68 Fall Wedding Guest Dresses To Celebrate Autumn Vows
Find a dress that embodies the rich, warm colors of the season.
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With the upcoming fall wedding season fast approaching, it's time to reevaluate your closet. A Save the Date or wedding invitation in your mailbox means you’ll quickly need to decide on exactly what to wear as a wedding guest. With so many different styles of wedding attire, finding an appropriate outfit or wedding guest dress can be challenging. We're breaking it down to make it simple to pick the perfect dress for any style of fall wedding.
Determine the Wedding Style
So, you might know what not to wear to a wedding—and if you don’t, it’s listed down below—but do you know what to wear? Every wedding will have a different dress code, ranging from casual afternoon outfits to stunning, floor length evening gowns at a black tie affair. Each occasion requires knowledge of what is appropriate wedding guest attire and what should be avoided at all costs.
Use the invitation for clues
Is the wedding outdoors? Make sure to avoid heels that will sink into the grass. If the wedding starts in the morning or early afternoon, it is safe to assume that the affair will be a little more casual. Does the event start at night? Make sure to wear a nighttime appropriate dress or suit. If the wedding is in the later months of fall (such as an October or November wedding), make sure to bring a coat, shawl, or wrap to stay warm. If the wedding is in a church, choose a dress that covers your shoulders for modesty.
Avoid wearing colors of the wedding based on the colors used in the wedding invitation. While this might not always be true for every bride or every wedding, it should give a good clue as to the colors the couple plans to use.
Research the venue
What does the venue look like? Have you seen photos from other weddings? What were the guests wearing? If the event takes place at a ritzy downtown hotel, it’s safe to assume that the wedding guest attire will be black tie. If it is a beach wedding, you want to be prepared with a lightweight dress, made of breathable fabric. Always make sure to match the location.
When in doubt, ask!
If there’s any uncertainty when deciding what to wear to a wedding, simply ask the bride and groom! It’s always better to be prepared and not guess on your wedding guest outfit.
Price Reference (average price):
$ | Under $50
$$ | Between $50-$100
$$$ | Between $100-$200
$$$$ | More than $200+
What to Wear to a Casual Daytime Wedding
A wedding that takes place during the day is more likely to be a low key or semi formal affair. Consider wearing a light, comfortable dress that you might wear to a work function or church. Choose simple patterns or understated detailing. Floral print patterns (make sure there isn’t too much white!) or feminine details are always a good choice.
Our Picks:
Image: Lulu’s
Flowery Passion Cowl Neck Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
Cowl neck dresses are a flattering shape on many different body types and this floral dress has true vintage fall vibes, great for an October wedding!
Image: Lulu’s
Navy Blue Skater Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
This dark floral dress has romantic sleeves and a short hem that fits in perfectly as an afternoon wedding guest dress, but that could be worn to a variety of other occasions, too!
Image: Reformation
Winslow Dress
Reformation
Price: $$$$
Sustainable Fashion
If you aren’t quite ready to let summer go just yet, this floral maxi dress can take you into a fall wedding—casual afternoon or cocktail evening. Even better, you can save this classic design and be ready to pull it out of your closet in the spring, as it will be an ideal fit for a springtime wedding or party.
Image: Amazon
Lace Trim Garden Dress
MarsRoad
Price: $
Even though it’s listed as a Mother of the Bride dress, this sweet lace dress comes in more than 35 colors and would be a perfect dress option for bridesmaids, too.
Image: Shein
Ditzy Floral Maxi
Shein
Price: $
The boho details of this off the shoulder dress are a trendy way to incorporate this year’s popular style into an outfit that would also be perfect for a date night.
Style tip: Combine another one of this year’s hottest trends—clogs!—into a comfortable shoe option that keeps toes covered in colder weather, while still giving yourself that needed height!
Image: Lulu’s
Darling Daylily Black Floral Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
Dark florals are a staple of the cooler months, so it’s right at home at a fall wedding. The ruffles provide a romantic detail, fitting for an afternoon or evening celebrating love.
