Shopping for a wedding guest dress—especially in the cooler months—can be tricky. Obviously, you don't want to outdo the bride, but perhaps there's a special someone on the guest list you're trying to impress. I'm sure you already know that anything white is absolutely a no-go, but you've also gotta keep the unpredictable autumn weather in mind when you're selecting the perfect outfit. Some might say opting for a jumpsuit will keep you a little more snug in those crisp autumn evenings. But if you've vowed to wear only dresses until the first snowfall, then the following fall wedding guest dresses are here to help make that happen.
We have tons of different styles in the most fall-worthy material—think suede, leather, satin, and silk. These 34 looks will have you winning third best-dressed (the newlywed couple take first and second place, duh) no matter if you're attending a small, casual event or going to the biggest soirée:
Our top picks for the best fall wedding guest dresses of 2022:
Oh, and if you love these (we're sure you're do), you're going to swoon over these fall maxi dresses and skirts. Whatever you choose, make sure to show up with a real impressive wedding gift, your make-up game strong, the perf jacket, and shoes (or cute booties) that will allow for both dancing and warmth! Without further ado, here are the best 34 wedding guest dresses of the season.
This dress feels like fall, but with bright colors and full-on fall to ya, we don't know what will. The color palette is so warm and fun, and the ruffles and cutouts are such amazing details.
Not going to lie, I am straight up OBSESSED with these kinds of full-skirted, tiered dresses lately. They're just so versatile! I mean, you could legit wear this number to any special occasion in fall.
This affordable Amazon gem is a true stunner. And if you need convincing, just look at the ratings and reviews.
Rave Reviews: "If you are thinking about getting this dress, let me help you. GET IT!!! I ordered size medium in the green, I am 5'3 160lbs 36c bra size. Fit was amazing."
You can never go wrong with a black cocktail dress. She's an investment that you can wear to multiple weddings. Perfect for the many nuptials you're probs going to this fall!
Rave Reviews: "I am in love! The off shoulder look gives a very feminine, sexy, sensual look, and still being classy. Also hugs the body really good, it is very stretchy, thick material. I used a seamless shapewear underneath and it was not see thru at all."
Need a dress ASAP? Choose this flowy mini that you can have at your doorstep in two days (and wear for honestly any type of occasion) thanks to that *chef's kiss* Amazon Prime shipping.
PSA: Gabrielle Union has a whole collection with FTF, and it's absolutely breathtaking. Take this luminous look (which, technically, is a top and skirt, not a dress, but it def could pass for a one-piece look): It's basically made for dancing the night away in style.
Rave Reviews: "The skirt falls on hips beautifully. It has a lot of stretch, so you can go down a size for a better fit. Love it !"
This copper-hued dress would look stunning against the backdrop of a gorgeous fall sunset. The drawstring keyhole and romantic silhouette is simply jaw-dropping.
Fall is all about transitional dressing, and that goes for wedding 'fits, too. This emerald green printed bb's length will keep your legs covered, and if temps drop once the sun goes down, just drape a chic scarf over your shoulders for a bit more warmth.
Can you wear black to a wedding? It's not a unanimous yes, but the general consensus these days seems to be...go for it! You can always brighten it up with colorful accessories, too.
Are you the queen of neutrals? Then this ribbed sleeveless pick is right up your alley: It'll look elegant for a daytime wedding with a chic pair of heels and a bold clutch, or wear it with comfy sneakers for an everyday slay.
For instant luxury, slip into a dress made out of silk. This halter styled one is a gorge transitional piece. This criss-cross strapped is so effortless— you're guaranteed to get tons of compliments (and wears) with this one!
This long sleeve dress comes with an open-back detail, a little turtleneck feature, and a bowtie in the back. It's also sustainably made, so you can look and feel good while wearing it.
Dresses with long sleeves are perf for fall, and this stunning animal printed one would be so sophisticated with a pair of chic pumps or booties and a clutch purse.
With the gorge draping details, this dress is giving major goddess vibes. It's unique and attention grabbing, absolutely, yet it won't steal the spotlight from the bride.
Megan Uy is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she searches for the best products in all things fashion, home, beauty, sex, gifts, and more, so you don’t have to. When she’s not writing for the site, she’s whipping up some cool and trendy content for the fashion section of the print magazine. She’s been with the brand since 2019 (when she was an itty-bitty editorial fellow), and she's also written for Delish, House Beautiful, and People. Follow her on Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.