Unveil Fall Bridesmaid Dresses 2023: An Ultimate Guide to Making Decisions

With 2023 fall weddings just around the corner, do you have a question lingering in the back of your mind under the rustling trees. That is: what kind of fall bridesmaid dresses should I wear? Here you will get the ultimate guide to finding the right fall bridesmaid dress for you, designed to inspire and delight.

Fall weddings exude magic, and as bridesmaids, you play a crucial role in brightening up this enchanting season. From rich, warm colors that reflect the changing leaves of the trees to luxurious fabrics that embrace the cool breezes, these gowns will elevate your look and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Take a few minutes to read. And we'll unveil the latest trends and timeless classics in bridesmaid dresses for fall 2023.

Part One: Check out the Wedding Theme, Time, and Where It's Being Held

Before choosing your favorite bridesmaid dresses, you need to know the theme and venue of your BFF's wedding, which can effectively help you narrow down the scope of your bridesmaid dress search, and also reduce the cost of trial and error, which in turn will benefit the process of wedding prep. 

1. The theme of the wedding is used to know the style and color that should probably be chosen for the bridesmaid dresses.
2. Confirm the temperature and weather on the day of the wedding by the time of the wedding, thus confirming the general fabric choice for the bridesmaids' dresses, especially the thickness of the fabric, to beware of the autumn cold.
3. The wedding location will give you an idea of whether the wedding will be held outdoors, indoors, or both. The details required for bridesmaid dresses may vary from location to location.

Part Two: How to choose autumn bridesmaid dresses for different body types

Image Source: salameh

After finalizing the wedding things, then officially begin the process of picking up bridesmaid dresses for your crew. First of all, you should know your body shape to filter and find out what dresses fit your figure. Generally, women’s figures are divided into 5 types, each shape has its features. Just follow me and you’ll find where your figures belong to!

Inverted Triangle/Athletic

Image Source: ENEWS (Cindy Crawford is a representative of athletic figures.)

Characteristics:

1. a good proportion with a balanced distribution of muscle and fat;
2. broader shoulders and narrower hips;
3. bust and hips are nearly the same;

Dressing skills: balance out the broader shoulders and narrow hips;

A-line dresses with a defined waist create a feminine silhouette;

Sheath dresses can showcase their toned physique;

Opt for V-neck o scoop-neck tops to create the illusion of a narrower shoulder line. Avoid boat necks or tops with puffed sleeves.

Rectangle Figure

image source: chicsew, weddingomania

Characteristics:

1. a relatively uniform distribution of weight throughout the torso, waist, and hips;
2. shoulders and hips are typically aligned;
3. lack dramatic curves, but appear more athletic or slender;
4. less defined waistlines

Dressing Skills:

1. create the illusion of a defined waistline and add curves;
2. such as belted dresses; fit-and-flare dresses; peplum dresses.

Apple Figure

Image Source: chicsew

Characteristics:

1. slimmer arms and legs relative to the torso;
2. more weight around midsection and abdomen;
3. lager bust, broader shoulder, less defined waistline;

Dressing Skills:

1. divert attention from the midsection and highlight other features;
2. Recommendations are empire waist dresses, A-line dresses, wrap dresses.

Hourglass

Characteristics:

1. a balanced distribution of weight with a well-defined waistline;
2. busts‘ width is typically similar to hips’ ;
3. hailed as the “ideal” body shape with natural curves

Dressing Skills:

1. Emphasize your natural curves.
2. Bodycon dresses, fit-and-flare dresses, and wrap dresses are all excellent choices for showcasing your hourglass shape.

Pear

Image Source: chicsew buyers’ actual received products

Characteristics:

1. more weight in hips, thighs, and buttocks;
2. smaller busts and narrower shoulders;
3. well-defined waistlines;

Dressing Skills:

1. balance out the hips and thighs while highlighting your upper body.
2. Opt for A-line Dresses, halter neck dresses, one shoulder or off-shoulder dresses.

There are 4 billion women in the world, but here are only 5 body types. It's important to note that these terms are used more for general categorization and don't encompass all possible body shapes, as everyone's body is unique. It is more likely that the body shape roughly matches the contour, or it may be a combination of two or more figure characteristics. By understanding these body types, you need to figure out your body features and make the best bridesmaid dress choice for yourself.

Part Three: How to Choose Elegant Colors for Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

The popular bridesmaid dress colors for weddings this fall are more varied to meet your every preference. Before picking a color, you need to know what color suits your skin tone and combine it with your preferences before deciding on the final bridesmaid dress color. If you are not sure what your skin tone is or what color bridesmaid dresses are suitable for your skin tone, then you can read this article: How to Choose Colors of Bridesmaid Dresses Through Your Skin Tones and Undertones.

