If You Don’t Know What to Wear to Your Next Bridal Shower, Here Ya Go (2024)

FAQs

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.

“Nothing too risqué, nothing to overshadow the bride in any way, and nothing too formal,” says Abbasi. “Go with fun, comfortable, and whatever makes you feel your best self.” Simply put, no white ensembles, no outfits with extravagant silhouettes, like ball gowns, and no skin-barring getups.

Don't wear white. This wedding guest rule of etiquette applies to bridal showers as well. Since the bride-to-be often wears white to her shower, you don't want to seem like you're competing for her spotlight. Don't wear black.

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.

You do not have to wear white to your bridal shower; in fact, you can wear whatever you want. Opt for a fun print or a soft pastel, like blush or a floral. If pants are more your thing, go for a romper or tuxedo jumpsuit. "Don't be afraid to break the rulebook when it comes to your wedding wardrobe," recommends Seroya.

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.

In short, yes. If you're attending a bridal shower, you should always bring a gift with you to congratulate the bride. This is considered good bridal shower etiquette. Even if you're a part of the bridal party or wedding party, a gift is still necessary.

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.

Plan Activities

Offering something interactive and hands-on, or even hiring an outside pro like a sommelier or mixologist, is a great way to help guests who don't know each other feel more comfortable and welcome.

It's traditional for the bride, or the couple, to wear white at the bridal shower. This also includes pastel shades, like blush or soft blue, that can be photographed as looking white. All other colors—like bold, bright colors and prints—are fair game.

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.

Traditionally, the only off-limits color for wedding guests has been white, for obvious reasons—no one wants to take attention away from the bride. But times are a-changin'. Now, many people simply don't see wearing white as a big deal. Some brides and grooms are totally cool with it.

The Average Cost of a Bridal Shower Gift

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.

While jeans are seen as too casual for a typical bridal shower, if the dress code is casual, you can totally wear jeans. We recommend elevating with a dressy top and heels.

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.

If you aren't invited to the wedding, you don't have to go to the bridal shower. Take the high road and RSVP with a simple “will not attend” using a traditional paper rsvp or an online rsvp solution. (Of course, there is a major exception to this rule, which is the office bridal shower.