31 Bridal Shower Outfit Ideas - Read This First (2024)

Guide Jul 07

Written by Sophie Diego

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Sophie Diego

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Bridezillas are notoriously known to micro-manage every aspect of the wedding, and that involves guest attire. While it may seem painstaking to control the finest of details, it’s typically worth it in the end.

After all, these ceremonies are designed to look photogenic and fantastical, so it’s important for groomsmen and bridesmaids to look presentable from start to finish.

If the bride is generous enough to provide a lenient dress code, then you’re probably in need of some bridal shower outfit ideas. In most cases, the celebrant will offer some general specifics in regards to color and silhouette, which gives you ample room to choose something different and unique.

Care for a few recommendations? If so, I’ll share some bridal shower outfit ideas for invitees to consider. My guide may or may not include:

  • Bridal shower guest outfit ideas
  • Winter bridal shower outfit ideas
  • Bridal shower outfit for bride ideas
  • White bridal shower outfit ideas

What Makes Up A Bridal Shower Outfit?

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A typical bridal shower outfit is conservative in cut and romantic in design. Most newlyweds opt for long, flowy dresses instead of pants and blouses.

It’s common for groups to coordinate on outfits, as members will usually stick to a universal color palette or print. I highly recommend checking in on the bride for any OOTD specifications.

History Of Bridal Showers

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Like most wedding traditions, bridal showers are considered an archaic rite of passage. The bridal shower originated in 16th century Holland, where it was known as an alternative to the dowry.

According to legend, the father of the bride disapproved of his daughter’s wedding and refused to gift her a large sum of money. The town was thankfully supportive and decided to give the newlywed gifts in place of cash.

Today, bridal showers have loosened their connections with old-school dowries. Instead, they’re considered a celebratory event for brides to better connect with their friends and family.

What Are Some Popular Bridal Shower Outfit Ideas?

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Below, I’ll be counting down five bridal shower outfit ideas that are all the rage this season. Consider it a great guide for guests and brides alike.

I’ll include OOTDs for every season and wedding theme. Plus, you’ll be glad to know that all of these ensembles can be worn again for future use.

31 Bridal Shower Outfit Ideas

#1:

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Perfect for spring and summer, this ‘bridal shower outfit ideas’ contender will definitely win the approval of the bride. The best thing about this dress is that it comes in a variety of hues, so you can easily color-coordinate with the bridesmaids.

#2:

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Gearing up for a sleepover? This casual bridal shower outfit is perfect for overnight celebrations. It features a silk button-up blouse with a fur accent on the sleeves.

Paired with matching shorts, it’s the ideal OOTD to don for Netflix binging and drinking copious amounts of champagne.

#3:

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Winter weddings call for additional layers. Case in point, this ‘bridal shower outfit ideas’ contender features a snug cable-knit sweater and a glamorous slip dress.

Considered the perfect OOTD for the bride, this ensemble pairs well with a casual night of white wine, charcuterie boards, and hot gossip.

#4:

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Dreamy in aesthetic, this ‘bridal shower outfit ideas’ option is best worn for garden parties and high tea. The pink tiered gown practically screams spring and summer, and it’s relatively simple enough to not outshine the bride.

#5:

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Not a fan of traditional bridal shower outfit ideas? If so, I recommend taking this daring ensemble out for a spin.

Featuring a wrap-style sweater, a matching skirt, and a pair of boots, this bold look is something worth considering if all of the bridesmaids happen to be fashionistas.

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Fashion Tips To Avoid With Bridal Shower Outfits

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Trust me, the last thing you want to do is upset the bride with your OOTD. To help prevent any drama, I’ll share some fashion tips to avoid with bridal shower outfit ideas.

  1. Casualwear: Jeans, hoodies, and crop tops are not allowed at formal events. Bridal showers are no exception.
  2. Outshining the bride: It’s considered poor taste to wear an extravagant outfit if the bride wears something simple.
  3. Boots and sneakers: Heels and dressy flats are usually required for bridal showers. I don’t recommend turning up in a pair of Nike Airforce Ones.

Best Places To Buy Bridal Shower Outfits

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Before this bridal shower outfit ideas guide ends, I’d like to leave my readers with a few store recommendations. Below, you’ll find shops that sell dresses for guests and some bride outfits for bridal showers.

  • BHLDN
  • Reformation
  • Nordstrom
  • Moda Operandi

Final Thoughts

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Finding the perfect bridal shower outfit shouldn’t be met with difficulty or anxiety.

For some, it’s a stressful shopping experience, given that you don’t want to upset the bride. Thankfully, there are hundreds of iconic fits to consider that are classy, simple, and tasteful.

After viewing the five OOTDs I featured, here’s to hoping that you’ve gathered enough bridal shower outfit ideas before the big event.

