Attending a bridal shower and navigating dress code can feel a bit confusing sometimes. You want to look cute and put-together without overdressing or even underdressing. There’s also always some sort of a vibe that you want to match as well. From garden party-style events, to fancy brunches, the rules tend to feel unclear at times. So let’s go over bridal shower dress code along with outfit ideas for every type of bridal shower from outdoor soirees, to indoor restaurant brunches. Here’s what to wear to a bridal shower as a guest and what to know about dress code.
Bridal Shower Dress Code
Typically, you may not see a dress code on an invite for bridal showers. Instead, it’s more common to simply match the vibe of the invite. Whether it’s a garden party or high tea, the time of day it’s happening, and the time of year. If it’s someone’s home, it’s probably more casual, but if it’s at a high-end tea house, it’s more fancy.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to dress in a smart business casual yet festive way at a minimum for bridal shower attire. Cocktail attire options that match the time of day the event is being hosted are also key. Overall, avoid jeans unless the invite specifically says casual. We want to dress the part of celebrating the soon-to-be bride which means we’re taking our everyday looks up a notch.
A few safe bets I always resort to are floral or feminine dresses, matching sets that feel elevated, skirt and top pairings, or trousers. The one thing to keep in mind, avoid a full white outfit; this is reserved for the bride. I personally think the rule of avoiding a white background with a print is dated. So long as you don’t look like you’re dressed in a bridal outfit, it’s probably a safe bet.
What To Wear To An Outdoor Or Garden Party Bridal Shower
For outdoor bridal showers or a garden party-style event, this likely means you’re celebrating in the warmer months. Choose lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, sundresses with light jackets, and fun floral prints.
Floral Dresses And Sundresses
Floral pieces are always really fun to wear for garden parties or outdoor events. From mini floral dresses, to floral midis and maxis, these are the perfect pieces to reach for. Add a strappy sandal and nice summery bag to complete your look.
Linen Matching Sets
Matching sets are an ideal, effortless outfit for events. We do want to make sure we don’t look like we’re going to the pool here though. So make sure these sets are more elevated. Try midi skirt sets, or tailored trouser short sets with blazers.
Crochet Pieces
For spring and summer outdoor events, crochet pieces from dresses, to sets, are perfect to reach for. They’re fun and also breathable for the outdoor warmer temps. Plus, they feel more like special pieces thanks to the intricate detailing.
Shirtdress
A shirtdress is an effortless option for a daytime, spring or summer event. This leans a bit more casual, but can be dressed up with the right accessories and shoes. Obviously, if you’re the guest, do not wear a white shirtdress. Here are some more ideas on how to style a shirt dress for various scenarios and styles.
Linen Dresses
Try a linen dress as an option for warmer months. The breathable fabric is lightweight and will keep you feeling your best. Pair with an espadrille and straw bag to complete the look. These are ideal for a garden party bridal shower outfit in the summer.
What To Wear To An Indoor Bridal Shower or Restaurant Brunch
If attending an indoor bridal shower during the warmer months, you can definitley reach for the above pieces as well. Especially if they’re in light, bright spaces. But if you’re attending a restaurant brunch that’s indoors in cooler months, you may want to reach for something a bit different for your bridal shower guest look.
Silk Or Satin Slip Dresses
A simple slip dress is so verstaile and are great for dressing up to attend a bridal shower. For winter months, pair with a nice knee high boot and a chic blazer. Here are a few ways to wear a slip midi dress in all four seasons that would work for bridal showers.
Elegant Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are an easy one and done piece to wear to events like a bridal shower. You can always go dressier depending on the restaurant or indoor space. For spring and summer, opt for lighter fabrics and colors. And for dressier or fall and winter events, choose darker shades or heavier fabrics.
Trousers With A Great Third Piece
Trousers are perfect for an indoor event and you can easily make it your own by adding a great third piece. This can be a blazer, or a lady jacket and even a nice cardigan. Just depends on your personal style and what you gravitate towards. You could even do an elevated denim jacket here as well for a space that isn’t too dressy.
Matching Sets In Dressy Fabrics
Matching sets are once again a great option here. Opt for nicer and dressier fabrics like satin, or tweed for winter months. They feel polished and pulled together for a bridal shower.
What NOT To Wear To A Bridal Shower
Let’s use our best judgment when thinking about our bridal shower outfit ideas. Avoid graphic tees and cutoff shorts, or anything super casual. If it’s daytime, maybe avoid an all-black look unless it’s part of the theme. Bridal showers should be light, bright and festive. Usually held during the day, so avoid any revealing items or pieces that feel like they belong at the club.
- A white dress
- Sneakers or flip flops
- Straying really far from dress code
- A baseball hat
- Loungewear
- Clubwear
Shoes And Accessories For A Bridal Shower
Shoes For A Bridal Shower
I always reach for a good heel when attending a bridal shower. Either a block heel especially if there will be lots of standing, or a strappy heel or sandal. A ballet flat in a nicer fabric like a woven leather, or even satin, could be a great option. Again, just avoid sneakers and anything too casual.
If the event is outside and potentially on grass, you’ll definitley want to choose a block heel or wedge over a stiletto. This will ensure you are comfortable and can walk around with ease.
Accessories For A Bridal Shower
This is not the time for your work tote. Swap your things out for a nicer elevated bag like a simple clutch that coordinates with the season and your outfit. You could definitely do a smaller nice crossbody here, or top handle bag. But the totes should mostly be avoided.
Have fun with jewelry and accessorize your look for the occasion. It is an event after all! Add some fn earrings, necklaces and throw on a little lipstick too.
This is everything you need to know about what to wear to a bridal shower from garden parties to restaurants and more. Finding the perfect bridal shower guest dress is easy when you understand the dress code and destination.
