33 Fabulous Fall Wedding Guest Dresses, Outerwear Ideas, and More

We’re coming close to autumn, and there’s so much to love about the season. From the welcoming scents of cinnamon and pumpkin to the colorful display of changing leaves, the season has so much to offer. Those who’ve had the pleasure of attending a fall wedding know just how magical they can be. If you’ve been invited to one or more autumn events but can’t find fall wedding guest dresses you actually like, we can help.

Don’t spend hours scouring the web or hopping from site to site on your hunt for fashionable, affordable fall wedding guest dresses; just keep reading! From the hottest looks of the year to some of the most creative party dresses you’ve ever seen, this list has it all.

Fall wedding guest dresses that fit your style and budget

To kick off our list, we’re looking at some of 2023’s most prominent fashion trends and why they’re perfect for fall weddings.

On-trend fall wedding guest dresses

1. Knitted dresses

Although knits tend to be popular every fall, knitwork has dominated the fashion scene for all of 2023. If you’re looking for a trendy outfit that balances textile and texture, look for knitted dresses this wedding season. All-knit not quite your style? Add a knitted wrap or gloves to your ensemble instead.

2. Cutouts

Cutouts are having a moment in 2023. We’ve seen the negative-space trend everywhere, from couture runways to streetwear collections, even the wonderful world of weddings. Like the Dolce cutout jersey midi from Staud ($248), many of the trendiest cutout dress designs are monochromatic, often with a retro, vintage vibe.  

3. Hooded gowns

Runway-inspired hooded gowns have arrived—and in a big way. Hooded dresses may not be the first ensemble idea that pops into your mind when you think “wedding guest,” but Hello Magazine suggests wearing them to an outdoor wedding to add a dash of drama to the affair.

4. Rosettes

Another reemerging Y2K fashion trend—like chokers and “mom jeans”—rosettes are back in style. Inspired by early aughts French-girl fashion, rosette prints, appliques, and accessories are everywhere. Embrace the trend and rock the Diane dress from Rouje Paris to the next fall wedding you attend. The slim straps and rose-adorned neckline are complemented by the dainty jacquard polka dots covering the dress.

Fall wedding guest dresses that stand out

Don’t keep up with seasonal styles? That’s no problem! Although we adore fashion and following trends, we don’t recommend choosing a dress that you don’t like simply because it’s “in season.” Instead, shop for unique fall dresses like the gowns below.

5. Sea Louie patchwork smocked dress

If you’re a fan of prairie-inspired styles, the Sea Louie patchwork smock dress is right up your alley. With billowing puff sleeves and a mid-length silhouette, this offbeat frock pairs well with sandals or booties. Additionally, the peplum waistline is flattering on many beautiful body types. This quilt-inspired dress from Hamden Clothing ($395) is perfect for a rustic farm ceremony, a vineyard-inspired event, or a quaint pond wedding.

6. Hot pink Rina-B dress from Saloni

Whether you’re attending a 60s-themed wedding or looking for a way to brighten up a dreary fall wedding day, a hot pink dress should do the trick. In addition to Rina-B's bright color and mesmerizing pattern, the dress has a flounce collar and blouson bodice that truly make it one of a kind. Rina-B also comes in other colors, including green, brandy red, and black; find it on Amazon and ShopBop.

7. Jacinta maxi dress from Khaite

Contemporary and fashionable, this off-shoulder slip-on style is perfect for fall weddings. The long fringes and full ruching on this maxi dress from Khaite create a fitted, flattering shape, and the olive green color is well-suited for autumn’s atmosphere. One of the priciest dresses on our list, the Jacinta is currently available on Mytheresa for $3,400.

8. Sequin and faux feather maxi by ASOS Design

You may think sequins and features are too much for one outfit. Once upon a time, we might have thought the same, but that was before we saw this luxe sequin maxi dress from ASOS Designs. Colorful faux feathers adorn the long sleeves of this dress perfect for a maximalist wedding. The garment also features an open back and dazzling sequins that catch the light. Originally, Nordstrom listed this design at $200. However, a limited-time sale had this dress priced at $90 at the time of publishing.

Fun and funky fall wedding guest dress ideas

Fall fashion doesn’t have to be bland or conservative; just take a look at these fresh and playful dress designs.

