2025 Dress Guide: What to Wear to a Fall Casual Wedding -

There’s something undeniably magical about outdoor fall weddings—the crisp air, the golden hour lighting, and the chance to dress up in layers of luxurious fabrics without sweating through your silk. But when the wedding invite says “casual,” things can get confusing fast. Casual fall wedding attire walks a fine line: you want to look put-together (this is still a wedding, after all), but not like you’re heading to a black-tie gala.

This 2025 style guide breaks down everything you need to know about what to wear to an autumn wedding with a casual dress code—whether you’re dancing under the stars in a vineyard or celebrating with the happy couple at a cozy barn gathering. We’re talking fall wedding outfits that feel effortless, chic, seasonally on-point, and 100% you.

Let’s get into it.

Just a heads-up—this post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you shop through them (at no extra cost to you). No gatekeeping here—I only share products I genuinely love and swear by.

Decode the Dress Code: What Does “Casual Wedding Attire” Actually Mean?

Before you even start assembling outfit ideas, check the wedding invitation. Location and time matter. A backyard brunch in Vermont? Very different from a sunset ceremony at a mountaintop lodge.

Casual wedding attire doesn’t mean you show up in jeans and sneakers. It means you can skip the ball gown but should still bring your A-game. Think knee-length dresses, elevated dress pants, flowy midi dresses, and floral prints that speak to the season. Cocktail attire can sometimes work here, especially if the event dips into the evening.

The key is to strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Treat it as a great opportunity to experiment with cozy textures, rich fall colors, and flattering silhouettes that work for you.

Color is Everything: Building Your Fall Wedding Palette

The fall season is all about deep, rich hues and earth tones. Think burnt sienna, rust, plum, olive green, chocolate brown, forest green, and jewel tones like sapphire, ruby, and emerald. These autumnal colors echo the environment and feel luxe without screaming for attention.

Skip the bright colors typically seen at summer weddings. You’re not at Coachella.

Instead, lean into a color palette that embraces moody, rich fabric and texture—satins, velvets, crepe, even corduroy for separates. If you want to stand out (in the best way), try a pop of metallic or a subtle polka dot pattern for a hint of fun.

Autumnal hues not only flatter most skin tones but photograph beautifully against golden leaves and candlelit receptions.

Fall Wedding Guest Outfit Inspiration: Dresses That Work

Let’s be real: fall wedding guest dresses are where the magic happens. They’re the easiest way to feel instantly pulled together, and there are great options out there for every shape, vibe, and venue.

Here’s what to look for:

1. The Midi Dress

A true MVP for any casual events, the midi dress offers coverage, comfort, and movement. Go for heavier fabrics like knit or velvet for that luxe fall feel. Add boots or dress shoes and you’re golden.

Our Favorite Casual Midi Wedding Guest Dresses:

2. The Little Black Dress (LBD)

You cannot go wrong with a well-fitting little black dress—especially if you accessorize smartly. Layer on a statement necklace, pull your hair into a sleek bun, and you’re giving best-dressed guest energy.

Bonus tip: Choose a style with long sleeves or an interesting neckline for a seasonal twist.

Our Favorite Little Black Wedding Guest Dresses:

3. The Full-Length or Floor-Length Dress

Yes, you can wear a floor-length gown or floor-length dress to a casual fall wedding—just make sure the fabric doesn’t scream “gala.” Look for breathable fabrics and easy silhouettes. Think boho-chic rather than ballroom.

Great choice: A printed chiffon full-length gown in autumnal hues.

Our Favorite Floor-Length Dresses we Love:

4. The Cocktail Dress (With a Fall Twist)

Cocktail dresses can totally work, especially for evening weddings. Just steer toward rich colors, and avoid anything too short or clubby. It’s a wedding, not an afterparty.

Go for: A puff-sleeve mini in forest green with tights and block heels.

Casual Cocktail Dresses we Love:

Alternative Outfits: Not Into Dresses? No Problem

Not everyone vibes with dresses—and that’s more than okay. Some of the most perfect outfit choices this season ditch the skirt altogether.

Chic Dress Pants + Top Combo

High-waisted, wide-leg dress pants paired with a fitted top (or even a silky blouse with a cutout) strike the perfect tone of dressy casual. Toss on a blazer for added polish.

Tip: Go monochrome in earth tones for a classic look with a 2025 update.

Jumpsuits and Rompers

Another great way to keep things simple and stylish. Look for tapered legs, defined waists, and luxe finishes like satin or crepe. Keep the neckline modest but fun. Rich fabric makes all the difference.

Layering for the Fall Weather

Fall is unpredictable. One minute you’re basking in sun, the next you’re hugging a heat lamp. Layering is your best friend.

What works:

Cropped jackets in suede or faux fur
Blazers in dark color palettes
Shawls or oversized scarves in rich fall colors
A classic trench in a neutral tone

Avoid overly bulky pieces that clash with your outfit. You want layers that enhance, not overwhelm.

For the Guys: Casual Fall Wedding Attire That Hits Right

Fellas, casual wedding attire doesn’t mean khakis and a polo.

Stick to a dark suit in navy, charcoal, or even a deep chocolate brown. Pair with a textured shirt (think chambray or brushed cotton), or go for a turtleneck under a blazer if you’re feeling bold.

Other solid options:

Trousers in tweed or wool
Button-downs in autumnal colors like mustard or burgundy
Leather dress shoes (always a must)

Throw in a pocket square or patterned sock if you want to show off some personal style.

Accessories: The Small Step That Levels Up the Whole Look

Never underestimate accessories. They pull everything together and are a great choice for expressing personal style.

For Women:

Statement necklace or bold earrings (choose one, not both)
Velvet clutch in jewel tones
Boots, mules, or dress shoes in suede or leather

For Men:

Belt in a coordinating color (don’t clash with the shoes)
Watch or subtle jewelry
Textured tie or knit bowtie for evening events

What to Avoid: Wedding Guest Don’ts

Even for casual fall weddings, there are a few universal no-gos:

White dresses. Just don’t.
Too much sparkle. Leave the disco ball at home unless the wedding invite calls for it.
Sneakers or sandals. Nope. You’re not running errands.
Ultra-short hemlines. Save it for the club.
Too-summery pieces. Bright colors, linen, and spaghetti straps feel out of place.

The perfect look is respectful of the couple, the venue, and the season—while still letting your personal style shine.

Final Thoughts: Your Go-To Fall Wedding Fashion Playbook

Fall weddings give you the perfect opportunity to show up looking seasonal, stylish, and comfortable all at once. Whether you’re wearing a knee-length dress in floral print, a silky midi dress in jewel tones, or sleek dress pants with a twist, your outfit choice should reflect the occasion and feel 100% you.

Use the wedding dress code as a jumping-off point, embrace autumnal hues and heavier fabrics, and don’t be afraid to go bold with rich colors and texture. The fall season is a vibe—and you deserve to look like the moment.

Ready to be the best-dressed guest this season? Head to spots like Reformation, Aritzia, and Saks Fifth Avenue for pieces that nail that casual fall wedding vibe with zero guesswork.

Now, RSVP “yes” and get ready to raise a glass to the happy couple—in your perfect outfit, of course.

More to Read:

2025 Dress Guide: What to Wear to a Fall Casual Wedding