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Determine the Wedding Style

So, you might know what not to wear to a wedding—and if you don’t, it’s listed down below—but do you know what to wear? Every wedding will have a different dress code, ranging from casual afternoon outfits to stunning, floor length evening gowns at a black tie affair. Each occasion requires knowledge of what is appropriate wedding guest attire and what should be avoided at all costs.

Use the invitation for clues

Is the wedding outdoors? Make sure to avoid heels that will sink into the grass. If the wedding starts in the morning or early afternoon, it is safe to assume that the affair will be a little more casual. Does the event start at night? Make sure to wear a nighttime appropriate dress or suit. If the wedding is in the later months of fall (such as an October or November wedding), make sure to bring a coat, shawl, or wrap to stay warm. If the wedding is in a church, choose a dress that covers your shoulders for modesty.

Avoid wearing colors of the wedding based on the colors used in the wedding invitation. While this might not always be true for every bride or every wedding, it should give a good clue as to the colors the couple plans to use.

Research the venue

What does the venue look like? Have you seen photos from other weddings? What were the guests wearing? If the event takes place at a ritzy downtown hotel, it’s safe to assume that the wedding guest attire will be black tie. If it is a beach wedding, you want to be prepared with a lightweight dress, made of breathable fabric. Always make sure to match the location.

When in doubt, ask!

If there’s any uncertainty when deciding what to wear to a wedding, simply ask the bride and groom! It’s always better to be prepared and not guess on your wedding guest outfit.

Price Reference (average price):

$ | Under $50

$$ | Between $50-$100

$$$ | Between $100-$200

$$$$ | More than $200+

What to Wear to a Casual Daytime Wedding

A wedding that takes place during the day is more likely to be a low key or semi formal affair. Consider wearing a light, comfortable dress that you might wear to a work function or church. Choose simple patterns or understated detailing. Floral print patterns (make sure there isn’t too much white!) or feminine details are always a good choice.

Our Picks:

Image: Lulus

Perfectly Curated Ruffled Wrap Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

Wrap dresses are a flattering shape on many different body types and this floral dress has true vintage fall vibes, great for an October wedding!

Image: Lulus

Cute Navy Blue Skater Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

This dark floral dress has romantic sleeves and a short hem that fits in perfectly as an afternoon wedding guest dress, but that could be worn to a variety of other occasions, too!

Image: Reformation

Jeany Silk Dress

Reformation

Price: $$$$

Sustainable Fashion

If you aren’t quite ready to let summer go just yet, this floral maxi dress can take you into a fall wedding—casual afternoon or cocktail evening. Even better, you can save this classic design and be ready to pull it out of your closet in the spring, as it will be an ideal fit for a springtime wedding or party.

Image: Shein

Ditzy Floral Maxi

Shein

Price: $

The boho details of this off the shoulder dress are a trendy way to incorporate this year’s popular style into an outfit that would also be perfect for a date night.

Style tip: Combine another one of this year’s hottest trends—clogs!—into a comfortable shoe option that keeps toes covered in colder weather, while still giving yourself that needed height!

Image: Lulus

Darling Daylily Black Floral Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

Dark florals are a staple of the cooler months, so it’s right at home at a fall wedding. The ruffles provide a romantic detail, fitting for an afternoon or evening celebrating love.

Image: Amazon

Sleveless Sweater Dress

Grace Karin

Price: $

While this sweater dress comes in a variety of different colors, we love that this brown as an unexpected color choice that looks both elegant and flirty at the same time. Plus, it’s an affordable option that you could style all season long—especially in a business casual capsule wardrobe!

Tip: For a cooler fall evening, wear a blazer as a jacket.

Image: Amazon

Floral Shirt Dress

Grace Karin

Price: $

Could there be a dress more fitting for a garden wedding than this collared shirt dress? The length shows off just the right amount of leg, while the simple style makes it easy to layer a fall jacket over top when the party goes into the night.

Image: Amazon

Satin Tie Waist Dress

Grace Karin

Price: $$

A deep blue satin dress adorned with a flattering tie waist, this is another chic choice for a wedding guest dress.

Image: Nordstrom

Print Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress

ASTR The Label

Price: $$

This puff sleeve floral dress has the kind of soft print that you’ll want to pair with your favorite over the knee boots to wear all season long, wedding guest or not.

