What to Wear to a Fall Wedding

What To Wear to a Fall Wedding

Wondering What to Wear to a Fall Wedding? I’ve put together a quick guide to help you find the dress for your upcoming event. First, before I RSVP to a wedding, I’m mindful of the invitation. The invite sets the tone of the event. If you want to be respectful to your hosts, then pay close attention. Not all invites will specify a dress code. And if you find yourself wondering more, I would check with the venue. It’s also essential to keep in mind the season. Don’t choose a dress you already own just because you want to get more use of it. To look fashionable, you should always wear colors of the season. Now, this may allow you to wear something you already own, which is perfect. Yet, you don’t want to wear something too summery if your wedding is in September.  

Five tips to help you select that perfect dress  

1. Let your confidence shine through.
2. Do not show too much skin and be mindful about going to ceremonies in a place of worship.  
3. Be Authentic. Know your most flattering fit and color palette. I feel that a loose fit is more flattering than something skintight. If you aren’t sure about your true style, then think back to what you were wearing when you received a compliment. 
4. You don’t always have to buy a new dress. You can take your favorite dress and update it with vogue accessories. A classic dress mixed with something unique can be alluring.  
5. Always try on your outfit beforehand and make sure you have the right undergarments. Cindy Crawford used to have her daughter Kaia take a photo of her to make sure her outfit looked good. It’s also helpful to have a photo of the dress, especially if you are shopping for shoes and accessories.   

My Top Sites to Shop for Wedding Guest Dresses

1. Saks Fifth Avenue– Has a great selection of high quality designer dresses available to shop.
2. BHLDN (a division of Anthropologie) – offers a vast variety of sizes, cuts and textures to choose from.
3. Nordstrom – always a go to. Their easy returns make ordering a few options an option for you.
4. Revolve– quick shipping and an assortment of trendy brands and styles
5. Amazon– I know, but don’t sleep on this favorite site. Through their partnership with Shopbop and other brands. You are able to find great pieces and have them sent directly to your door.
6. Rent The Runway– I recently partnered with Rent The Runway and have had a great experience. It’s a great option to try for a special event. Just make sure to reserve your item ahead of time as hot brands book out fast! I wrote about my experience here

What to Wear to an Outdoor Venue

As I mentioned above, venues often indicate the wedding theme. Note that dresses aren’t all you need to plan for, as you need to be strategic about your shoes if attending an outdoor wedding. 

With a beach ceremony a host will often offer flip flops. That said, you will want to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. I have these shoes, they are very comfortable and chic for a beach wedding. Another detail to think about would be the fabric of your dress, as beach weddings can be balmy. Lightweight dresses that flow with the breeze are an excellent choice. 

With a mountain top wedding ceremony, you may have to ride a ski lift or walk a gravel stone path. Another important reason to have comfortable flats or even booties like these on hand. You can always swap out your shoes at the reception. And don’t forget to bring along a shawl or wrap as mountain top ceremonies can be cool and windy. Trust me on this one.   

How to Decipher Dress Codes

A Formal or black tie requires a long dress. Whereas cocktail attire, black tie optional, and semi formal call for shorter cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, or mid length dresses.  Dresses in metallics, such as bronze, and rose gold are popular for fall. Wearing a black dress is always a good safe choice, however dresses in burnt orange, caramel, and Bordeaux, will have you standing out in the crowd. 

Whether you decide to purchase a new dress, update a classic one you already own, or rent a dress. I hope that you have what you need to find out what to wear to a fall wedding.

You have been invited to share in the celebration of marriage. And while a tasteful party dress is fun, remember you will also be expressing your sentiment towards honoring the Bride & Groom.  

Cheers!