The 30 Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses of 2023


by Chelsea Frank for Brides

While the winter, spring, and summer months all have their allure, there’s something particularly enchanting about attending a fall wedding. But when it comes to dressing for autumn nuptials, it can be tricky for wedding guests to find an outfit that’s both stylish and season-appropriate. Fortunately, there are plenty of fall wedding guest dresses out there that are practical and fashionable — even for outdoor ceremonies.

If you’re not quite sure where to begin, “a classic cocktail dress is a stylish and appropriate choice for a fall wedding,” says stylist Elizabeth Kosich. She also encourages you to think beyond the little black dress. “Remember it’s a festive celebration so your attire should reflect that — think flirty frocks in jewel tones, happy primary colors, or deep, rich hues that echo autumn’s seasonal color palette.”

Besides the color, you want to make sure your dress suits the dress code and weather, which can be tricky as fall days can range from warm to chilly. When researching the best dresses, we looked for both breathable and warm materials, and a range of styles to suit all kinds of ceremonies. We’ve rounded up our favorite fall-appropriate wedding guest dresses in a variety of styles, aesthetics, and body types to make shopping easy.

  1. Best Boho
    Farm Rio Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

  2. Best Little Black Dress
    Reformation Black Dress

  3. Most Fun
    Pinnacle by Shruti Sancheti Mock-Neck Colorblock Ruffle Dress

  4. Most Whimsical
    Selkie The Fairytale Gown

  5. For The Classic Guest
    BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress

  6. Best Modest
    MacDuggal Beaded Long Sleeve Gown

  7. Best Jumpsuit
    Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit

  8. Best Long Sleeve
    Bronx and Banco Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress

  9. Best Sparkle
    Reformation Hermia Dress

  10. Best Splurge
    Balmain Sequined Slit Column Gown

What to Look for in a Fall Wedding Guest Dress

  1. Fabric
    ”There’s a sophistication to fall weddings that allows for daring fashion moments,” says Kosich. “Consider a cocktail dress in a rich brocade, lace, or tulle and don’t shy away from appliqués or statement details like a belt, ruffle or fishtail hem.”

  2. Color
    ”Color palette can range from brights to earth tones, so pick a hue compatible with your undertone,” Kosich explains. “When in doubt rely on universally flattering emerald green, teal or mint, all of which flatter both cool and warm undertones alike.”

  3. Dress code
    Always be sure to follow the dress code, which should be stated on your invitation. For more relaxed ceremonies, you can opt for a mini length (we’d suggest a turtleneck or longer sleeves to keep warm) and more casual fabrics like cotton. For a more formal or black tie affair, choose a floor-length hemline and luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade.

FAQ

  1. How do I stay warm at a fall wedding?
    Fall weddings can be tricky weather-wise, as depending on the location, it can be warm during the day and cold at night. To combat this seesaw, it’s best to bring a piece of outerwear. “To maintain a sophisticated look, pair your party dress with either a velvet blazer or faux fur cape, or consider the chic juxtaposition of a menswear-inspired, oversized blazer and frilly dress — a fashion-forward, on-trend pairing that looks straight off the fall runways,” suggests Kosich.

  2. What shoes are best for a fall wedding?
    ”Choose your footwear carefully given how much standing (and dancing!) weddings require,” says Kosich. “Shop wedges or platforms for more stability, or even a classic block heel. For a fashion-forward, avant-garde look, pair a metallic open-toed, high-heeled sandal with bright colored tights. And if your stilettos are sky high, consider bringing a second pair that’s lower for late night relief.”

  3. Can I wear a floral dress to a fall wedding?
    While florals are often associated with spring and summer, they can easily be worn in the fall when in the right colors and designs. “Take cues from the fall color palette and shop earthy hues like plum, olive, and rust and opt for abstract floral prints that are slightly blurred,” suggests Kosich. “The overall effect is softer and gentler, and is sure to not upstage the bride.”

    Meet the expert
    Elizabeth Kosich is a certified image stylist offering head-to-toe wardrobe consulting to men and women, and commercial styling to brands. She holds credentials from FIT and AICI, and founded Elizabeth Kosich Styling in 2019.

See full published article on Brides.com here.

Elizabeth Kosich Styling