What to wear to a fall wedding? Choosing a guest outfit for an autumn wedding.
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Time to read 13 min
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Time to read 13 min
Fall weddings - they're all about the captivating colors and the crisp air that makes everything feel just a bit more special. But let's face it, finding the perfect wedding guest outfit to match the season can be a tad confusing. Are you scratching your head over what to wear to a fall wedding? Puzzled about how to strike the perfect balance between style and comfort, given the season's unpredictable weather? Wondering which colors, materials, and styles are trending? Look no further – we've got you covered!
In this article, we're going to delve into the world of fall wedding fashion. We'll take inspiration from celebrities who've nailed the look, explore the latest creations from top-tier designers, and give you the scoop on all the fabulous options out there.
Fashion trends are like the tides, they wax and wane, with once-popular styles making triumphant returns and evolving to suit the era. One such challenge that crops up every year is the fall wedding outfit. The question on everyone's lips this season: What's the trend du jour for fall wedding guest attire?
Before even starting to think about your fall wedding outfit, take a moment to thoroughly examine the invitation, with a keen eye on the suggested dress code. This crucial detail will significantly influence your outfit selection, ensuring your look harmoniously blends with the event's overall formality. Be it a quaint rustic barn or an elegant rooftop soirée, decoding the dress code is essential in determining your outfit choice.
Apart from the explicit dress code, subtle hints such as the venue and time of the event can offer invaluable clues to guide your fashion selection. As Jeanne Foley, co-founder of SuitShop, points out, the location is a key determinant, giving clear signals about the level of formality expected. A laid-back backyard gathering might call for a more relaxed, semi-casual outfit, whereas a swanky evening affair at a luxury hotel may require a more formal approach, perhaps a floor-length gown or a polished tuxedo.
Fall, with its distinctive color palette, offers a unique opportunity to play with warm, rich hues in your autumn wedding guest attire. The season's changing foliage provides a wealth of inspiration when it comes to selecting the perfect colors for your outfit. Here's a closer look at some of these shades:
Burgundy: This deep, rich red hue is reminiscent of fall leaves and ripe berries. It's a versatile color that flatters many skin tones and adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any ensemble. Pair a burgundy dress with gold accessories for a truly autumnal look.
Navy: Considered a neutral, navy is a classic and timeless choice for a fall wedding. It's a great alternative to black, offering the same level of formality without being too harsh. Navy pairs beautifully with a variety of colors, from soft pastels to bold jewel tones, allowing you to add a pop of color with your accessories.
Emerald Green: Reflecting the evergreen trees that persist through the season, emerald green is a vibrant and rich color choice for a fall wedding. This jewel tone exudes luxury and depth, making it a stunning choice for both daytime and evening events.
Mustard Yellow: This warm, earthy hue captures the essence of fall. Mustard yellow is bold without being overly bright, making it a perfect choice if you want to incorporate a touch of color into your outfit. Pair it with other earth tones or contrast it with a deep plum or navy for a striking look.
Burnt Orange: Burnt orange captures the warmth and richness of the autumn season. This spicy hue is perfect for creating a cozy yet chic look. It's a less conventional choice that stands out in a crowd, making it ideal for those who like to make a fashion statement.
While these colors are undeniably beautiful, it's essential to consider the wedding's color scheme before finalizing your outfit. While you want to complement the season, you also don't want to blend in too much with the decor or bridesmaid dresses. Striking the right balance between fitting in with the season and standing out as a guest is key when choosing your perfect fall wedding guest attire.
Beyond mere stylistic choices, choosing a rich and warm color palette for your fall wedding guest outfit is a strategic decision that perfectly aligns with the very essence of a fall wedding. These carefully selected colors are intended to complement the natural beauty of the season, contributing significantly to the overall ambiance and aesthetic appeal of the event.
When it comes to fabric choices for a fall wedding, think comfort and elegance. It not only influences the overall look and feel of your outfit but also plays a key role in your comfort throughout the event. Here's a closer look at some fabric options that are both stylish and seasonally appropriate:
Velvet: Velvet has been making a significant comeback in recent years, and for good reason. Its rich texture and slight sheen make it a luxurious and elegant choice for a fall wedding. Velvet also has the added advantage of being warm, making it an ideal choice for cooler temperatures. Consider a velvet dress or jumpsuit in a deep hue like navy or burgundy for a chic, sophisticated look.
Silk: Silk is a classic option that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its natural sheen and smooth texture make it a luxurious choice for any wedding. Plus, it's surprisingly adaptable to changing temperatures - cool during warmer moments, and retains heat when it gets chillier, which is perfect for the sometimes unpredictable fall weather.
