Every season has its admirers, and fall seems to have more than most. There’s so much to love about it: the crisp morning air, cozy dark evenings, and pumpkin spice everything. It’s no wonder why fall weddings are so popular. In fact, more weddings occur between September and November than any other time throughout the year.
If you’re attending a wedding this season, it can be both exciting and stressful to find the perfect fall wedding guest outfit. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you sort through your closet, head to the mall, or shop online this fall.
Fall Wedding Guest Dress Tips
As the evenings get longer and darker, so does fall wedding attire. It’s time to say goodbye to the bright neon colors of summer and embrace the warmer tones of fall. Burnt orange, deep plum, chocolate brown, olive green, and mustard yellow are rich, earthy colors that reflect the beauty of the season.
The color of your outfit is just one element. Add more seasonal flair with a dark floral design, botanical print, or subtle plaid pattern. Textures like velvet, wool, and tweed are also great for fall weddings because the fabric adds an extra layer of warmth.
Lay on the Layers
Fall is a transitional season that eases us into the bitter cold of winter. The weather is temperate but can also be unpredictable, varying drastically from day to day or from morning through evening. The secret to staying comfortable (and warm) as a fall wedding guest is to bring layers and be prepared for multiple kinds of weather.
Here are a few ways to add warmth to your wedding guest outfit without sacrificing style:
- Carry a cardigan or chunky sweater for a light layer
- Cover your shoulders with a cape or wrap
- Top off your outfit with a trench coat or leather jacket
- Bring a blazer for a boost in temp
Remember: you can always take off an extra layer and leave it at your chair, but you can’t add an extra layer if you didn’t bring it in the first place. It’s always better to be over prepared than under.
Fall Wedding Guest Shoes
While summer is synonymous with sandals, boots are better suited for autumn. They’re a great choice for fall wedding guest shoes because they offer seasonal style with added warmth. Plus, they won’t get stuck in the muddy, cold grass like your tried and true heels.
Boots are also great because there are so many different kinds to choose from. Depending on the wedding dress code and your outfit, you could wear short booties, knee-high riding boots, or something in between.
Fall Accessories
Last but not least, the right accessories can help you transform an everyday wedding guest outfit into an autumnal wedding guest outfit. Choose mixed metal jewelry for a bold yet chic look that both contrasts and complements fall’s color palette. Add a scarf for a pop of color and a chunky belt for extra dimension.
Tips for Choosing a Fall Wedding Guest Outfit
Fall fashion gets even more exciting when you have a wedding to attend. Before you buy your fall wedding guest outfit, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider the location and time of day. Be mindful of where and when the wedding is taking place, and don’t assume all fall weddings are the same.
- Check the wedding dress code details. If you have any questions about the dress code, ask the couple to clarify or research best practices online.
- Shop your closet and see what you already own. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to buy a new outfit for each wedding that you attend. You likely have pieces in your closet from last fall that can be repurposed.
Whatever you end up wearing, we hope you have fun and enjoy the fall wedding festivities.
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
