Is it me, or are we set to be really busy bees over the next few months with all these weddings to attend? If there’s one thing 2022 has taught us, it’s that there’s officially no such a thing as ‘wedding season’. While in the past save the dates were usually confined to the months of April, June and July, in more recent years all rules are out the window and many couples are choosing the latter half of the year as the perfect time to tie the knot.
After all, an autumn wedding has so many great things going for it. From mild weather to fairy-lit evenings, and maybe even a cheeky baileys hot chocolate, an autumn wedding invite (and consequently, finding the perfect autumn wedding guest outfit) is definitely a cause for excitement.
Because, if you’re lucky enough to have had said invite come through your door earlier this year, you’ve probably found yourself wondering that very important question: what are you going to wear? As the weather gets cooler there are many things to consider when it comes to putting together the perfect autumn wedding guest outfit: sleeves or no sleeves, can I wear florals and let’s be honest, do I need to shave my legs or is it too cold for a mini anyways? And what heels can I walk all day in? Spoiler alert: most likely yes but that’s not to say you can’t still pull out all the stops on the outfit front.
Well fear not, as I’ve pulled together some serious inspo for nailing your autumn wedding guest outfit as well as the ultimate shopping list of pieces to buy now. Get ready to be the best dressed guest…
Moody florals
Florals aren’t just for spring; a dark floral dress strikes the perfect balance between traditional wedding guest style and the moody autumn weather. To elevate your look, go for dresses with added details like lace trims or metallic finishes, they’ll make your outfit feel expensive whatever your budget.
When wearing prints, I like to keep accessories simple, a pair of strappy heels and some drop pearl earrings will give a vintage inspired feel without being too OTT.
A trouser suit
Don’t be afraid to give the guys a run for their money by switching it up and opting for a trouser suit instead of your favourite dress. Perfect for when the weathers just not playing ball, a trouser suit will keep you warm without having to compromise on style.
Don’t forget to think about your fit: an oversized style will give off a relaxed vibe perfect for less formal weddings while more boujie affairs may call for a more tailored cut. For a glam look, layer a bralette underneath, or, keep it classic with a satin cami or silk blouse.
Jewel tones
The days may be shorter and the evenings may be darker, but that doesn’t mean you have to dress on the dark side. A jewel toned dress is the ideal way to make colour feel autumn appropriate so opt for shades of ruby, emerald green and sapphire blue. Alongside looking great, they’ll also lend a luxurious air to your outfit. Pair with gold accessories for added drama.
A pyjama co-ord
If dresses aren’t your style, a co-ord is the answer for a look that’s totally effortless. For easy wearing go for a pyjama-inspired wild leg style, it’ll ensure you look polished while remaining oh-so-comfortable too. Want to know the best thing about this look? You can break out your best moves on the dancefloor without having to worry about hitching your dress up. Just don’t blame the outfit when you get tagged in the videos the next day…
Knit fabrics
The great thing about an autumn wedding is you can wear fabrics you’d never be able to get away with in spring or summer for fear of overheating, case in point: a knit dress. To pull off this look, avoid chunky, heavy fabrics like wool and instead go for thin knits – the aim is classy over cosy.
Plus, there’s no need for an extra jacket with these styles meaning one less thing to think about when it comes to planning your look, simply pair your dress with a pair of block heels and you’re good to go.
A little black dress
Yes, you did read that right, in my opinion it is totally acceptable to wear black to a wedding. Not only is a black dress eternally chic but there’s little to no chance of you overshadowing the bride or bridesmaids, which would be the ultimate disaster.
When choosing a black dress for an autumn wedding guest outfit, it’s important to think about the fabric, satin or silk will give a sultry feel, or try a heavy brocade for added elegance. Don’t want to go head to toe black? Add a blazer in a contrasting tone like beige or forest green to break up your outfit.