Summer is always hyped up as, you know, wedding season, but the truth is that September and October are also pretty great times for couples to tie the knot. With milder temps and beautiful, autumnal colors, one could easily make the case that fall weddings are even more ideal celebrating the nuptials of your favorite friends and family members.
Of course, the cooler new season calls for cooler new ensembles to wear. "The gauzy cottons and linens should be put away until next summer," says Sarah Tam, Head of Fashion at Rent the Runway. "With the summer heat gone, fall is the perfect time to experiment with styles, fabrics, lengths, and sleeves." With that in mind, we found some ensembles that incorporate statement sleeves, moody florals, and rich hues so you can stay on trend and in season as the best-dressed guest at any and all fall weddings. And for more advice on how to leap into fall with the right look, here's Your Complete Guide to Fall's Hottest Hair Colors and Cuts.
1 | Zimmermann Drape Silk Charmeuse Slip Midi-Dress
Barneys$530; buy now at Barneys
Slip dresses are a great choice for those who want their outfits to be minimal and sexy. This shin-length, silk, black one adds some intrigue with its unique sleeve. Tam explains why this is worth it: "You can elevate your dress options with one that showcases a dramatic sleeve." Done. While you're pondering the dramatic, here are 8 Crazy Creative "Gender Reveals" for Expecting Parents that might be in the future of the newlyweds.
2 | Connected Sequined Lace Sweetheart Sheath Dress
Macy's$89; buy now at Macy's
This is a great pick for those attending a higher-end affair: The sequins and cobalt blue color make it a sophisticated party dress. Not to mention, the length is ideal to dance while still showing a little leg. (Fun fact: Dancing used to be scandalous 100 years ago, but thank goodness times have changed.)
3 | Cate Knee Length Fitted Tank Dress
Alice and Olivia$295; buy now at Alice and Olivia
The velvet adds a funky touch to this slinky tank dress. It's a great choice for those going to a more casual wedding—you know, one of those where there's tons of drinking and dancing, and the booze will flow a little too freely... And for some of our great nightlife coverage, here are the 7 Drink Orders Guaranteed to Impress Your Boss.
4 | Jumpsuit with High Neck in Floral Jacquard
ASOS$76; buy now at ASOS
If you're a jumpsuit-kind-of-girl, then this metallic, emerald green one is perfect for fancier fall weddings and other occasions. "Fall lends itself well to saturated jewel tones and bold colors," confirms Tam. While we're on the topic of metallic greens, jewelry that turns your skin green is definitely one of the 40 things no woman over 40 should own.
5 | Betsy Johnson Ruffle-Hem Lace Dress
Bloomingdales$158; buy now at Bloomingdales
The lace design gives this dress an elevated look, while the ruffled fringe-like bottom makes it more playful and flirty. The short sleeves also add an extra edge that we love for this time of year. And wherever the wedding is being held, be sure you know the Best Hotel Bars in America for a nightcap.
6 | Eva Franco Rose Relief Dress
Anthropologie$228; buy now at Anthropologie
This structured dress is both refined and fun. The oversized crimson design is a great way to add a bright floral to your ensemble during the darker months. "Floral prints in rich hues are also the perfect way to transition to fall," says Tam. Speaking of those darker months, here are 25 Ways to Cheer Yourself Up This Winter.
7 | Karl Lagerfeld Paris Beaded Flounce Dress
Lord & Taylor$138; buy now at Lord & Taylor
The simple dress is taken up a notch thanks to the polished beaded neckline. You can wear a deep red or an extra dark navy, either of which is the idea moody option for fall.
8 | Cinq a Sept Birch Off-the-Shoulder Sheath Dress
Bergdorf Goodman$231; buy now at Bergdorf Goodman
Show off your shoulders with this sweetheart neckline. The half sleeves and deep teal color keep it trendy and in-season.
9 | Trina Turk Panoramic Sleeveless Silk Georgette High-Low Dress
Neiman Marcus$478; buy now at Neiman Marcus
This loose fitting dress is far from ill-fitted, making it great for those who want a little extra fabric. Not to mention the rich purple is a great way to embrace a bright but proper color. And for some great travel advice: here's The Best Way to Get Your Hotel Room Comped.
10 | Diane Von Furstenberg Handkerchief Hem Silk Scarf Dress
Nordstrom$468; buy now at Nordstrom
For an evening-to-night option, there's this asymmetrical wrap dress. The blue color blocking adds that much more appeal.
11 | Mosaic Marvel Rust Orange Print Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Lulus$62; buy now at Lulus
This long sleeve maxi dress is the perfect mix of flow and formal for anyone attending a boho-esque wedding. The earthy tones keep it fall appropriate. If this dress has you feeling adventurous, check out these 6 American epic adventures.
12 | Haylee Halter Dress
BGBCMAXAZRIA$198; buy now at BGBCMAXAZRIA
There's just a bit of a subtle flare thanks to the draped halter. Paired with the neutral tone, you'll be both effortless and chic. We also love the softly swooped, open back to show off a just the right amount of skin.
13 | Avery G Tulle-Hem Lace Dress
Bloomingdales$248; buy now at Bloomingdales
If you're looking for something that's super short to show off legs all day, this flared lace one is an option that's both cute and hot.
14 | Hudson Gown Laundry by Shelli Segal
Rent the RunwayFrom $80; rent at Rent the Runway
This dress' ruby red color and floor-length pleated skirt make it a great choice for anyone attending any black-tie fall weddings. And as Tam points out, "Red was the color that ruled the fall runways." Good to know.
15 | Black Halo Lena Sleek Jumpsuit
Saks Fifth Avenue$390; buy now at Saks Fifth Avenue
We love how sleek this tuxedo-inspired jumpsuit is. If you really are a pants girl, this is the way to do it for any type of ceremony. And if you're bringing a date, make sure one of you knows how to tie a tie properly—Here's How to Nail the Perfect Tie Knot Every Time.
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