What to Wear to a Bridal Shower

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The first thing to think about when choosing your outfit is whether dress specifications have been provided. For instance, the bride may dictate that semi-formal clothing should be worn, that dresses should be worn, or that certain colors should be avoided.  

The second thing to think about is what type of shower you’ll be attending. What season will it be? What will the venue be? Are you an extremely close friend who will be helping gather wrapping paper on the floor and make appetizers? These are just some of the things that could influence what you wear. (Of course, you’ll also want to keep in mind what clothing style and colors best suit you, on a more general level).

• Fall or Winter Bridal Shower: For a fall or winter bridal shower, prioritize cozy style. A sheath dress with a cardigan or cashmere dress topper, for instance, can be a good way to look elegant but stay warm and comfy. Meanwhile, jeans and a nice blouse can also work just as well.
• Summer or Spring Bridal Shower: Flowy breathable fabrics, fun pastel colors and patterns, and warm weather staples (jumpsuits and rompers and sundresses, oh my!) are all welcome. Just remember not to look too flashy. Understated elegance and casual chic style are preferred over statement pieces.  
• Tea Party Bridal Shower: Exactly what to wear to a tea party bridal shower honestly depends on the event, but as a rule, delicate, feminine attire with florals, ruffles, or neutrals and soft pastel colors like Peach Fuzz are all welcome, as are most dresses. Just again, remember not to choose anything too revealing, too showy, or too “loud”.
• Couple’s Shower/Wedding Shower: There’s generally more leeway with couple’s showers for dress code! But you should still avoid black (too somber) white (too much like a wedding dress), and avoid tight, racy, or revealing clothing.

Style and etiquette experts recommend these eight tips:

1. When in Doubt, Ask the Bride: Most bridal showers give guests some guidelines as to whether they should wear more formal attire or if they can wear much more casual outfits. If not, it can’t hurt to ask! (Yes, it is a good idea to ask the bride directly!) You can also ask about the theme of the wedding and dress in conjunction with that. For instance, if the happy married couple-to-be is hosting a tropical destination wedding, bring out the Hawaiian print! If the wedding is a casual gathering, then jeans and a button-down shirt could be just fine. It really all depends!
2. Consider the Weather: Skip the sandals if it’s going to be rainy. Bring gloves, a hat, and scarf if it will be windy and cold.
3. Consider the Venue: Don’t show up in boots and ruin a black tie affair if the venue is a country club or other formal establishment.
4. Are There Games or Events That Require Physical Activity?: You may be more active and involved in the goings-on than you think. So, dress stylishly, but don’t forget to take practicality, movement, and comfort into account when choosing an outfit.
5. Will There Be a Photo Booth or Photo Wall?: Even if there won’t be a dedicated area set aside for taking selfies or group photos, chances are that this will be an event that will live on for years to come in photographs. Dress accordingly (now may not be the time to hop on a trend).
6. Subtlety is Key: Strive to be subtle and elegant rather than showy.
7. Bring Extra Footwear: Flats are your friend. Sneakers or slippers? Even better! While you can wear heels for the main day’s activities if you like, be sure to bring a comfy pair of shoes along too. Trust us; you’ll want them.
8. Unless Specified Otherwise, Jeans Are Okay: Jeans are usually acceptable for bridal showers. But if in doubt, ask the bride!

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