Image: Macy’s
Linen Belted Dress
Donna Karan
Price: $$$
A fall wedding doesn’t necessarily mean that the weather will be cooler. The breezy linen fabric will be perfect for a wedding, and we love the tapestry-inspired print of this belted dress.
Image: Amazon
Sleeveless Bodycon Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
While this collared dress comes in a variety of different colors, we love that this deep purple is an unexpected color choice that looks both elegant and flirty at the same time. Plus, it’s an affordable option that you could style all season long—especially in a business casual capsule wardrobe!
Tip: For a cooler fall evening, wear a blazer as a jacket.
Image: Macy’s
Square Neck Belted Dress
Donna Karan
Price: $$$
Could there be a dress more fitting for a garden wedding than this belted dress? The length shows off just a little bit of leg, while the simple style makes it easy to layer a fall jacket over top when the party goes into the night.
Image: Amazon
Satin Tie Waist Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
A deep blue satin dress adorned with a flattering tie waist, this is another chic choice for a wedding guest dress.
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Gathered Puff Sleeve Dress
Sam Edelman
Price: $$$
This puff sleeve floral dress has the kind of soft print that you’ll want to pair with your favorite over the knee boots to wear all season long, wedding guest or not.
Image: Nordstrom
Floral Halter Sundress
House of CB
Price: $$$$
Fans of Bridgerton rejoice! This romantic floral dress is fitting for a ball—maybe you’ll just find a suitor yourself!
Image: Amazon
Long Sleeve Tie Maxi
BTFBM
Price: $
If you’re looking to spend under $50 for a wedding guest dress, this floral option can’t be beat! Even better, you can wear it all fall and winter long when paired with boots and a jacket, too!
What to Wear to an Evening Wedding
Most weddings will fall under this category. Find a classic dress shape that transitions from day to evening. Cocktail dresses or formal party dresses are ideal evening wedding guest dress options. Beading and lace can also be appropriate, when worn in tasteful moderation. Dress lengths can be a little shorter, but aim for age-appropriate and slightly above—or below—the knee. Fall is a great time to play with jewel-toned solids, such as emeralds and amethysts. While many evening weddings will be indoors during the fall, make sure to reference the invitation to bring a jacket, if needed. Sleeves may be a perfect choice for cooler evening weddings, especially if the venue has an outdoor component.
Our Picks:
Image: Lulu’s
Celebration Time Tiered Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
This tiered dress is one of our favorites to add a little bit of volume to your skirt while still being form-fitting to let you dance the night away!
Image: Lulu’s
I’m All Yours Ruffled Maxi
Lulu’s
Price: $$
Ruffled shoulders and a deep V-neckline, added with a high slit in this maxi dress, give it just the right amount sexy without being over the top for a wedding guest dress. Plus, it comes in 7 different colors!
Image: Amazon
Mock Neck Asymmetrical Dress
Kounai
Price: $
What can we say? We’re suckers for high necklines! Whereas some dresses can feel just a bit too modest, the balloon sleeves, cinched waist, and mini length make this dress anything but!
Image: Amazon
Lace Sleeve Midi Dress
Trifetcrow
Price: $$
This icy blue dress is ideal for anyone looking for a modest wedding guest dress. The elbow length sleeves keep arms covered, and the dress comes in more than 30 colors, making it another perfect choice for bridesmaids or a Mother of the Bride alike.
Image: Nordstrom
Persia Satin Sheath
Petal & Pup
Price: $
A little black dress is a closet essential! This bodycon dress hugs in all the right places, with unique detailing and a hem that stops just below the knee.
Image: Anthropologie
Off Shoulder Pleated Dress
Hutch
Price: $$$
In a sea of darker, earthy colors, why not try a pop of red? This rich shade works perfectly for a fall wedding, but with tights and a faux fur jacket, will be ready for any winter weddings on your calendar, too!
