Autumn Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas: 6 Style Tips for Fall Weddings

1. Incorporating Rich, Seasonal Colors

Fall is all about deep, warm colors that mirror the changing landscape. Think burgundy, forest green, mustard yellow, navy blue, and shades of plum or burnt orange. These hues complement the autumn surroundings while exuding a sense of elegance and warmth.

Long-sleeved, jewel-toned dresses can strike the perfect balance between formal and seasonally appropriate. Invest in earthy tone suits, like a charcoal gray or deep olive, paired with a complementary tie or pocket square for a refined look.

If you’re attending a wedding at The Elm Estate, where the stunning fall foliage offers a natural backdrop, consider coordinating your outfit with the setting. A mustard or maroon dress, for example, would pop beautifully against the golden leaves.

2. Layers, Layers, Layers

One of the challenges of autumn weddings is the unpredictable weather, allowing for sun and warmth during the ceremony with a chilly breeze once the sun sets. Layering ensures you’re prepared for any temperature shift without sacrificing style!

A shawl, pashmina, or tailored blazer can elevate your outfit while keeping you cozy. Opting for luxurious fabrics, like cashmere or wool, adds texture and warmth to any attire. A shawl in a complementary color can be draped over your shoulders for a sophisticated look and easily removed if the weather warms up.

Adding a vest underneath your suit jacket can be a stylish and convenient way to add an extra layer! A wool or tweed blazer is also a great option for outdoor ceremonies or receptions, providing warmth without feeling too bulky.

At The Elm Estate, indoor and outdoor spaces are utilized for fall weddings, making it especially important to dress in layers. A cozy wrap or jacket will keep you comfortable as you move from an outdoor cocktail hour to an indoor reception.

3. Embrace Luxurious Fabrics

Fall calls for rich, luxurious fabrics that feel as good as they look. Velvet, satin, silk, brocade, and lace are all excellent choices that add depth to your ensemble. These materials not only fit the mood of the season but also add a flair of opulence to your outfit.

A velvet dress or blazer can be a bold choice that still feels appropriate for an autumn wedding, especially for evening celebrations. If you’re unsure about going all-out with one of these fabrics, try incorporating them in smaller doses, like a velvet clutch or satin shoes. Small touches can easily add a touch of elegance without overpowering your look.

Velvet or tweed accents—such as a pocket square, bow tie, or even a full blazer—can add a distinctiveness that complements the fall aesthetic.

Indoor spaces such as the Marquise Room, provide a refined setting, so a luxe fabric like velvet would fit right in! The ambiance of fall lends itself perfectly to these rich textures.

4. Footwear: Fashion Meets Function

Choosing the right footwear for an autumn wedding can be tricky, incorporating style that also stands up to the potential for rain or damp ground. This is especially true if there are outdoor elements to the event! 

Block heels or dressy ankle boots are both stylish and practical, allowing for ease and comfort all day. Avoid stilettos if the ceremony or reception takes place on grass or gravel, as they can be challenging to walk in on uneven terrain, opting instead for options with a wider heel or sturdy sole.

Leather shoes or suede loafers are also a great option for autumn events! Ensure that they are weather-appropriate—polishing them beforehand for extra protection against unexpected rain. If the wedding is outdoors, consider a slightly more rugged but still polished shoe, such as a dress boot.

Having functional yet elegant footwear will ensure you’re prepared to celebrate all night long!

5. Accessories for The Season

The autumn season offers the perfect opportunity to play with accessories that not only elevate your outfit but also serve a functional purpose. A wide-brimmed felt hat can be a chic addition to an outdoor ceremony, while scarves and gloves can add warmth as the day turns into the evening.

Jewelry can also reflect the season. Think golds, bronzes, and darker gemstones like garnets or emeralds that tie in with earthy tones. Consider accessories that highlight the season’s charm without overpowering your outfit, like delicate necklaces or a pair of statement earrings!

6. Comforting Styles

No matter how stylish your outfit is, comfort is always key! Fall weddings often last well into the evening, so choose pieces that allow you to move freely. Opt for breathable fabrics that won’t leave you overheating indoors, but provide enough coverage to keep you warm outdoors.

From intimate outdoor settings to luxurious indoor areas, you’ll want to make sure you feel good in what you’re wearing—both for mingling and for enjoying the celebration!