![Collage of fall wedding guest dresses we recommend on a green background](https://www.brides.com/thmb/297OZsVlqAyI4itpMnnSPpcvLZ8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BRI-fall-wedding-guest-dresses-5181291-381187ffdc8840f98a12eb546584a74d.jpg)
Brides / Amelia Manley
While the winter, spring, and summer months all have their allure, there’s something particularly enchanting about attending a fall wedding. But when it comes to dressing for autumn nuptials, it can be tricky for wedding guests to find an outfit that's both stylish and season-appropriate. Fortunately, there are plenty of fall wedding guest dresses out there that are practical and fashionable—even for outdoor ceremonies.
If you’re not quite sure where to begin, “a classic cocktail dress is a stylish and appropriate choice for a fall wedding,” says stylist Elizabeth Kosich. She also encourages you to think beyond the little black dress. “Remember it’s a festive celebration so your attire should reflect that—think flirty frocks in jewel tones, happy primary colors, or deep, rich hues that echo autumn's seasonal color palette.”
Sale Alert
- Reformation Ritz Knit Dress is 40% off at reformation.com
- Reformation Nalani Dress is 40% off at reformation.com
- ASTR the Label Back Cutout Long Sleeve Midi Dress is 41% off at nordstrom.com
- Sabina Musayev Judith Gown is 30% off at revolve.com
Besides the color, you want to make your dress suits the dress code and weather, which can be tricky as fall days can range from warm to chilly. When researching the best dresses, we looked for both breathable and warm materials, and a range of styles to suit all kinds of ceremonies. We’ve rounded up our favorite fall-appropriate wedding guest dresses in a variety of styles, aesthetics, and body types to make shopping easy.
Best Boho
Farm Rio Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
For an easy, breezy, boho fall wedding guest dress, try this gorgeous Farm Rio maxi dress that’s perfect for transitional weather. It features long sleeves, a plunging v-neckline, a vintage-inspired, moody and abstract floral print, and light ruffling at the sleeve and hemlines.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Floral/Multi
Best Little Black Dress
Reformation Black Dress
Minimalists will love the simplicity and versatility of this little black dress. It's easy to wear, flattering, and can be dressed up or down according to the dress code. While it's definitely suited for autumn events, it's also still lightweight enough to keep you comfortable on the dance floor.
Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose, Rayon | Colors: Black
Most Whimsical
Selkie The Fairytale Gown
What’s more whimsical than a fairytale? This "Fairytale Gown" features gossamer puff sleeves with cinched cuffs, flowy tulle organza fabric, and a high-low skirt that has a leg-baring slit front. The adjustable extended train creates even more whimsy, and the light pink print is inspired by antique French curtains. Say no more.
Size Range: XXS-6XL, Petite | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Renaissance Girl
For the Classic Guest
BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress
For the guest who tends to lean towards classic styles, this halter neck silhouette will definitely complement your timeless aesthetic. It offers a twist on a classic black dress for an unexpected yet timeless look. Style it with shoulder-grazing earrings to highlight the elegant neckline.
Size Range: 0-26 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black, Midnight, Dusty Blue, Moss, Sedona, Champagne, Dark Berry, Dark Emerald
Best Modest
Mac Duggal Beaded Long Sleeve Gown
For a full-coverage gown that still sparkles and shines, look no further than this beaded number. This modest dress features long sleeves, a maxi hemline, and an abstract leaf pattern throughout, made of beads and sequins. Jewels dot the neckline for an added touch, and it comes in four beautiful colorways to suit your vibe.
Size Range: 4-24 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Charcoal, Mocha, Olive, Platinum Gold
Best Jumpsuit
Retrofete Graciane Jumpsuit
Thinking about a fun jumpsuit to shake things up? Crafted out of textured plissé fabric in a vibrant lime green colorway, this jumpsuit is stylish, fashion-forward, and definitely cool. It features a hidden back zipper closure, crisscross back straps with tie closure, and a sexy plunging neckline finished with a waist-emphasizing thin band.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Lime
Best Long Sleeve
Bronx And Banco Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress
We love the idea of wearing a long sleeve mini dress to a fall wedding. The Bronx and Banco "Casey" lace mini dress features a scalloped hem, jewel neckline, sharp padded shoulders, and long sleeves for added warmth. It also has diagonal bust darts for shape and a fit-and-flare silhouette for balance. It’s finished with a two-way zipper on the backside.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, Cotton | Colors: Navy
Best Sparkle
Reformation Hermia Dress
The Reformation Hermia Dress is like a sophisticated disco ball in dress form—perfect for the guest who’s ready to turn up the party! It features a turtleneck top for added warmth in the chillier fall months, and a mini length to maintain that fun party spirit (and frees up your legs to get down on the dance floor). We especially love the gold sparkle colorway and mini side slit.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Rayon, Spandex | Colors: Gold
Best Splurge
Balmain Sequined Slit Column Gown
This dress is nothing short of a showstopper. Made in France from the iconic brand Balmain, it features a fitted silhouette with a thigh-high slit, shimmering geometric sequins throughout, and maxi length. It’s finished with delicate spaghetti straps. A true work of art!
