02. Bridal Shower

8th May 2019

How to dress for a bridal shower as the guest

Attending a bridal shower as the guest comes with some unspoken rules. Whilst these small restrictions can be easy to work around, I understand that it can also bring a lot of uncertainty and concern for dressing inappropriately. Especially if the invitation is ambiguous and offers no insight on the dress code. What may initially seem like a special moment to congratulate your friend or family member has suddenly turned into a stressful styling nightmare. Therefore, I just had to include this typical spring/summer event into my 30 dresses series.

As you may have come to realise, a lace midi dress is a big wardrobe staple for me. Especially in the Spring/Summer where the english weather can be warm but also unforgiving at times. Not only does the longer length keep my legs a little warmer but the classic cut results in the perfect style saviour. Particularly when you are feeling a little hesitant on how to dress for a special occasion. Read on to discover my style secrets on dressing appropriately for a bridal shower and why the midi lace dress may be the one for you.

The vibe – Classy, elegant, soft.

Bridal showers are respectful, ladylike events. Therefore, it is important that how you dress reflects classic elegance. Think dressy but low maintenance.

Avoid White

This is the most important rule for any wedding event you attend to. Wearing white shows up the bride. This really shouldn’t be a problem as you have the whole spectrum of the rainbow to choose from. Therefore, I highly recommend to leave anything white, ivory, champagne, or a very pale blush for the bride only.

The dress I am wearing is a light pink which is why I styled it with my Ted Baker lace trim cropped jacket. The textured pink not only compliments the dress and adds depth to the outfit but also darkens up the dress to make it more suitable. On the contrary, anything lighter than my choice here, could be deemed as unsuitable. Tread with caution.

Be respectful

Just like the wedding, the bridal shower is all about the bride. Therefore, it is vital that you dress respectfully. To achieve this, I would recommend that you opt for a simple cut with minimal detailing. Sequins, embellishments and anything ostentatious probably won’t be appreciated.

Not only will the bride be there, but it is likely her mother, grandmother or older guardian will be there too. I highly doubt she will appreciate a low cut neckline with a questionable hemline to match. There is a time and place to celebrate your body but a bridal shower isn’t one of them. Skip the skimpy and keep it conservative.

This is why the lace midi dress is so perfect for a bridal shower; it ticks off every box with grace and ease. The lace is soft and feminine and adds just enough detail to keep the dress from looking like a ‘yawn fest’. Similarly the midi length is elegant and classic. As long as you ensure the hemline hits just below your knee or at the widest part of your calf, the midi is universally flattering. If you are a petite like myself, just add a pair of nude heels for the illusion that you are taller.

My favourite rule for a bridal event: modest is more.

Dress for your environment

Whilst it is all good and dandy for me to be making suggestions, it really all depends on the chosen venue. The last thing you want is to turn up in a pair of heels at a garden party. Trust me, it’s no fun sinking in to the floor like it’s made of quick sand whilst trying to congratulate the bride to be. Regardless of the occasion, time of year and the event you are attending, feeling comfortable and confident in your style choices is of the upmost importance. Hence why I recommend to really consider your environment as this can give you a good insight on the unspoken dress code.

Consider not wearing an LBD

This is perhaps the one rare occasion that a little black dress may not be appropriate. Whilst the iconic LBD is arguable the most versatile dress in your wardrobe, black is right there after white for the colours you want to avoid at a bridal shower. This is because when it comes to celebratory life changing events, black can put a quick damper on things. After all this is the colour of mourning. An LBD is simply too dull for a daytime bridal shower. Therefore, unless it’s a rare occasion where the event is taking place at midnight, I would opt for something more cheerful. A floral print or pastel dress would be sensational.

Finding the perfect dress for attending a bridal shower doesn’t have to be stressful. Don’t be afraid to ask the bride if there is a dress code before hand. If her answer is nonchalant then simply following my style guide will help you reel in the right look. Once you’ve got something that feels right and ticks all the necessary style rules, I recommend ensuring that you can dress your look up or down depending on the venue. Having a few outfit formulas will make the next bridal shower a walk in the blossom filled park!