Like any social occasion, figuring out what to wear to a bridal shower can be tricky to navigate. If you’re finding yourself overwhelmed with outfit possibilities, we’ve rounded up our favorite fail-safe looks to give you some serious style inspiration.
Less formal than the actual wedding but not as dressy as a bachelorette party, a bridal shower tends to be a daytime affair such as a brunch or afternoon tea. Deciding how dressy to go will often depend on the venue but if you keep it smart-casual, you can’t go wrong. Think the best midi dresses with pretty, comfortable flats or a floaty skirt with the best t-shirt for an effortless outfit that still looks well put together.
If you’re the bride, you can help dictate the aesthetic. You may want to wear white as a nod to the big day or pick something completely different and go for bright color clothes or a punchy print to make a statement. If you're still looking for the best bridesmaid dresses, make sure to check out our guide for extra tips.
Guests will want to look like they’ve made the effort without stealing any attention away from the bride. Look to classic prints such as florals and polka dots and relaxed silhouettes such as wrap dresses and a-line skirts to keep you comfy and stylish. And if you’re wondering what to wear to a wedding we have a guide for that too.
What to wear to a bridal shower—five outfit ideas as chosen by a fashion editor
1. Floral Frock
What you need…
- Floral midi dress
- Your best blazer
- Comfortable flats
Romantic and feminine, a floral dress is a chic choice for a bridal shower. Minimal styling required, the pretty print does all the hard work for you—just throw on and go! Give it a tougher edge and add stompy boots or try a chunky sandal for a sporty twist. If you're worried about thigh rub in the summer, then make sure to bag a pair of the best anti chafing shorts to navigate the issue, without compromising on style
A styling tip…
If you need an extra layer, a relaxed blazer will add extra polish without stealing away from the look. Stick to neutral hues to keep it versatile.
Our fashion editor recommends…
H&M Smocked Waist Dress
RRP: $39.99 / £29.99 | Ditsy florals make for a sweet pre-wedding look. The smocked waistband helps to highlight the waist and the gently flared skirt allows easy movement. This is one you’ll be able to re-wear throughout the summer.
& Other Stories Linen Blazer
RRP: $149 / £120 | The linen fabric gives this blazer a laidback feel. It has slightly padded shoulders for a retro finish that helps to balance proportions too. Leave your jacket open to show off your dress underneath.
Zara Leather Platform Sandals with Buckles
RRP: $89.90 / £59.99 | Dip your toe in one of the top shoe trends 2022 has to offer with these sporty sandals. They have a platform heel for extra height and the beige hue ensures they will go with everything in your capsule wardrobe.
2. Relaxed Tailoring
What you need…
- A suit
- A casual tee
- The best white trainers
Go for something unexpected and try a stylish two-piece for a modern look. Keep it playful rather than corporate and look for relaxed fits—wide-leg trousers and oversized blazers will work like a charm. Mix in pops of color for a fun vibe and to give a nod to the Dopamine Dressing trend, one of the biggest fashion trends 2022 has to offer.
A styling tip…
Pair with casual wardrobe essentials to keep the look feeling relaxed. Try layering over a simple t-shirt or cami and finish off with box-fresh trainers.
Our fashion editor recommends…
Mango Double Breasted Suit Blazer
RRP: $119.99 / £69.99 | We love the bold fuchsia hue on this blazer for a feminine take on tailoring. The jewel-effect buttons add a glamorous touch too. Pair with the best jeans when you want a more lowkey look.
Mango Wide Leg Suit Pants
RRP: $79.99 / £49.99 | These wide-leg trousers sit high on the waist to give the illusion of longer legs. Tuck in your top to help streamline your silhouette and switch in a pussybow blouse when you hit the office.
Veja Rio Branco Trainers
RRP: $140 / £105 | Crafted from recycled polyester, these cool kicks have plenty of sustainable credentials. Light and breathable, they will be your go-to for stylish brunches and weekend walks.