Looking for more outfit ideas? We’ve got you covered:

2 Vacation Outfit Ideas

5 Gender Reveal Outfit Ideas

5 Date Night Outfit Ideas

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31 Bridal Shower Outfit Ideas - Read This First (2024)

FAQs

What should an older woman wear to a bridal shower? ›

For more formal affairs, she advises guests to lean into fancy styles, like midi dresses and pantsuits, without going over the top. For guests who don't have a specified dress code to follow, opt for pieces that you would wear to a nice brunch or an elegant social gathering.

What is the dress code for a bridal shower? ›

Pastels, neutrals, florals, and bright celebratory colors are the way to go. And if there's going to be games opt to wear something comfortable. Avoid wearing white, black, or anything that may detract from the wedding festivities.

Is it okay to wear jeans to a bridal shower? ›

Jeans might be appropriate for a very casual bridal shower, especially if it's a relaxed gathering at someone's home. If you decide to wear jeans, choose a pair that's well-fitting and in good condition. Elevate your look by pairing them with a chic blouse or a smart blazer, and add some classy accessories.

What a bride should wear to her shower? ›

Select a color that makes you feel confident (even if it's not white). While white seems to be the shade most brides choose for a bridal shower, both Brickman and Cartledge agree that there's no rule on what color you should wear.

What not to wear to a bridal shower? ›

for the guest:

For guests, my recommendation is to avoid white. It's a nice, subtle way to let the bride shine, so just let her have her moment. Also, if it's a daytime shower, try to avoid black.

What should an older bride wear in her hair? ›

Hair pins or hair combs can be an option, embellishing a sleek up do. Side tiaras can work well, particularly in short hair. Birdcage veils definitely work well but steer clear of cutesy bows. Either a beaded or embellished centre of elegant sculpted feathers work well.

What color should a guest wear to a bridal shower? ›

Nude shades and white dresses with colorful prints are fine, but solid whites should be reserved for the star of the show: The Bride. Stay away from red. It may seem trite, but red is considered to be a “vulgar” hue associated with adultery. Not exactly appropriate for celebrating your friend's upcoming nuptials.

What is an appropriate amount for a bridal shower? ›

The standard amount to spend on a bridal shower gift is around $50-$75. If you're invited to a bridal shower but not particularly close with the bride, expect to spend at least $25. Regular friends, co-workers, or distant family members should consider spending up to $75 if they have the budget to spare.

Who normally pays for the bridal shower? ›

In short, the host is the one who pays for the bridal shower—or at least some of it. Most commonly, this is the maid of honor, but the couple's relatives, friends or even the to-be-weds themselves can all pitch in to cover the cost of the wedding shower.

Who should not be invited to bridal shower? ›

The short answer is, you should not invite anyone to your shower who will not be invited to the wedding. Your shower is an intimate gathering of some of the closest women (and men if you choose) in your life, and if anyone makes the cut for your shower, they should also be close enough to you to get a wedding invite.

Do you bring a gift to a bridal shower? ›

Technically, these are two separate events, and traditionally, it is proper etiquette for guests to show up to the bridal shower with a gift, and also purchase a gift for the wedding (this is typically done via a wedding registry, but it's also fine to bring a present in-person to the wedding).

Can you wear red to a bridal shower? ›

For example, many fashion experts say red isn't a good color for a bridal shower. It's a bold and powerful hue that boosts confidence. But it's also one that's often linked with adultery. Black is also a color that you should eschew for bridal showers.

What is customary to bring to a bridal shower? ›

Common bridal shower gifts include kitchenware, from small appliances or utensils to towels or dishes. Shower gifts tend to stick to the event's specific theme if it has one. A cooking class shower might require a gift of your favorite cookbook, while the hostesses of a lingerie shower will ask for, well, lingerie.

Does the mother of the bride do the bridal shower? ›

Traditional etiquette dictates that the maid of honor—not the mother of the bride—should host the shower. Nancy is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com. Some etiquette rules were meant to fade away into oblivion, like the one about family members of the bride not hosting her bridal shower.

What is expected at a bridal shower? ›

During a bridal shower, guests come together to celebrate the bride and have some fun. The event usually includes activities, games, and sometimes even a theme. Essentially, it's an opportunity for the bride's closest friends and family to show their support and celebrate as she embarks on her journey to marriage.

Am I too old for a bridal shower? ›

If your friends would like to host a wedding shower for you, relax, enjoy yourself and agree. It would not be a breach of etiquette, and your age should not be a factor in whether you have one.

What to bring to a bridal shower as a guest? ›

Common bridal shower gifts include kitchenware, from small appliances or utensils to towels or dishes. Shower gifts tend to stick to the event's specific theme if it has one. A cooking class shower might require a gift of your favorite cookbook, while the hostesses of a lingerie shower will ask for, well, lingerie.

What does the mother in law do for the bridal shower? ›

Typically, as per tradition, the mother of the groom will bring a gift for the bride to the bridal shower. It can be something small and thoughtful. However, if she cannot attend the shower the bride's side of the family hosts, maybe because of distance, she can host her own.

References

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