The bridal shower – a fun girly day dedicated to your lovely bride-to-be!

Often an intimate affair, it’s an honor to be invited to a bride’s shower, so it’s a good idea to give yourself ample time to think about what to wear!

There are no set rules when picking out your outfit and a lot will depend on the type of shower the bride is having…but here are some top tips and things to think about as you ponder outfit options…

Is There a Dress Code?

If it’s a fairly formal shower you may find that you are given a dress code on the invitation; this always helps. You should always try to stick to the dress code as much as possible; especially for a dressy event!

If the dress code simply states ‘casual’ then go for something fun and comfortable. In the summer,  a sundress with a summery print would be perfect. At other times, a matching set, or a blouse worn with a skirt or trousers always works. And don’t forget about jumpsuits – even if the theme is casual, you can still dress to impress!

If there’s no dress code specified then choose an outfit that you might wear to a fancy brunch or lunch – that is a good benchmark. Bright colors or floral prints are a good shout for this celebratory occasion.

And remember, your outfit for the shower will always be less formal than your outfit for the wedding day itself!

What if There Is a Theme?

Some brides will set a theme for their shower and if this is the case, then let yourself have some fun with it!

The theme could be anything – country garden, tea party, nautical – you should hopefully get a proper invitation with more details to help you dress accordingly.

Have a chat with the other guests and see what they are thinking about wearing. You will, of course, need to decide if you are going to go for the theme full on or simply make a nod to it.

A blue and white striped top for a nautical theme will work perfectly. A floral dress fits well with a tea party, etc.

But be careful – you don’t want to look like you’re attending a costume party! (Especially if no one else does!)

If the theme is pajama party then this makes your decision much easier – get yourself a new pair of silky PJ’s and settle in for a chilled-out evening with the gals!

What Should You NOT Wear to a Bridal Shower?

If there is no dress code, there are some very basic rules to follow.

Firstly, nothing too dressy or sexy. It’s unlikely you’ll be looking at skimpy dresses when deciding on a bridal shower outfit anyway – there are often lots of family at these events, so it is not the time for low-cut tops and mini skirts. Save those outfits for the bachelorette party!

We also suggest you avoid wearing white – let’s leave that to our bride, shall we?!

When making your decision about what to wear, always remember that you do not want to upstage the bride!

Can You Wear Jeans to a Bridal Shower?

Well, this will depend on the type of shower.

If it is an informal event in a relaxed location, and it’s the right season for jeans, then yes you probably can.

If you are unsure, it’s a good idea to check in with the maid of honor or a bridesmaid. They may know what the bride is wearing to the shower, and can give you more solid advice on whether jeans would be appropriate for the occasion.

Obviously, if the dress code is formal, then leave the denim at home!

Can You Wear Black to a Bridal Shower?

You can wear black to a bridal shower, sure, but before you do just have a serious think about it. This is a happy celebration and black can be seen as a somber color. 

If there are lots of older family members attending, then they might be a bit more traditional in their thinking and possibly frown upon someone wearing black to any wedding-related event.

If it’s an outdoor daytime event you may want to avoid wearing black anyway!

Ultimately, it’s up to you. If you’re unsure you can always ask the bride or maid of honor for her opinion on it!

And if you’re considering wearing black to the wedding itself then check out our article here before you decide.

What Do You Wear to a Bridal Shower in the Winter?

For bridal showers in the fall or winter months, you may want to pick a more autumnal color palette.  Think burgundy, rust, navy, gray, and dark greens to match the vibe of the season. 

Most winter showers will be held indoors, so don’t worry too much about your coat, but reflect the season with long sleeves and heavier fabrics. 

A long-sleeved sweater dress would look great with tights and boots, while an embroidered sweater with a busy pattern or print would work well with a long skirt or some wide-leg pants. Plus there are some great jumpsuit options out there for you to think about.

Don’t Forget to Accessorize!

Whatever the season, do not forget about your accessories. No matter what you choose to wear to the shower, some new accessories will lift any outfit choice. 

If you have chosen to wear one color, then choose bright contrasting colors for your handbag and shoes – it’s an upbeat and fun event and you want to impress!

Remember, if it’s a backyard party or happening in any kind of garden, then leave your high heels at home – you’ll want flats or wedges on the grass.