The Best Guest Dresses for an Autumn Wedding
It’s no secret that fall is a favorite season for weddings. And being a guest, the first reaction to receiving that invitation is usually excitement—followed by the dread of having nothing to wear for such a special occasion. One thing we like to keep in mind: just because the temperatures are dropping, doesn’t mean you have to dial back your style too.
Raise the sartorial bar for fall party dressing by reaching for rich, luxe fabrics such as plush velvet, lustrous satin or add some shine with metallic accents. In terms of color, right royal jewel tones are easy shortcuts to a sophisticated ensemble. On the other side of the coin, you can still don something unexpected by choosing a brighter shade of a fall color in the same family. Don’t feel like wearing a deep purple? Fuchsia is fine too!
The first step to deciding a look is by considering where the nuptials are taking place. For outside ceremonies on a breezy day, long sleeves and high-neck pieces will keep you covered in the chicest way. Indoors, slim-fitted slip dresses or high-slit cold shoulders are sure to wow. If that’s still a bit confusing, we’re here to help. Read on to see all the frocks that will snag you that best dressed guest title to your next wedding.
Florals for Fall
Mockneck Draped Midi Dress With Side Slits
Who says florals are just for spring-summer? This high-neck number offers an earthy and fall-worthy version. The full coverage look makes it even more sophisticated and lets the print do all the talking. Rock this for outdoor ceremonies with some tall boots to really accentuate those side slits.
For Art’s Sake
Dr2 Pleated Dress With Short Sleeves
Not all weddings call for long frocks. For more tinimate ceremonies, try a midi in an artful, pumpkin spice print. The square neck complements the chiffon sleeves by giving the bodice some shape, while the belt flatters the figure by cinching the waist.
Pastels Please
Button Down Pearl Button Juliette Midi Dress
This ice cream shade might be muted but it’s enhanced beautifully with dreamy details. Voluminous sleeves give the empire silhouette definition, the deep V neckline plunges down to a bevy of Mother of Pearl buttons, plus a ruched faux belt perfectly sits on the waist to create an hourglass shape. It’s made of organic breathable cotton too so fret not for in-between weather.
Wild Side
Set Sail Puff Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress
Animal print will never go out of style and when done right, it can be a permanent staple in your wardrobe. Instead of the usual leopard or cheetah print, try tiger stripes in a high-low midi. This type of pattern makes for a more directional silhouette than its spotted counterparts. The puff sleeves and self-tie belt also break its busy print to bring attention to your figure’s best features.
Eyes On You
Fuchsia Cotton Cutout Midi Dress
Cutouts are all the rage right now. And in conjunction with a happy fuchsia, it’s definitely going to be a statement maker. This babydoll midi shows skin in all the right places—covering the midriff to make way for two triangle cutouts to form a strappy tie at the back. The volume and flow on the skirt and sleeves just make it an overall eyecatcher.
Out West
Forget about plain black-tie dresses. Add flair to a monochromatic look with Western-inspired details. The split neckline with a front tie makes this a unique piece for any special affair and with ruffles at every angle, it adorns a graceful flow to every step. Complement this sleek ensemble with a bold red lip and small chunky hoops.
In the Limelight
Brooklyn Long Sleeve Midi Fit And Flare Dress
Lime and a glossy satin—a combination that definitely needs no explanation. A high-shine fabric like this is especially stunning under the sun. And while this silhouette screams vintage, the asymmetrical ruffle at the center gives it a modern touch. Keep everything simple around this look to truly let it be the star of the show such as thin, strappy heels and dainty jewelry.
Gold Standard
Short Sleeve Pleated Velvet Midi Dress
We’re big fans of velvet for fall. Sprinkle in some pleats and you’ve got yourself a luxurious piece to keep wearing for formal events in the colder months—layered smartly, of course. This golden frock sports a gorgeous fit and flare silhouette that accentuates hourglass figures or defines curves for other body types. One thing’s for sure, it’s a winning look for all.
Royal Treatment
Isabelle Long Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress
A fall look wouldn’t be complete without jewel tones. This royal shade of purple looks even more stunning on deeper skin tones along with contrasting details like bishop sleeves and a wrap-style waist that gives it a vintage feel. Enhance the plunging neckline by going for a simple pendant or stacking thin chains together.
Dynamic Duo
Bahagia Iza Daphne Blouse/Maya Wrap Skirt
Don’t feel like committing to a dress? Try separates. Buying a set is an even better investment as it allows you to utilize both pieces to mix and match with your existing wardrobe. This pair doesn’t only work well in the fall but it could also be taken to spring and summer because of its classic details. Highlights your legs by matching the high slit with strappy lace-up heels that tie up the leg.
Show Off Your Style
It’s not often that we get to go to such a momentous event. And while it may be easier to take the safe route by opting for a simple black outfit, take this time to have fun with dressing to the nines. More importantly, it would be wise to have a balance of exploring different styles but making sure you’ll still love wearing it beyond the occasion.
