What to wear for a fall outdoor wedding?

I love a velvet dress for the fall!

Oh 100% yes to the velvet dress idea! That would be amazing. But if you don’t have one or don’t want to go get one, I’d say wear whatever you want but make sure to bring a light jacket or shawl with you. I have been to many outdoor weddings even in the summer and it can get chilly. I think it’s always a safe bet to have something like that with you.

I was going to suggest a velvet dress as well! They come out with a lot of them in the beginning of fall, so you might have some luck closer to that timeframe. Just in general with long sleeved dresses and all too. One thing I have done for fall weddings that I attended as a guest was I just got a cardigan sweater that matched the dress so I could wear it if it was cooler or take it off if it was warmer. Not sure where you live, but here in New England, early November weather could be cold and snowing or warm and almost 70, so I always liked the idea of a layer I am able to remove or add on.

As far as length, I don't think longer dresses are too formal. I've worn longer dresses to weddings before and didn't feel I looked too formal. However, longer dresses can sometimes be harder to dance in depending on their style, so if you're a dancer, keep that in mind!

Velvet is great fabric for winter and fall events. I would feel comfortable wearing a long dress but if you do not, you can also get away with a shorter dress and thick leggings/tights. A blazer or other dressy jacket could also be a good choice if the dress you choose isn't quite warm enough for the weather. You can add sleeves with a light cardigan or shrug as well.

Wear a dress in a fall color or in a heavier fabric like velvet! That’s very fall!! 🍂

Here are a few good example pictures from Pinterest of what to wear to a fall outdoor wedding:

Hi Jessica! When deciding what to wear as a wedding guest, I always start with the wedding invitation and the wedding venue! Are there any attire clues on the invitation or website? And what time of day is the wedding? You can also look up the wedding venue to get a good feel for how formal you should dress!

Personally, my preferred fall outdoor wedding attire is bright and jewel-toned dresses with a nice wrap in case I get cold! (And I make my long or short dress decision based on how formal the wedding looks!) Seasonal patterns and heavier fabrics like velvet also embody autumn! 🍁

For a casual outdoor fall wedding - I’d wear a fun cocktail dress, cute but comfortable shoes, and have a pashmina on hand for warmth. You could also wear one of those more casual printed long dresses or a long-sleeved dress! When the event is more formal I step up the formality of my dress and accessories.✨

Here are a few examples from past weddings I’ve attended!

From my October Rehearsal Dinner in NC (cocktail attire):

I wore this to a semi-formal outdoor wedding in April but it would also work for fall:

If you’re still wondering what to wear, here are some great round-ups with tips on appropriate colors, styles and places to get great fall outdoor wedding dresses and outfits:

What to Wear to a Fall Wedding: The Best Fall Wedding Guest Dresses

Here’s What to Wear to a Wedding, According to the Experts

Depends where this wedding is. Fall here in VA is like 80 degrees so maxi sundresses still go 100% but fall in like VT would be cold as heck in November. I say go with the weather, and yes, long dresses are totally appropriate for wedding guests!

Here's a great new article with detailed guidance on guest attire:

Here's Exactly What to Wear to a Fall Wedding As a Guest