"Wedding season" is generally thought of as spring, but the most popular months to say "I do" are actually in the fall. Maybe it's the foliage, maybe it's the much-anticipated relief from the heat, but fall weddings, much like autumn itself, are definitely a thing. While the multi-hued leaves make for stunning wedding pics for the newlyweds, finding fall wedding guest dresses can often stump attendees. Looking for an outfit that is dressy while still feeling seasonally appropriate is deceptively difficult.
Fear not, because ahead are 18 bonafide wedding-guest ensembles that are both festive in color and design, plus suitable for the dipping temperatures. The perfect fall wedding guest dress is clicks away, whether you'll be attending a cocktail wedding or a black tie affair. Trust us; there are many fresh fits out there with re-wear potential. Uncover a plethora of new fall dresses waiting for you to breathe life into ahead.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Don't let the fall chill get in the way. Feel free to elongate your legs in a flirty mini-dress. There are plenty of dazzling and minimalistic options calling your name. If you're wearing a sleeveless number, you can always drape a cardigan over your shoulders for warmth and a chic touch.
Midi dresses are a classy choice for a fall wedding — plus, the length is just right for showing off your fancy shoes without your legs feeling overexposed. We've found everything from striking gemstone options with statement necklines to delicate ruffled dresses.
Delfi Collective Pleated One-Shoulder Sheath Dress, $, available at AnthropologieShop Lulus
Lulus Radiant Arrival Shiny Gold Organza Tiered Tie-Strap Mid, $, available at LulusShop ASOS Edition At ASOS
ASOS EDITION Satin Floral Embroidered Midi Dress, $, available at ASOSShop Adrianna Papell At Amazon
Adrianna Papell Velvet Midi Dress, $, available at AmazonShop Black Halo At Saks Fifth Avenue
Black Halo Henley Off-The-Shoulder Sequin Dress, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Fall Wedding Guest Maxi Dresses
If you're nervous about the weather once the sun sets, opt for a fall wedding guest dress that falls to the floor. These elegant maxi dresses are anything but frumpy and will keep the breeze at bay.
If you've got a formal event on the books, these gorgeous hued gowns with delicate details will satisfy the black-tie dress code and leave you ready for any star-studded photo ops.
Lauren Geo-Print Crinkle Georgette Halter Gown, $, available at Ralph LaurenShop Bronx And Banco At Bloomingdales
Bronx and Banco Zoe Lamé Gown, $, available at Bloomingdale's
Farm Rio Pineapple Beach Embroidered Maxi Dress, $, available at Farm Rio
Mac Duggal Ieena Floral Chiffon Gown, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Simon Miller Chi Chi Dress, $, available at Shopbop
Lulus Rue Black Floral Embroidered Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress, $, available at Lulus
Madewell Linen-Blend Ruffle-Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress, $, available at Madewell
Love by Design Athen Plunging V-Neck Maxi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Fall Wedding-Guest Cocktail or Garden Party Dresses
These cocktail dresses are perfect for destination weddings or garden party weddings set in warmer environments. Bonus: they're easy to pack, easy to style, and easy to clean afterward.
ASOS LUXE Triple Ruffle Bardot Structured Satin Mini Dress, $, available at ASOS
For all the non-dress-wearers out there, here are a few night-out jumpsuits that are cocktail hour-ready — and will let you boogie on the dance floor all night long.
Eloquii Tie Strap Wide Leg Jumpsuit, $, available at Eloquii
Karen Millen Satin Back Crepe Halter Jumpsuit, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Messenger bags are trending, whether it's because back-to-school shopping has begun, workers are looking for new commuter bags, or travelers are searching for personal item bag alternatives. Whether you're in the market for a classic leather messenger bag or a casual canvas messenger bag, we've compiled some of the best ones out there to get you from point A to point Z in style.
We've sourced traditional flap-over crossbody messenger bags (for men and women) along with more modern interpretations, including carryalls, totes, laptop bags, and briefcases (all with crossbody straps for that messenger feel). So if you're looking to securely store your essentials in a tried-and-true style, scroll on to find some of the best messenger bags for travel, work, and everything in between.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Get yourself a messenger bag that does it all (aka holds your laptop, journal, passport, wallet, and the lot). These traditional styles have front flaps, roomy interior and exterior pockets, and adjustable crossbody straps for the perfect fit. Choose between sleek leather messenger bags that you'll want to wear to the office and durable ones that you can throw onto a train or carry onto a plane.
Timbuk2 Custom Classic Messenger Bag, $, available at Timbuk2
Best Messenger Bag Alternatives
If you're in the market for the functionality of a messenger bag but want a more fashionable look, we've curated alternatives. These include real and faux leather tote bags, super-roomy laptop bags, modern briefcases, and large carryalls that can be worn as crossbody styles for a secure fit. From everyday styles to more elevated ones, pick a bag that will fit your lifestyle and needs.