What To Wear To A Bridal Shower: The Ultimate Guide
Choose something enjoyable and comfy, something that makes you feel like your best self.
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Weddings are fun, and so are all the pre-wedding events! Among the very many celebrations before D-day, a bridal shower is something every bride and her bridesmaids look forward to. And this is when the big question arises – what to wear to a bridal shower? Whether it is a theme party or has a dress code, a considerable amount of planning is required before picking the right bridal shower outfit. Plus, there are certain dos and don’ts that the guests need to follow too. Fortunately, we have compiled a guide to help you through this process! We will help you pick the perfect outfit for this event.
In this article, we will discuss what you can wear (and must avoid wearing) to different types of bridal showers. So, keep reading!
Ace The Look- Bags: Select a bag as per the theme. For a boho theme party, opt for a straw or a leather bag and a clutch for a cocktail party.
- Hairstyles: Opt for flowy braids like fishtail or French braids or let your hair loose with waves. Add a floral headband to complete the look.
- Makeup: Wear a little blush and peach, light pink, or nude lipstick for a simple yet elegant look.
- Layering: Throw on a leather or denim jacket to bring together your cocktail outfits.
In This Article
Dressing Etiquette For A Bridal Shower
Your outfit for a bridal shower depends on the theme of the party as well as the bride’s preference. Some brides have a specific style of fashion, makeup, hair, and outfit ideas in mind; she prefers the ladies in attendance to stick to a certain color or style of dress, so make sure you call up the bride and gain some clarity. Apart from that, here are a few tips you can generally follow:
- Stick To Pastel Shades
As this is a pre-wedding occasion, don’t go over the top with the color you wear. Also, stick to a light pastel shade – like lavender or peach – as it is most likely a daytime event. Lastly, make sure that the color you choose does not look brighter than the bride’s or upstage her in any way.
Fran Fried, a blogger, shared what she wore to her first-ever bridal shower. She opted for a sleeveless sage green dress with retro vibes. She describes her dress, writing, “It says dressy, sun, California and party in one sentence (i).”
- Stay Away From The Color Red
Red is not a good color to wear to a bridal shower as it is considered to be associated with adultery. It is also a bold and show-stopping color. So save that red dress in your wardrobe for a date night, and let the bride stay in the limelight at her party!
- Black? A Big NO
Even though many ladies prefer black for any occasion, it is recommended not to wear black to a bridal shower. Instead, wear pretty colors that exude calm and positive vibes, like yellow, green, or blue.
- Keep Your Jewelry Simple
You don’t need to be dripping in diamonds or flaunting flamboyant gold jewelry at a bridal shower. Keep your accessories simple and light. Dainty necklaces and simple dangling earrings can be perfect for your bridal shower attire.
- Keep It Low-Key With Your Shoes
You can opt for a pair of wedges or block heels for the bridal shower. You can also wear cool booties or pumps to keep your look simple yet elegant. Remember, this occasion is not for wearing sky-high stilettos!
Fran wore black kitten heels to the shower to match her attire and look stylish. “Not only are they styling and cute, they were extremely practical. Especially since I twisted my right ankle in my sleep (!!!) the previous weekend, and this would be the first time I wore anything higher than a flat all week.”
Fun FactNow that you have the basic tips, read on to learn how to dress for the occasion when there is a dress code.
What To Wear To A Bridal Shower Based On Dress Code
A dress code can be difficult to navigate, especially if you are not someone who attends many weddings or formal events. Usually, the bride mentions the dress code for the bridal shower dresses on the invite. All you need to do is make sure you stick to it so as not to offend or upset the bride. Here’s what different dress codes mean and how you need to dress for them:
- Cocktail Attire Dress Code
Have the hosts set a cocktail dress code? Well, that means you need to wear a somewhat formal outfit. So, jeans and pants of any kind are strictly not allowed.
Cocktail attire needs to be chic. The easiest way to follow this dress code is to wear a knee-length or midi-length dress with heels and understated jewelry. You can opt for a silky wraparound or a structured dress. Just avoid wearing anything too short or revealing.
- Seasonal Themed Dress Code
A bridal shower can take place at any time of the year. If it takes place in the autumn or spring, wear a flowy dress in a light color. Loose pants and flowy blouses are also appropriate for this season.
If the occasion takes place during winter, you can go for darker shades that suit you. Velvet dresses and warm jumpsuits are good choices for this season.
- Boho Chic Dress Code
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This is the most fun dress code you can hope for. Deck up in a casual maxi dress (a crocheted one, maybe?) with some wildflowers in your hair to look like a boho diva! Espadrilles and wedges are the best shoe choices for this dress code.
- Tea Time Dress Code
A traditional tea-time bridal shower expects its guests to wear tea-length dresses. You can wear a mid-length dress paired with wedges. Floral prints are perfect for a tea party!
Many people organize bridal showers in their backyard. What would you wear then? Scroll down to find out.
What To Wear To A Backyard Bridal Shower
A backyard bridal shower is a place where the guests can chill. Thankfully, you can dress a bit low-key but trendy for this affair. Since this is an outdoor event, you need to choose your bridal attire accordingly. Here’s how!
- Casual Outfit
Keeping it classy and casual for a backyard bridal shower is mandatory. It is not always necessary that you wear a dress for this occasion. You can keep it simple by wearing light blue skinny jeans (not ripped ones!) paired with a light-colored dressy blouse. You can finish off the look with a cute pair of ballet flats.
- Breathable Attire
Backyard arrangements tend to be hot, and if the event takes place during the day, you need to wear something cool and comfortable. Pair a light cotton or silk dress with a large sun hat to keep the rays from attacking you!
