A bridal shower is a time to shower the bride-to-be with congratulations, well wishes for the future, and gifts from family and friends. Drinks, food, and oftentimes, games, are among the festivities. Showers can be sentimental, as the bride’s friends and family members, and in particular, the bride’s Maid or Matron of Honor, often share funny and touching stories about the guest of honor.
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When it comes to etiquette regarding such celebrations, certain attire is appropriate for guests. Many bridal shower invitations include the dress code, but if this detail is missing from your invite, it’s always better to dress up rather than dress down.
Wedding guest dresses, dress pants and blouses, and even jumpsuits, are all options when it comes to what to wear to these fun get-togethers. Many styles are appropriate, depending on the season, but it’s best to stay away from the color white and skin-baring clothing. If you need a little help in picking out that perfect outfit, follow our suggestions for seasonal bridal shower attire.
Spring Bridal Showers
· Spring Colors and Styles: When spring is in the air, opt for airy dresses, skirts, or coordinated separates. Cheery pastels, florals, and other playful prints like dotted Swiss are well-suited for spring showers.
· Outfit Suggestions: Crisp cotton dresses in shades of sky blue, powder pink, or sunny yellow are perfect for spring showers. If your dress has a V- or scoop-neck, add either a delicate or statement necklace. If it has a crew neckline, a pendant necklace or choker will complement this style. Why not add a sparkly hair clip a or floral crown to celebrate this fair-weather occasion? Accent with an ivory or cream shawl to complete your spring look.
Linen pants paired with a silky blouse, and sling-back heels or flats is another option. But note that if the festivities will take place outdoors, you’ll want to go with flats; heels do not hold up well on grass or other uneven surfaces.
Jumpsuits are trending and come in a vast array of silhouettes. Your body type will determine if a wide-leg, crop-leg, or button-down style will flatter your figure. These are just a few of the options; rifle through the racks at your favorite boutique, and you’ll find many more. Spring is the perfect time to wear this “one and done” outfit.
Summer Bridal Showers
· Summer Colors and Styles: Summer is a popular season for bridal showers and weddings. When attending a summer shower, be sure to wear lighter, breathable fabrics to stave off the heat. Sundresses, light and airy separates, and flowy skirts are well suited for summertime. Bright colors will pop and fun prints will make a playful statement at summer showers.
· Outfit Suggestions: Sleeveless or cap-sleeve sundresses in pastel shades or bright colors likecobalt blue or fuchsia, will match the season. Dresses in floral and similar prints are also good choices. Accessorize with a straw hat adorned with a silky bow, and kitten-heels or strappy sandals. A faux pearl necklace and earrings will dress up your look.
Another option for summer shower attire is a pair of linen pants that are either ankle- or crop-length. If the event isn’t too formal, pair with a sleeveless blouse in a bright floral or tropical print to match the summer vibe.
If you’ll be celebrating outdoors, add fun summer-inspired accessories like statement sunglasses, a cute canvas beach tote, or straw bag.
Fall Bridal Showers
· Fall Colors and Styles: Fall is the season of colorful falling leaves, trips to the pumpkin patch, and warm apple cider. Expect to feel a chill in the air and to dress in attire that’s appropriate for cooler weather. Express yourself in dresses, skirts, and coordinating separates in earthy tones that are autumn-inspired.
· Outfit Suggestions: A midi sweater dress in an earthy shade like taupe or burgundy is perfect for a fall bridal shower. Add a thin belt to accentuate your waist, sheer tights, and flats or wedges to top off your look. If your dress is in a solid shade, wear statement jewelry or a patterned scarf to add some pizazz.
A pair of tailored pants and a poplin or linen blend blouse is another good choice for fall bridal showers. A look we love is a pair of khaki linen pants paired with a mock-neck top in a rich hue like sapphire blue or deep purple. Or, pair the bottoms with a patterned blouse, such as paisley, in fall hues.
Separates like dress pants and blouses lend themselves to layered looks, which will keep you warm and looking stylish during autumn months. Throw a cozy cardigan or pashmina over your top, and you’ll be fall-ready. Complete your outfit with a pair of ankle boots and satin scarf in a coordinating shade. You can also add some flair with fall-themed jewelry—why not add a bit of whimsy with a broach in the shape of an autumn leaf or pumpkin?
Winter Bridal Showers
· Winter Colors and Styles: If the girly fun will take place during the winter, you’ll likely want to stay toasty and wear a long-sleeve midi or maxi dress, or a coordinating pair of trousers with long-sleeve blouse or sweater. Deep jewel tones such as emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue are appropriate winter colors. Tops and dresses in metallic fabrics also make a chic statement.
· Outfit Suggestions: One go-to look for winter is a midi or maxi dress made of sweater-knit or velour fabric, topped off with a cozy wrap. Add a pair of ankle-length or knee-high leather or suede boots. Brown or beige boots are particularly versatile, but some styles pair well with black footwear.
If you prefer to wear separates, opt for wool dress pants and a cardigan or crewneck sweater. A nice combination is a mock-neck or cowl neck sweater in a jewel tone, paired with wool charcoal gray slacks. Patent leather loafers will dress up this ensemble. And be sure to add some sparkle and shine with classic gold or silver jewelry.
If you really want to stand out from the crowd, a silver metallic dress or metallic top and wide-leg black slacks will make a fashion statement. Keep in mind that metallics should be reserved for more dressy bridal showers.
Finally
We know—there are oh-so-many styles to choose from. Our seasonal guide will help you sort through the seemingly endless options and find a look that makes you look and feel like a true fashionista. Wear your outfit of choice with confidence, and have fun with the girls!
