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. Sale Alert Our Top Picks Best Little Black Dress: Most Whimsical: For the Classic Guest: Best Jumpsuit: Best Long Sleeve: Bronx And Banco Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress at Neiman Marcus ($388) Best Sparkle: Best Jewel Tone: In This Article Our Picks What to Look For FAQ Why Trust Brides For an easy, breezy, boho fall wedding guest dress, try this gorgeous Farm Rio maxi dress that’s perfect for transitional weather. It features long sleeves, a plunging v-neckline, a vintage-inspired, moody and abstract floral print, and light ruffling at the sleeve and hemlines. Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Floral/Multi Minimalists will love the simplicity and versatility of this little black dress. It's easy to wear, flattering, and can be dressed up or down according to the dress code. While it's definitely suited for autumn events, it's also still lightweight enough to keep you comfortable on the dance floor. Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose, Rayon | Colors: Black What’s more whimsical than a fairytale? This "Fairytale Gown" features gossamer puff sleeves with cinched cuffs, flowy tulle organza fabric, and a high-low skirt that has a leg-baring slit front. The adjustable extended train creates even more whimsy, and the light pink print is inspired by antique French curtains. Say no more. Size Range: XXS-6XL, Petite | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Renaissance Girl For the guest who tends to lean towards classic styles, this halter neck silhouette will definitely complement your timeless aesthetic. It offers a twist on a classic black dress for an unexpected yet timeless look. Style it with shoulder-grazing earrings to highlight the elegant neckline. Size Range: 0-26 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black, Midnight, Dusty Blue, Moss, Sedona, Champagne, Dark Berry, Dark Emerald For a full-coverage gown that still sparkles and shines, look no further than this beaded number. It features long sleeves, a maxi hemline, and an abstract leaf pattern throughout, made of beads and sequins. Jewels dot the neckline for an added touch, and it comes in four beautiful colorways to suit your vibe. Size Range: 4-24 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Charcoal, Mocha, Olive, Platinum Gold Thinking about a fun jumpsuit to shake things up? Crafted out of textured plissé fabric in a vibrant lime green colorway, this jumpsuit is stylish, fashion-forward, and definitely cool. It features a hidden back zipper closure, crisscross back straps with tie closure, and a sexy plunging neckline finished with a waist-emphasizing thin band. Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Lime We love the idea of wearing a long sleeve mini dress to a fall wedding. The Bronx and Banco "Casey" lace mini dress features a scalloped hem, jewel neckline, sharp padded shoulders, and long sleeves for added warmth. It also has diagonal bust darts for shape and a fit-and-flare silhouette for balance. It’s finished with a two-way zipper on the backside. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, Cotton | Colors: Navy The Reformation Hermia Dress is like a sophisticated disco ball in dress form—perfect for the guest who’s ready to turn up the party! It features a turtleneck top for added warmth in the chillier fall months, and a mini length to maintain that fun party spirit (and frees up your legs to get down on the dance floor). We especially love the gold sparkle colorway and mini side slit. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Rayon, Spandex | Colors: Gold This dress is nothing short of a showstopper. Made in France from the iconic brand Balmain, it features a fitted silhouette with a thigh-high slit, shimmering geometric sequins throughout, and maxi length. It’s finished with delicate spaghetti straps. A true work of art! Size Range: 2-8 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black Multicolor Made from slinky and soft velour fabric, this slip dress is the perfect fall jewel tone—a rich golden yellow that feels like a moodier move from more bright, summery hues. It features a low back that comes to a V, plunging neckline, maxi length, and delicate spaghetti straps with a diamond shape at the bodice. Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Marigold Crafted from 100 percent viscose, this unlined halter neck style features a metallic print that makes it the perfect classy party dress. It features a button loop closure, and the open knit fabric is covered with metallic sequins to shine bright, even when the lights go down. There’s also a fun fringe trim that starts above the knee and flows to the ankle. Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Metallic Tannin Made from a high-quality, velvety fabric, this formal dress is perfect for the cooler fall months. The flattering wrap style features a deep V-neckline, has long sleeves and a maxi hemline for added warmth, and is available in sizes 0-16. You can’t go wrong with either the navy or emerald green hues. Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Fabric | Colors: Navy, Emerald We chose this dress because it comes in four different prints that can be worn year-round and cross-seasonally. It features adjustable straps and a scoop neckline, with a maxi length and fitted silhouette. Throw a chic blazer or shag over it in the cooler months, and dress it up with heels and statement jewelry. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Lottie, Anaconda, Admire, Faye Elegant and timeless, this off-the-shoulder gown is perfect for a formal fall wedding. We love that the body-hugging mermaid silhouette is utterly flattering. Thanks to the mid-weight jersey fabric, you'll stay warm throughout an outdoor ceremony. