Wedding season is often associated with summer, but the most popular months to say “I do” can fall (pun intended) later in the year. Maybe it’s the foliage or the welcome relief from the heat, but fall weddings are definitely a refreshing change from a sweltering June outdoor wedding or an August-humid resort ceremony.
However, finding fall wedding guest dresses can be tricky. You want to look good, obviously, but also seasonally appropriate, and comfortable enough to carry you through hours of celebrating (and dancing). What may start as a fairly warm afternoon can turn into a chilly evening reception, which is another element to be mindful of when picking out a fall wedding guest dress. Here’s a roundup of some options to consider if you’re attending nuptials this autumn.
First, for more formal or black-tie events, you can’t go wrong with a floor-length gown. Unlike summer maxi-dresses, a fall-themed full-length frock should be rendered in a luxe fabric like velvet with statement-making design elements. And if it doesn’t fall all the way to the floor, then look for more intricate detailing on a slightly shorter dress. Azazie’s Wendy Black Emerald Maxi Dress has both length and embellishment rendered in a black and emerald jacquard, with adjustable spaghetti straps and pockets. The brand’s Leonia dress, rendered in velvet in a variety of fall colors from cabernet to eucalyptus, features long sleeves for added coverage with satin bow details for a polished finish.
Be sure to bring along a warm wrap for the sleeveless dress, and pair both frocks with elegant yet danceable shoes, like Vivaia’s Arabella Pointed-Toe Stilettos. I know, stilettos don’t usually come to mind when thinking of dancing shoes; however, Vivaia is a brand known for comfort, and the footbed of these heels is made to shape to your foot, while the ankle strap will keep them steady on.
If you’re not so much into a full-length gown, there are plenty of midi options that will fit the formal dress code bill. Chelsea28’s Pleated Seamed Bodice Jacquard Dress, available at Nordstrom, offers a longer length, but not full-length, in a luxurious fabric featuring an unexpected yet fall-appropriate print in shades of dark green or purple magenta. The seamed bodice and square neck make for the perfect setup for a treasured statement necklace or oversized pendant. Another jacquard option is Lulus’ Loria Burnout Jacquard Lace-up Midi dress in burgundy, navy, or emerald. Each shade pairs perfectly with gold accessories; however, the lace-up back option may produce some unwanted goosebumps, so again, bring along a wrap.
For those of you requiring sleeves in your formal wear, check out Every Pretty’s offerings. Their Azalea Graceful V-Neck Fall Velvet Midi dress in particular gives most polished wedding guest vibes with a pleated velvet skirt, flutter sleeves, and general opulence, especially in the shade of caramel and dark green. The former of which will take you into holiday territory as we roll into December. This whole brand caters to the wedding crowd, whether you’re a guest, a member of the wedding party, or the bride herself. And most of their offerings come in plus sizes. So, if you’re part of planning a wedding or attending several, give them a look-see.
If cocktail attire is called for this fall, then you have hit the sweet spot between formal and casual, which is why this is one of the most popular special-occasions dress codes. This opens up your options to plenty of silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments.
And speaking of silhouettes, I love a wrap dress for events with sit-down dining. ModCloth’s Celestial Silhouette Balloon Sleeve Dress is actually a faux-wrap design, but it remains adjustable and forgiving around the midsection. The dramatic sleeve and bold print are perfect for autumnal nuptials, to keep you comfortable yet elegant.
If prints at a wedding are a no-go for you, but you’re still looking to bring a bit of drama to your look, then consider Ralph Lauren’s Cape Georgette Cocktail Dress. This knee-length shift dress has a built-in cape overlay for sophistication and movement, and comes in fall-rich colors like purple, garnet, and vermillion. Other dresses to consider are satin midi-dresses, sleek slip dresses, or elevated minis.
For casual weddings, especially daytime ceremonies or laid-back venues like restaurants or breweries, you can keep things relaxed without losing the festive touch. Think cotton poplins, plaid or polka dots, smocked bodices, frilled sleeves, or even a jumpsuit. Banana Republic Factory’s Godet Mini Dress in a dark red geometric print with its ruching detail and flounced hem is perfect for a fall-time celebration. Plus, it can be easily worn for other occasions or even the office.
If you’re looking to bring a bit of va-va-voom to a casual wedding, then consider Express’s Crepe Crew Neck Sleeveless T-Back Jumpsuit. This royal purple one-piece is made for partying and after-parties, and will serve you well for future nights out on the town. What I appreciate about a casual wedding is that you usually already have something to wear hanging in your closet.
Of course, with any season, a wedding is about honoring the couple, their family and friends, and the joining of two lives. And while dress codes may seem old-fashioned and outdated, and may not even be stated on the invitation, that doesn’t mean you can’t use them as an excuse to bring some fabulous fall fashion to the celebration.
