Fall Wedding Guest Dresses

What to Wear as a Wedding Guest — Dress Codes, Decoded

Got a wedding coming up? Let’s talk outfits. Whether it’s a garden party or a formal ballroom celebration, choosing the right dress starts with understanding the dress code. No stress—once you know the vibe, finding a look that fits (and flatters) becomes way easier.

Casual, but Make It Chic

If the invite says “casual,” think low-key elegance. Lightweight sundresses, soft knits, or breezy cotton styles are all fair game. Keep the look simple but polished—flat sandals, a woven bag, a touch of jewelry. Just steer clear of sneakers, denim, or anything you’d wear to run errands. It's still a wedding, after all.

Semi-Formal: Effort Meets Style

Semi-formal is that perfect middle ground. You want to look dressed up, but not overdone. Midi dresses work beautifully here, especially in rich fall colors or interesting prints. Skip anything too sparkly or floor-length. Add a pair of heels or sleek flats, and you’re good to go.

Cocktail: Classic with Personality

Cocktail attire gives you room to have fun. Aim for something tailored and flattering—above the knee or midi length, in fabrics that catch the light just right. Velvet, satin, even a structured crepe can elevate the look. Finish with heels and a great clutch. It’s dressy, but still lets your personality shine through.

Formal: Lean Into Elegance

For formal weddings, go for longer hemlines and a bit more drama. Ankle-length or tea-length dresses in luxe fabrics are ideal. Details matter—think clean tailoring, subtle embellishment, and refined silhouettes. Style it with classic heels and elegant accessories. This is your chance to look sophisticated without feeling stiff.

Black Tie: All Glam, No Guesswork

Black tie means bringing your A-game. Floor-length gowns are the standard, but that doesn’t mean boring. Look for fluid fabrics, rich tones, and sleek silhouettes. Want something with edge? A tuxedo-inspired dress is a cool, confident choice. Keep the accessories elevated—metallic heels, a statement bag, and polished jewelry tie everything together.

Beach Formal: Easy, Breezy, Beautiful

If it’s a beach wedding with a “formal” twist, the key is balancing comfort with style. Go for maxi or midi dresses in airy fabrics like chiffon, linen, or cotton blends. Light boho details—like raffia accessories or soft crochet textures—fit the setting. Leave the stilettos at home and choose stylish flats that work on sand.

The (Unspoken) Color Rules

Some things never go out of style—like not wearing white to a wedding. That includes ivory, cream, and any pastel that looks too close in photos. When in doubt, follow the season: deeper colors for fall, brights in summer, pastels for spring, and jewel tones in winter. Red? Yes, if the vibe is right. Black? Always a classic, as long as the cut fits the dress code.

Whatever the invitation says, RIHOAS has a dress that speaks your language. Think flowing midis, polished cocktail styles, and gowns that move with you. Explore the collection and find something that lets you show up beautifully—without overthinking it.