Fall Wedding Guest Dresses: What to Wear to Autumn Weddings [2024]

published on 10 November 2024
Photo by Bllack Artist from Pexels
Photo by Bllack Artist from Pexels

Got a fall wedding coming up? Let's talk fall wedding guest dresses! 🍂 As someone who's helped countless wedding guests nail that perfect autumn look, I'm here to guide you through everything from rich jewel tones to cozy fabrics. (And no, you don't have to dress like a walking pumpkin spice latte!)

Looking for something unique? Check our vintage dress marketplace for one-of-a-kind fall wedding guest dresses that'll have everyone asking where you found your outfit!

Best Colors for Fall Wedding Guest Dresses

Fall weddings give us the perfect excuse to embrace rich, warm colors. Here are my top picks for fall wedding guest dresses in 2024:

Rich Jewel Tones:

Metallic Moments:

  • Antique Gold
  • Burnished Bronze
  • Rose Gold
  • Champagne (just keep it darker than the bride's dress!)

Autumn Neutrals:

  • Deep Brown
  • Charcoal Gray
  • Deep Plum
  • Midnight Blue

Colors to Avoid:

  • Bright summer pastels
  • Neon anything
  • Pure white/ivory (obviously!)
  • Super light pastels

Fabrics for Fall Wedding Guest Dresses

The key to nailing fall wedding guest attire? Fabric choice! Here's what works best:

Best Fabrics:

  • Velvet (my personal fave for fall weddings!)
  • Silk charmeuse
  • Heavy crepe
  • Light wool blends
  • Satin
  • Brocade

Pro tip: Not ready to buy? Check our wedding dress rental directory - many rental shops offer gorgeous fall wedding guest dresses too!

Fall Wedding Guest Dress Styles by Venue

Outdoor Fall Wedding:

  • Midi length (perfect for those autumn breezes)
  • Long sleeves or sleeve options
  • Wrap styles (easy to adjust for temperature changes)
  • Closed-toe shoes (trust me on this one!)

Indoor Formal Fall Wedding:

  • Full-length gowns in jewel tones
  • Velvet dresses (SO perfect for fall!)
  • Long-sleeve sequin dresses
  • Structured satin pieces

Rustic Barn Fall Wedding:

  • Flowy midi dresses in autumn colors
  • Boot-friendly hemlines
  • Textured fabrics like lace or light knits
  • Layer-friendly styles

Planning ahead? Check out what to wear to winter weddings too!

Where to Buy Sustainable Fall Wedding Guest Dresses

Looking for eco-friendly options? Here are my favorite sustainable brands for fall wedding guest dresses:

Reformation Shop Here

  • Price Range: $200-400
  • Best For: Midi dresses in sustainable silk and velvet
  • Size Range: 0-24
  • Why Love: Perfect jewel tones and sustainable production

Amour Vert Shop Here

  • Price Range: $150-300
  • Best For: Versatile autumn dresses
  • Size Range: XS-XL
  • Why Love: Made in USA, zero-waste design

Sézane Shop Here

  • Price Range: $145-325
  • Best For: French girl chic fall styles
  • Size Range: 2-14
  • Why Love: Certified B Corp with beautiful autumn colors

Farm Rio Shop Here

  • Price Range: $200-400
  • Best For: Unique autumn prints
  • Size Range: XS-XL
  • Why Love: One tree planted per purchase

Rent the Runway Shop Here

  • Price Range: $30-100 (rental)
  • Best For: Designer access on a budget
  • Size Range: 0-22
  • Why Love: Sustainable fashion through renting

Tips for Fall Wedding Guest Success

Temperature Tips:

  • Check the weather forecast
  • Consider indoor/outdoor transitions
  • Choose layer-friendly styles
  • Pick appropriate fabrics for the venue

Photo-Ready Tips:

  • Choose colors that pop against fall foliage
  • Avoid overly bright or distracting prints
  • Pick textures that photograph well
  • Consider outdoor lighting conditions

Comfort Must-Haves:

  • Breathable fabric choices
  • Comfortable seating room
  • Dance-floor friendly
  • Weather-appropriate shoes

What to Avoid

Don't Wear:

  • Summer florals
  • Ultra-bright colors
  • Springtime pastels
  • Too-light fabrics
  • Open-toe shoes (unless confirmed indoor)
  • Heavy fabrics for indoor events

Attending a micro wedding? Check with the micro wedding planners for specific dress code guidance!

Ready to Shop?

Remember:

  • Embrace rich autumn colors
  • Choose seasonal fabrics
  • Consider the venue and weather
  • Plan for temperature changes
  • Think about photos
  • Prioritize comfort

Need more wedding guest dress advice? Check our complete wedding guest dress guide for year-round tips!

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