Next, we present some bridesmaid dress colors that are popular in the fall 2023 bridesmaid dress market and complement your skin tone, including burnt orange, terracotta, rust, rose gold, dusty blue, brown, emerald, and olive green.

1. Burnt orange bridesmaid dresses: Burnt orange is the iconic color of autumn, with its warm and rich tones. A hint of brown or red gives it a deeper and more subdued look, with a naturally sophisticated and elegant appeal. It is wise to use it as a color for bridesmaid dresses, as it suits women of all skin tones and is stunning in a variety of silhouettes.
2. Terracotta bridesmaid dresses: Terracotta is one of the earth tones with a rustic warmth that makes it one of the most popular bridesmaid dress colors for fall and winter weddings. Terracotta colored bridesmaid dresses will make the wearer naturally exude elegance and sophistication with a retro vibe, making them perfect for a variety of vintage fall wedding themes.
3. Rust bridesmaid dresses: Rust is a warmer metallic shade with reddish-brown undertones, reminiscent of fall foliage and cozy ambiance. It allows for rustic elegance, femininity, and warmth to coexist with bridesmaid dresses. In addition, a variety of bridesmaid dress styles will stand out and become more sophisticated with this color. If the theme of your friend's wedding is rustic, natural, or vintage style, then rust bridesmaid dresses will be a good investment.
4. Rose gold bridesmaid dresses: Rose gold is a soft, romantic metallic shade that is a stylish color choice for eye bags, blending the elegance of gold with the delicate and rosy tones of pink, making it one of the preferred colors for most bridesmaids. It produces a wonderful shimmer on soft satin, sequins, and velvet, creating an ethereal look that is extremely glamorous in daylight. Of course, rose gold bridesmaid dresses also look understated and luxurious at an indoor wedding.
5. Dusty blue bridesmaid dresses: Dusty blue is a soft, muted, and subtle shade of blue-gray that is reminiscent of the serene tranquility of a clear sky or ocean. Wearing dusty blue bridesmaid dresses to a fall wedding will bring a touch of freshness and serenity, adding to your elegance and sophistication, while also looking very composed.
6. Brown bridesmaid dresses: The rich, rustic hues of brown bridesmaid dresses are reminiscent of natural elements such as soil, wood, and autumn leaves. Whether flowing chiffon, luxurious velvet, or textured crepe, brown bridesmaid dresses bring elegance, sophistication, and natural beauty to any wedding celebration.
7. Emerald green bridesmaid dresses: Emeralds are characterized by a rich, deep, jewel-like green color. Gorgeous and elegant emerald bridesmaid dresses add class and sophistication to the bridesmaids and are a big hit among bridesmaids, especially in fall and winter weddings. If you want to choose bridesmaid dresses that suit most skin tones, then emerald bridesmaid dresses may be the right choice.
8. Olive green bridesmaid dresses: Olive green is a vintage, soft, and sophisticated classic green that resembles the color of olives or nature's lush foliage. Its soft, understated qualities create a soft, subtle look that adds a gentle, relaxed charm to dresses and complements a variety of wedding themes and hues. It pairs well with neutrals, pastels, and other earthy tones.

Part Four: How to Get Dreamy Styles for Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

To choose the right fall bridesmaid dress style for you, you need to consider several aspects of color, fabric, silhouette, and detail elements. Colors have been introduced in the previous part, you can choose according to your own aesthetic.

Fabrics of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

In terms of fabric, if you want to choose structured bridesmaid dresses with a stiffer silhouette, then you can choose stiffer fabrics such as duchess satin, stiff crepe, and so on. If you want to choose bridesmaid dresses with softer overall lines, then you can't go wrong with soft fabrics such as soft satin, chiffon, velvet, and so on.

Stiff

• Duchess Satin: Duchess satin is a heavy and luxurious satin fabric known for its stiffness and lustrous finish. It holds its shape well, making it ideal for structured and formal bridesmaid dresses.
• Stiff Crepe: Stiff crepe, also known as bridal crepe or heavy crepe, is a textured fabric with a crisp drape. It has a moderate stiffness, providing a structured yet elegant look for bridesmaid dresses.
• Organza: Organza is a sheer and lightweight fabric that has a stiff and crisp texture. It is commonly used for overlaying other fabrics to add a touch of softness and volume to a dress. Organza can be used for skirts or overlays on bridesmaid dresses for a more structured appearance.