Image: Nordstrom
Abstract Print Pleated Dress
Tahari ASL
Price: $$$
Saying goodbye to summer shouldn’t also mean saying goodbye to bright, bold colors. This pleated dress is a fun nod to summer, but with just enough shades of orange to welcome in the fall as well.
Image: Nordstrom
Asymmetrical Hem Satin Midi Dress
Open Edit
Price: $$
We love the sheen of this dress and the asymmetrical cut makes it anything but boring! The high neck and midi skirt complete the flirty details on this fall cocktail dress that comes in a color to suit any wedding.
Style tip: Since you are attending a fall wedding, try pairing this dress with an oversized blazer — it can act as both a coat to keep you warm during the ceremony and a statement piece during the after party!
Image: Amazon
Tiered V-Neck Dress
ROSETOO
Price: $$
Another Mother of the Bride dress that we love, the flowing chiffon jacket comes off to reveal a figure-flattering V-neck dress that is not just stunning, but under $100, too.
Image: Macy’s
Metallic Jacquard Dress
Donna Karan
Price: $$$$
This sleeveless dress has just a hint of shimmer throughout our favorite fall hues.
Image: Lulu’s
Take a Glance Tiered Mock Neck Midi Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
What’s not to love about the feminine, delicate ruffles of this mock neck dress? The tiered skirt and romantic details of this dress provide a uniqueness, while the deep hue is perfect for an early fall event, such as a September wedding.
Image: ASTR The Label
Ira Satin Wrap Shirt Dress
ASTR The Label
Price: $$
This wrap dress is a fun, party-ready take on a classic workwear shape. It has a figure-flattering tie waist with a hem that is short (but not too short!) for an evening wedding.
Style tip: For a more modest look, try pairing this dress with a pair of sheer sheer black tights and heeled ankle boots!
Image: Amazon
Sequin Two Piece Mother Of The Bride Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $$
Who said that Mother of the Bride dresses had to be frumpy? This knee length dress has just the right amount of sparkle and with a removable jacket, she can dance the night away.
Image: Lulu’s
Enchanted Moments Satin Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
A dark mauve satin dress screams fall wedding guest dress and the shorter front hem lets you show off your favorite heels as you dance the night away!
Image: Nordstrom
Bridgette Faux Leather Dress
Steve Madden
Price: $$$
Before you say: faux leather?! hear us out! Faux leather is leading the way as a trending fabric for the upcoming fall season and we think that it can be an edgy alternative to a traditional satin or beaded evening wedding guest dress.
Style tip: To avoid the dress being too much, keep the rest of the outfit incredibly understated and let the unexpected dress shine.
Feather Sleeve Midi Dress
Newshows
Price: $
This under $50 option is for those that want a unique dress to wear to a wedding. The feather cuffs give this otherwise simple dress a cocktail feel, with a split hem that shows just the right amount of leg.
Image: Nordstrom
Sloane Sleeveless Sheath Dress
Dress the Population
Price: $$$
For those who prefer longer hems on their dresses, this simple, yet incredibly flattering dress in a dark pine is an ideal choice for a cocktail or evening wedding. Even better, this sleek, chic shape can be worn to a variety events, including a black tie optional affair.
Image: Dillard’s
Illusion Mesh Cocktail Dress
Aidan Mattox
Price: $$$
This unique dress has a mesh overlay with a delicate floral pattern that gives a simple black dress a one-of-a-kind, vintage feel.
Image: Lulu’s
Favorite Icon Black Floral Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $
The colors of this elegant midi dress have a sexy, yet sweet detailing that makes it a dress you can wear again and again!
Image: Amazon
Sequin Mother Of The Bride Cocktail Dress
Grace Karin
Price: $
Move over frumpy MOTB dresses! This two piece set has just the right amount of sparkle and a removable jacket that easily takes it from the ceremony onto the dance floor!