3. All-in-one
What you need…
- A flattering jumpsuit
- Low heels
- Practical handbag
A jumpsuit is a chic dress alternative as it’s just as easy to wear but with a slightly cooler edge to it. You can keep it more casual and opt for a boilersuit or try a flowy printed number for an understated yet elegant outfit. This is a great outfit if the event runs into the evening.
A styling tip…
Elevate this look with a low-heel. Mules are easy to slip on and off but if you need something a bit sturdier that’s just as stylish, try a slingback.
Our fashion editor recommends…
Boden Off Shoulder Jumpsuit
RRP: $180 / £120 | This jumpsuit is oh-so-flattering and you’ll be able to take it on your holiday or honeymoon, long after the wedding day. There’s shirring at the waist to cinch you in and it has an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline. The dark green shade will work well into autumn too.
Charles & Keith Heeled Sandals
RRP: $49 / £49 | The circular heel gives these strappy sandals a runway-worthy finish. We love the yellow hue for a colorful update but you can also snap them up in black and white if you want something simpler. Reminiscent of some of the best designer heels at a fraction of the price.
Loewe + Paula’s Raffia Shoulder Bag
RRP: $690 / £495 | No summer outfit is complete without a basket bag, one of the big handbag trends 2022. This Loewe cross-body iteration is the perfect size for daytime wear. It features the designer’s iconic Anagram symbol in leather for that luxe finish.
4. Skirt + Tee
What you need…
- Swishy skirt
- A relaxed tee
- The best sandals
Bridal showers are happy occasions so why not inject some bold color to your look with a clashing skirt and tee combo. Make the skirt the star of the show and go for a silky slip style or a pretty print and keep your top half more pared-back. You can wear heels or flats with this look and finish off with some delicate jewelry.
A styling tip…
Try a boxy tee to keep the look relaxed and half-tuck in the front to help streamline your shape and show off the waist.
Our fashion editor recommends…
J Crew Pull-on Slip Skirt
RRP: $78 / £87 | This skirt is a bestseller and one you certainly won’t regret buying. It has an easy pull-on style and looks great teamed with tees and knits making it an all-year winner. Available in five colors, the lilac keeps it spring-ready.
Cos Short-Sleeve Knitted T-Shirt
RRP: $49 / £35 | Don’t hold back when it comes to neon hues—it’s a big fashion trend this season. This design has a knitted texture making it perfect for spring and autumn dressing. It has a regular fit and ribbed trims for extra interest.
Dune London Loupe Sandals
RRP: $120 / £85 | Sleek and smart these sliders are a summer staple. They have a cutout design with contrast stitching for added character. The low block heel makes them easy to wear all summer long, with absolutely everything.
5. All White
What you need…
- A white dress or jumpsuit
- Polished accessories
- A classic jacket
This one is for the brides out there who want to make an impact at their bridal shower. You can stick to a classic white dress but keep it more casual in shorter hemlines or breezy fabrics. A white jumpsuit or two-piece will also make a statement while giving a subtle nod to your wedding gown.
A styling tip…
If you don’t want to go too far down the bridal route, inject color to this look and team with tan accessories or a soft pastel jacket.
Our fashion editor recommends…
Ted Baker Racerback Midi Dress
RRP: $325 / £195 | This linen-blend dress ticks all the boxes for a summer bridal shower outfit with a chic button-up design and a waist-cinching belt. The racerback adds an unexpected sporty twist. A simple yet effective silhouette.
All Saints Balfern Leather Biker Jacket
RRP: $569 / £339 | Swap your classic black leather jacket for this sweet sage green number for a new season update, guaranteed to give your white dress an achingly cool finish. A worthy investment piece, it’ll stand the test of time too.
Zara Block Heel Leather Sandals
RRP: $69.90 / £49.99 | Tan sandals make any outfit look instantly chic, especially when teamed with neutral hues such as white and cream. These feature a flexible foam sole for extra comfort too, so you can really enjoy the day.
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