Fall Weddings: A Guide to What to Wear
Deciphering Dress Codes for Year-End Weddings
Although weddings in the Fall/Winter season might be fewer and further between compared to their Spring/Summer counterparts, we find that oftentimes it’s these events that can end up feeling that extra little bit more special.
No matter if you’re a groomsman or guest (or perhaps even the lucky man himself), however, you can’t rely on your warm-weather wedding attire to see you through the cooler half of wedding season.
From the most formal fall ceremonies to the more low-key casual events, our guide below is here to help you tastefully interpret the inevitably confusing dress codes printed on your various wedding invitations this season.
Black-Tie, Formal
These days, there are a lot of interpretations as to what ‘black-tie’ exactly means. To us, black-tie always involves either a full tuxedo or cocktail jacket and usually always includes a bowtie and French cuffs. That said, don’t feel obligated to always include the ‘black’ in black-tie – although nothing beats the classics when it comes to tuxes.
For Fall/Winter weddings, we strongly recommend tapping into the various heavyweight fabrics that look so great draped across formal tailoring. High thread count worsted wools are typically what cool weather tuxedos and cocktail jackets are made of, but for a bit of flair and visual interest, we love a rich luxurious velvet or satiny silk too – perhaps in an alluring solid burgundy or sharp pattern for a pop of personality.
Even though it’s cooler out, we can’t help but feel the ideal accompaniment for a black-tie look is an elegant pair of evening slippers or Belgian loafers. While these slim-soled, low-vamped slip-ons don’t offer much in the warmth department, that’s nothing some thin wool socks can’t fix. Besides, you’re most likely going to be indoors anyway.
Semiformal, Cocktail Attire
When your invitation reads “Semiformal,” “Cocktail Attire,” or any variation of the two, that usually means it’s time to suit up. While wearing a tuxedo would mean you’re overdressed, everything up until that level of formality is good to go.
Whether you opt to wear a two- or three-piece suit is your prerogative, but we do value the added warmth of the waistcoat in the colder months. As far as fabrics are concerned, heavier-weight materials are your friends here. Look for thicker flannels or luxuriously soft cashmere to give you that extra hug of comfort or, depending on the locale of the event, an interesting tweed could even do the trick.
On-feet, a polished pair of dress boots or Chelseas are a smart seasonal alternative to dress shoes, which could absolutely do the job too. If you’re headed down the tweed suit route, finish off your ‘fit with some nice brogues to tie everything together.
Dressy Casual, Casual
Even if your invite has the word “Casual” in it, that never means you have license to turn up in your favourite hoodie and jeans. Show respect for the occasion by dressing up a little bit more than usual – think; date night at that trendy new wine bar that just opened up downtown.
To us, “Dressy Casual” means some slim wool dress pants or at the very least moleskin or heavyweight cotton chinos down below. Up top, there’s no getting around buttons, but don’t feel like you need to do your shirt all the way up, especially if you elevate your outfit a touch further with a smart soft jacket or deconstructed blazer. Alternatively, a refined long-sleeve knit polo in a neutral colour could also be worn underneath your jacket, offering you a little more comfort and a little more protection from the elements.
As far as shoes go, you’ve got to leave your trainers at home, but some upscale low-profile sneakers in a high-end grained leather or supple suede would do the trick. We’re more partial to a pair of casual leather loafers, however, which look particularly great in the fall when worn with white socks – our subtle nod to classic Ivy style (or Michael Jackson, whichever you prefer to emulate).