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Black Available in sizes XXS-XL Petite, this flattering fit and flare dress is perfect for shorter guests. It falls right below the knee and has a vintage-inspired charm with a classic sweetheart neckline, buttoned bodice, and cap sleeves. It’s available in several beautiful prints and colors. Size Range: XXS-XL Petite, XXS-3XL Standard | Materials: Viscose, Linen, Cotton, Elastane | Colors: 6 This versatile style works for a variety of venues and themes. It features a modern square neckline, tiered ruffle skirt, and stretchy fabric that stays close to the body. Thick straps offer ample support while smocking in the back adjusts for the ideal fit. Size Range: XXS-3XL | Materials: Viscose, Linen, Cotton, Elastane | Colors: 4 Featuring a high neck, cut-out panel, and sexy thigh-high slit, this made-for-tall bodies dress comes in a gorgeous chocolate brown that feels chic and autumnal. It’s made from a polyester jersey fabric that’s soft and stretchy for a comfy fit. Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Chocolate The “Arcana” colorway on this sophisticated dress is perfect if you’re looking for a moodier floral print. It features back smocking, a pretty sweetheart neckline, back slit, back buttons, back zipper, and back ruching. The lightweight drapey crepe fabric has a slinky nature and a dry hand feel. Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose, Rayon | Colors: Forest, Arcana, Lima The Kyrie piped tuxedo dress from Alice + Olivia features a double-breasted silhouette with a notch lapel, long sleeves, and front patch pockets. We love that this is a chic, timeless, and versatile style that can be worn for years to come. Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Black Off White We love this gorgeous and great-for-in-between weather dress; the velvet fabric, high neck, and maxi hemline offer a bit of warmth, while the open back and back slit offer a great amount of airflow. Dare we say business in the front, party in the back? Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Black, Nude With a black base and abstract floral print, this body-contouring, long-sleeve dress features a turtleneck, detachable slip lining, mesh fabric overlay, and a midi hemline. And at under $70, it’s also budget-friendly! Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Black Multi For a retro look that will make a big statement, The L'IDEE Soiree 90's Sleeved Gown is a pull-on style with pleated fabric and a lettuce-edge trim. It features a one-shoulder design with a turtleneck and button loop closure. We love the grape colorway for a pop of color. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester blend | Colors: Grape What’s a more autumnal vibe than the rich, reddish brown, rust-colored dress? This stunner features an attached bodysuit lining with bottom snap button closure, boned bodice with underwire cups, and a show-stopping tiered ruffle tulle hem with a side slit. It zips up with a hidden back zipper, and comes in sizes XS-XL. Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex, Silk | Colors: Rust This cute and flirty mini dress comes in a Tiger Red colorway that’s bold and dramatic—without trying too hard. It’s made from a satin fabric that’s smooth and comfy, with pull-on styling and a boat neck style neckline. Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Tiger Red Is it even possible to wear a dress with pockets without screaming “it has pockets!” This gorgeous maxi-length A-line gown features a sleeveless top, v-neckline, pleated waist, and full skirt. There’s a front slit for breathability and functional side pockets for convenience. It comes in two different pink colorways. Size Range: 2-10 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink, Pink Combo A dress fit for a fairytale, this feminine and elegant dress is perfect for a European destination wedding. It features a vintage-inspired corset bodice with a tie at the waist, back stretch ruching, adjustable ruffle straps, and a midi silhouette with a slit. It’s crafted from luxe floral brocade and is available in several colorways. Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester brocade | Colors: 5 Featuring a strapless crop top with trim detail and matching midi skirt, this super fun two-piece set is perfect to party all night long. It has an invisible center back zip, inner rubber grip tape at neckline edge to keep it all in place, and fringe detailing that elicits some serious twirls. Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink, Cobalt Blue, Black, Red, White FAQ 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. 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.” 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. Farm Rio Vintage Wave Long Sleeve Maxi Dress shows how to do fall florals right. Chelsea Frank has been a comedy and lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on several topics from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. For this article, the Brides team spoke to a fashion industry expert for their tips and insight: The 17 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses Under $100 in 2024
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 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.For the Classic Guest
BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress
Best Modest
Mac Duggal Beaded Long Sleeve Gown
Best Jumpsuit
Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit
Best Long Sleeve
Bronx And Banco Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress
Best Splurge
Balmain Sequined Slit Column Gown
Best Wrap Dress
Showpo Long Sleeve Wrap Maxi Dress
Best Mermaid Silhouette
Norma Kamali Off-Shoulder Fishtail Gown
Best Blazer Style
Alice + Olivia Kyrie Piped Tuxedo Dress
Best Rust Colored
For Love & Lemons x REVOLVE Bustier Gown Rust
Best with Pockets
Sachin & Babi Brooke Pleated Front-Slit Gown
Best Vintage Inspired
V. Chapman Vera Ruffle-Strap Corset Side-Slit Midi Dress
What to Look for in a Fall Wedding Guest Dress
Why Trust Brides
FAQs
What dress to wear to a winter wedding? ›
When it comes to style for a winter wedding, you'll often see dark colors or jewel tones, crushed velvet dresses, and even some long-sleeve gowns.
