Smoke Velvet Maxi Slip Dress, £109, Mint Velvet
The season is changing that’s for sure, with the dark nights drawing further in and the cooler conditions causing us to bring the thicker layers out of hibernation.
This ‘in-between’ time of year can make wardrobe choices that little bit more tricky as we question if it’s time for tights and trench coats, or whether we can style out bare forearms and shins for that bit longer.
Whatever you decide, we’re offering inspiration on what you could wear to a fall wedding if you’re fortunate to have received an invite to somebody else’s wedding this season.
So prepare to indulge in rich fabrics, fabulous patterns and metallic accessories that may well lead to a spontaneous Wednesday morning purchase. And if you don’t have an autumn wedding in the diary surely there’s another special occasion coming up that requires a new outfit – go on, treat yourself!
the threads
Winter Floral Silk Maxi Dress, £115, Warehouse – keen to become known for their patterns, Warehouse has some jaw-droppingly gorgeous pieces in their latest collection that are guaranteed to get you noticed. We adore the bright colour on this pretty silk dress, perfect for adding a pop of vibrancy to dull autumn days.
Cecilia Lace Top, £79, Coast – so simple yet so striking. This gorgeous lace top with scalloped-edge detailing, is the perfect accompaniment to a long flowing skirt or cigarette style pants for a wedding, and will be a wardrobe go-to all through the autumn/winter season too!
Lavato Jaquard Trousers, £89, Coast – because you don’t have to wear a dress or a skirt to a wedding, luxurious-looking trousers like these can be just as striking. We love the metallic detailing and feel these would easily come into play again for the Christmas party period.
Velvet Pleat Chain Dress, Topshop, £85 – as well as patterns, prepare to see a lot of velvet hanging from the rails this season. We think this elegant Topshop dress is the business, with its ladylike pleats, sexy plunge neck and dainty chain detail straps.
Katz Plissé Silk-Blend Lamé Maxi Skirt, Oliva + Alice at Net-A-Porter, £485 – at the other end of the new outfit budget we have this rather special number. Ok, we know that you could buy a new TV, or even a designer handbag, for that price – but look how shiny and shimmery it is!
Printed Velvet Dress, Zara, £49.99 – yes, it’s another velvet number, but this time we have pattern too, and it’s in the most beautiful autumnal shades. While this would look stunning for a wedding with a pair of heels we think it would serve you well after the occasion too, by dressing it down with tights, flat boots and a cool leather jacket.
Snowdrop Embellished Embroidered Georgette Mini Dress, Needle & Thread, £325 – us Brides Up North gals are huge fans of Needle & Thread, which offers the most stunning patterned and embellished designs. For us this above-the-knee nude dress strikes just the right balance between sexy and sophisticated.
Marissa Faux Fur Coat, French Connection, £195 – as the temperatures continue to drop a cosy cover-up is a must, and they don’t come much cosier than this opulent outerwear.
the finishing touches
Premium Leather Clutch Bag, Warehouse, £39 – if you go for a plain, rather than patterned outfit, we suggest adding a little extra shine to your attire with metallic accessories, such as this super-soft clutch bag.
Contrast Faux Fur Stole, Oasis, £25 – if you think a full faux fur coat will leave you a little too hot and flustered, why not bring a touch of autumn/winter opulence to your overall look with an elegant faux fur stole?
Aamaya by Priyanka Pop Velvet, Rose Gold-Plated and Crystal Choker, Net-A-Porter, £255 – resurrected from the 1990s, chockers are well and truly back on the fashion hit list. This one we have to admit is quite a splurge, but if it’s good enough for Rachel Green and The Spice Girls, we’re prepared to dig deep!
Raphael Sandals, Topshop, £49 – despite the dip in temperatures, strappy skyscrapers will continue into the autumn/winter season and are an elegant way to finish off your wedding guest attire. We suggest hitting the dancefloor early to keep those feet warm!
Small Print Metallic Effect Hankerchief Scarf, Zara, £9.99 – attention-grabbing and affordable, this skinny gold scarf will add instant interest to dark, solid block colour garments.
Vanda Ball Triple Bracelet, Coast, £15 – because arm candy doesn’t stop at your bag, why not add a bangle or two to the party as well?
Edena Clutch Bag, Ted Baker, £69 – a statement bag is one of our very favourite fashion items. Perfect for those not brave enough to wear the embroidered detailing trend in their clothing or footwear choices, this cute clutch is a high-impact accessory that will leave others green with envy.
Maggie Flared Heel Boots, Topshop, £75 – ankle boots are absolutely everywhere this season, in almost every colour and style imaginable. Metallic boots are among the most striking and provide an edgy finish to those gorgeous wedding guest threads.