It once seemed weddings were reserved for the summer months or Christmas time, but these days invitations are arriving for dates all year round.
While this is great news for our social calendars, it does mean choosing an outfit can be tricky. If you’re asking yourself, what should I wear to an autumn wedding? I've got you covered. There are so many beautiful options for wedding guest dresses during the transitional seasons available to shop online.
With an array of colours, prints and cuts all over the high street, wedding guest outfits are always one of the most fun to plan. Besides wearing white, or of course outshining the bride, the fashion world really is your oyster. It's a great excuse to buy that dress you've had your eye on - and maybe wouldn't get chance to wear otherwise.
Whether you want to go with a classic midi dress or try an alternative outfit like a jumpsuit or trouser suit, I've found all of the best options to shop for autumn 2024.
When it comes to wedding guest dressing, floral prints, vibrant colours and romantic ruffles are always popular choices. If you're feeling overwhelmed with options, I spoke to style expert and recent bride Olivia Miller (@oliviamiller) (whose amazing outfits I always want to emulate) to help you choose what to shop this season.
How I chose the best wedding guest outfits
- Brands: I've only included labels loved and trusted by the HELLO! Shopping Team. These are the brands I look to when shopping for occasionwear.
- Style: From cascading ruffles to playful cut-outs, asymmetric hems made for easy movement and statement exaggerated sleeves, I've chosen a variety of cuts so there is something for everyone.
- Budget: Equally, everyone has a different budget, so while almost everything is under £500, some prices are as low as £40.
1/14
Rixo Abi Polka-Dot Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Polka dots work for every season, but I think this navy Rixo number is perfect for an autumn/winter wedding. Made from lightweight georgette fabric, it features a chic halterneck and tiered midi skirt, as well as a bra-friendly open back.
2/14
Reiss Micah Satin Drape Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Burgundy is the shade of the season and this understated midi dress from Reiss is stunning. Cut with a slim fit, it features very flattering waist detail which drapes to an asymmetric finish.
3/14
& Other Stories Satin Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
How gorgeous is this satin maxi dress from & Other Stories? The jewel-toned turquoise hue is autumnal but far from boring, and it features a glam waterfall fold at the back, as well as a flattering split hem.
4/14
Phase Eight Cilla Floral Shirt Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Rose printed pieces have been trending this year, and I love Phase Eight's bold and abstract take. The Cilla dress also has very feminine large puff sleeves, button down detailing, and a comfortable flowing cut.
5/14
Reformation Anaiis Silk Dress
Editor's Note:
Made from 100% silk, Reformation's tactile Anaiis dress is a stunning option this autumn. The metallic maxi dress is slim fitting with a column skirt, and designed to just graze the floor when wearing heels. This one could also work for a black tie wedding.
6/14
Mango Animal-Print Ruffled Dress
Editor's Note:
The softness of this animal print makes it perfect for a wedding guest dress. The midi is cut in a flattering flowy fabric with cascading ruffles and delicate straps.
7/14
Perla Bandeau Ruffle Midaxi Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're an all-black-everything kind of girl, you're in luck as the shade is much more widely accepted at autumn and winter weddings. Some brides even request every guest to wear it. This bandeau midi dress from Pretty Lavish replaces colour with a fun pleated frill design.
8/14
Mint Velvet Blue Abstract Print Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Delicate florals still work for autumn/winter weddings, and this beautiful printed maxi dress from Mint Velvet features the prettiest halter neckline with ruffle detail. Falling to a tiered skirt, it will be comfortable to eat and drink in all day.
9/14
Nobody's Child Red Frill Sleeve Layla Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
With its simple cut with ruffle sleeves, a flattering panelled waist and relaxed swishy skirt, this Nobody's Child midi dress in romantic red is a fail safe.
10/14
Diane Von Furstenberg Marilou Flared Jumpsuit
Editor's Note:
This midnight blue Diane Von Furstenberg jumpsuit has been cut from stretch jersey fabric and is so comfortable you'll want to wear it on repeat. It features a v-neck, dropped shoulders, pleated detail and a detachable tie-fastening belt to cinch your waist. I love it styled with metallic accessories.
11/14
Zara Halterneck Dress
Editor's Note:
Sage green is a universally flattering shade and it beautifully complements the ruffles of this Zara midi dress. I love the appliqué flower detail on the halterneck.
12/14
Never Fully Dressed Metallic Midaxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Never Fully Dressed's tactile silky midi dress comes in an autumnal chocolate brown. It features the prettiest lace and subtle cut-out detail.
13/14
Victoria Beckham Gathered Stretch-Jersey Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
We can always rely on Victoria Beckham for beautifully cut pieces. Made from stetch jersey with plenty of drape, this asymmetric midi dress features flattering contouring and gathering, finished with a deep neckline.
14/14
Abercrombie Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Drama Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Whimsical florals - but make it autumn. Abercrombie's popular Emerson dress has statement short sleeves and a very feminine off-the-shoulder cut. This is perfect for those warmer weather autumn weddings.
Meet the expert
Olivia is a London based influencer and content creator. She shares outfit inspiration for every occasion, plus tips on how to maximise your wardrobe with her engaged following of over 500k followers, through Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. A fan of classic styling, great tailoring and statement accessories, she makes simple looks feel more interesting and elevated.
