What to Wear: Wedding Edition
As a wedding venue, we get to see hundreds of guests walk through our doors every year, each one showing off their own take on wedding style. And if there’s one question we hear most often from guests, it’s this: “What should I wear to a fall or winter wedding?”
Dressing for a wedding in cooler months is a little different than dressing for summer nuptials. You’ll want to balance style and comfort, warmth and elegance, and of course, keep the couple’s dress code in mind. Whether you’re a guest, a bridesmaid, or even part of the family, we’ve got tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate in style.
Fall Wedding Attire: Embracing Warm Tones and Layers
There’s something magical about a fall wedding. The crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy atmosphere set the perfect backdrop for romance. But how do you decide what to wear to a fall wedding?
1. Lean Into Autumn Colors
Fall weddings call for rich, earthy tones. Think burgundy, emerald green, mustard, plum, rust, or navy. These shades not only photograph beautifully but also complement the season’s natural color palette. For men, a navy or charcoal suit with a subtle plaid tie feels seasonally appropriate without being too heavy.
2. Play With Fabrics
While spring weddings are often about chiffon and pastels, fall wedding attire gives you the chance to experiment with textures. Velvet, satin, wool blends, and even suede shoes can add depth and warmth to your outfit. A long-sleeve midi dress in velvet or silk makes for a stunning fall look.
3. Don’t Forget Layers
Even if the ceremony is indoors, fall evenings can get chilly, especially if cocktail hour or photos take place outside. Bring a stylish shawl, wrap, or tailored blazer that complements your outfit. Men might consider a tweed jacket or wool overcoat for outdoor photos.
Winter Wedding Attire: Classic Elegance Meets Cozy Comfort
Winter weddings feel like stepping into a fairytale sparkling lights, snow-dusted landscapes, and plenty of cozy moments. But when it comes to how to dress for a winter wedding, warmth is key.
1. Rich, Deep Colors Shine in Winter
Jewel tones and metallics are perfect for winter weddings. Emerald, ruby, sapphire, and deep amethyst look luxurious, especially paired with shimmering details like sequins or beading. For black-tie winter weddings, a floor-length gown in velvet or satin feels both timeless and seasonally appropriate.
2. Outerwear Matters
Unlike summer weddings, you can’t just run into the venue in a light cardigan. A chic wool coat, faux-fur stole, or tailored trench can keep you warm without taking away from your look. For men, a classic black or navy overcoat pairs perfectly with a formal suit or tuxedo.
3. Accessorize for Warmth and Style
Think gloves, wraps, or even statement tights for added warmth. A pair of heeled boots (in place of open-toed heels) can look chic while keeping your feet warm. Just make sure they’re dressy enough for the occasion ankle boots with a block heel are a great middle ground.
Dress Code Considerations for Fall and Winter Weddings
Every wedding is unique, and your first step should always be checking the couple’s invitation for the dress code. Here’s how to interpret it for cooler seasons:
Black Tie: Floor-length gowns, tuxedos, or formal suits. For winter, velvet and satin are stunning.
Semi-Formal: Midi or cocktail dresses, dressy separates, or suits. For fall, lean into autumn tones.
Casual: A nice day dress or skirt and blouse combo for women, and slacks with a dress shirt or sweater for men. You can still elevate your look with fall or winter accessories.
What Not to Wear to a Fall or Winter Wedding
Just as important as what to wear is what to avoid:
Too Light Fabrics: Avoid wearing airy summer dresses made of chiffon or linen. They’ll look (and feel) out of place.
Neon Colors: Fall and winter weddings are all about warmth and elegance. Stick to jewel tones or muted shades.
Bulky Outerwear Inside: Bring a coat for outdoors, but don’t keep it on during the ceremony or reception. Instead, have a lighter layer (like a wrap or blazer) to wear indoors.
Styling Tips for Guests
Here are a few extra wedding guest outfit ideas we’ve seen at our venue that always look chic and season appropriate:
For Women:
A long-sleeve wrap dress with knee-high boots
A floor-length velvet gown for a formal winter wedding
A midi dress paired with a cropped blazer or leather jacket for fall
For Men:
A wool suit in navy or charcoal with a patterned tie
A tuxedo with a velvet bow tie for black-tie winter weddings
Layering a turtleneck under a suit jacket for a modern, cozy look
Practical Tips for Comfort
While style is important, comfort ensures you’ll enjoy the celebration to the fullest. Here are a few practical tips:
Shoes: Fall weddings might take place outdoors on grass or gravel. Opt for block heels or wedges to avoid sinking into the ground. For winter, closed-toe shoes are best.
Makeup & Hair: Cooler weather can dry out skin, so prep with moisturizer and setting spray to keep makeup in place. For hair, consider soft waves or updos that can withstand wind or humidity.
Temperature Transitions: Weddings often move between indoor and outdoor spaces (ceremony outside, reception inside). Having a versatile layer makes these transitions comfortable.
A Venue’s Final Word
From our perspective, the best-dressed guests are always the ones who strike a balance between comfort and style. A fall or winter wedding gives you the opportunity to wear rich colors, luxurious fabrics, and cozy accessories that you might not get to pull out during other seasons.
Remember: the couple invited you because you’re part of their story. Dressing in a way that honors the season, fits the dress code, and makes you feel confident is the best gift you can bring to their celebration.
Final Thoughts
So, when you’re wondering how to dress for a fall and winter wedding, keep these things in mind:
Choose colors that reflect the season warm tones in fall, jewel tones in winter.
Play with fabrics like velvet, satin, and wool for depth and warmth.
Don’t underestimate the importance of stylish layers and outerwear.
Always keep the couple’s dress code front and center.
Fall and winter weddings are some of the most magical celebrations we host at our venue. With the right outfit, you’ll not only look amazing but also stay cozy, comfortable, and ready to dance the night away.