What Colour Dress Should a Guest Wear for a Fall / Autumn Wedding?

Summer weddings have always been the hot picks for wedding season. But October weddings have become the new go-to.

Maybe it's the stunning fall foliage, the perfect weather, or those Instagram-worthy golden hour photos. 

So if you’ve RSVP’d “yes” to a fall / autumn wedding and prefer to stick to a dress, you might be asking: What colour dress should I wear? 

Let’s break it all down together. 

In this article:

  • 1. Deep Burgundy

What Colour to Wear to a Fall / Autumn Wedding?

For a fall wedding, the best guest dress colours are rich, warm, and inspired by the season’s natural beauty. Think deep burgundy, burnt orange, forest green, and chocolate brown—shades that complement autumn’s golden tones and feel both elegant and cozy.

Earthy neutrals like taupe, mocha, and olive are also stylish choices, while jewel tones like sapphire and plum add a touch of luxury. 

1. Deep Burgundy

Burgundy is a favourite for autumn wedding guests. This rich, wine-inspired hue perfectly captures the essence of fall while remaining elegant and sophisticated.

Off Shoulder Back-Tie Satin Burgundy Maxi

Off Shoulder Back-Tie Satin Burgundy Maxi

Why it works:

  • Complements the seasonal colour palette
  • Photographs beautifully in autumn lighting
  • Works with multiple skin tones
  • Feels festive without being overwhelming

Pro tip: Pair burgundy with gold or bronze accessories to enhance the autumn vibe.

2. Forest Green

Forest green embodies the changing leaves and evergreen trees that define autumn landscapes. It's a sophisticated choice that feels both seasonal and timeless.

Halter Glitter Mesh Midi Dress

Halter Neck Glitter Midi in Dark Green

Best for: Evening ceremonies and indoor receptions 

3. Dusty Rose

This muted pink shade strikes the perfect balance between feminine and understated. It's particularly stunning for afternoon ceremonies and garden weddings.

ever ROSALYN dusty rose

ROSALYN - Chiffon Tiered Maxi in Dusty Rose

Why we love it:

  • Universally flattering
  • Photographs beautifully
  • Easy to accessorize
  • Appropriate for various wedding styles

4. Navy Blue

Navy blue is the little black dress of wedding guest attire. It's sophisticated, versatile, and works for virtually any autumn wedding setting.

ever REYA navy blue

Cold-Shoulder Maxi with Slit in Navy Blue

Perfect for: Formal evening weddings, religious ceremonies, and conservative family celebrations

5. Dark Purple

Dark purple offers a rich, luxurious feel that's perfect for autumn celebrations. It's unique enough to stand out while remaining appropriate for wedding settings.

ever ELISE dark purple

ELISE - Ruffled Lace High Low Dress in Dark Purple

Styling advice: Keep accessories minimal to let the dress colour shine

6. Burnt Orange

This vibrant yet warm colour perfectly captures autumn's energy. It's particularly stunning for outdoor ceremonies and rustic wedding venues.

ever IVYROSE burnt orange

IVYROSE - Empire Waist Applique Chiffon Maxi in Burnt Orange

Important note: Choose deeper, more muted shades of orange to avoid looking too casual or bright

7. Olive Green

Olive green is having a major moment in wedding fashion, and autumn is the perfect time to embrace this earthy, sophisticated hue. It's more subtle than forest green but equally stunning.

ever VALENCIA olive green

VALENCIA - High Neck Backless Satin Maxi in Olive Green

Why it's perfect for autumn:

  • Reflects the changing foliage beautifully
  • Works exceptionally well for outdoor venues
  • Pairs gorgeously with gold and bronze accessories
  • Flatters a wide range of skin tones

Best styling tip: Add warm metallic jewelry to elevate the look from casual to wedding-appropriate.

8. Rich Brown

Brown might seem unconventional, but rich chocolate or cognac brown can be absolutely stunning for autumn weddings. It's warm, elegant, and perfectly seasonal.

ever BRIAR brown

BRIAR - 3/4 Sleeve High Low Chiffon Dress in brown

Perfect for: Rustic venues, outdoor ceremonies, and vineyard weddings

Styling secret: Pair with rose gold or copper accessories for a truly luxurious feel

9. Sapphire Blue

This deep, rich blue is more vibrant than navy but still sophisticated enough for formal occasions. Sapphire blue photographs beautifully and works year-round, making it a smart investment piece.

pretty EDEN sapphire blue

EDEN - Round Neckline Midi in Sapphire Blue

Pro tip: This colour is particularly stunning for evening celebrations and indoor venues.

10. Teal

Teal strikes the perfect balance between blue and green, making it an unexpectedly perfect choice for autumn weddings. It's distinctive enough to stand out while remaining appropriate and elegant.

V Neck Glitter Maxi with Side Split

V Neck Glitter Maxi with Side Split in Teal

Best occasions: Garden weddings, lakeside venues, and bohemian celebrations

Styling advice: Keep accessories in warm metals to complement the autumn setting

Colours to Absolutely Avoid at Autumn Weddings

The Forbidden List:

  • White, ivory, or cream (reserved for the bride)
  • Bright neon colours (too attention-grabbing)
  • All black (unless specifically requested or it's a formal evening event)
  • Overly bright pastels (clash with the autumn aesthetic)

How to Choose the Perfect Shade for Your Skin Tone

For Cool Undertones:

  • Navy blue
  • Sapphire blue
  • Deep plum
  • Dusty rose
  • Cool-toned grays
  • Teal

For Warm Undertones:

  • Burgundy
  • Forest green
  • Olive green
  • Burnt orange
  • Rich brown
  • Warm grays with brown undertones

For Neutral Undertones:

You're lucky – almost any of these colours will work beautifully on you!

The Venue Factor: Matching Your Dress to the Setting

Outdoor Weddings:

  • Burgundy
  • Forest green
  • Olive green
  • Burnt orange
  • Rich brown
  • Warm earth tones

Indoor/Formal Venues:

  • Navy blue
  • Sapphire blue
  • Deep plum
  • Dusty rose

Rustic/Barn Weddings:

  • Burgundy
  • Forest green
  • Olive green
  • Rich brown
  • Warm neutrals
  • Muted earth tones

Garden/Bohemian Weddings:

  • Teal
  • Olive green
  • Dusty rose
  • Warm earth tones

Shopping Tips for Your Perfect Autumn Wedding Guest Dress

What to Look For:

  1. Quality fabric that photographs well
  2. Comfortable fit for long celebration days
  3. Appropriate length for the venue and time of day
  4. Seasonal-appropriate sleeves or layering options

Budget-Friendly Options:

  • Ever-Pretty offers stunning autumn-appropriate dresses starting from £30
  • Look for versatile pieces you can wear to multiple events
  • Consider rental options for higher-end designer pieces

Styling Your Autumn Wedding Guest Look

Accessories That Complete the Look:

  • Jewelry: Gold, bronze, or warm-toned metals
  • Shoes: Closed-toe pumps or elegant boots for outdoor venues
  • Outerwear: Elegant blazers, wraps, or sophisticated cardigans
  • Bag: Small clutch or crossbody in complementary tones

Hair and Makeup Tips:

  • Embrace warm, autumn-inspired makeup tones
  • Consider rich lip colours that complement your dress
  • Choose hairstyles that work with potential weather changes
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