Attending an outdoor fall wedding can be a fun and festive occasion. However, the cooler weather means you’ll need to plan your attire accordingly. Here are some tips on what to wear to comfortably enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting while still looking stylish for the special day.
Dress for the Weather
The number one consideration when dressing for an outdoor fall wedding is the weather. Temperatures can fluctuate in the autumn months, so check the forecast as the date approaches and plan to layer accordingly.
If Temperatures are Mild:
- Light dresses with tights and a cardigan or blazer
- Dark-wash jeans with boots and a nice blouse
- Slacks with a sweater or jacket on top
- A pantsuit in a fall color like mustard or burgundy
If It’s Chilly:
- A fuller dress with opaque tights and a coat or shawl
- Wool trousers with boots and a sweater
- A skirt with leggings and tall boots, plus a thick cardigan
In Case of Rain:
- Bring a rain jacket and umbrella
- Wear leather or suede ankle boots with tread
- Skip highly absorbent fabrics like silk or chiffon
The key is versatility – have pieces you can add or remove to adapt to the conditions. A pashmina shawl is a great transitional piece.
Choose Colors Suited for Fall
An outdoor fall wedding gives you the perfect opportunity to break out rich, seasonal colors and patterns.
- Warm tones like mustard, burnt orange, olive green, ruby red, and rusty brown
- Deep shades like plum, eggplant, and forest green
- Neutrals like greige, taupe, gray, and ivory
Plaids, tweeds, and checkered patterns also evoke the cozy feeling of fall. Accent with metallic shoes or jewelry for a bit of glam. Avoid pure summer colors and pastels.
Pick Fabrics for the Outdoors
Fabric choice is also important for the location. Look for:
- Textured fabrics like brocade, jacquard, and wool that won’t snag easily on nature
- Sturdy weaves like denim, twill, and tweed that aren’t too delicate
- Blends like polyester that hold up well outdoors. Skip silk or chiffon.
- Medium weights that aren’t too light or heavy in fluctuating temps
- Matte finishes that won’t reflect too much sun. Avoid high-shine.
The cut matters too – structured dresses hold their shape better compared to flimsy maxi dresses, for example.
Consider Practical Footwear
While heels can complement formal wedding attire, opt for practical footwear that suits the outdoor venue.
- Wedge heels or block heels for better stability
- Ankle booties with traction to navigate grass or trails
- Loafers or oxfords for walking comfort
- Boots with tights or leggings to keep warm
- Gel inserts for cushioning. Bring backups in case heels sink into soft ground.
Avoid stilettos, which can easily get stuck. Don’t wear brand new shoes; break them in ahead of time to avoid blisters.
Style Your Hair and Makeup for Endurance
Hairstyles and makeup should be able to withstand the elements.
- Skip complex updos that can fall or frizz. Opt for low buns or braids. Use strong hold hairspray.
- Apply matte, waterproof makeup that won’t melt or run. Primer, setting spray, and powder will help increase longevity.
- Use a lipstick with a satin finish over high shine. Blot often to avoid smudging.
- Consider waterproof mascara and eyeliner so eyes don’t get smeary.
- Carry blotting papers and lipstick for quick touch ups. Hairspray and bobby pins can also come in handy.
The goal is for your look to withstand activity, wind, and possibly rain so it stays fresh all day.
Additional Tips for Outdoor Wedding Attire
- Stick to flats or low heels for better mobility on grass or dirt
- Skip long trains or maxi lengths that can get muddy or soaked
- Add opaque tights if it’s cool and your dress is on the shorter side
- Carry a portable shawl or blanket in case you get chilled
- Bring a foldable fan to stay cool during hotter parts of the day
- Have backup shoes and accessories in the car in case conditions change
With the right attire, you can comfortably partake in all the outdoor fun that a fall wedding has to offer. The nature backdrop makes for stunning photos too! Just use common sense when considering the weather, location, and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Wear to an Outdoor Fall Wedding
What is the best fabric to wear to an outdoor fall wedding?
Natural fabrics that are medium weight like wool, tweed, denim, and twill are best for fall outdoor weddings. They’ll keep you warm and hold up well. Avoid silks, chiffon, linen or lightweight fabrics that can easily snag.
Should you avoid white at a fall wedding?
White is acceptable, but rich fall hues like burgundy, hunter green, mustard, and metallics are a better choice and help you stand out more against the autumn backdrop. Ivory, blush, and light gray are softer white options.
What colors should men wear to a fall outdoor wedding?
For men, wool suits in gray, navy and charcoal are classic. Accent with ties and pocket squares in rust, gold, maroon or forest green. Corduroy and tweed jackets are also nice for a rustic affair.
What do you wear under a dress to an outdoor wedding?
To stay warm, wear opaque or printed tights under dresses and skirts. For more coverage, leggings and tall boots also work well. Silk long underwear adds warmth without bulk.
Should you avoid open toed shoes at a fall wedding?
If temperatures are very mild, open toe shoes may be fine for a quick ceremony. But for receptions that go into the evening, closed toe pumps, loafers, or booties are a safer choice to keep feet warm and avoid tripping in grass or dirt.
What if it rains on the day of the wedding?
Bring a rain jacket, umbrella and wear water resistant shoes like rubber rain boots or leather ankle boots. Have backups for hair styling tools, makeup, shoes, and accessories in your car in case the rain ruins anything. Check weather hourly and prepare to dress accordingly.
Conclusion
Dressing for an outdoor fall wedding requires a bit more planning than an indoor event. Prepare for fluctuating temperatures by layering versatile pieces in rich fall hues and fabrics suited for the environment. Shoes should provide stability on uneven terrain, while hair and makeup should be able to endure the weather. With some smart preparation, you can comfortably join in the autumn revelry at a rustic outdoor wedding in style.