Soft

• Soft Satin: Soft satin, in contrast to duchess satin, is a lightweight and smooth fabric with a softer drape. It offers a graceful and flowing appearance, making it suitable for bridesmaid dresses with a more relaxed or romantic vibe.
• Chiffon: Chiffon is a sheer and lightweight fabric with a soft, airy drape. It's a popular choice for bridesmaid dresses when a delicate and ethereal look is desired.
• Velvet: Velvet is a plush and soft fabric with a rich, textured surface. It provides warmth and a touch of luxury, making it suitable for fall or winter weddings. Velvet bridesmaid dresses can add a sense of opulence to the bridal party.
• Tulle: Tulle is a lightweight and sheer fabric often used for layering or creating a soft and dreamy look. It's commonly used for skirts, overlays, or as part of a dress's design for added texture and volume.
• Lace: Lace, with its delicate and intricate patterns, can add a soft and romantic touch to bridesmaid dresses. Lace is often layered over other soft fabrics like chiffon or silk for a timeless and elegant appearance.

Silhouettes of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

In terms of silhouettes, mermaid, trumpet, A-line, sheath, jumpsuit, and two-piece silhouettes are the more common designs in bridesmaid dresses. If you are looking for a sexy body, then the mermaid and sheath silhouettes may suit your taste. If you are looking for a gentle, elegant, and generous atmosphere, then the A-line silhouette meets your needs. If you are looking for a valiant or competent style, then the jumpsuit and two-piece silhouette are worth trying.

Ethereal and Elegant

The A-line silhouette gently cinches at the waist and then flares out gradually, creating a feminine and graceful look. This shape can make bridesmaids feel elegant and confident, which contributes to the ethereal quality. A-line dresses are typically made from soft and flowing fabrics like chiffon, tulle, or silk. These materials have a lightweight, airy quality that adds to the ethereal look. When bridesmaids move, the fabric drapes and flows beautifully, creating a dreamy, almost otherworldly effect.

Sexy and Coquettish

If you want to take your own sexy and charming route, sheath and mermaid bridesmaid dresses would achieve your expectations. Sheath and mermaid dresses are designed to closely follow the natural curves of the body, this snug fit can be seen as sexy because it accentuates the wearer's figure, highlighting their feminine shape. Also, many of them feature low-cut necklines, plunging necklines, or open backs. These design elements can reveal some skin and add an element of seductiveness to the overall look. The icing on the cake is that the materials they are typically made from like satin, silk, or stretchy jersey, are not only feel sensual against the skin but also enhance the overall sexy aesthetic.

Cool and Valiant

Opting for jumpsuits or two-piece dresses showcases a bold and non-conformist fashion sense, which can be seen as a courageous choice. The unconventional nature of jumpsuits and two-piece dresses can make a strong visual impact, they draw attention and can make a statement, showcasing the bridesmaids' individuality. What's most important is that everyone feels comfortable, confident, and beautiful on the big day. If these styles align with the wedding's theme and the bridesmaids' personalities, they can undoubtedly be seen as valiant and cool choices.

Detailed Elements of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

Detailed elements of bridesmaid dresses include necklines, sleeve shapes, waistlines, patterns, and other designs. They can add to the silhouette of the bridesmaid dresses and play a key role in flattering your figure. A subtle change in one element can lead to a shift in the overall style. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to the details of bridesmaid dresses designs.

1. Sweetheart Neckline: This neckline resembles the top of a heart shape, often with a gentle curve that dips in the center. It's particularly flattering for bridesmaids with smaller busts as it creates the illusion of curves. Sweetheart necklines work well with strapless or spaghetti strap dresses and are a popular choice for romantic and classic wedding themes.
2. V-Neck: The V-neckline forms a V shape, with the two sides coming to a point in the center of the chest. It's a versatile option that can be deep or shallow, depending on your preference. Deeper V-necks can create an elongated and slimming effect, making it a great choice for various body types.
3. Halter Neckline: A halter neckline has a strap that wraps around the neck, often with an open back or a keyhole design. This neckline draws attention to the shoulders and upper back, making it a chic and modern choice. It's ideal for bridesmaids who want a unique and sophisticated look.
4. Scoop Neckline: A scoop neckline is U-shaped and typically curves gently downward. It can be high or low, making it a versatile option for bridesmaid dresses. Scoop necklines are flattering for most body types and work well with various dress styles, from casual to formal.
5. High Neck: A high neckline covers the entire neck area and sometimes extends up to the collarbone or higher. It's a conservative and elegant choice, often seen in more formal or modest bridesmaid dresses. High necklines can have various shapes, including round, square, or mock turtleneck styles.
6. Off-Shoulder or One-Shoulder Neckline: An off-shoulder neckline sits below the shoulders, exposing them while keeping the collarbone covered. It's a trendy and romantic choice that adds a touch of femininity to bridesmaid dresses. This style is perfect for a summer or beach wedding.