Image: Nordstrom

Floral Bustier Sundress

House of CB

Price: $$$$

Fans of Bridgerton rejoice! This romantic floral dress is fitting for a ball—maybe you’ll just find a suitor yourself!

Image: Amazon

Long Sleeve Tie Maxi

BTFBM

Price: $

If you’re looking to spend under $50 for a wedding guest dress, this floral option can’t be beat! Even better, you can wear it all fall and winter long when paired with boots and a jacket, too!

What to Wear to an Evening Wedding

Most weddings will fall under this category. Find a classic dress shape that transitions from day to evening. Cocktail dresses or formal party dresses are ideal evening wedding guest dress options. Beading and lace can also be appropriate, when worn in tasteful moderation. Dress lengths can be a little shorter, but aim for age-appropriate and slightly above—or below—the knee. Fall is a great time to play with jewel-toned solids, such as emeralds and amethysts. While many evening weddings will be indoors during the fall, make sure to reference the invitation to bring a jacket, if needed. Sleeves may be a perfect choice for cooler evening weddings, especially if the venue has an outdoor component.

Our Picks:

Image: Lulus

Celebration Time Tiered Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

This tiered dress is one of our favorites to add a little bit of volume to your skirt while still being form-fitting to let you dance the night away!

Image: Lulus

I’m All Yours Ruffled Maxi

Lulus

Price: $$

Ruffled shoulders and a deep V-neckline, added with a high slit in this maxi dress, give it just the right amount sexy without being over the top for a wedding guest dress. Plus, it comes in 7 different colors!

Image: Amazon

Mock Neck Tie Waist Dress

BTFBM

Price: $

What can we say? We’re suckers for high necklines! Whereas some dresses can feel just a bit too modest, the balloon sleeves, tie waist, and mini length make this dress anything but!

Image: Nordstrom

Persia Satin Sheath

Petal & Pup

Price: $

A little black dress is a closet essential! This bodycon dress hugs in all the right places, with unique detailing and a hem that stops just below the knee.

Image: Nordstrom

Long Sleeve Pleated Georgette Dress

Sam Edelman

Price: $

In a sea of darker, earthy colors, why not try an icy pop of turqouise? This light shade works perfectly for a fall wedding, but with tights and a faux fur jacket, will be ready for any winter weddings on your calendar, too!

Image: Nordstrom

Camo Asymmetric Satin Cocktail Dress

Elliatt

Price: $$$

We love the sheen of this dress and the asymmetrical cut makes it anything but boring! The high halter neck and mini skirt complete the flirty details on this fall cocktail dress that comes in oh-so-many colors to suit any wedding.

Style tip: Since you are attending a fall wedding, try pairing this open back dress with an oversized blazer — it can act as both a coat to keep you warm during the ceremony and a statement piece during the after party!

Image: Nordstrom

Metallic Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress

Vince Camuto

Price: $$$

This cap sleeve dress has just a hint of shimmer throughout our favorite fall hues. Plus, it comes in a mini package!

Image: Lulus

Take a Glance Tiered Mock Neck Midi Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

What’s not to love about the feminine, delicate ruffles of this mock neck dress? The tiered skirt and romantic details of this dress provide a uniqueness, while the deep hue is perfect for an early fall event, such as a September wedding.

Image: ASTR The Label

Ira Satin Wrap Shirt Dress

ASTR The Label

Price: $$

This wrap dress is a fun, party-ready take on a classic workwear shape. It has a figure-flattering tie waist with a hem that is short (but not too short!) for an evening wedding.

Style tip: For a more modest look, try pairing this dress with a pair of sheer sheer black tights and heeled ankle boots!

Image: Lulus

Enchanted Moments Satin Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

A dark mauve satin dress screams fall wedding guest dress and the shorter front hem lets you show off your favorite heels as you dance the night away!

Image: Nordstrom

Roslyn Faux Leather Minidress

Steve Madden

Price: $$

Before you say: faux leather?! hear us out! Faux leather is leading the way as a trending fabric for the upcoming fall season and we think that it can be an edgy alternative to a traditional satin or beaded evening wedding guest dress.