Size Range: 2-8 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black Multicolor
Best Jewel Tone
Bardot Capri Velour Slip Dress
Made from slinky and soft velour fabric, this slip dress is the perfect fall jewel tone—a rich golden yellow that feels like a moodier move from more bright, summery hues. It features a low back that comes to a V, plunging neckline, maxi length, and delicate spaghetti straps with a diamond shape at the bodice.
Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Marigold
Best Metallic
Retrofete Renzo Dress
Crafted from 100 percent viscose, this unlined halter neck style features a metallic print that makes it the perfect classy party dress. It features a button loop closure, and the open knit fabric is covered with metallic sequins to shine bright, even when the lights go down. There’s also a fun fringe trim that starts above the knee and flows to the ankle.
Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Metallic Tannin
Best Wrap Dress
Showpo Long Sleeve Wrap Maxi Dress
Made from a high-quality, velvety fabric, this formal dress is perfect for the cooler fall months. The flattering wrap style features a deep V-neckline, has long sleeves and a maxi hemline for added warmth, and is available in sizes 0-16. You can’t go wrong with either the navy or emerald green hues.
Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Fabric | Colors: Navy, Emerald
Best Versatile Print
Reformation Parma Dress
We chose this dress because it comes in four different prints that can be worn year-round and cross-seasonally. It features adjustable straps and a scoop neckline, with a maxi length and fitted silhouette. Throw a chic blazer or shag over it in the cooler months, and dress it up with heels and statement jewelry.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose | Colors: Lottie, Anaconda, Admire, Faye
Best Mermaid Silhouette
Norma Kamali Off-Shoulder Fishtail Gown
Elegant and timeless, this off-the-shoulder gown is perfect for a formal fall wedding. We love that the body-hugging mermaid silhouette is utterly flattering. Thanks to the mid-weight jersey fabric, you'll stay warm throughout an outdoor ceremony.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Black
Best Petite
Maeve Fit & Flare Sweetheart Dress
Available in sizes XXS-XL Petite, this flattering fit and flare dress is perfect for shorter guests. It falls right below the knee and has a vintage-inspired charm with a classic sweetheart neckline, buttoned bodice, and cap sleeves. It’s available in several beautiful prints and colors.
Size Range: XXS-XL Petite, XXS-3XL Standard | Materials: Viscose, Linen, Cotton, Elastane | Colors: 6
Best Plus Size
By Anthropologie Square-Neck Tiered Dress
This versatile style works for a variety of venues and themes. It features a modern square neckline, tiered ruffle skirt, and stretchy fabric that stays close to the body. Thick straps offer ample support while smocking in the back adjusts for the ideal fit.
Size Range: XXS-3XL | Materials: Viscose, Linen, Cotton, Elastane | Colors: 4
Featuring a high neck, cut-out panel, and sexy thigh-high slit, this made-for-tall bodies dress comes in a gorgeous chocolate brown that feels chic and autumnal. It’s made from a polyester jersey fabric that’s soft and stretchy for a comfy fit.
Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Chocolate
Best Sweetheart Neckline
Reformation Trixie Dress
The “Arcana” colorway on this sophisticated dress is perfect if you’re looking for a moodier floral print. It features back smocking, a pretty sweetheart neckline, back slit, back buttons, back zipper, and back ruching. The lightweight drapey crepe fabric has a slinky nature and a dry hand feel.
Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose, Rayon | Colors: Forest, Arcana, Lima
Best Blazer Style
Alice + Olivia Kyrie Piped Tuxedo Dress
The Kyrie piped tuxedo dress from Alice + Olivia features a double-breasted silhouette with a notch lapel, long sleeves, and front patch pockets. We love that this is a chic, timeless, and versatile style that can be worn for years to come.
Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Black Off White
Best Open Back
Michael Costello x REVOLVE Mott Maxi Dress
We love this gorgeous and great-for-in-between weather dress; the velvet fabric, high neck, and maxi hemline offer a bit of warmth, while the open back and back slit offer a great amount of airflow. Dare we say business in the front, party in the back?
