Guide To Fall Wedding Dresses

Weddings are on my brain. As I plan my own, my everyday thoughts are consumed with event details. Ideas persistently pop into my head. I associate accessories I see on the street with bridesmaid gifts. Yummy appetizers signal hors d'oeuvre additions. Currently, centerpieces are the focus, and I'm attempting to incorporate the entire Anthropologie store into my reception. Vintage, ruffles, floral prints, lace, and layers. I let these features do more than trim the tabletops - they are great basics for wedding-wear when you're not the bride. So, as I eagerly await my own wedding and continue to attend others', dressing the part is always fun. Here's a look at four great finds if you're a fall wedding guest.

J Crew


900 N Michigan Ave Ste 2
Chicago, IL 60611 
(312) 751-2739
Mon-Sat: 10AM - 8PM; Sun: 11AM - 6PM
www.jcrew.com

The Silk Organza Leah dress is one that you can wear again and again. The strapless A-line dress is crafted from satin-faced silk organza and features a sweetheart neckline. Tucks on the bodice and a waistband add textural interest to the rich hue of dragonfly blue. Available in three colors, price: $129.

H&M

22 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60602 

(312) 263-3614

Here's a classic little black dress with just the right amount of detail. A scoop neck, black lace, and fitted, wide ribbon slims your waistline. I'm always looking for lace, and in this case the material elegantly mixes classic with vintage. Also comes in gray and for a price of $34.95 you can't beat it.

Nordstrom Rack

2155 W 22nd St
Oak Brook, IL 60523 

(630) 572-1212
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm Sun 11am-7pm
shop.nordstrom.com

Try the Suzi Chin Maggy Boutique Tie Neck Chiffon Trapeze dress for its feminine touches. A tie loops through the pleated neckline of a chiffon cap-sleeve dress with a fluid trapeze silhouette really dresses this look up. The flowy style of the dress will keep you comfortable all night long. Originally $98.90 look for it at Normstrom Rack for a little less.

Macy's

111 N. State St.
Chicago, IL 60602 
(312) 781-1000
Hours: Sun 11am-6pm; Mon-Sat 10am -8pm
www.macys.com

The stylized flower caught my eye on this Sleeveless Surplice Ruched Sash Rosette Full Skirt Cocktail dress. Features include a fitted bodice, ruched wide sash waistband, rosettes at the center, and a full, pleated skirt that hits at the knee. Dress up this black dress with bold color shoes and accessories. Reasonably priced at $118 you'll be able to wear it more than once.

Ann Taylor Loft

33 N LA Salle St
Chicago, IL 60602 

(312) 346-7768
Mon – Fri 7:30am – 7:00pm
www.loft.com

The Sleeveless Crepe Full Skirt dress is a tweed-inspired print (perfect Fall fabric) with ballet neckline, grosgrain band at the waist, exposed back zip, and ribbed appearance. Simple black accessories will complement this look perfectly. Find this dress at Ann Taylor Loft for $79.50

Jenny Schooley is a Chicago-based writer and editor. She currently works in publishing for an academic organization.