Bridesmaids' Style Guide For A Bridal Shower

A bridal shower is a party thrown in honour of a bride-to-be, usually held a few weeks or months before the wedding. It's an opportunity for the bride's nearest and dearest to gather and celebrate the bride ahead of her nuptials, often with food, drinks, games, gifts, and advice. While there is no strict dress code, guests may feel more comfortable showing up overdressed than underdressed. As such, it's a good idea to include some sort of dress code guide on the invitation.

Formal or casual attire

A bridal shower can be as formal or casual as the bride wants it to be. However, it is generally best to dress up rather than down. If you are a guest, it may be more comfortable to show up overdressed than underdressed. If you are a bridesmaid, you can ask the bride what the dress code is.

If the bridal shower is a formal affair, you might want to wear a dress, a skirt and blouse, or a nice pantsuit. You can also add some personality to your outfit with fun accessories. If the bridal shower is more casual, you can wear something more relaxed, like a nice blouse and jeans, or a sundress.

Remember, the most important thing is to respect the bride's wishes and the dress code she has chosen. It is also a good idea to consider the location of the bridal shower when choosing your outfit. For example, if the shower is being held at a restaurant or a winery, you will want to dress accordingly.

Ultimately, the choice of what to wear is up to the individual, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The most important thing is to celebrate the bride and have fun!

Dress to match the theme

If the bridal shower has a theme, it's a fun way to add some personality to the party. A bridal shower theme could be as simple as cohesive, rustic décor, or you could go all out with a spa day. Some popular themes include a bridal tea party, a Disney-themed shower, or a Parisian-influenced affair.

If the theme is a bridal tea party, the bridesmaids could wear elegant dresses or skirts with blouses in soft, pastel colours. For a Disney-themed shower, the bridesmaids could wear Disney-inspired outfits or accessories, such as a Minnie Mouse headband or a princess-style dress. If the theme is a Parisian-inspired affair, the bridesmaids could wear chic and sophisticated outfits, perhaps with a touch of French flair, such as a beret or a striped shirt.

For a rustic-themed bridal shower, the bridesmaids could wear flowy dresses or skirts in soft, earthy tones. Sun hats and straw bags could also be a cute addition to this theme. If the bridal shower is held outdoors, the bridesmaids could wear floral crowns or carry flower baskets to add to the rustic vibe.

If the theme of the bridal shower is a spa day, the bridesmaids could wear comfortable outfits such as yoga pants and tank tops, or soft robes and slippers. They could also wear face masks or hair wraps to complete the spa-themed look.

Wear something comfortable

While there is no strict dress code for a bridal shower, it is generally best to dress comfortably and appropriately for the occasion. Here are some tips to help you choose an outfit that is both comfortable and stylish for the bridal shower:

• Consider the venue and theme of the bridal shower when choosing your outfit. If it is a formal event at a fancy venue, you may want to dress up a little more. If it's a casual gathering at someone's home, you can keep your outfit more relaxed.
• Opt for comfortable fabrics and styles that will allow you to move and relax easily. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive, especially if there will be games or activities at the shower.
• Choose an outfit that reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident. As a bridesmaid, you want to look and feel your best while celebrating the bride-to-be.
• Keep in mind the time of year and the weather forecast for the day of the bridal shower. You want to ensure your outfit is seasonally appropriate and that you won't be too hot or too cold.
• If you're unsure about the dress code, don't be afraid to ask the host or other bridesmaids for their input. It's always better to be overdressed than underdressed, but you also want to ensure your comfort throughout the event.
• Comfortable footwear is key! Whether it's a pair of stylish flats or wedges, or even a cute pair of sneakers, choose shoes that you can easily walk and stand in for the duration of the bridal shower.
• Accessories can also add a touch of comfort to your outfit. A light scarf, a cute cardigan, or a statement necklace can all enhance your look while keeping you cozy.
• If you're worried about comfort, consider layering your outfit. A blazer, a wrap, or a shawl can be easily removed or added depending on the temperature and your level of comfort.
• Don't forget to consider your underwear! Comfortable and supportive undergarments can make all the difference in how your outfit feels, especially if you plan on dancing or moving around a lot.
• Lastly, don't stress too much about your outfit. The bridal shower is meant to be a fun and lighthearted celebration, so choose an outfit that makes you feel happy and confident, and you'll be sure to enjoy the day.

Dress according to the venue

The venue of the bridal shower will play a big part in determining what the bridesmaids should wear. If the shower is held in a friend's or family member's home, or in the bride's hometown, the dress code will likely be more casual. Think smart-casual dresses, skirts, or trousers with a nice blouse. If the shower is held at a restaurant, winery, or another specific venue that correlates with the theme, such as a spa or cooking school, the dress code may be more formal. In this case, the bridesmaids could wear cocktail dresses or more elegant pantsuits.

If the bridal shower has a theme, such as a Parisian-inspired affair or a Disney-themed celebration, the bridesmaids' attire should fit within that theme. For example, if the theme is a bridal tea party, the bridesmaids might wear more formal tea-length dresses and hats. If the theme is rustic, the bridesmaids could wear flowy dresses or skirts with floral patterns.

It's important to consider the time of day and the season when choosing what to wear. For example, if the shower is held during the day in the summer, light and airy fabrics and colours would be appropriate. If it's an evening shower in the winter, darker colours and more luxurious fabrics could be chosen.

Ultimately, the most important factor is to ensure that the bridesmaids feel comfortable and confident in what they are wearing. They should also consider the bride's preferences and work together to choose outfits that complement each other and the overall style of the bridal shower.

Remember, while there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what bridesmaids should wear to a bridal shower, dressing according to the venue, theme, and season will help ensure that the bridesmaids look and feel their best on this special occasion.

Wear something that complements the bride's outfit

If you're a bridesmaid, you'll want to look your best at the bridal shower, especially if you're expected to match the bride's outfit. Here are some ideas on what to wear to complement the bride's look:

• Colour Coordination: Choose a colour that complements the bride's outfit. If she's wearing white or a pastel shade, consider softer hues like blush, light blue, or lavender. If the bride is wearing a bolder colour, you can either match her colour palette or opt for a neutral shade like grey, navy, or beige.
• Style Sync: Try to match the level of formality and style of the bride's outfit. If she's wearing a flowy dress, opt for a flowy skirt or dress. If she's wearing something more structured, consider a tailored dress or a skirt and blouse combination.
• Pattern Play: If the bride is wearing a patterned outfit, you can either match her pattern or choose a complementary one. For example, if she's wearing floral, you could opt for a smaller floral print or a solid colour that is featured in her pattern.
• Accessorise Appropriately: Pay attention to the bride's accessories and choose your own to complement hers. If she's wearing statement earrings, consider a bold necklace or a stack of bracelets. If she's wearing a simple necklace, you can add a pair of statement earrings or a chic headband.
• Fabric Choice: Take into account the fabric of the bride's outfit and choose something similar. If she's wearing a lightweight, flowy fabric like chiffon or organza, opt for something airy and delicate. If her outfit is made of a heavier fabric like satin or crepe, choose something with a bit more structure and weight.
• Seasonal Sync: Consider the season and choose fabrics and colours that complement the bride's outfit while also being appropriate for the weather. For example, if the bridal shower is in the summer, opt for lighter colours and breathable fabrics. In the winter, richer colours and heavier fabrics can add a touch of elegance.

Remember, the key is to complement the bride's outfit without upstaging her. You want to look coordinated and stylish while still allowing her to shine as the centre of attention.

Frequently asked questions