Image: Amazon
Off The Shoulder High/Low Dress
Sarin Mathews
Price: $
Maybe just a bit too short to make our list of black tie optional attire, this elegant dress combined the structure of a traditional ball gown with the fun, flirty leg reveal of an evening party dress.
What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding in the Fall
This might be one of the hardest invitations to decipher. For black tie optional events, you have the option of choosing formal attire (think: ball gown) or an elegant cocktail dress. Keep the entire look sophisticated and simple by avoiding any bold or colorful statement jewelry or distracting accessories. Wear rich colors, such as dark purples, emeralds or navy. While black may not always be appropriate at a wedding (although many traditions have softened), black dresses are absolutely an option for this style of invitation. The dress length should hit at the knee or below. When in doubt, it would be wiser to err on the side of formal than too casual.
Our Picks:
Image: Lulu’s
Samai Red Cap Sleeve Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $
A full length dress in a lipstick red color couldn’t be any more perfect for a wedding guest dress.
Image: Amazon
Formal Sequin Dress & Jacket Set
Teplpce
Price: $$
Not only is this dark plum dress affordable, it’s the perfect two piece set! The soft lines and voluminous fabric gives it a one-of-a-kind feel.
Image: Lulus
Classic Elegance Sleeveless Dress
Lulus
Price: $$
We can’t get enough of this deep cabernet red dress, but the cinched waistline and mockneck gives the perfect shape for any busty ladies look for a wedding guest dress this fall.
Image: Nordstrom
Ruffle Halter Flare Gown
Xscape
Price: $$$$
When you want a true showstopper, this dress checks that box. With a high neckline and a ruffled hem, it makes us feel like we’re that dancing emoji that you love to use…except in a vivid fuscia.
Image: Nordstrom
Cape Sleeve Sheath Dress
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$
When you want to make an impression without saying a word, this is the dress you need to pull out of your closet. The cape-like sleeves and perfect midi length make this a dress that simply commands attention when you walk into any room.
Image: Amazon
Crushed Velvet Wrap Dress
BerryGo
Price: $
The crushed, soft velvet plus side slit (which isn’t too revealing) has us living! The deep orange hue of this long gown, along with the long sleeves, give us all the spooky fall vibes that would be absolutely perfect for an October wedding.
Image: Nordstrom
Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$
Don’t limit this formal dress to just weddings! This one-shoulder midi dress would be a great option for business dinners, fundraisers, or charity events.
Style tip: Try it with a gold or silver heel and a jeweled clutch for a sexy New Year’s Eve party outfit!
Image: Nordstrom
Stretch Taffeta & Velvet Gown
Tadashi Soji
Price: $$$$
An elegant dress choice with a soft velvet makes for a beautiful evening wedding guest dress.
Style tip: Make the neckline of this dress the focal point! But, you can still add a bit of sparkle with a delicate necklace or drop earrings.
Image: Nordstrom
Audrina Strapless Gown
Dress The Population
Price: $$$
If you want a little shimmer without going over the top with sparkle, this rich, wine red dress is a simple, yet fitting option for an evening wedding.
Image: Amazon
Mock Neck Satin Long Sleeve Dress
BTFBM
Price: $
A black tie optional dress for under $50? Is that even possible? Yes, it is! This gorgeous mock neck dress is reminiscent of the much more expensive Mac Duggal dress on our list, but for a fraction of the cost. No one will ever know that you got it on Amazon.
Image: Lulu’s
How Much I Care Off the Shoulder Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $
An off-the-shoulder, bodycon wedding guest dress that come in the perfect fall hue? We’ll be adding this one to our cart.
Image: Nordstrom
Metallic Off the Shoulder Embroidered Gown
Xscape Evenings
Price: $$$$
This refined dress comes in a sophisticated (yet unexpected!) subtle silver color that would look beautiful paired with your favorite diamond jewelry and accessories.
Image: Nordstrom
Blair Embellished Fit & Flare Dress
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
We can’t help ourselves — we are suckers for anything with romantic details around here! Add in the shimmering sequins, nude mesh underlay, and a figure flattering fit-and-flare dress, and we’re in love!