You can check our silk wedding dress collection here.
Lace: Lace is a timeless fabric that never goes out of style. Its intricate patterns and sheer nature add a touch of sophistication and femininity to any outfit. For a fall wedding, consider a lace dress in a rich color like emerald green or mustard yellow. Pair it with simple accessories to let the lace take center stage.
Metallics: If you're looking to make a bold fashion statement, metallics are a trendy choice. Metallic fabrics have a reflective quality that catches the light, adding a bit of sparkle and glamour to your look. A metallic gold or silver dress can be a stunning choice for an evening fall wedding. To keep the look balanced, pair your metallic outfit with understated accessories.
Sequins: For those who love to shine, sequins are another excellent option. While they might seem a bit daring, sequins can be perfectly appropriate for a fall wedding when done right. Opt for sequins in deeper hues like navy or black for a more subdued look, or go all out with a full-length sequin gown in a jewel tone for maximum impact.
Remember, the key to choosing the right fabric is to consider the time and formality of the event, as well as your personal comfort and style. Whether you choose the warm elegance of velvet, the timeless appeal of lace, or the bold glamour of metallics and sequins, make sure your fabric choice complements your overall look and fits the occasion.
The length and style of your dress set the tone for your overall aesthetic, and in the realm of autumn weddings, the possibilities are vast.
Cocktail dresses and midi-length options are versatile choices suitable for a range of settings, from casual to semi-formal affairs. However, the autumn season offers a unique opportunity to embrace the drama of longer lengths.
Consider a floor-length gown in rich, autumnal colors for a touch of regality - like this one- especially for evening celebrations.
Long dresses with intricate lace detailing or embroidered accents add a romantic flair that aligns perfectly with the enchanting ambiance of fall.
Your choice of length and style should also be influenced by the formality of the wedding, with more elaborate designs reserved for black-tie events and simpler styles for casual or outdoor ceremonies.
You can read more about choosing a perfect silk dress for a wedding guest here.
As you're piecing together your outfit for that upcoming autumn wedding, it's not just about finding the perfect dress. You've also got to think about the fickle fall weather. It's all about adding in those transitional pieces that will keep you comfortable and stylish.
Slipping on an elegant jacket or draping a full-length silk coat (like in the picture) over your shoulder not only keeps you warm when the temperature drops in the evening, but it also ramps up the sophistication of your look.
These pieces are a clever blend of fashion and function, helping you adjust to changing temperatures while keeping your style game strong.
Whether it's a chic shawl or a sharp-looking jacket, these can be easily added or taken off depending on how cool or warm the day is, without messing up your overall look.
And here's another tip: wedding guest dresses with sleeves. They are such a smart choice for fall weddings! They give you that extra layer of warmth and add a classic, timeless touch to your attire that can never be underestimated.
There are so many styles to choose from, too. You could go for along-sleeved dress in a rich, autumnal color like burgundy or deep green. The length of the sleeves adds a formal, elegant vibe that's perfect for a wedding.
If you want something a little different, why not consider a dress with bell sleeves? They're super stylish and give your outfit a unique, bohemian twist. Plus, the loose fit of the sleeves means you'll stay comfortable all day long.
Or for a really chic, fashion-forward look, try a dress with balloon sleeves. They're a big trend right now and add a modern, edgy touch to your outfit.
And let's not forget about lace sleeves. They add a gorgeous, delicate detail to your dress that's both romantic and sophisticated.
When it comes to accessorizing your outfit for a wedding, the "less is more" approach really works wonders. You don't want to overwhelm your look with too many accessories, but rather choose one key piece that can make a statement and tie your entire outfit together.
Consider opting for a pair of chandelier earrings. They're eye-catching and glamorous, adding a touch of sparkle that can elevate your look instantly. Plus, they work beautifully with updos or hair swept to one side, drawing attention to your face.
Alternatively, a bold clutch could be your accessory of choice. Perhaps go for one in a vibrant color that complements your dress, or choose a metallic or embellished clutch for a more glamorous touch. Not only does it add a pop of personality to your outfit, but it's also practical - a win-win!
When it comes to footwear, remember you'll be on your feet a lot. So comfort is just as important as style. Block heels are a great choice. They offer more support than stilettos, making them much more comfortable for long periods. They're also very on-trend and can add a modern twist to your look.
If heels aren't your thing, don't worry. Elegant flats can look just as stylish and are an excellent option if comfort is your top priority. Look for a pair with interesting details like embellishments or unique textures to keep them feeling special and wedding-appropriate.
