While some couples dream of warm weather weddings, many others choose celebrations just as the start of the cool weather season takes hold, and for good reason. With the leaves changing color, the holidays right around the color, and the festive spirit all around, autumn is one of the most popular times of the year to say "I do." And if you’re one of the fall-time brides looking for bridesmaid dress inspiration, you’ve come to the right place.
First thing’s first: There are no set "rules" when it comes to fall bridesmaid dresses, Revelry’s senior director of marketing, Alena Wells, tells Brides. That said, she does see a surge in textured fabrics like velvet, sequin, and satin from September through November. As for colors, "jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, and black are [autumn] classics and not going anywhere," Wells explains. "We also tend to see our dresses with sleeves sell more for fall and winter weddings."
While aspects like rich hues and sleeves might be popular in the fall, Wells says what's most important is a bride finds styles that match her day-of vision and aesthetic. Whether that means you select a color palette and let your bridesmaids pick dress styles they prefer or simply find an option everyone loves, as long as the gowns make you happy and keep your crew comfy, you’ll be in business.
Below, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most popular fall bridesmaid dress styles fit for any bride’s autumn celebration.
Velvet Favorite: Revelry Aurora Velvet Dress
Size Range: 0-32 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Velvet
"Greens are going to be big for 2022," says Wells, and Revelry knows how to wow in every shade of the color. We love the retailer's one sleeve Aurora gown in a rich emerald velvet for a luxe, pre-holiday season look.
For a Boho Wedding: Azazie Agretta Dress
Size Range: A0-A30, Custom | Length: Floor-length | Material: Chiffon
Flutter sleeves are a boho staple, and Azazie’s got the style down with the on-trend Agretta gown. Select the frock in "butterscotch" for a flawless golden fall feel.
Tulle Favorite: Lulus Rare Beauty Hunter Green Tulle Backless Maxi Dress
Size Range: XXS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Material: Tulle
Tulle gowns have been elevated thanks to this fun option from Lulus. Coming in three jewel-toned hues, the double slits, V-neckline, and defined banded waist make this a fall wedding favorite.
Best Lace Sleeves: Lulus Awaken My Love Long Sleeve Lace Maxi Dress
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Lace and polyester
Fall weddings are the perfect opportunity to opt for full-length sleeves, and this burgundy gown from Lulus has you covered. The lace from the bodice trickles down the arms while the full skirt billows from the banded waist for a balanced feel.
Halter Favorite: BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress in Champagne
Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Length: Floor-length | Material: Satin charmeuse
Satin is a popular fall weather fabric, and BHLDN puts a twist on the classic slip style with the Ruby gown. The criss-cross halter neckline and figure-skimming silhouette pair perfectly with some dangle statement earrings.
Best Wrap Dress: Lulus My Whole Heart Plum Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester
Wrap dresses are a year-round favorite, but the dark plum hue and long, sheer sleeves of this Lulus number have us feeling the fall equinox vibes. The tie waist ensures a perfect fit and the V-neckline and natural slit keep the look fresh.
For a Gatsby Wedding: Revelry Camilla Geo Sequin Dress
Size Range: 0-32 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Sequin fabric
Party in style with Revelry’s Camilla sequin gown. The geometric pattern gives off Art Deco vibes while the illusion plunge neckline and form-flattering fit remind us of the 1920s. Select the style in rose gold, cabernet, emerald, or white to sparkle in style.
For a Formal Wedding: Jenny Yoo Ellis Velvet Open Back Dress
Size Range: 0-26 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Velvet
Luxurious fabric, a figure-hugging fit, and a floor sweeping hem make Jenny Yoo’s Ellis gown a hit for formal fall weddings. The look is kept balanced by the bold open back that adds a touch of drama to the elegant frock.
Best Satin Midi: Revelry Skye Midi Satin Dress
Size Range: 0-32 | Length: Midi | Material: Satin
"We're seeing brides gravitate toward the satin slip dress. It was popular last year and isn't going anywhere for 2022," says Wells. Revelry’s cowl-necked satin midi is perfectly on-trend. Bonus: It comes in over 20 different colors.
For an Elegant Wedding: Xscape Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder Short Elbow Sleeve Column Back Slit Crepe Gown
Size Range: 4-15 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Crepe
A ruffled off-the-shoulder neckline, elbow sleeves, and polished column silhouette form this elegant number from Xscape. Have your bridesmaids pair it with glittering belts and statement heels to really up the wow factor.
Best Back Detail: Azazie Jessa Dress
Size Range: A0-A30, Custom | Length: Floor-length | Material: Chiffon
Beautiful back details aren’t just reserved for bridal gowns. This special selection from Azazie features an illusion back motif, side cowls, and vintage-inspired buttons for a style that’s sweet and statement-worthy.
Best Burnt Hue: Windsor Kaleigh Off Shoulder Dress
Size Range: S-XL | Length: Floor-length | Material: Polyester
Burnt oranges, reds, and yellows are popular fall wedding colors since they mimic the foliage, and Windsor’s Kaleigh in "camel" has us feeling those cozy fall vibes. The asymmetrical sleeves and high slit form a daring look your bridesmaids will delight in.
Off-the-Shoulder Favorite: Revelry Ariel Convertible Velvet Dress
Size Range: 0-32 | Length: Floor-length | Material: Velvet
It doesn’t get dreamier than off-the-shoulder styles, but what we love most about Revelry’s Ariel is that the sleeves are detachable, so you get two looks in one. Paired with a sweetheart neckline, side slit, and skillful ruching, this is one style both brides and their maids covet.
For a Cocktail Wedding: Show Me Your Mumu Samantha Ruffle Wrap Dress
Size Range: XXS-3X | Length: Midi | Material: Satin
Cocktail weddings mean your look can be a little more casual and Show Me Your Mumu’s Samantha strikes the perfect balance between elegant and everyday. The ruffle wrap dress comes in 11 colors, each of which is elevated by the soft, satin sheen.
Meet the Expert
Alena Wells is the senior director of market for online bridesmaid dress retailer Revelry.