Image: Lulu’s
Heavenly Hues Maxi Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
As gorgeous as it is simple, this is an under $100 stunner that comes in six other colors—perfect if you need another color for spring, summer, or winter weddings!
What to Wear to A Fall Black Tie Wedding
The dress code for a black tie wedding means one thing: a formal evening gown. The dress should be full length. As black tie attire can be very expensive, we would recommend selecting a classic dress option that will be able to be worn for other formal weddings or black tie events. Keep jewelry and accessories simple and understated.
Our Picks:
Image: Nordstrom
Tux Detail Strapless Column Gown
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$$
An absolute show-stopper of a gown, this classic silhouette can be a timeless addition to your closet.
Image: Macy’s
Bow-Trimmed One Shoulder Dress
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$$
While this dress does come in hues traditionally seen at black tie weddings, we think that there is something elegant about a bright red. The shade can also pair well for any upcoming winter weddings when styled with a faux fur jacket or coat.
Image: Nordstrom
One-Shoulder Crepe Scuba Gown
Betsy & Adam
Price: $$$$
Another beautifully simplistic gown, this full length dress has elbow-length sleeves for extra coverage and a cut that will look flattering on all different body types of all ages.
Image: Lulu’s
Emerald Velvet Maxi Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
A beautiful emerald green, this velvet dress just barely kisses the ground, providing an effect that makes you look effortlessly tall and statuesque.
Image: Nordstrom
Tie Waist Ombrè Skirt Gown
SLNY
Price: $$
The long sleeves, combined with an oversized bow and ombrè skirt, make a beautiful statement, while still remaining modest and wedding guest appropriate.
Image: Lulu’s
Melora Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
A black tie wedding guest dress doesn’t have to be stiff or stuffy when done tastefully. This full length dress hugs your curves in all the right places while keeping the detailing simple and elegant.
Image: Nordstrom
Embellished Cold Shoulder Column Evening Gown
Alex Evenings
Price: $$
A gorgeous column dress with a portrait collar is understated elegance, with a gathered waist that draws attention in a simple, yet show-stopping silhouette.
Image: Nordstrom
Strapless High/Low Gown
Alfred Sung
Price: $$$$
While most black tie wedding guest dresses are full length, we will make an exception for this satin stunner with a high/low hem line. With a fitted waist and a sweetheart neckline, this dress gives us full Cinderella vibes — without the pumpkin at the end of the night!
Image: Nordstrom
Georgina One-Shoulder Crepe Gown
Dress The Population
Price: $$$$
This might be one of our favorite dresses on this list — and it’s easy to see why! This gown captures both sexiness grace, while creating a look that is fit for a movie star.
Image: Lulu’s
Black Floral Embroidered Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$
Heading to a black tie event but need to stay on budget? This lace maxi dress proves that you can still have all of the style of a full length gown without the price tag! This dress hugs your figure, while the lace adds a feminine touch, all for under $100!
Image: Nordstrom
Long Sleeve Satin Sheath Gown
Mac Duggal
Price: $$$$
We agree with Nikki Minaj: Why look simple, when you can look stunning? This black tie wedding guest gown is one of the most expensive dresses on this list, but with billowing sleeves and a jeweled neckline, this dress positively brings the drama!
Image: Nordstrom
Bow Shoulder V-Neck Gown
Mac Duggal
Price: $$$$
This is easily our favorite black tie wedding guest dress on the list (if not the entire thing!). The dress is structured and fully lined, giving your body both shape and support, while the bow adds a little bit of extra detail.
Tip: While this is a dress that may be best suited for smaller busts, a seamstress may be able to add a simple mesh detail to provide more modesty without taking away from the style of the dress.
Gowning Around Floral Jacquard Strapless Dress
Lulu’s
Price: $$$
While excess sparkle and bold patterns are not often seen with black tie dresses, a muted floral pattern such as this can liven up a chic column silhouette.
