What to Wear to a Fall Wedding

This entry is from our Expert Guest series where wedding and honeymoon professionals share their best tips on creating memories that last a lifetime.

Here in Nashville, our seasons are a little more defined than some other places in the country. That’s why October is the most popular month to get married in Nashville, and I know it’s a very popular month to get married anywhere in the country! While weather is always unpredictable wherever you are, you can usually count on fall for beautiful weather. But what should you wear to a fall wedding?

The answer is, you really have to be prepared for anything! Usually the days are warmer while the nights get cooler, so a versatile outfit is key! No matter what type of wedding it is, we put together some surefire dresses to wear to a fall wedding.

What To Wear To A Fall Wedding, Regardless Of How Formal It Is

Casual

I will say, most weddings in the South are on the casual side. From food truck faire to backyard bashes, the laid-back vibe of Southern culture carries on through our weddings! So what should you wear to a casual fall wedding? Think boho! Long flowing maxi dresses with a print, or a short off the shoulder look with sleeves is perfect for a fall wedding. Pair the look with some ankle boots and make sure you bring a soft flow -y duster if the temperature happens to drop.

For ideas on casual bowlful wedding where, look at the Maywood Dress from Abednego or the Parker Dress from Lizard Thicket.

Here are more casual rules to keep in mind:

• No matter how casual, don’t wear jeans to a wedding!
• Style your dress with a funky necklace.
• Don’t be afraid to wear a hat!
• Boots are completely acceptable!
• However, tennis shoes are not acceptable! 🙂
• Look like you made an effort with your outfit.
• Don’t show up like you just rolled out of bed!
• Flats and sandals are totally acceptable.
• Don’t break out the flip flops until you hit the dance floor!
• Prints are always more fun!
• Don’t wear this look to a black tie wedding!

Formal

If glitz and glam are on the docket for a fall wedding, (think a grand symphony center wedding or a romantic botanical gardens wedding), bring some darker colors like navy, black, or burgundy into your attire. Bringing interest to your neckline with a unique dress cut is a fun way to still bring some personality to a formal look. You can even take a fashion risk and choose a long mustard tone gown in lace! Be sure to bring a light glitzy cardigan or a soft wrap in case it gets cold at night. 🙂

For ideas, look at Sen Lace Maxi from Moda or the Lace Maxi – Yellow from Abednego.in

More tips to remember:

• Do not draw attention away from the bride.
• Take risks with the cuts of your dress, but don’t get too risky.
• Think tasteful and subdued!
• Don’t wear a princess dress ball gown unless specified on the invitation.
• Don’t get crazy with your jewelry choices.
• Wear a long gown whenever possible.
• Watch your slit length – remember this is a sophisticated affair!
• From beaded to sequined, make a statement with your clutch!
• Don’t completely fret over your shoes – most people won’t see them and you might kick them off on the dance floor.
• Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn. 🙂

Somewhere in Between

On a scale of formal to casual, whichever way the wedding may sway, you’re sure to feel comfortable with these two looks! A simple black midi dress with a slit in back or an all-over fall colored lace knee-length number is sure to wow (but not overpower the bride or bridesmaids!). Dress each of these looks up with fun earrings and detailed shoes to take them to the next level!

For ideas, check out the June Lace Dress from Draper James or the Elise Dress from Elizabeth Suzanne.

Here are more items to keep in mind:

• Don’t wear a completely white dress.
• Hints of white are totally fine.
• If ONE of your separates (either your top or skirt) is white, it’s completely ok!
• If you attend an outdoor wedding, remember your heels may dig into the grass.
• Remember, your nails, hair,and makeup makes a huge difference in your entire look.
• Go dark with your lip color if it’s a night wedding.
• Go dark with your eye color if it’s a day wedding.
• Leave the fur coat/stole at home (it’s reserved for the bride!)
• You can also leave the gloves at home as well.
• Let the bride have her moment.

No matter which look you choose, own it and make it yours! You know your style better than anyone else and whether you’re feeling like you want to take a risk or wear your go-to little black dress, the most important things to do that night are celebrate the couple, enjoy yourself and have FUN!

Looking for a great idea for a wedding gift? Consider making a contribution to their honeymoon registry from Honeyfund.

Bio: After years of blogging for both Nashville businesses and on her own, Alyssa DiCicco took over long time Nashville wedding blog, Nashville Bride Guide! In the past, she’s worked with various brands bringing them extensive exposure – and back in 2008, one of those brands was Nashville Bride Guide. Her long-time knowledge of the blog as an employee and client led her to the point of taking ownership of the blog in 2016. SexeDate

Alyssa is originally from the Chicago area, but Nashville has been her home base for 9 years and it’s since given her an eye for design and cutting-edge trends in the local wedding industry. Alyssa’s experience in marketing and design at a leading Nashville rental company brings a fresh new perspective to the blog and a well-rounded understanding of what Nashville brides want. She also holds the role of Vice President for the Tennessee Wedding and Event Specialists Association (TWESA).

For information, check out the website.