What Should You Wear to an Engagement Party?

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So, you get an engagement party invitation, and you’re so happy for the couple, but there’s just one thing—you have no idea what to wear! Have no fear because we’re here to help you look your best while following engagement party etiquette. From understanding the dress code to the big no-nos of engagement party attire, we’ve got your back. Read on to learn what you can and can’t wear to an engagement party.

Things You Should Know

  • Avoid whites and bold colors when attending an engagement party—you don’t want to take attention away from the bride!
  • Follow the dress code if there is one so you're not over or under dressed.
  • Ladies can never go wrong with a dress that matches their eyes, and guys always look dashing in a blazer or sports coat.
Section 1 of 4:

Dos & Don’ts

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    When deciding what to wear for an engagement party, lean towards any color except white. Most brides will wear white to their party to signify their new bridal status, so let them have their moment. [1] Instead, opt for floral patterns or a color that matches your eyes.
    • Wearing a white dress shirt is fine, but make sure it’s off-set with a colored tie or jacket.
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    You’ll most likely get a dress code to follow with your invitation. Many brides-to-be will explain exactly what they expect you to wear at their party with one simple word: casual, semi-formal, cocktail, or formal. Here's what each dress code actually means: [2]
    • Casual: Think dressing up your everyday look. Ladies can wear a simple blouse and tailored pants or skirt , a floral midi dress , or trendy jumpsuit . Guys can wear a button-down shirt or a polo. Khaki pants are preferred. You can also wear nice boots or clean and trendy trainers.
    • Semi-formal: A blend of business and casual. Ladies can wear an a-line dress or a dress pant and blazer . Guys can wear dress pants , a button-down shirt, and a loose-fitting tie .
    • Cocktail: The most common engagement party dress code. Ladies can wear an elegant cocktail dress with a modest hemline and heels . Guys can wear a suit , white button-down shirt, and a matching tie.
    • Formal (also known as black-tie): Think of the fanciest party ever. Ladies can wear elegant jewels and dark colored, floor-length dresses . Guys can wear tuxedos — when specified, otherwise, a suit is more than adequate — with a black bow tie and shined dress shoes .
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    Layer up in the winter and fall, and layer down in the spring and summer. If you get an invite for a party during the colder months, wear a jacket or sweater over a button-down top or dress. If you’re attending a spring or summer party, stick with short sleeves and flowy material to help you stay cool.
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    Before you walk out the door, make sure you check the forecast, so you can style your look to be comfortable all afternoon or night. For instance, leather jackets can add a casual yet formal edge to any look in cooler weather, hats are practical and stylish in the fall and spring, and sunglasses are great for when the sun’s shining.
    • If you’re on the fence about a weather-related accessory, keep it in your car, just in case you want to put it on later.
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    When you get your invitation, look closely at where the party will be. For instance, if the party’s at a golf club, it’ll most likely be casual attire. But if it’s in the ballroom of a hotel, you’ll probably want to dress more formally. [3]
    • Don’t be afraid to do a quick online search on the venue. Look at the pictures and notice how people are dressed or if the venue already has an established dress code.
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    Even if the dress code is casual, jeans most likely won’t be expected. Instead, opt for a casual skirt, dress pants, or khaki that pairs well with your top. You’ll look great and still be comfortable!
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    When in doubt, put on a black dress or nice suit. Black flatters everyone, so it’s a great choice for an engagement party. Ladies can always get away with a simple black dress , and guys look dashing in black sports coats . [4]
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    Engagement parties are a time to celebrate the couple’s upcoming marriage, not a place to show off. Stick with muted and neutral tones when picking out your attire, so you don’t stand out too much. Choose colors that match your skin tone , like: [5]
    • For warm skin tones, wear honeys, olives, corals, and creams.
    • For cool skin tones, wear blues, lavenders, roses, and grays.
    • For neutral skin tones, wear blues, jades, reds, and whites.
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    Do bring a backup tie or flats . When you get to the party, glance around the venue and at what everyone else is wearing. Follow everyone’s lead and quickly tweak your outfit before you make an appearance.
    • Guys, it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Drive to the party with a fancier outer layer and a more casual base layer, so you’re prepared for any scenario.
    • Ladies, consider bringing a pair of foldable flats you can tuck them into your purse or clutch and change into them whenever.
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Section 2 of 4:

Outfit Ideas for Guests

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    Ladies, the fashion world is abundant, so have a little fun with your engagement party look! Choose a look you feel confident in and fits the dress code and conditions of the party. Take a look at some of these outfit ideas and see what you like:
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    Guys, you can style a pair of khaki or dress pants up or down for any dress code or occasion. Keep your outfit simple and dashing, but make sure you can move and groove in it! Here are some outfit ideas to get you started:
    • A pair of tan-colored khakis with a white shirt and dark-colored sport coat for a casual party.
    • A matching suit set and a button-down shirt for a formal or cocktail party.
    • A button-down shirt with a patterned tie and a belt for a semi-formal or casual party.
    • A pair of slacks with a sweater layered over a collared shirt for a casual party outside.
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Section 3 of 4:

What to Wear as the Bride

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    Stick to the dress code you’ve made, but don’t be afraid to be a little over-the-top—it’s your party, after all! Check out these stunning outfit ideas for any scenario:
Section 4 of 4:

What to Wear as the Groom

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    You can never go wrong with a suit and tie, especially when you’re the groom! This super simple yet handsome outfit is the perfect staple for any party. Dress the suit up by leaving it as is, or dress it down with khaki pants.
    • Ditch the tie and unbutton your collar if the party’s more casual.
    • Try a bow tie that matches a pocket square for a formal or cocktail party.
    • Coordinate your outfit with your partner’s so you match.
    • Wear a solid-colored dress shoe no matter the dress code.
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      Tips

      • When in doubt, reach out to the bride. You can never go wrong with asking questions, especially when it comes to dressing the part!
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      • Wear whatever makes you feel confident—your smile is the best accessory.
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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about the engagement party clothes, check out our in-depth interview with Elle Monus .

      References

      1. ↑ https://youtu.be/Hi7kTILFOKk?t=524
      2. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/clothing/dress-code
      3. ↑ https://stylecaster.com/feature/black-tie-formal-wear-225061/
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/Zb81Fc_SetU?t=77
      5. ↑ https://www.thelist.com/20621/best-clothing-colors-skin-tone/
      6. ↑ https://youtu.be/6QPgagfhHcs?t=300
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/edwGKbvPZnA?t=216
      8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77JtEfUa08w

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