

Follow these styling tips to look your best at any autumn ceremony.
By Amanda Eby
With the changing leaves and temperate weather, autumn offers an ideal time to tie the knot. But for guests, the colder temps can cause wedding attire conundrums. Is wearing all-black ever all right? Are pants too casual? Would boots look awkward? Below, we answer these and other common queries, plus show you what to wear to four types of ceremonies.

Whether it's a brick loft or a contemporary art museum, an urban setting lets you be creative with your outfit choices. While an all-black cocktail dress may feel sophisticated for a swanky city venue, be sure to break it up with some color—like a vibrant suede pump or bold blazer—to keep things festive. Satin fabrics feel extra luxe, especially in jewel tones. A pretty midi dress in ruby, amethyst, sapphire or jade will put an elegant spin on your dance moves. Go ahead and wear a patent bootie for an edgier finish. Then stash your lip gloss in a crisp leather clutch.

For a ranch reception or woodsy nuptials, embrace the natural beauty of your surroundings. Autumn's blooms are bolder and more graphic than spring's posies. The colors, too, tend to be moodier: wine, plum and midnight abound. A long-sleeved dress is perfect for outdoorsy venues, especially if the night air is chill. Stilettos and pointy toes can be tricky on grass, so a block heel or platform is the safest bet. A pretty crossbody bag keeps your hands free for navigating the terrain with a drink in hand.

Just because the couple kept the ceremony low-key at city hall, doesn’t mean you need to dial back your style. A little sleuthing will help you decipher the dress code: What's the couple’s aesthetic? Where will the after-party be? In some cases, pants may be preferred. A chic jumpsuit with flats feels dressed up and ready for hours on the dance floor. Adding a few shiny flourishes like rhinestone earrings or a metallic bag and a sleek blazer make it evening appropriate. For a daytime affair, a wrap dress always looks put-together and lovely. Simply add some sculptural earrings or bold gold jewelry to be on trend.

A seaside wedding with fall's vivid sunsets as the backdrop offers the perfect ambiance for an amorous occasion. Coastal venues invite you to experiment with unstructured elegance. Be romantic in a floaty chiffon maxi. Or show your fun side with an unexpected palm print midi dress, a greener evolution of the floral trend. Flats or sandals are best for strolling on the sand and pebbles. Grab a soft wrap for when the temps drop. Delicate gold jewelry provides the prettiest finishing touch.