Style tip: To avoid the dress being too much, keep the rest of the outfit incredibly understated and let the unexpected dress shine.

Image: Nordstrom

Sloane Sleeveless Sheath Dress

Dress the Population

Price: $$$

For those who prefer longer hems on their dresses, this simple, yet incredibly flattering dress in a dark pine is an ideal choice for a cocktail or evening wedding. Even better, this sleek, chic shape can be worn to a variety events, including a black tie optional affair.

Image: Nordstrom

Illusion Mesh Cocktail Dress

Aidan Mattox

Price: $$$

This unique dress has a mesh overlay with a delicate floral pattern that gives a simple black dress a one-of-a-kind, vintage feel.

Image: ASTR The Label

Marissa Satin Dress

ASTR The Label

Price: $$$

This elegant midi dress comes in a huge variety of colors with sexy, yet sweet detailing that makes it a dress you can wear again and again!

Image: Amazon

Sequin Mother Of The Bride Cocktail Dress

Grace Karin

Price: $

Move over frumpy MOTB dresses! This two piece set has just the right amount of sparkle and a removable jacket that easily takes it from the ceremony onto the dance floor!

Image: Amazon

Off The SHoulder High/Low Dress

Sarin Mathews

Price: $

Maybe just a bit too short to make our list of black tie optional attire, this elegant dress combined the structure of a traditional ball gown with the fun, flirty leg reveal of an evening party dress.

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding in the Fall

This might be one of the hardest invitations to decipher. For black tie optional events, you have the option of choosing formal attire (think: ball gown) or an elegant cocktail dress. Keep the entire look sophisticated and simple by avoiding any bold or colorful statement jewelry or distracting accessories. Wear rich colors, such as dark purples, emeralds or navy. While black may not always be appropriate at a wedding (although many traditions have softened), black dresses are absolutely an option for this style of invitation. The dress length should hit at the knee or below. When in doubt, it would be wiser to err on the side of formal than too casual.

Our Picks:

Image: Lulus

Moriah Satin Wrap Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

A full length dress in a blush rose color couldn’t be any more perfect for a fall wedding guest dress.

Image: Amazon

Formal Sequin Jacket Set

Grace Karin

Price: $$

Not only is this dark plum dress affordable, it’s the perfect two piece set! The soft lines and voluminous fabric gives it a one-of-a-kind feel.

Image: Lulus

Classic Elegance Sleeveless Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

We can’t get enough of this deep cabernet red dress, but the cinched waistline and mockneck gives the perfect shape for any busty ladies look for a wedding guest dress this fall.

Image: Nordstrom

Ruffle Halter Crepe Gown

Betsy & Adam

Price: $$$$

When you want a true showstopper, this dress checks that box. With a high slit and a ruffled hem, it makes us feel like we’re that dancing emoji that you love to use…except in a rich navy blue.

Image: Nordstrom

Cape Sleeve Sheath Dress

Betsy & Adam

Price: $$$

When you want to make an impression without saying a word, this is the dress you need to pull out of your closet. The cape-like sleeves and perfect midi length make this a dress that simply commands attention when you walk into any room.

Image: ASTR The Label

Twist Detail Long Sleeve Stretch Velvet Gown

Jewel Badgley Mischka

Price: $$$

The crushed, soft velvet on this dress plus a deep leg slit (that isn’t too revealing) has us living! The deep orange hue of this long gown, along with the long sleeves, give us all the spooky fall vibes that would be perfect for an October wedding.

Image: Nordstrom

Tiffany One-Shoulder Midi Dress

Dress The Population

Price: $$$

Don’t limit this formal dress to just weddings! This one-shoulder midi dress would be a great option for business dinners, fundraisers, or charity events.

Style tip: Try it with a gold or silver heel and a jeweled clutch for a sexy New Year’s Eve party outfit!

Image: Nordstrom

Stretch Taffeta & Velvet Gown

Tadashi Soji

Price: $$$$

An elegant dress choice with a soft velvet makes for a beautiful evening wedding guest dress.

Style tip: Make the neckline of this dress the focal point! But, you can still add a bit of sparkle with a delicate necklace or drop earrings.

