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

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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 is the bride supposed to wear to the bridal shower? ›

While white seems to be the shade most brides choose for a bridal shower, both Brickman and Cartledge agree that there is no rule on what color you should wear. "A lot of my brides don't opt for white at all, instead choosing a color that makes them feel confident or matches their wedding," Cartledge says.

What is a normal number for a bridal shower? ›

Inviting between 30 and 40 people to the bridal shower is the sweet spot, with the understanding that some people probably won't be able to attend. Your actual guest count will depend on where you're hosting the party. If you're renting a bridal shower venue, double-check the guest capacity first.

What do you wear to a bridal shower without a dress code? ›

If the event is more casual, Singla said guests "could pair a blouse and trousers, a flowy dress, or a jumpsuit." Whatever you decide to wear, aim for something photo-friendly. According to Young, this is especially key if you're family or close friends with the future bride and groom.

What not to wear to 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.

What color should a bride wear to her bridal shower? ›

"Typically, the first formal pre-wedding event is your bridal shower, and this is a great party to own the tradition of the bride in white," Fritz says.

How much money do you put in a card for a bridal shower? ›

According to Opperman, bridal shower gifts tend to be less expensive than wedding gifts. "Many people spend around $50 to $75, whereas closer friends and family may spend upwards of $100," she says. "However, the amount you want to spend is up to you."

Who should not host a 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.

Who pays for the bridal shower? ›

Who Is Responsible For Paying For The Shower? Those who are hosting the shower are responsible for paying for the shower costs. This might include venue costs, the hosts' gifts, decorations, food, beverages, and other event expenses.

What food to serve at a bridal shower? ›

Fabulous Bridal Shower Finger Foods
  • Crescent Vegetable Appetizers. Quick & Easy Crab Dip. Veggie Dippers. Open-Faced Turkey Sandwiches.
  • Veggie Crescent Cups. Flower Fruit Kabobs with Luscious Fruit Dip. Watermelon & Blackberry Bites. ...
  • Mini Rainbow Fruit Kabobs. Fruit Jersey Cake. Balsamic Fruit & Cheese Kabobs.
May 19, 2023

What time should guests arrive at a bridal shower? ›

Arrival Time

As a guest, it's important to arrive on time for the bridal shower. The hostess has likely put a lot of time and effort into planning the event, and it's rude to arrive late. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start time to allow yourself enough time to find parking and make your way to the location.

How many hours is a bridal shower? ›

Bridal showers typically last 2-4 hours and are not considered an all-day event. Although, depending on the type of shower you are hosting the time can vary. Most showers will either take place in the morning and serve as a brunch, or in the afternoon served with lunch or finger foods.

Are there colors you shouldn't wear to a bridal shower? ›

By choosing to wear color, you avoid breaking the main rule of all bridal celebrations: don't wear white. That's the bride's color range, so that includes beiges, creams, and anything in that color family. And unless explicitly stated, you shouldn't try and match the bridal party to the exact shade either.

Do people dress up for bridal showers? ›

Casual or not, a bridal shower marks a momentous occasion in a loved one's life—so you want to dress accordingly. "It's important to dress up, as the bridal shower really is a special way to honor the bride," Sabatino adds, noting that dresses and skirts are always appropriate, whatever the dress code.

Is black ok to wear to a bridal shower? ›

Black is often a darker color or associated with mourning and while it is definitely one of my go-to colors, I think it is best saved for other events, like the bachelorette party or even a rehearsal dinner.

Does it matter what you wear to a bridal shower? ›

It's up to you to choose the vibe of the party—and since it's your day, you can wear whatever you want. With that said, having endless options to choose from can be overwhelming, especially when you have multiple events and need an outfit for each. Many brides go for an all-white look, but you definitely don't have to.

Is the bridal shower supposed to be a surprise for the bride? ›

The bridal shower can be a surprise. But, of course, the bride needs to provide the guest list. Some brides may not appreciate a surprise or want to have input in their shower and be part of the planning. Additionally, some people hate surprises.

Who is supposed to put on the bridal shower? ›

The Traditional Bridal Shower Host

On the day of, the girls run the party, making sure everything goes smoothly and that guests are taken care of. The maid of honor isn't the only option, however. Anyone who is close to the bride—including her mother, sister, cousin, grandma, or future mother-in-law—can host.

Who pays for the brides bridal shower? ›

Nowadays, the person (or people) hosting the bridal shower are responsible for covering the costs associated with the shower.

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