- Floral Dress
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If there is one place you can rock a floral outfit, it is a backyard bridal shower. You can wear a sleek fitted dress with a floral print in a pastel shade if the event is a bit more formal. A long maxi dress or a classy A-line dress is also an elegant choice.
- Streamlined Jumpsuit
Go off the beat and try a streamlined jumpsuit with unique sleeves. You can dress it up with a light metallic neck piece and dangling earrings.
Now keep reading to learn what to wear to a bridal shower organized during the beautiful seasons of spring and summer.
What To Wear To A Spring Or Summer Bridal Shower
Choosing an outfit for a spring or summer bridal shower is quite easy. Bright colors and pastel shades are a perfect match for this occasion. These colors usually rule the show, and there is no place better than a summer bridal shower to showcase your beauty! Here are some ideas to inspire you!
- Go Floral
Spring and summer are all about blooming flowers. Why not look out for some vibrant floral outfits ideas that suit the occasion? Full-length floral dresses made of cotton or crepe can make you look flawless.
- Linen Jumpsuit
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Linen is the best fabric to wear during summer as it is lightweight yet looks classy. Go for a linen jumpsuit in beige or dusty pink to create an optimistic vibe for the bridal shower.
- Subtly Printed Blouse
If you want to go neutral, you can opt for subtly printed attire. Select a refined printed blouse paired with a cream or white skirt. You can also pair the blouse with jeans if the bride has specified that it is a casual affair.
Quick Tip- Lacy Dress
A lacy dress is the perfect outfit for a spring bridal shower. A strappy mid-length lace dress or a long halter-neck lace dress are some good options for this occasion. Finish it off with strappy sandals or wedges.
- Jacquard Dress
Want to try out something fancy? Go for a pleated jacquard dress. Bridal showers are casual affairs, so you can dress up in this light fabric to elevate your look!
- Off-Shoulder Dress
Considering the vibe and the season, pretty pastel shades are ideal. In order to keep it an elegant affair, dress up in a pastel-colored off-shoulder dress that makes for a cool summer look. Leave your hair down to amp up the romantic vibe of this look.
Read on to derive some inspiration for fall bridal shower outfits that would stand out and make you the center of attention!
What To Wear To A Fall Bridal Shower
Attending a fall bridal shower calls for outfits that reflect the season’s vibe along with a touch of sophistication and elegance. Here are some fall bridal shower outfit ideas!
- Midi Wrap Dress
A midi wrap dress in colors such as burgundy, forest green, or light mustard can be a classic choice. Go for floral or leafy prints for a touch of chicness.
- Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
A wide-leg jumpsuit in dark colors can help give a bold and stylish edge. Layer it with a light-hued cardigan for the feels!
- Long Sleeved Dress
A dress mid-length or ankle length with long sleeves in colors like rust, plum, or navy can look elegant and comfortable for a bridal shower.
Infographic: The Best Guide For What To Wear To A Bridal Shower
All pre-wedding activities can be as enjoyable as weddings! A bridal shower is one of the many ceremonies that every bride and her bridesmaids eagerly anticipate. Before choosing the ideal attire, careful planning is necessary with regard to the theme of the party and its dress code. To choose the ideal dress for the occasion, look at the infographic below. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
A bridal shower marks the beginning of the most important days in a bride’s life. So, make sure you dress up for her bridal shower in a way that suits her theme and makes her happy! If there is one rule you need to keep in mind, it is to make sure you don’t upstage the bride. The best way to do that is to stick to pastel and light colors to keep things light and fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a daughter wear to a bridal shower?
To ensure that the ambiance of the wedding shower is maintained, match your attire to the theme. Depending on the theme, wear something flowery or elegant.
Is it OK to wear white jeans to a bridal shower?
Unless it is mentioned in the invite or agreed upon priorly with the bride, it is recommended to avoid wearing white to the wedding and its related occasions. Enquire what the bridal shower theme is and then make a decision.
Is a bridal shower casual?
Bridal showers can be casual or formal, depending on the choice of the bride and the host. Mostly, the bridal shower invitation will include the theme and dress code for the event.
Do you bring a gift to a bridal shower?
Yes, carrying a gift for the bride is an expected formality of a bridal shower.
Should I wear a dress, or is it acceptable to wear pants?
Dresses are common attire for casual bridal shower parties. However, it is acceptable to wear jeans or trousers with a blouse, depending on the dress code of the event.
Is it necessary to wear a hat or fascinator to a bridal shower?
Bridal showers are mostly planned for evenings, and it wouldn’t be appropriate to wear a hat to an evening event. But a fascinator can be worn to add color and accessorize your outfit.
Should I bring a change of clothes if the bridal shower includes any outdoor activities?
A fun bridal shower event may have several outdoor activities involving getting wet or dirty. Carrying a spare dress can let you enjoy the day without worrying about dirtying your outfit.
What should I wear if the bridal shower is held at a restaurant?
A restaurant bridal shower can be a casual event when hosted in a backyard setting, and you can dress up in a skirt, dress, or floral top with pants. If it is an ambient formal restaurant event, you are expected to dress formally in a maxi dress, formal trousers, and blouse, or a lace sheath dress. You can accessorize with statement jewelry.
Key Takeaways
- Pastel-colored clothes are perfect for this occasion.
- Stick to light fabrics and colors for a bridal shower in the spring or summer.
- Always go for light jewelry and understated accessories.
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ShareLooking for outfit ideas for a bridal shower? Look no further! Check out this video showcasing the perfect ensembles for guests. Take inspiration and be the best-dressed attendee!
Personal Experience: Source
StyleCraze's articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. Rite of passage: My first bridal showerhttps://franoramaworld.wordpress.com/2010/08/23/rite-of-passage-my-first-bridal-shower/