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: Black, Nude
Best Budget
Steve Madden Vivienne Dress
With a black base and abstract floral print, this body-contouring, long-sleeve dress features a turtleneck, detachable slip lining, mesh fabric overlay, and a midi hemline. And at under $70, it’s also budget-friendly!
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Black Multi
Best '90s-Inspired
L'IDEE Soiree 90's Sleeved Gown
For a retro look that will make a big statement, The L'IDEE Soiree 90's Sleeved Gown is a pull-on style with pleated fabric and a lettuce-edge trim. It features a one-shoulder design with a turtleneck and button loop closure. We love the grape colorway for a pop of color.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester blend | Colors: Grape
Best Rust Colored
For Love & Lemons x REVOLVE Bustier Gown Rust
What’s a more autumnal vibe than the rich, reddish brown, rust-colored dress? This stunner features an attached bodysuit lining with bottom snap button closure, boned bodice with underwire cups, and a show-stopping tiered ruffle tulle hem with a side slit. It zips up with a hidden back zipper, and comes in sizes XS-XL.
Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex, Silk | Colors: Rust
Best Mini
Norma Kamali Maria Mini Dress
This cute and flirty mini dress comes in a Tiger Red colorway that’s bold and dramatic—without trying too hard. It’s made from a satin fabric that’s smooth and comfy, with pull-on styling and a boat neck style neckline.
Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Tiger Red
Best with Pockets
Sachin & Babi Brooke Pleated Front-Slit Gown
Is it even possible to wear a dress with pockets without screaming “it has pockets!” This gorgeous maxi-length A-line gown features a sleeveless top, v-neckline, pleated waist, and full skirt. There’s a front slit for breathability and functional side pockets for convenience. It comes in two different pink colorways.
Size Range: 2-10 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink, Pink Combo
Best Vintage Inspired
V. Chapman Vera Ruffle-Strap Corset Side-Slit Midi Dress
A dress fit for a fairytale, this feminine and elegant dress is perfect for a European destination wedding. It features a vintage-inspired corset bodice with a tie at the waist, back stretch ruching, adjustable ruffle straps, and a midi silhouette with a slit. It’s crafted from luxe floral brocade and is available in several colorways.
Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester brocade | Colors: 5
Best Two Piece Set
Showpo Amalee Two Piece Set
Featuring a strapless crop top with trim detail and matching midi skirt, this super fun two-piece set is perfect to party all night long. It has an invisible center back zip, inner rubber grip tape at neckline edge to keep it all in place, and fringe detailing that elicits some serious twirls.
Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink, Cobalt Blue, Black, Red, White
What to Look for in a Fall Wedding Guest Dress
- Fabric: “There’s a sophistication to fall weddings that allows for daring fashion moments,” says Kosich. “Consider a cocktail dress in a rich brocade, lace, or tulle and don’t shy away from appliqués or statement details like a belt, ruffle or fishtail hem.” We love how Farm Rio Red Rooster Leaves Long Sleeve Maxi Dress has an oversized flower belt.
- Color: “Color palette can range from brights to earth tones, so pick a hue compatible with your undertone,” Kosich explains. “When in doubt rely on universally flattering emerald green, teal or mint, all of which flatter both cool and warm undertones alike.” Coming in either navy or emerald in a rich velvet fabric, Showpo Sloane Long Sleeve Wrap Maxi Dress is the epitome of a fall dress.
- Dress Code: Always be sure to follow the dress code, which should be stated on your invitation. For more relaxed ceremonies, you can opt for a mini length (we’d suggest a turtleneck or longer sleeves to keep warm) and more casual fabrics like cotton. With its shorter length and cotton makeup, Bronx And Banco Casey Scalloped Lace Fit-&-Flare Mini Dress is fitting for a casual ceremony. For a more formal or black tie affair, choose a floor-length hemline and luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade. Decked out in sequins, Balmain Sequined Slit Column Gown is a dress to remember.
Why Trust Brides
Chelsea Frank has been a comedy and lifestyle writer for nearly 10 years. She’s contributed to dozens of online publications, researching and writing on several topics from clean beauty and fashion to travel and wellness. For this article, the Brides team spoke to a fashion industry expert for their tips and insight:
- Elizabeth Kosich is a certified image stylist offering head-to-toe wardrobe consulting to men and women, and commercial styling to brands. She holds credentials from FIT and AICI, and founded Elizabeth Kosich Styling in 2019.