A one-shoulder neckline features a single strap that goes diagonally across the chest, leaving one shoulder bare. It's a stylish and asymmetric choice that adds a contemporary flair to bridesmaid dresses. One-shoulder dresses can vary in strap width and design.

Sleeves of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

We divide bridesmaid dresses into 2 types, the one is dresses with sleeves, the other is sleeveless. Sleeveless can be matched with straps, such as typical spaghetti straps, which can not only lift the plunging neckline so that it is not too low, but also achieve an understated and refined aesthetic. You can also choose a strapless dress to showcase your beautiful shoulder line and collarbone.

Long-sleeved bridesmaid dresses are very suitable for conservative wedding occasions, such as churches, and using monochromatic colors helps you construct a sophisticated look. In fall, when the weather is slightly cooler, wearing long sleeves is also a suitable option.

Short sleeves of bridesmaid dresses consist of different styles, such as cap sleeves, flutter sleeves. Just like its name, cap sleeves resemble the hat of the shoulder joint, adding a touch of sophistication to a garment.

Flutter sleeves are designed to drape away from the body and give a gentle flowy effect when in motion. They are usually unstructured and have a more relaxed, feminine appearance.

Bat sleeves can vary in length but are typically longer than traditional short sleeves, extending from the shoulder to the wrist or just below the elbow. Unlike short sleeves, which are usually snug and close-fitting, bat sleeves are relaxed and drapey, creating a flowy and voluminous look.

Detailed Elements of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

Embellishment is to bridesmaid dresses what highlights are to makeup. Whether indoors or outdoors, sunny or cloudy, especially in fall, sparkling decorations can make the whole person look dynamic. Like rhinestones, applique, sequins, beads, etc. are common choices. In addition, it is also a good way to match ornaments such as necklaces and earrings. But we must adhere to the principle of less is more, too many decorations will be counterproductive, not only devouring the bridesmaid’s personality, but also may even steal the limelight of the bride.

Recommendations of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses Based on Above Considerations

• Soft Satin Mermaid or Trumpet Bridesmaid Dresses with One-shoulder or V-neck

• Chiffon A-line Bridesmaid Dresses with Off-the-shoulder or Halter

• Velvet Bridesmaid or Mermaid Dresses with V-neck or off-shoulder

Part Five: Summary of Fall Bridesmaid Dresses

In conclusion, fall bridesmaid dresses offer an array of glamorous choices that not only complement the fall scenery but also flatter a variety of body types, ensuring that every bridesmaid feels beautiful and confident on this special day. From warm, rich hues like burnt orange and rust to soft, dreamy tones like dusty blue and olive green, these gowns exude elegance, sophistication, and a hint of magic. Ethereal fabrics like chiffon and tulle create ethereal silhouettes that move with grace at every step, and delicate embellishments add a subtle sheen that enhances the overall appeal. Let fall bridesmaid dresses capture the magic and beauty of fall and make the wedding day a unique evening.

FAQs

What Should Bridesmaids Wear in Cold Weather?

If it's an outdoor wedding, opt for dark-colored floor-length bridesmaid dresses with sleeves, which will help you cut down on the cold. If it's an indoor wedding, the choices can be a little more liberal.

What Are Good Fall Colors for Bridesmaid Dresses in October?

There are many more colors to choose from. Whether you want to go with classic fall tones like rust and burnt orange or opt for rich jewel tones like emerald, amethyst, and sapphire colors, you can add an elegant and sophisticated vibe to the October wedding.

Can I Wear a Jumpsuit as a Bridesmaid?

Absolutely! When it comes to bridesmaid dresses these days, there are no limits to almost any silhouette. What's great about jumpsuits is that they're very comfortable to wear on the big day and easy to wear again after the wedding!

What Body Type Do Mermaid Dresses Look Good On?

Hourglass figures and pear-shaped figures will fit perfectly in mermaid bridesmaid dresses. Mermaid bridesmaid dresses can emphasize the wearer's waist and hips. For women with a pear-shaped figure, when picking mermaid bridesmaid dresses, you can choose styles that can widen the shoulders so that they can balance the upper and lower halves of the body.