Fall wedding guest dresses: colors, fabrics and layers
How to choose a fall wedding guest dress: deep autumn colors, rich fabrics, long sleeves, layers, shoes and what to avoid.
The short answer
Choose a rich fabric such as velvet, satin or crepe in a deep autumn color. Bring a wrap or coat, and wear block heels or closed shoes for wet grass.
- Avoid white, ivory and cream, and thin summer fabrics with nothing over them.
For a fall wedding, choose a midi or maxi dress in a rich fabric, such as velvet, satin, crepe or a fine knit, in deep autumn colors like burgundy, forest green, rust, plum or navy. Add long sleeves or a wrap, closed or block-heel shoes and layers for a cool evening.
Colors that suit fall
- Burgundy, wine and plum for a classic evening look
- Forest, emerald and olive for a rich daytime color
- Rust, terracotta and burnt orange for warm tones
- Navy and deep teal as alternatives to black
- Dusty rose and mauve for softer looks
Avoid white, ivory and cream, which can look bridal even in autumn tones.
Fabrics
- Velvet: dressy, warm and a classic for evening
- Satin and silk: elegant, best with a wrap
- Crepe: fluid and structured, good for jumpsuits
- Fine knit or jersey: comfortable for daytime
- Lace and jacquard: textured and seasonal
Styles to consider
- A long-sleeve midi in velvet or satin
- A wrap dress, which adapts to different shapes
- A satin slip with a tailored jacket or cape
- A dressy jumpsuit with a blazer
- A floral print in autumn tones for a daytime wedding
Layers and outerwear
- A wrap or shawl for the ceremony
- A tailored coat in camel, black or navy for outdoor moments. See coats for women.
- Tights in sheer black or skin tone if it is cold
Shoes and bag
- Block heels, a pump or a heeled bootie that goes with a midi
- A suede or velvet clutch for texture
- Jewelry in gold, bronze or pearls to suit autumn tones
What to avoid
- White, ivory and cream
- Summer-weight chiffon with nothing over it
- Thin heels on wet grass or leaves
- Black from head to toe at a daytime wedding if it feels heavy
Want more ideas? See what to wear to a wedding, wedding guest dresses and fall outfits. The Wedding Guest Edit gives you dress-code formulas, a packing list and a planner for the whole weekend.
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Questions people ask about this
What should I wear to a fall wedding as a guest?
A midi or maxi in velvet, satin, crepe or fine knit in a deep autumn color such as burgundy, forest green, rust or navy, with a wrap or jacket, closed shoes or block heels.
Can I wear black to a fall wedding?
Yes in most places, especially in the evening. Add color with jewelry, a wrap or lipstick, and check the invitation.
What colors are best for a fall wedding?
Burgundy, plum, forest green, emerald, rust, terracotta, navy and dusty rose. Avoid white, ivory and cream.
What do I wear if a fall wedding is outdoors?
A midi or maxi with long sleeves or a wrap, block heels or boots, and a coat. Check the forecast and pack layers.