Image: Amazon

Mock Neck Satin Long Sleeve Dress

BTFBM

Price: $

A black tie optional dress for under $50? Is that even possible? Yes, it is! This gorgeous mock neck dress is reminiscent of the much more expensive Mac Duggal dress on our list, but for a fraction of the cost. No one will ever know that you got it on Amazon.

Image: Nordstrom

Bailey Off the Shoulder Body-Con Dress

Dress The Population

Price: $$$

An off-the-shoulder, body-con wedding guest dress that come in the perfect fall hue? We’ll be adding this one to our cart.

Image: Nordstrom

Metallic Draped Off the Shoulder Gown

Vince Camuto

Price: $$$

This refined dress comes in a sophisticated (yet unexpected!) subtle gold color that would look beautiful paired with your favorite diamond jewelry and accessories.

Image: Nordstrom

Blair Embellished Fit & Flare Dress

Dress The Population

Price: $$$$

We can’t help ourselves — we are suckers for anything with romantic details around here! Add in the shimmering sequins, nude mesh underlay, and a figure flattering fit-and-flare dress, and we’re in love!

What to Wear to A Fall Black Tie Wedding

The dress code for a black tie wedding means one thing: a formal evening gown. The dress should be full length. As black tie attire can be very expensive, we would recommend selecting a classic dress option that will be able to be worn for other formal weddings or black tie events. Keep jewelry and accessories simple and understated.

Our Picks:

Image: Nordstrom

Tux Detail Strapless Column Gown

Betsy & Adam

Price: $$$$

An absolute show-stopper of a gown, this classic silhouette can be a timeless addition to your closet.

Image: Nordstrom

Kayla Halter Gown

Sachin & Babi

Price: $$$$

While this dress does come in the navy blue and black hues traditionally seen at black tie weddings, we think that there is something understated and elegant about this color. The shade can also pair well for any upcoming winter weddings when styled with a faux fur jacket or coat.

Image: Nordstrom

One-Shoulder Crepe Scuba Gown

Betsy & Adam

Price: $$$$

Another beautifully simplistic gown, this full length dress has elbow-length sleeves for extra coverage and a cut that will look flattering on all different body types of all ages.

Image: Nordstrom

One-Shoulder Satin Gown

Dessy COllection

Price: $$$$

A beautiful olive green, this knotted dress just barely kisses the ground, providing an effect that makes you look effortlessly tall and statuesque. Even better, the dress has an inclusive size range, from 0-24.

Image: Nordstrom

Tie Waist Ombrè Skirt Gown

SLNY

Price: $$

The long sleeves, combined with an oversized bow and ombrè skirt, make a beautiful statement, while still remaining modest and wedding guest appropriate.

Image: Lulus

Melora Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

A black tie wedding guest dress doesn’t have to be stiff or stuffy when done tastefully. This full length dress hugs your curves in all the right places while keeping the detailing simple and elegant.

Image: Nordstrom

Ruched Jersey Column Gown

La Femme

Price: $$$$

A gorgeous column dress with a portrait collar is understated elegance, with a gathered waist that draws attention in an simple, yet show-stopping silhouette.

Image: Nordstrom

Strapless High/Low Ballgown

Alfred Sung

Price: $$$-$$$$

While most black tie wedding guest dresses are full length, we will make an exception for this satin stunner with a high/low hem line. With a fitted waist and a sweetheart neckline, this dress gives us full Cinderella vibes — without the pumpkin at the end of the night!

Image: Nordstrom

Georgina One-Shoulder Crepe Gown

Dress The Population

Price: $$$$

This might be one of our favorite dresses on this list — and it’s easy to see why! This gown captures both sexiness grace, while creating a look that is fit for a movie star.

Image: Lulus

Wow the Crowd Lace Mermaid Maxi Dress

Lulus

Price: $$

Heading to a black tie event but need to stay on budget? This lace maxi dress proves that you can still have all of the style of a full length gown without the price tag! This dress hugs your figure, while the lace adds a feminine touch, all for under $100!

Image: Nordstrom

Long Sleeve Satin Sheath Gown

Mac Duggal

Price: $$$$

We agree with Nikki Minaj: Why look simple, when you can look stunning? This black tie wedding guest gown is one of the most expensive dresses on this list, but with billowing sleeves and a jeweled neckline, this dress positively brings the drama!