Note: If your dress features a pattern, make sure that the shape of the gown is simple to avoid anything too busy.
Wear a Jumpsuit
While a non-traditional option, in recent years the jumpsuit has risen in popularity. There are a large variety of fitted, elegant jumpsuits that could be used and worn for a number of events, not just as a wedding guest. These unique options can be styled in a variety of different ways and offer a unique twist on the standard wedding attire.
Our Picks:
Image: Nordstrom
Notched Neck Sleeveless Jumpsuit
Tahari ASL
Price: $$$
The tailored high waist of this jumpsuit makes legs look impossibly long.
Image: Nordstrom
Leyton Asymmetric Jumpsuit
Petal & Pup
Price: $$
Another option on our list that can be styled throughout the seasons, toss on a structured jacket or blazer, a pair of ankle boots, and you’re ready for a fall wedding event!
Image: Lulus
Feel Your Love Ruffled Jumpsuit
Lulus
Price: $$
Ruffled shoulder straps and an open back add to the feminine details of this jumpsuit.
Image: Nordstrom
Stretch Crepe Jumpsuit
JS Collections
Price: $$$
If you want to rock a jumpsuit, but want a bit more coverage in your look, this is for you! The unique tied top gives an unexpected twist to a simple all-black outfit.
Image: Lulu’s
Power of Love Red Strapless Jumpsuit
Lulu’s
Price: $
Show off those collarbones! This neckline is stunning, and the two piece illusion is something that you don’t often see—the perfect way to make a subtle statement.
Image: Nordstrom
Strapless Taffeta & Crepe Jumpsuit
Adrianna Papell
Price: $$$
While we would normally frown on wearing any form of white to a wedding, the detailing of this jumpsuit feels more like a traditional suit than a conflict to the bride. Plus, it works well in a variety of different wedding styles.
Image: Amazon
Metallic Halter Jumpsuit
Vince Camuto
Price: $$
This jumpsuit blends the wide leg trend with comfortable fabric and cut for a wedding guest outfit that you won’t want to take off!
What Not to Wear to a Wedding
Weddings have changed drastically since their more traditional beginnings. Even though there are few true dress codes when it comes to wedding attire, there are a few unwritten rules to always follow.
Do not wear white
Even in an informal setting, it’s best not to compete with the bride on her day. Avoid this color at all costs.
Never wear jeans
Garth Brooks said it best: Showing up in boots ruins a black tie affair. Even at the most casual of weddings, we suggest leaving your favorite denim (or boots!) at home, unless specifically requested by the bride or groom.
Avoid anything too low-cut or revealing
While a little bit of sexiness is always welcome, too much can become distracting or inappropriate, especially when family members are present.
Avoid wearing the colors of the wedding
You don’t want to be mistaken for a member of the bridal party. While the wedding invitation is generally a hint as to the colors of the wedding, if you have questions, reach out to the bride or groom for clarification.
Too much sparkle
Even if the invitation calls for formal attire, leave the rhinestones and overly flashy, metallic fabrics to cocktail parties. A beaded gown, however, can be an elegant option!
How to Accessorize for a Fall Wedding
Adding a bit of dramatic flair to your wedding guest attire is simple. Remember, in all instances, your accessories or jewelry should not take away from the bride. Classic pieces of jewelry and dance-appropriate heels will be your best friend.
Choose the Right Shoes
Most weddings will involve plenty of dancing, so it’s imperative that you have a comfortable pair of shoes. Heels with a thicker block heel will not only be great for outdoor weddings, but be more comfortable to walk in. Dressier shoes, such as pumps, can be a classic addition if your feet are visible in your dress.
Keep the Jewelry Simple
Any jewelry for your dress should be tasteful and not overpower your dress. Stay away from overly ornate earrings or necklaces. For formal jewelry, choose simple, classic pieces that can be worn for any occasion.