9. Robe mini-dress from Revolve

A plummeting neckline adds a hint of sensuality to this vintage-inspired mini-dress from Revolve ($675). Wear the Gabrielle embellished robe dress to boogie at a 70s-themed wedding or waltz the night away at an outdoor reception. We love the fun shape and flirty skirt, which will keep you feeling lightweight as you bust all the moves. Purchase it directly from the designer’s site, or find it at Bloomingdale’s for the same price.

10. Tie-dye belted maxi dress from Modlily

The top of the dress is a black velvet material featuring a plunging neckline. At the neckline’s base, a bouncy bow ties the top and skirt of the dress together. If the fabulous velvet wasn’t enticing enough already, the flowing tie-dye skirt is feisty and fresh. Currently listed at $34.77, this party dress is perfect for wedding guests on a budget.

11. Dotted Macaw print maxi dress from Farm Rio

This dramatic frock-style maxi dress from Farm Rio brings the tropical feelings of summer vacations into the fall. The dotted tropical prints create a stunning collage of blues, greens, oranges, yellows, and other autumnal hues. Voluminous and attention-grabbing, the oversized puff sleeves are both quirky and couture.

12. Uguest long-sleeved floral party dress

This mini-cocktail dress has a V-shaped neckline, asymmetrical hem, ruffle sleeves, and an invisible elastic waistband. All the design elements combine to create a flattering silhouette that hides and highlights all the right places. Fashionable and form-fitting, the dress shape can accentuate your curves or camouflage a few areas you haven’t yet learned to love.

One of the most affordable fall wedding guest dresses on our list, this ruffle dress is available on Amazon for just $25. The Uguest design comes in multiple prints with varying color combinations. While all the dress designs are fabulous, the metallic copper and black combo embodies everything we adore about autumn fashion.

 
Chic and modern fall wedding guest dresses

As temperatures drop and drier air departs, we welcome fall and all the season’s sleek fashions. This autumn, impress wedding reception tablemates and other guests with one of these contemporary dress designs.

13. Minimalist “little black dress” from The Reformation

The Sigmund dress is a chic black number from The Reformation. The minimalist design of this little black dress features a fitted bodice, square neckline, back zipper, and a relaxed skirt with a sensationally high slit. The lightweight crepe fabric will help keep you from getting too warm, while the long sleeves protect fall wedding guests from chilly winds. If you’re not a fan of monochromatic wedding guest dresses, the Sigmund dress is also available in the navy printed design below.

14. Adiel wrap midi dress by Ramy Brook

Sold in black and blue, the Adiel wrap midi dress from Ramy Brook ($595) has a layered bodice, deep V-shaped neckline, and wide sleeves that create a timeless, ethereal look. Made with satin charmeuse, this elegant and sophisticated gown has an asymmetrical design that looks both organic and polished.

15. Dangerous Woman metallic shimmer maxi in rust

Elegant and glamorous, the Dangerous Woman is a V-neck rust orange dress with ruffled bell sleeves, a self-tie sash, belt loops, and a dramatic high-slit. Fantastic for fall or spring weddings, this chiffon gown's glitzy embellished metallic threads magically match the changing seasons. Made with comfortable fabric and a flowing hem, the maxi moves beautifully on the dance floor and captures motion in photos. Initially sold for $79.90, the dress was on sale for $59.90 at the time of posting.

16. Shaina dress by Mara Hoffman

The Shaina dress, by Mara Hoffman, has an ankle-length A-line design with cutout detailing on the center and sides. With a modern shape made of airy, lightweight fabric, you can easily dress this gown up with sparking accessories for more formal affairs or dress it down for laidback beachside ceremonies and similar events.  

Originally listed at $550, the dress was available on the designer’s site at publishing for the final sale price of $325. Impressively chic and versatile, you won’t feel guilty about dropping a few bucks on this beauty because you can wear it again. Even better, it has self-tie straps, meaning you won’t have to worry about last-minute alterations or weight fluctuations!

Alluring autumnal wedding guest dresses romantics will adore

Can you think of celebrations more intimate and romantic than weddings? If you consider yourself a romantic or are looking for the ideal dress for a fall fairytale wedding, you’ve come to the right place.

17. Awaken My Love open-back gown from Lulu’s

The Awaken My Love dress from Lulu’s has long lace sleeves, an open back, and a floor-sweeping skirt that create a sexy bohemian silhouette. In addition to being beautiful, with a flattering deep navy hue, the dress’s long sleeves can help fight the chill fall weddings often bring. If navy isn’t your color, the design is also available in white, black, burgundy, and forest green. At publishing, Lulu’s had the gown on sale for $62.

