Going to a Bridal Shower? Here’s What to Wear
Ever stood in front of an overstuffed closet, with a pile of discarded outfits on the bed and no clue whatsoever as to what you're going to wear to the event you're already late for? Well, know that you're not alone. Not one woman alive has escaped this dilemma completely.
Of course, your indecision might be more serious if the discarded outfits involve any critical remarks from a spouse or a friend (along the lines of, "you're not wearing that, are you?"). Other weighty factors include the importance of the celebration. Confusion's sure to mount when you're confronted with the company Christmas party, a New Year's Eve out, or other "life marker" celebrations involving friends and family.
So far, a bridal shower might be the only life event not yet associated with a certain kind of attire. But isn't it time for this change? After all, someone's probably spent a lot of time planning the shower around the perfect theme, so why not coordinate your outfit to match?
For example, if you end up planning your friend's bridal shower and she's honeymooning in Hawaii, why not plan a luau theme and ask your guests to come attired in Hawaiian shirts and shifts, or even grass skirts? Or if your friend's a surfer girl, why not prop up a cut-out surf board and clad yourself in a little neoprene or even a bleached-blond wig? As you can see, the possibilities are just about endless.
Of course, some showers are much more formal, and held at formal locations such as upscale restaurants and banquet halls. In that case, you'll want to make the dress code clear to other guests. The best way to go about this is to use some popular verbiage that gets the point across in a few words.
If you're throwing the shower at a super-luxury restaurant, indicate that the dress is "cocktail attire" on the invitation. This lets each invitee know that you're having a black-tie affair, and what's more, she'll know to get that little black dress pressed and ready to go. Cocktail attire is appropriate for hotels and exclusive restaurants.
If the party's held somewhere semi-formal, where dress is important but not quite black-tie, specify something like "evening resort attire." This means something slightly more festive than the little black dress, such as a dress with some color or ruffles, or a nice skirt and blouse -- keeping it all pretty conservative.
Having your party at the local country club? Dress is less formal -- call it "resort attire" or "business casual." Conservative skirts and even nice, tailored shorts are usually just fine, if they fit the season.
As you can see, bridal showers do involve important questions of fashion. If you're the one hosting a shower, eliminate your guests' guess work and tell them how to dress for the occasion. On the other hand, if you're the guest yourself, be sure to ask about a dress code. Most often, the list of location will give you a clue, but if you don't know the venue very well, just call the hostess to clear up any questions and prevent a fashion misfire.
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June 17th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
June 14th, 2008 at 1:46 am
I think the “don’t wear white to a wedding” rule is there for a reason. If someone turned up at my wedding in white i think i might just cry. It’s one thing to do your hair and make-up - but to wear overtly sexy or white apparel is so disrespectful! Its not your wedding, don’t try to steal the spotlight… your time will come.
At the bridal party its fine. Actually if everyone wore white that would be stunning too.
June 5th, 2008 at 6:33 pm
im 21 and im going to a bridal shower and i dont have a clue what to wear
August 30th, 2007 at 8:58 am
I am attending a bridal shower this Saturday. It is supposed to be pretty warm. The place is pretty fancy. I was wondering if a polka dotted halter cotton dress would be appropriate? It looks better than it sounds hehehe. Please let meknow asap. Thank you.
July 24th, 2007 at 5:38 am
does the timing of the event determine the kind of clothes you can wear, take for example, what do i wear to a bridal shower that’s scheduled to hold between 3pm-6pm. (some afternoons can be really hot in this part of the world)
May 16th, 2007 at 7:15 am
While I agree that wearing white to a bridal shower or rehearsal dinner is perfectly appropriate, I have to disagree with encouraging anyone to wear white to a wedding unless the bride requests white attire. While it may be “old” etiquette, it is common courtesy to a person that should be shown respect on a very important day in her life. Why take the chance of upsetting her or incurring the disdain of others? You could take a position of “making a statement” but why encourage negativity at a wonderful event?
My point is that unless you know that the bride will not be bothered, why take the chance when there are so many other beautiful colors to consider?
February 14th, 2007 at 4:10 am
Sure you can, Madison. The “old” etiquette says you can’t wear white to a wedding, but you’re free to wear white to the rehearsal dinner, the bridal shower or any last-minute tennis matches with the bride.
It’s fair to say even the rule about wearing white (or black) to a wedding has outworn its welcome. You might get some disapproving looks from the older set, but merely showing up at a wedding in something white is not likely to divert all eyes from the bride, and in certain situations (a summery outdoor affair, for example) it just makes sense.
But *don’t* show up in something white and satin, or lacey — that’s clearly pushing it. You can leave the Swarovski crystal beading out altogether. And if you’re going to wear white, consider adding a splash of color (or contrast) with a scarf, belt or shoes, or choosing a fabric with a subtle pattern.
February 13th, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Can you wear white to a bridal shower?
November 17th, 2006 at 2:35 pm
What is the appropiate amount for money for an aunt to give for a bridal shower?