Remember, it's all about balance. The right accessories can really enhance your outfit, but you don't want them to overpower it. Choose pieces that you love and that make you feel confident, and you're sure to shine!
Adding a playful element to your autumn wedding guest outfit, prints and patterns can infuse whimsy and personality into your look.
Nature-inspired prints, such as florals or leaf motifs, capture the essence of the season.
Consider dresses with subtle botanical patterns for a touch of delicacy, or go bold with oversized floral prints that make a statement.
Stripes, plaids, or even geometric patterns can add a contemporary edge to your ensemble. When selecting prints, be mindful of the scale and color palette to ensure they harmonize with the surroundings and don't overpower your overall look.
You can find out more about reasons for embracing bold patterns and prints here.
The answer is clear: Embrace the season's rich hues, opt for elegant layers, and don't shy away from bold accessories. But don't just take our word for it!
Emma Stone, known for her refinaed and glamorous style, was recently seen at an event wearing a burgundy midi dress. The outfit featured long sleeves and a high neck, perfect for the cooler temperatures of the season. The rich color not only complemented her complexion but also perfectly encapsulated the essence of fall. She paired the dress with strappy black heels, adding a modern touch to the timeless look.
Victoria Beckham, always a trendsetter, recently attended a wedding in an elegant navy ensemble. Her outfit consisted of a sleek, long-sleeved midi dress with a distinctive high collar, paired with matching navy boots. Her minimalist approach proved that sometimes less is truly more, and her monochromatic look stood out amidst the autumnal backdrop.
Oscar De La Renta's fall collection features a standout piece that's perfect for a fall wedding guest - a stunning emerald green silk dress. With its flowing silhouette and delicate lace detailing at the neckline, this dress embodies both elegance and romance.
Carolina Herrera's collection includes a bold, graphic print dress. The dress features a striking blend of autumnal hues like deep orange, burgundy, and earthy browns, designed in a stylish midi length with voluminous sleeves. It's a perfect representation of the brand's modern yet timeless aesthetic.
Vera Wang's fall wedding collection showcases a dramatic black and white gown. The dress features a fitted black bodice with a daring cut-out detail, contrasted with a voluminous white tulle skirt. It's a daring and unconventional choice that pushes the boundaries of traditional bridal wear.
While it's exciting to explore the various trends and styles for fall wedding attire, it's also essential to know what to avoid. Here are some common faux pas that you should steer clear of when selecting your outfit:
Overly Casual Attire
Even if the wedding invitation suggests a casual dress code, it's important to remember that 'casual' in a wedding context still requires a certain level of formality1. Jeans, t-shirts, and casual footwear like flip flops are generally a no-go. Instead, opt for a chic jumpsuit or a casual dress paired with elegant flats or boots.
All-White or All-Black Outfits
Wearing all white to a wedding is traditionally considered a major faux pas as it can be seen as competing with the bride2. Similarly, wearing all black can often be associated with funerals rather than festive occasions like weddings. While black elements can certainly be part of your outfit, try to incorporate other colors to avoid looking too somber3.
Too-Tight or Too-Loose Outfits
Comfort is key at a wedding. You'll likely be sitting, standing, and dancing throughout the event. Avoid outfits that are too tight and restrictive or too loose and shapeless5. A well-fitted outfit not only looks good but also allows you to move comfortably.
Overdoing Accessories
Accessories can make or break an outfit. While it's tempting to go all out with jewelry, bags, and other accessories, remember that less is often more. Choose a few key pieces that complement your outfit without overpowering it.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you not only look stylish but also appropriately dressed for the occasion. Remember, the best outfit is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable – so choose something that reflects your personal style while respecting the formality of the event.
Choosing what to wear to a fall wedding doesn't have to be a daunting task. By incorporating the rich, warm colors of the season, selecting comfortable yet stylish fabrics, and choosing the right accessories, you can create an outfit that's not only appropriate but memorable. It is also worth checking the latest trends from fall celebrity weddings for that extra inspiration!
Remember, fashion is an extension of who you are. It's a way to express your personal style and personality. So don't be afraid to let your individuality shine through. Whether that means choosing a dress in a bold, autumnal color or accessorizing with a statement piece of jewelry, the key is to feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose to wear.
Being a guest at a fall wedding is indeed a wonderful experience. The crisp air, the beautiful palette of changing leaves, and the romantic ambiance all combine to make it a truly special occasion. And armed with these tips, you can navigate the dress code with ease.
Your outfit will not only be fitting for the season and setting, but it'll also capture your personal style. You'll feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate alongside the happy couple. So embrace the moment, enjoy the celebration, and let your style shine. Here's to fall weddings and fabulous outfits!