18. Catalina fit-and-flare dress from Dress the Population

You’ll fall in love with love when you wear this V-neck fit-and-flare dress design from Dress the Population. Sleeveless with a nipped waist and pleated skirt, Catalina’s shape is as well suited for a fancy cocktail hour as it is for a casual outdoor wedding reception. Find the Catalina dress in garnet or pine at Saks Fifth Avenue for $182.

19. Blush strapless ball gown by Alfred Sung

Reminiscent of classic movie stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age, this luminous satin gown from Alfred Sung boasts a full ball gown skirt under its fitted waist. At publishing, this red-carpet-worthy dress was sold at Nordstrom for an affordable $242. If blush isn’t your color, the strapless high/low gown is also available in burgundy, hunter green, and midnight black.

20. Floral Juliette dress from Reformation

If you think florals are only for spring weddings, think again! The colors used in this form-fitting dress make it an excellent choice for autumnal affairs. The thin straps, fitted bodice, and flowy high-slit skirt create a soft, elegant silhouette, and the viscose fabric feels heavenly against your skin. Check out Reformation to learn more about the fabulous floral design on this Juliette dress ($248).

21. Milly Estell pleated gown from Bloomingdale’s

The “Estell dress” is one of 2023’s most in-demand fall fashions. The design features a fitted midi-style silhouette and contemporary side tie detailing. The Milly, an asymmetrical Estelle gown from Bloomingdales, is available in rose gold or navy tones that complement a variety of complexions. A knee-high slit and attached waist belt give the dress a classic 1920s feel, with delicate, thorough pleating that creates lightweight movement.

Colorful dresses for festive fall weddings

Brighten up the next autumn wedding you attend with a pop of color. Instead of muted or neutral tones, consider wearing one of these vibrant wedding guest dresses.

22. Twisted sequin mini dress by Ganni

If you’re a fan of glitz and glamor, look no further than this sequined satin mini dress from Ganni. With twisted straps, satin fabric, and a sea of sequins, this design made Vogue’s list of “Glorious Fall Wedding Dresses” in 2022. Look for this dress, or similar styles, on popular retail sites like Poshmark and Lyst.com

23. Mustard maxi dress with batwing sleeves by ASOS Design

ASOS Designs is at it again with this mustard color satin maxi dress. Although it is one of the more conservative fall wedding guest dresses on our list, this gown is anything but bland. The boat neck, wrap waist, and full-length batwing sleeves work together beautifully, constructing a dramatic and mysterious dress design. Originally priced at $105, it was on sale for $84 at publishing.

24. Saloni Camille Bows midi dress

The Camille dress is made with mid-weight non-stretch velvet that will keep you warm, while its cutout bow appliques and crystal beaded embellishments capture the attention of other wedding guests. Wear this design to an upscale, uptown event or a fashionable but budget-friendly garden wedding.

We’re big fans of the vibrant hot pink Camille Bows midi dress, but if you love the look but not the color, you can wear a black jumpsuit version of the same design.

25. Navy sequin maxi dress by Virgo’s Lounge

Virgo’s Lounge, a brand that merges fresh designs with vintage styles, nailed it with this forest green crew-neck dress. The design is fantastic for the transitional months (a.k.a. late August through early November), where some days are brisk, and others have a lingering hint of summer in the air. The ruched waist detailing and sequin embellishments offer just the right amount of bling and sass. At the time of publishing, it was on sale at ASOS for $146.50.

26. Poppy red ruched dress from Proenza Schouler

Harper’s Bazaar recommends wearing this elegant dress from Proenza Schouler as we leave “tomato girl summer” behind and enter “fire engine fall.” The poppy red crepe jersey dress has a keyhole cutout and gathering in the front, creating attractive lines and a becoming shape. Additionally, the crew neck connects at the back with convenient yet graceful extended self-ties. At $1,790, you’ll have to budget for this vibrant and vivacious Italian-made satin dress.

Outerwear to match your favorite fall wedding guest dresses

If you’re attending any weddings this fall, consider making outerwear part of your ensemble. Keep your upper body warm and enhance your outfit with seasonal add-ons, like our favorites below.

