quelle-tenue-pour-un-mariage-en-octobre
09-07-2025

What to wear for an October wedding?

6 min read

Let's not beat around the bush: dressing for a wedding in the middle of October is a real headache. It's neither hot nor cold, or both at the same time. It could be rainy, windy, or even downright May-worthy. In short, it's a bit like playing the weather lottery.

But don't panic, we're here to help you find THE perfect outfit : the one that will make you feel your best without shivering, sweating, or swearing at your heels. Whether you're a guest, a witness, or the groom's cousin, we'll guide you with style and good humor.

Autumn: a slippery slope in terms of dressing

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October is that sneaky time of year when you can go from a chilly 12°C to a deceptively hot 22°C in the same day. And even your wedding dress wouldn't be ready for that!

So you have to play the versatility card , layers (we call it “layering” among fashion professionals, but we didn’t say technical terms) and smart materials. The idea is to be warm without sweating , and to be able to remove or add a layer according to the whims of the sky.

Another subtlety of October: the light . It's softer, more golden. And that's a blessing for your photos. Provided, of course, that your clothes don't clash with the setting. So avoid fluorescents, immaculate white (the bride, remember?) and overly summery colors. Make way for warm, autumnal, soft and elegant tones .

And what about the dress code?

Before you go on a shopping spree or empty your closet, take a look at the invitation. If there's a dress code, stick to it (even if "country chic" leaves you stumped, we'll help you out below). Otherwise, base your outfit on the season, the venue (outdoors or indoors? country or chateau?), and your role in the wedding .

For women: elegance in all layers

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Are you a woman invited to a wedding in October? Good news: you're spoiled for choice , and we're not just talking about the dress.

The key word: adapt without sacrificing style . Because no, you don't have to wear a puffer jacket over your satin dress to avoid ending up as an ice cube.

The fall dress: length, sleeves and fluidity

Dresses remain the big winners, even in October. But be warned: while the backless wedding dress still seduces with its elegance, we're swapping overly light or mini styles for midi or long dresses, with three-quarter or long sleeves. They're chic, they're practical, and they keep you warm.

The ideal materials? Crepe , thick silk , light velvet or even a pretty flowing knit . Avoid fabrics that are too thin and that stick to the body at the first drop of rain.

As for patterns, autumnal flowers , discreet geometric prints , or a pretty plain color in warm tones (burgundy, fir green, ochre, midnight blue) will have their little effect.

Skirt, pants, jumpsuit: stylish alternatives

If the dress doesn't appeal to you, no worries! A midi skirt paired with a pretty satin blouse, or palazzo pants with a fitted jacket can be just as elegant. And bonus: you'll probably feel less cold.

And what about the chic jumpsuit ? It's the perfect compromise: one piece of clothing, a sleek silhouette, and the ability to throw on a coat without looking like you're in costume.

Jackets, coats & co.

Don't leave without a warm layer to add once the sun goes down. Over a flowing wedding dress , a long, straight or double-breasted coat in a beautiful fabric (wool, tweed, faux fur) is a real asset. A cape, for the more daring, can also make a small impact.

A fitted blazer , a short tweed jacket , or a chic long cardigan can also be added to the outfit. The important thing is that this piece completes the look instead of spoiling it.

And the shoes?

Here too, October calls for reflection. We forget open sandals (unless you like having blue toes) and opt for closed pumps , elegant ankle boots , or even patent leather derbies . With or without heels, depending on your stamina.

And pssst... slip on some thin thermal insoles if you're feeling the cold. No one will know, except your toes, which will thank you.

For men: between elegance and common sense

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Gentlemen, you too deserve your style survival guide for October weddings. And the good news is that in autumn, you can pull out all the stops without dying of heat. While the lady shines in her Empire Wedding Dress , you stay chic and comfortable: what more could you ask for?

The perfect costume for October

A three-piece suit? Yes, it's now or never. The vest adds a layer without adding bulk, and you can always drop the jacket if necessary.

In terms of color, leave overly light blues or pale grays for summer. In October, we're going for deep tones : navy, charcoal, bottle green, dark brown, or even a well-balanced burgundy.

And if you're feeling daring, a suit in a subtle check or fine corduroy can be a hit (yes, really).

Shirt, tie, accessories: the right choices

A white shirt is always a safe bet, but nothing stops you from daring a warm pastel shade (ivory, grayish sky blue, pinkish beige). The tie? Matching or contrasting, but in seasonal materials: light wool, textured silk, fine knit .

Think about accessories with character : a colorful clutch , an elegant watch , or even a brooch or tie clip if you like little details that make all the difference.

And if it's cool? Think about a coat.

The coat is often overlooked, and yet! A nice overcoat , a thick trench coat , or even a double-breasted wool coat can save your style (and comfort) between two group photos.

Avoid the hiking windbreaker or the office jacket: we're talking about a wedding, not a leaving party.

Shoes: elegant, of course

Brogues, derbies, Oxfords… Leather, well-polished, and if possible a little insulated. No need for boots, unless the wedding is taking place in a muddy field. And bring socks that keep you warm, without falling into the Santa Claus motif. This applies as much to the suit as to a Wedding Dress for Plus-Size Women , which deserves shoes that are both elegant and comfortable.

Outdoor Weddings: The Real Battle of October

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Some brides and grooms, a bit optimistic, persist in wanting an outdoor ceremony in October. It's beautiful, yes. But it's also risky. And as a guest, it's best to plan ahead .

The essentials to have on you

  • A stole or shawl (ladies)

  • A nice umbrella (we avoid the advertising umbrella on the car)

  • A scarf or a thin scarf

  • Opaque or semi-opaque tights

  • A comfortable spare pair (flat dancing shoes, for example)

  • A chic waterproof jacket , just in case

Weather-proof materials

Favor materials that breathe but keep you warm: fine wool, thick cotton, viscose, lightweight cashmere, etc. Avoid synthetic fabrics that make you sweat or materials that are too lightweight. More advice on this topic is available here.

And the children? We don't forget them!

Little ones also deserve to be well dressed without ending up with a cold. And since they run around everywhere, they need outfits that are pretty but comfortable , warm but not stifling .

Little girls: dress + vest + tights + ankle boots .

Little boys: pants + shirt + sweater + light blazer + closed shoes .

And always: a warm coat and smart accessories (elegant hat, mini scarf, etc.).

Outfits to absolutely avoid

There are some faux pas that we prefer to avoid. Here is a non-exhaustive list of what is best left in the closet :

  • White or cream (you are not the bride)

  • Ultra-short dresses without tights (at the risk of turning you into an ice cube)

  • Plunging necklines without a jacket (brrr)

  • The total black look (unless enhanced with touches of color)

  • Shiny materials like a disco ball

  • Open-toed shoes (except for cocktails on a heated veranda, perhaps)

  • Wrinkled or mismatched suits

The final word: be yourself, but in October version

Dressing for a wedding in October is a bit like making a recipe without the weather forecast: you fumble, you adapt, you cross your fingers. But with a little preparation and common sense, you'll be on top form .

Remember that the important thing is to be comfortable, warm (or at least not cold) and enjoy the party without spending your time rolling up your sleeves or shivering between glasses of champagne.


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