What to Wear to a Fall Wedding

Fall has become a magical season for weddings. The rich colors and cozy atmosphere create the perfect backdrop. But with the shifting weather and autumnal vibes, figuring out what to wear to a fall wedding can be a bit tricky. Whether you’re attending an outdoor ceremony under the golden foliage or a chic indoor reception, dressing appropriately for the season is the key to nailing your look. Here’s how to do it.

What NOT to wear to a fall wedding

Avoid overly summery pastels or bright shades, as they can feel out of place in the fall. Light, breezy fabrics like linen or cotton, as well as floral prints in bright summery colors, are a miss. 

Sandals are not ideal for fall looks. Instead, go for more elegant, fall-appropriate footwear like closed-toe pumps, ankle boots, or dressy flats. Avoid too-casual attire like denim pieces or jersey-knit dresses. Even for a casual wedding, you should aim for polished and put-together looks to honor the significance of the occasion.

For fall weddings, especially when the temperature drops, mini dresses or very revealing styles may feel inappropriate. Opt for more coverage with longer hemlines or sleeves to look seasonally appropriate.

It’s tempting to grab a bulky winter coat, but avoid wearing overly heavy or puffy coats. It’s too soon. Opt for stylish layers instead.

What TO wear to a fall wedding

Opt for rich, warm colors that complement the fall season, such as deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, navy, or plum. Earthy hues like rust, mustard, and olive are gorgeous choices too, as are metallics such as gold, copper, and bronze. Heavier fabrics like velvet, brocade, silk, or satin work beautifully for fall weddings. Textures like lace, sequins, or jacquard will add visual interest and richness to your look.

Bare arms can look out of place, so lean towards dresses or outfits with long sleeves, or plan to layer with a complementary piece.

Styling and accessorizing fall wedding wear

Closed-toe shoes are ideal for fall. Try ankle boots, block-heeled pumps, or tall boots. They provide more coverage and keep you warm, especially for outdoor ceremonies.

The layer you need for your wedding guest ensemble may be a stylish shawl, pashmina, or tailored blazer. A chic wrap or faux fur coat is also a cozy and glamorous option for outdoor weddings. A chic trench coat or tailored long coat in a neutral or deep tone can be the perfect layer for when the temperature drops in the evening.

Inspo: What to wear to a fall wedding

1. Midi or Maxi Length Dress

Midi and maxi dresses are perfect for fall. They offer more coverage for cooler weather while still feeling appropriate for a wedding. A flowy midi dress with a fitted waist or a sleek, column-style maxi dress works well for both formal and semi-formal weddings.

The deep burnt orange hue of this dress by Hutch is perfect for fall. It complements the season’s earthy tones, making it feel both festive and season-appropriate. The fabric has a silky, satin look, which adds elegance and richness. The three-quarter sleeves offer more coverage, which is practical for cooler fall temperatures while still feeling light and airy. The flowing, full-length skirt provides warmth and modesty, while the high slit adds a bit of drama and elegance. This dress can easily be accessorized with fall-appropriate layers like a shawl or a light wrap. It also pairs well with closed-toe shoes or ankle boots for cooler weather.

2. Floral and Print Dress

Fall florals in darker hues or with autumn-inspired tones are a great way to stay on trend. You can also consider abstract prints or patterns in rich fall colors.

This Hutch dress would make a vibrant and stylish choice for a fall wedding. The floral and abstract pattern incorporates deep jewel tones, such as forest green, magenta, and burnt orange, which align perfectly with fall’s rich color palette. The playful print adds personality while still being seasonally appropriate. The midi length provides more coverage than a shorter dress, making it suitable for the cooler fall weather. It’s elegant without being overly formal, a perfect balance for semi-formal or daytime weddings.

The puff sleeves add a whimsical and feminine touch, while offering a little extra coverage on the arms. Though the dress is still light, the sleeves add a visual element that fits the transitional season. While the fabric looks light and airy, the longer length and layered skirt give it a weight that makes it more appropriate for autumn, especially when paired with layers or accessories for warmth.

This dress can easily be dressed up or down depending on the wedding’s dress code. You could add a tailored blazer or a chic wrap for warmth and a more formal look. Pairing it with closed-toe heels or ankle boots would complete the fall vibe. This dress is a fun and lively option for a fall wedding, while still being sophisticated and seasonally mindful.

3. Jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is an excellent choice for a fall wedding. They typically offer more coverage than dresses, which is ideal for the cooler temperatures of fall. With long sleeves, full-length pants, or thicker fabrics, you can stay warm without sacrificing style. Jumpsuits are comfortable and allow more freedom of movement than some dresses, making them ideal for dancing and mingling at the reception without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.

A contemporary alternative to dresses, they’re a stand-out look while remaining elegant. A tailored jumpsuit can look just as polished as a dress, especially in structured or flowing fabrics like silk, crepe, or velvet. You can rent from a wide range of styles, from sleek and minimalist to bold and dramatic.

They can be dressed up or down to fit different wedding settings. For formal or black-tie weddings, a jumpsuit with luxe fabrics like velvet or satin paired with elegant accessories can look as sophisticated as an evening gown. For a casual or daytime wedding, a wide-leg jumpsuit works beautifully.

Jumpsuits are available to rent in a variety of colors. Opt for autumnal tones like deep burgundy, emerald green, navy, mustard, or earthy neutrals to match the season’s mood.

You can easily layer a jumpsuit with a cropped blazer, tailored coat, or even a faux fur jacket for warmth. Add accessories like a statement belt or bold jewelry to elevate the look.

4. Tailored Sheath

Sheath dresses are a popular choice for weddings and formal events because they are both elegant and versatile, offering a refined look that can be dressed up or down with accessories. This vivid cobalt blue example from Sachin & Babi is striking and sophisticated, making a bold statement while still being wedding-appropriate. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional fall hues and brings a modern pop of color to the season.

The fitted design hugs the body in a flattering way, creating a sleek, tailored look. This shape is sophisticated without being overly dramatic, making it great for cocktail attire or evening weddings. The long sleeves are ideal for cooler fall weather, and the simplicity of the sleeves keeps the focus on the sleek silhouette.

The asymmetrical neckline adds a unique, contemporary detail to an otherwise classic dress. It gives the dress a modern edge while maintaining elegance, making it appropriate for both formal and semi-formal weddings. The modest slit adds a bit of allure to the dress without being too revealing.