With summer quickly coming to a close, and the changing season bringing its golden hues and delicious crisp air, fall weddings are just around the corner! Fall is possibly my all-time favorite season to photograph weddings. I also know that it can be an extra tricky season for fall wedding guests to find the perfect attire to fit the weather, the formality, and the overall vibe. In the past, this has honestly been a bit of a challenge for me as well! But after countless fall weddings and getting inspiration from so many beautiful color schemes, themes, and styles, I’ve landed on a few wedding outfit guidelines that have been super helpful. In this blog I’ll share how to choose outfits for a fall wedding that will ensure you look dynamite, feel comfortable and confident, and perfectly match the autumn aesthetic — let’s dive in!

3 Things to consider when planning your fall wedding Guest Outfit

WEATHER

One of my favorite things about fall weddings is the energy and excitement that is almost tangible in the air. But that most-magical change in season can also bring a hint of unpredictability. The temps can swing from sunny-golden fall warmth to brisk autumn chill faster than you can say “I do.” So first things first: as a fall wedding guest it's essential to plan your outfit with the weather in mind! Layering is going to be your best autumn friend. Start with a stylish base like a lightweight, long-sleeved dress or a sharp seasonal suit. These not only keep you on point with the wedding vibes but also provide a foundation for layering up if needed!

Next, accessorize strategically. An elegant wrap or a dapper jacket can instantly elevate your look while keeping you cozy when the sun takes a backseat. For those open-air ceremonies or dancing under the stars, having something to throw on can be an absolute game-changer! Don't forget to check the forecast a few days before the wedding to adjust your outfit accordingly. If it's looking drizzly, stash a chic umbrella in your bag – it can serve as both a fashion statement and a practical shield from the rain.

Footwear choice of course matters too! Closed-toe shoes, ankle boots, or even stylish loafers not only provide comfort and warmth but also protect your feet from mud or wet grass. If there's a chance of rain, consider footwear with non-slip soles to navigate potentially slippery surfaces. With these weather-wise wardrobe decisions, you'll be ready to enjoy the celebration no matter what the autumn skies decide!

FORMALITY

As you prepare to attend a fall wedding, making sure that your outfit is tailored to the formality of the event is key! Each wedding has its own unique style and level of sophistication. Fall weddings often span the spectrum, ranging from elegant soirées to more relaxed gatherings. As you plan your attire, it’s always a good idea to check the invitation or communicate with the wedding party to verify the expected level of formality, and whether there is a specific theme or style. For fall wedding guests, here are a few formality tips that will ensure you blend seamlessly with the autumnal vibe while expressing your own unique personality!

Formal: For formal affairs (black-tie or formal evening weddings), you can never go wrong with opting for classic attire! For those opting to wear a suit, a tuxedo is your can’t-miss-go-to, accompanied by a crisp dress shirt, bowtie, and polished shoes. If a dress is more your style, then floor-length dresses are typically expected for formal weddings. However! I have absolutely seen some beyond chic suit-sets in elevated fabrics that have sent me over the top! We’ll get more into color-palette in a bit, but rich, dark, muted tones always offer effortless elegance.

Semi-Formal: Semi-formal fall weddings offer a bit more flexibility. A well-fitted suit with a tie or dress slacks paired with a sharp blazer are both great choices if that is your desired look while the options for dresses (both in length and style) are limitless! A chic cocktail dress or a trendy skirt/top combo would definitely be on point. Semi-formal weddings strike a balance between sophistication and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Casual: Casual or rustic autumn weddings are so much fun, and allow you to dial down the formality! For these events, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear dress slacks and a smart button-down shirt with or without a tie, and dress wearers have so so many fun options for both styles and fabrics - from a breezy sundress for warmer weddings to a chic knit dress with a complementary layer for colder days and evenings! For footwear, a casual loafer, heel or boot are all on brand — you really can’t go wrong! Casual fall weddings embrace comfort and a laid-back vibe.

COLOR

As we round off our guide to fall wedding guest attire, let's dive into those delicious autumn colors! Fall brings a gorgeous palette of rich, warm hues, and incorporating these shades into your ensemble can elevate your look to a whole new level. For a touch of traditional elegance, earth tones like deep burgundy, forest green, and warm shades of gold and brown can create a timeless and sophisticated look. These hues mirror the changing season and exude a cozy yet refined vibe. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, consider jewel tones like sapphire, emerald, and amethyst. These vibrant shades add a touch of luxury and playfulness, standing out beautifully against the backdrop of fall's natural palette. Truly, don’t be afraid to look vibrant — it’s a celebration after all!

Two great things to consider for a fall wedding include colors to match the location and the color scheme of the wedding. If the couple sends out blue and green invitations, generally it will be following the color palette of their wedding! It can be really pretty to match their colors so you fit right in with the wedding day. If the wedding is somewhere tropical and beachy, you can go for more ocean or vibrant colors. If the wedding is held somewhere that is full of fall colors, follow suit!

Another really important thing to consider is what colors will actually make you look your absolute best. For this, I highly recommend taking a “color quiz!” This can be a fun and informative way to help you discover which colors suit you best and can guide your choices when deciding what color to wear. My favorite thing about a color quiz is that it will assess whether you have warm, cool, or neutral undertones. This information can guide you towards colors that complement your skin tone, bringing out your natural vibrance!

There are so many versatile choices for incorporating fall colors into any outfit to effortlessly blend with the season’s charm. Remember, the key is to choose colors that resonate with the season and complement the wedding's overall aesthetic. Whether you're embracing earth tones, daring jewel shades, or mixing neutrals, infusing your attire with fall's enchanting colors ensures you'll be a standout in every frame!

Dressing for a fall wedding truly is an art that takes into account weather, formality, and color. From layering up to adapt to the whims of the season, to elegantly aligning with the wedding’s level of elegance, and incorporating autumn shades into your outfit, I hope these insights are a helpful compass to looking and feeling your best! Here's to celebrating dressed in style and ready for an unforgettable fall wedding experience!

Start Planning!

Are you looking to plan your very own fall wedding? I’d love to be a part of it and photograph your day for you! Get in touch now to check availability and for more information.

Featured