What's in style for a fall wedding guest? ›Colors tend to be moodier: wine, plum and midnight abound. A long-sleeve dress is perfect for outdoorsy venues, especially if the night air is chilly. Stilettos and pointy toes can be tricky on grass, so a block heel or platform is the safest bet.
What not to wear to a winter wedding? ›Choose your color wisely. First and foremost, when it comes to color, it is a commonly known fact not to wear white to a wedding. But, I would also recommend staying away from anything that could be construed as white. This includes very light pastels and even white dresses with floral prints.
What should a 50 year old woman wear to a winter wedding? ›My favorite dress types for women over 50 are fit and flare and A-line silhouettes. These two styles are flattering for so many body types. They have a defined waistline and are very forgiving as they take attention away from the midsection and camouflage wider hips and thighs.
What colors to wear to a winter wedding? ›Metallic tones such as gold, silver, and bronze, also work well for winter weddings. Pro tip from wedding planner, Karen Brown: "If you're attending a winter wedding, dress in warm colors like burgundy, brown, purple, gray, and green."
What colors are best for a winter wedding? ›Typically, wedding colors for winter are richer and darker compared to color palettes in other seasons. Jewel tones (like navy blue, ruby red, emerald green and purple) are always a popular choice, as are metallic colors, like silver and gold.
What should a female guest wear to a fall wedding? ›Our advice? Opt for lightweight styles and silhouettes, in warmer tones like mustard yellow, burgundy or olive green. The colors of this dress may scream 'fall', but its flowy silhouette and breathable Georgette fabric say 'second summer'.
What should a wedding guest wear in October? ›October is peak fall, so go ahead and embrace a seasonal look (you know, if that's your vibe). Warm Earth tones are the perfect choice for dresses, suits and separates alike. No matter the weather, you can always lean into the spooky season vibes by opting for classic October hues like burnt orange, plum and black.
What is the wedding dress code for fall? ›Fall weddings allow wearing dresses of rather thick fabrics like satin or velvet (that aren't appropriate for summer events), but it's not a rule and you are free to wear a dress made of chiffon or other light fabrics. The dress colors are usually quite dark like burgundy, purple, brown, gold, navy and dark green.
What color dress should a guest not wear to a wedding? ›We advise against wearing white to weddings, but a printed dress with a hint of white or ivory is definitely approved. A black-and-white dress is a classic choice, as long as the pattern isn't too distracting.
What color is not appropriate for a wedding? ›
Traditionally, the only off-limits color for wedding guests has been white, for obvious reasons—no one wants to take attention away from the bride. But times are a-changin'. Now, many people simply don't see wearing white as a big deal. Some brides and grooms are totally cool with it.
Can you wear open toed shoes in winter to a wedding? ›You could certainly wear a closed-toe shoe, if you prefer; that Jute Glam is gorgeous! But I have no problem with open toe shoes in the winter for a formal event. Just make sure to get a pedicure! In the winter, some type of wrap is essential.
What should a 75 year old wear to a wedding? ›Pantsuits, jumpsuits, and dresses are appropriate choices for casual weddings. Women over 60 can choose knee-length, tea-length, or full-length dresses for most wedding themes. A full-length gown is the most suitable choice for formal or black-tie events.
Is it OK to wear black to a wedding? ›As a general rule, "wearing black is totally acceptable, as the hue is very versatile," says bridal stylist Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride. Make the shade work for you—at any type of wedding—with these ideas for choosing the right fabrice, length, and accessories.
Can you wear a blazer over a dress to a wedding? ›A Blazer. For more casual dress codes, from semi-formal to cocktail, a blazer will round off your attire in a fun and trendy way. While a classic tuxedo silhouette is a safe option, there are so many alternatives to choose from if searching for a more feminine or unique style.
What should a female guest wear to a winter wedding? ›Winter weddings are likely to take place indoors, so you'll want to choose an outfit that's just warm enough once you take off your coat. A dress with sleeves, a maxi dress, or even a fancy jumpsuit are great ways to dress for the occasion. Take advantage of fabrics that look stylish while keeping you warm.
Do you have to wear a long dress to a winter wedding? ›Since a winter wedding is in the winter when it's, well, cold out, you may want to choose a long sleeve dress. You could go short (I love this one and it's on sale) or a full length gown too. A midi length is also great. But long sleeves will keep you warm and ensure your dress is seasonally appropriate.
Can you wear bare legs to a winter wedding? ›It gives your outfit the smart factor, adds elegance AND keeps you warm. I really feel the cold and simply cannot endure cold legs and feet for hours, so when it comes to winter weddings I would always try and have my legs covered.
Is it OK to wear black to a winter wedding? ›"I have beautiful brides wearing black wedding dresses," said Anastasia Stevenson, a destination wedding planner with Coastal Creative Weddings in Tybee Island, GA. "It is perfectly acceptable and chic to wear black to evening, black tie, and winter weddings."