Image: Nordstrom

Bow Shoulder V-Neck Gown

Mac Duggal

Price: $$$$

This is easily our favorite black tie wedding guest dress on the list (if not the entire thing!). The dress is structured and fully lined, giving your body both shape and support, while the bow adds a little bit of extra detail.

Tip: While this is a dress that may be best suited for smaller busts, a seamstress may be able to add a simple mesh detail to provide more modesty without taking away from the style of the dress.

Wear a Jumpsuit

While a non-traditional option, in recent years the jumpsuit has risen in popularity. There are a large variety of fitted, elegant jumpsuits that could be used and worn for a number of events, not just as a wedding guest. These unique options can be styled in a variety of different ways and offer a unique twist on the standard wedding attire.

Our Picks:

Image: Lulus

Kiska Lace Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

Lulus

Price: $$

The tailored high waist of this jumpsuit makes legs look impossibly long.

Image: Nordstrom

Halter Neck Jumpsuit

Julia Jordan

Price: $$-$$$

Another option on our list that can be styled throughout the seasons, toss on a structured jacket or blazer, a pair of ankle boots, and you’re ready for a fall wedding event! Plus, it has pockets!

Image: Lulus

Feel Your Love Ruffled Jumpsuit

Lulus

Price: $$

Ruffled shoulder straps and an open back add to the feminine details of this jumpsuit.

Image: Nordstrom

Stretch Crepe Jumpsuit

JS Collections

Price: $$$

If you want to rock a jumpsuit, but want a bit more coverage in your look, this is for you! The unique tied top gives an unexpected twist to a simple all-black outfit.

Image: Nordstrom

Ruched Ruffle Crepe Jumpsuit

Xscape Evenings

Price: $$$$

Show off those collarbones! This neckline is stunning, and the half-length sleeves are something that you don’t often see—the perfect way to make a subtle statement.

Image: Nordstrom

Strapless Taffeta & Crepe Jumpsuit

Adrianna Papell

Price: $$$

While we would normally frown on wearing any form of white to a wedding, the detailing of this jumpsuit feels more like a traditional suit than a conflict to the bride. Plus, it works well in a variety of different wedding styles.

Image: Amazon

Bow Neck Halter Jumpsuit

Vince Camuto

Price: $$

This jumpsuit blends the wide leg trend with comfortable fabric and cut for a wedding guest outfit that you won’t want to take off!

What Not to Wear to a Wedding

Weddings have changed drastically since their more traditional beginnings. Even though there are few true dress codes when it comes to wedding attire, there are a few unwritten rules to always follow.

Do not wear white

Even in an informal setting, it’s best not to compete with the bride on her day. Avoid this color at all costs.

Never wear jeans

Garth Brooks said it best: Showing up in boots ruins a black tie affair. Even at the most casual of weddings, we suggest leaving your favorite denim (or boots!) at home, unless specifically requested by the bride or groom.

Avoid anything too low-cut or revealing

While a little bit of sexiness is always welcome, too much can become distracting or inappropriate, especially when family members are present.

Avoid wearing the colors of the wedding

You don’t want to be mistaken for a member of the bridal party. While the wedding invitation is generally a hint as to the colors of the wedding, if you have questions, reach out to the bride or groom for clarification.

Too much sparkle

Even if the invitation calls for formal attire, leave the rhinestones and overly flashy, metallic fabrics to cocktail parties. A beaded gown, however, can be an elegant option!

How to Accessorize for a Fall Wedding

Adding a bit of dramatic flair to your wedding guest attire is simple. Remember, in all instances, your accessories or jewelry should not take away from the bride. Classic pieces of jewelry and dance-appropriate heels will be your best friend.

Choose the Right Shoes

Most weddings will involve plenty of dancing, so it’s imperative that you have a comfortable pair of shoes. Heels with a thicker block heel will not only be great for outdoor weddings, but be more comfortable to walk in. Dressier shoes, such as pumps, can be a classic addition if your feet are visible in your dress. These heels are one of our personal favorites for comfort so that you can keep dancing all night long!

Keep the Jewelry Simple

Any jewelry for your dress should be tasteful and not overpower your dress. Stay away from overly ornate earrings or necklaces. For formal jewelry, choose simple, classic pieces that can be worn for any occasion.