27. Leather jackets

Leather (or pleather) jackets are incredibly versatile. They pair well with prints, neutral dresses, pleats, and ruffles, making them excellent outwear for future fall wedding guests. Choose a jacket with numerous snaps, zippers, or other embellishments to accent a simple outfit, or add a sleek, clean coat to a busy dress for a more balanced ensemble.

28. Tweed blazers

Pair an oversized tweed jacket or blazer with monochromatic fall wedding guest dresses to spice up your outfit. Add an air of sophistication and intrigue to a rust, tan, olive, or blush dress by layering a black and white tweed jacket on top.

29. Trench coats

Trench coats are both practical and fashionable. Because they are so versatile, these coats complement slip dresses, flowing floor-length gowns, and flirty fitted maxi designs. Wear a stylish trench coat to trendy, upscale events or chic open-air weddings in the fall. They’re great for crisp fall weather, sudden precipitation changes, and protecting against cooler air while traveling between venues.

30. Faux fur shawls

If you’ve been invited to a wedding in the late fall or early winter, consider adding a faux fur shawl or wrap to your outfit. Shawls come in many shapes and sizes, making them an incredibly versatile accessory that helps combat the cold. Whether donning a floor-length ball gown or a hip midi dress, a faux fur wrap can supercharge your wedding style.  

BONUS: Fall wedding attire ideas for men

Fall isn’t all for the ladies, y’all! Before wrapping up, check out some of our favorite men’s fashion trends and outfit ideas for autumn.

31. Professorial style

Attend your next wedding in picturesque professorial style. “The Professor” is a casual yet confident look, great for indoor and outdoor fall wedding celebrations. To capture the fashion trend, wear a vest, neutral blazer (e.g., brown or gray), singlet, complementary colored shirt (e.g., pale blue), dark jeans, and boots. Swap the blazer for a tweed jacket with elbow patches to capture that straight-from-Oxford look. Either way, you’ll look well put together and relaxed—all at the same time.

32. Trendsetting tailored suits

Whatever the season, well-tailored suits are always in style. Choose a suit with wide lapels for a fashion-forward formal fall look, as skinny lapels are out in 2023. Patterns and prints are also having a moment, and showy men’s suits are at their highest popularity ever. Look for a well-fitting suit in one of fall’s most in-demand patterns, like plaid, windowpane, or checkered suits.

33. Cool, casual layers

Factor changing and unpredictable temperatures into your attire plans, and combat seasonal weather with layers. If you’re attending an informal wedding celebration, dress up khakis with a collared shirt and sports jacket, or opt for a more contemporary look and wear black jeans.

Fall wedding guest attire FAQs

If you still have questions about what to wear to a fall wedding, you’ll find additional tips below!

1. How should guests dress for an outdoor fall wedding

We recommend dressing in light layers for fall weddings. As the seasons shift, temperatures can fluctuate significantly over just a few hours, but soft layers make it easier to adapt to changing conditions. Always think about the weather, especially if you’re attending an outdoor wedding ceremony or reception. Will umbrellas, blankets, or other helpful items be available, or will you need to bring your own?

In addition to your outfit, the right shoes are essential at an outdoor wedding. Avoid painful or too-high heels, and ask about the terrain in advance. Are there paved or gravel walkways?

2. What fabrics should you avoid wearing to a fall wedding?

Although there are no hard and fast rules about what you should or shouldn’t wear to a wedding (except for the white dress rule), particular fabrics are better suited for some seasons than others. Avoid airy and lightweight materials like organza, crepe, or rayon if you're concerned about getting cold. Swing for velvet, brocade, moire, or jersey in the cooler months and harsher climates.
 
3. What colors are best for fall wedding guest attire?

Classic fall fashion embraces earth and jewel tones like chestnut, burgundy, forest green, and navy. These tones flood fashion magazines each fall and are used in monochromatic designs, floral prints, and other patterns.

Now you have plenty of fall wedding guest dresses to choose from!

Don’t be afraid to step outside of the box this wedding season. As fashions evolve and expand, so can your style. Look for fall wedding guest dresses that allow you to express yourself—just remember to follow the dress code!

There are many different wedding dress codes couples can choose from, including white tie, black tie, casual and more. Some duos even host themed weddings where guests are encouraged to wear costumes. Learn more about wedding dress codes and how to meet them in our guide to wedding guest attire.