FASHION
20 WEDDING-GUEST DRESSES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR AUTUMN
By Emma Strawbridge, 29 August 2025
A CHIC BLACK DRESS YOU'LL WANT TO WEAR AGAIN
Historically, you’re not supposed to wear black to a wedding, but unless the bride requests otherwise, these days we’re all for it – especially for autumn. They’re timeless, chic and you’re guaranteed to wear them again, whether it’s for another wedding, a black-tie event or – depending on the style – something more dressed-down. And if you want to add a pop of colour, do it with your accessories.
SHOP THE LOOKS:
ARRANGE Curve sleeveless midi dress with buckle trim detail in black, £150
ASOS DESIGN twist off shoulder midi dress in velvet and satin in black, £55
SOMETHING IN A SEASONAL COLOUR PALETTE
Everyone loves autumn colours. From deep burgundys to burnt oranges, olive greens and navy blues, it’s a great time to be searching for a wedding-guest dress because there are plenty in these saturated shades. Fabrics like chiffon or satin pair beautifully with them too, as they’re lightweight and have a good drape, balancing out the rich colours.
SHOP THE LOOKS:
ARRANGE hybrid halter drape hem midi dress with open back in burgundy, £140
Mango one shoulder ruched side midi dress in green, £49.99
Topshop drape neck off shoulder maxi occasion dress in rust, £62
Rare London stretch satin asymmetric scarf detail maxi dress in navy, £75
AN EQUALLY COOL AND WEATHER-APPROPRIATE DRESS
We’re not naive to the fact it’s getting colder, so dressing for the weather should play a part in your dress choice, even if it’s a small one. Opting for long sleeves, a cape-style dress (capes a big news for AW25) or just a maxi rather than something shorter, will give you extra coverage and there’s just something about a long-sleeve maxi that’s so elegant.
SHOP THE LOOKS:
ASOS DESIGN keyhole draped kimono sleeve maxi dress in green, £60
ARRANGE twist shoulder long sleeve hybrid maxi dress in caramel, £140
Topshop one sleeve twist strap satin maxi dress in port royale, £69
ARRANGE drape midi dress with hardware detail in blurred print, £150
A DRESS YOU CAN STYLE WITH A JACKET
For the girls who love layering, this is your season. If you’re desperate to pair your dress with a jacket, just make sure it's styled intentionally. Go for all-out glamour in a faux-fur number, or choose something structured like a blazer and drape it over a minimalist dress – think a column silhouette or something simple and floaty to not overcomplicate the look. This would work just as well for a town hall ceremony as it would for a country estate.
SHOP THE LOOKS:
Topshop bias ruched arm hole maxi occasion dress in deep burgundy, £62
ARRANGE structured satin bandeau maxi dress in olive, £150
A DRESS YOU'LL REWEAR FOR PARTY SEASON
Pictures: ASOS
Don’t forget that party season is on the horizon, so instead of buying a dress solely for an autumn wedding, invest in a style you can wear all season. A slip dress, mini or something embellished would all be wedding-appropriate and party-ready. Choose a dress you know you’ll feel great in, want to wear again and can restyle for different events.
SHOP THE LOOKS:
ARRANGE embellished sequin cami midi dress with full skirt in seafoam green, £210
ASOS DESIGN satin drape one shoulder mini dress in plum, £34
Topshop ruched side midi dress with drape back detail in dusky purple, £69
