is, you will not look your best if you are not comfortable and confident.
Use these tips as a starting point for finding the perfect fall wedding guest dress.
See also Simple and Stylish Graduation Outfits for Mom.
