Autumn · rain forecast
What to wear to a wedding when it rains
Rain on the day changes three things: your hem, your shoes and your coat. How to stay dressed up and dry at an October or November wedding with pieces you already own.
Check the forecast three days out
Most rained-out outfits were planned for sun a month earlier. Look at the forecast three days before and again the night before. If rain is likely, change the outfit, not just the umbrella.
Wet weather hits the bottom of an outfit first. A floor-length hem soaks up puddles between the car and the door. Suede and thin soles slide on wet stone. A light dress with no layer turns into a cold dress by the speeches.
The rain-proof guest formula
Base: a trouser suit in a wedding colour, or a dress that ends at the knee or midi. A magenta suit with a soft blouse is as festive as any dress and nothing drags on the ground.
Feet: a block heel, a loafer or a heeled boot with some grip. Leave suede and satin at home. Bring a small cloth for the shoes and change nothing else.
Layer: a trench or a wool coat in a neutral that goes with the outfit. You will wear it in half the photos, so pick the one you like looking at.
Bag: something that closes. A small leather bag with a zip or a clasp keeps your phone and the card for the couple dry.
Let the weather pick the outfit
Put the wedding in your Sleqk planner with the city and the date. The stylist checks that day's weather and builds complete outfits from your own pieces, so a wet forecast gets trousers and a coat instead of a silk maxi.
See each option on your own photo before you decide. If you are torn between two, send both to friends as one link and let them vote.
Questions people ask
Can I wear a long dress to a wedding in the rain?
You can, but hold the hem when you walk outside and pick shoes with grip. A midi or a trouser suit is easier if rain is likely all day.
What shoes are best for a rainy wedding?
Leather block heels, loafers or heeled ankle boots. Avoid suede, satin and stilettos on grass or wet stone.
See it on yourself first
Render your options on your own photo, and decide with days to spare.