What To Wear To A Bridal Shower: The Ultimate Guide

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. Choosing the right outfit for a bridal shower can feel like walking a tightrope. It is an opportunity to express your personal taste while respecting the bride’s preferences and the event’s dress code. Aim for an ensemble that feels festive without being too flashy as you want to celebrate the occasion without overshadowing the bride. Think about a look that aligns with the atmosphere and theme of the shower, blending in while still letting your style shine.

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 beautiful cocktail attire.

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. You may also want to consider the time of day for the bridal shower when picking your colors. Stick to a light pastel shade – like lavender or peach – as it is most likely a daytime event. You can add a touch of sophistication by opting for deeper tones, such as navy, olive, or dusty rose for evening bridal shower events. This way, you keep your outfit elegant and understated, supporting the bride without drawing too much attention.

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. For outdoor showers, opt for a wide-brimmed hat or fancy sunglasses to add some pop of fun and personality. Carry a formal or whimsical clutch to elevate your outfit according to the amount of flair you think your dress needs. Accessories are a great way to bring personality to your bridal shower look.

• 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 Fact

It is said that bridal showers originated in Holland in the 16th Century. The intent was for family and friends to provide gifts to assist the bride in her married life.

Now 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
  
  

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
  
  

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. For spring and summer seasons, embrace light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and consider floral or pastel patterns to capture the freshness of the season. Autumn invites richer, warmer colors like burgundy, mustard, and deep teal, bringing an earthy, cozy feel to your look.

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
  

When in doubt about party outfit ideas, always go floral! Spring and summer are all about blooming flowers. Why not look out for some vibrant floral outfit ideas that suit the occasion? Full-length floral dresses made of cotton or crepe can make you look flawless.

• Linen Jumpsuit
  
  

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

You can also wear a neutral top or a dress and accessorize it with bold shoes to keep the look chic.

• 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

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.

Illustration: What To Wear To A Bridal Shower: Tips And Dress Code Etiquette

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Looking 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!

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Traci JeskePersonal Stylist

     

Traci Jeske is an internationally certified personal stylist with over 30 years of experience. She is also the director of En Vogue Stylist and helps women 50 and beyond up level their glamor game by finding their unique style and looking and feeling absolutely fabulous.

Read full bio of Traci Jeske

Sushmita BarmanBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sushmita has a master’s degree in English literature from Gauhati University, Assam, and is an experienced content writer and editor. Genres like fashion, beauty, and lifestyle have always interested her, and this allows her to assist her team in creating high quality content.

Read full bio of Sushmita Barman

Madhumati ChowdhuryAssociate Editor

Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.

Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury

Pahul NanraBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Pahul Nanra is a content writer with a penchant for all things fashion and beauty. She has two years of experience in writing across beauty and lifestyle genres. She is an English Honors graduate from Delhi University with a diploma in Fashion Designing from YMCA.

Read full bio of Pahul Nanra