We’re in the thick of engagement season. You’ve got the invite, celebrated on FaceTime with your friends, but now you’re faced with the ultimate question: what do I wear?
Whether it’s your childhood best friend’s rooftop party or a chilled garden lunch for your cousin and their fiancé, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to engagement party outfits.
The good news? You don’t have to stress. We’ve brought together our top outfit ideas for every dress code – plus some extra ideas if you’re the bride.
Let’s get you RSVP-ready!
Decoding dress codes
Engagement party invites can sometimes be a little vague when it comes to what to wear, so here’s how to decode the vibe and plan your look accordingly:
- Smart casual: Think polished, but without trying too hard. For this, we love a blazer over a cute mini dress or a matching set with sandals.
- Garden party: This is an engagement party classic – think floaty florals, soft tailoring, or linen co-ords. The vibe here is definitely breezy, pretty, and sun-friendly.
- Cocktail: For an evening get-together, go for sleek silhouettes and elevated extras. You can’t go wrong with midi dresses, satin, and strappy heels.
- Black tie: This isn’t typical, but it’s better to be prepared just in case! If you’re going formal, think floor-length dresses or luxe fabrics.
- Casual: A dream for some and a waking nightmare for others, if the dress code is casual, just make sure you aren’t too casual. As a general rule, jeans are fine if the top half is doing something, so add a statement blouse, blazer, or some stylish accessories.
Reliked style tip: Check the invite, research the venue, and remember: it’s better to be slightly overdressed than under.
Casual (but chic) engagement party outfits
For those low-key garden get-togethers, pub parties, or brunch-with-bubbles kind of celebrations, comfort is key. But that doesn’t mean you need to forget about style.
Try:
- A long, flowy day dress paired with a light denim jacket and trainers or sandals.
- Matching linen sets or soft ribbed co-ords in muted tones, with strappy sandals.
- Tailored wide-leg trousers, a silky cami, and trainers.
- Statement earrings or a claw clip to tie it all together
These looks say effortless, not underdressed. When it comes to accessorising, add a woven bag or some oversized sunglasses for bonus points.
Cocktail and evening party looks
Got an invite to a rooftop bar, evening restaurant soirée, or city spot with a view? The casual look doesn’t really work here – a bit more structure is needed.
Opt for:
- A slinky slip dress, paired with some bold strappy heels and a mini shoulder bag.
- A tailored jumpsuit, sleek hair, and some statement chunky gold hoops.
- A satin midi skirt, with a cropped blazer and some delicate, minimalist jewellery.
- Tonal and monochrome looks in black, navy, rust, or olive green.
Keep it streamlined, chic, and easily re-wearable. These classy engagement party outfits will come in handy in your wardrobe for Christmas parties, graduations, and charity events.
Daytime engagement party outfit ideas
For daytime events – especially in spring or summer – think fresh fabrics and feel-good fits.
We love:
- A floral mini or midi dress, with block heels or mules.
- A boxy blouse tucked into tailored, belted shorts.
- Pastel plissé skirts, paired with sleeveless knits or crop tops.
- Two-piece sets in cotton, broderie, or linen blends.
These styles are perfect for garden venues, hotel terraces, or countryside spots. For these looks, keep your makeup glowy and accessories soft; think pearl hoops, raffia bags, and anything blush-toned.
What should the bride wear to her engagement party?
You’ve said “yes”, and now it’s time to shine. Whether you're planning a brunch or a full-blown party, here are some of our favourite engagement party looks for the bride-to-be:
- The classic white mini dress – if it’s not broken, don’t fix it! Make this look your own with lace, satin, or mini puff sleeve details.
- Dresses aren’t your style? Try a white co-ord with pearl or crystal accents.
- A tailored jumpsuit with statement colourful heels is a win every time.
- Don’t forget the feathers, fringing, or a pop of sparkle – because why not?
Engagement party outfits for brides don’t have to be boring or over-the-top, but they should be quintessentially you. This is your special time, so revel in it.
Top tip: Choose something that photographs well and feels very you. You’ll be looking back at these pics for years.
Smart shopping: preloved looks to wear again
Let’s be real, buying a new outfit for every pre-wedding event adds up – and fast. That’s where purchasing preloved comes in.
At Reliked, you can shop engagement party outfits from your favourite influencers and brands without the designer price tag. Think premium looks that have been gently worn – and sometimes never worn. When lovingly styled, they’re better than brand new – and better for your wallet and the planet.
Some faves to look for:
Mix, match, and restyle later, because good fashion shouldn’t be a one-hit wonder. Remember, you’ll be mingling, posing, and possibly dancing, so choose something that feels as good as it looks.
Are you feeling floaty florals, sleek neutrals, or full glam? Whatever your vibe and whatever the dress code, shop for preloved picks from influencers and brands you love, only at Reliked.
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