What to Wear to a Baby Shower With Dress For A Night

So, you’ve received an invite to a baby shower and now you’re wondering what to wear. It’s perhaps the most important thing to consider (after gift ideas for the parents-to-be, of course), especially if there isn’t a specific dress code.

Are you supposed to dress up for a baby shower, or should you keep things casual? Should you go for a dress or jeans and a blouse? Is white a no-go? There’s a lot to think about.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide on what to wear to a baby shower. In this article, we break down some general rules, then provide some outfit suggestions for different baby shower locations.

First things first: if the hosts have set a theme, make sure you stick by it. Yep, even if you’re grimacing at the invitation because the theme is just ‘not you’. Trust us, you’ll feel more comfortable being on-theme with the rest of the group than being that one guest who did their own thing.

Of course, your comfort at the event also matters, so try to find a way to incorporate the theme into your own style. For example, if you’re not a fan of the required floral theme, you don’t have to force yourself into a dress adorned with statement oversized blooms. Instead, opt for a blouse with subtle floral detailing — think embroidered cut outs or ditsy floral print — paired with white linen pants.

If there’s no set theme or dress code, you have a bit more wriggle room when it comes to your outfit. However, there are still a few general rules to keep in mind. As always, if in doubt, ask the host.

We all know wearing white to a wedding is a no-go, but does the same rule apply to baby showers? Unless otherwise specified by the host, you can absolutely wear white to a baby shower.

In fact, light and bright colours are generally preferred. Neutrals, vibrant hues, and pastel shades are perfect for baby showers.

Dark colours, on the other hand, are best avoided.

For guests, we recommend avoiding black and other dark colours unless the invitation calls for it. Your safest bet is to go with softer colours, which signify joy and celebration.

While we believe bright or light colours are best suited to baby showers, if you’re the parent-to-be and you feel your best in black, then go right ahead with a chic black look. After all, it’s your day! Stretchy midi dresses with subtle colourful detailing will work well.

You could also add a splash of colour by pairing your look with heels and a bag in a matching colourful hue. We’re loving hot pink, bright orange, apple green, and cobalt blue for statement accessories.

This one comes down to the dress code and location.

If the dress code is casual, semi casual, or, in some cases, business casual, you’re in the clear for jeans. For smart casual, cocktail, and lounge suit dress codes, jeans are not appropriate.

For invitations that don’t specify a dress code, be guided by the location. Jeans are likely in the clear for relaxed at-home celebrations. However, we still recommend avoiding faded blue jeans or jeans with any distressed detailing. Where you can, opt for white or neutral-toned jeans in wide-leg or skinny silhouettes.

Steer clear of jeans for baby showers at restaurants and special venues. These locations will require something a little more elevated.

Now that we’ve got those general guidelines out of the way, let’s take a look at some specific outfit options depending on the location of the baby shower.

High tea is a popular baby shower theme. Whether you’re heading out to a dedicated high tea venue or the host is creating their own setup at home, this kind of baby shower calls for a elegant look.

Our top pick is a chic mini dress in a vibrant print or bright colour. Classically feminine details work well at high teas, so look to ruffled hems, high necklines, and balloon sleeves. Not a fan of mini dresses? A midi dress is also a great option, just opt for a loose silhouette rather than anything form-fitting.

Heading to a baby shower at a restaurant? We recommend slipping into something sophisticated. Go for luxurious fabrications such as silk in cooler months and linen during summer and spring.

For formal restaurants, midi dresses with ruching and asymmetrical hems deliver an elevated feel. Alternatively, you could opt for a two-piece suit for a modern take on event styling.

If the restaurant is a little more laidback, a mini dress will work well. We love styles with ruffled hems or frilled detailing for a fun, celebratory look. Throw a blazer over your shoulders and add a mini bag to complete the outfit.

For baby shower picnics, garden parties, and barbeques, consider a slightly more laidback version of the high tea look.

Effortless silhouettes are perfect for these outdoor locations. Look to floaty midi and maxi dresses in playful prints and colours. For a contemporary flair, jumpsuits work well. They deliver a structured yet easy-wearing look, and you’ll be comfy all day long.

As for accessories, you might like to swap out heels for nude sandals or loafers (especially if you’re standing on grass). If it’s particularly sunny, add a boater hat and sunglasses for an elevated finish.

At-home baby showers tend to be a little more relaxed, so you’ll likely have a bit more freedom with your outfit.

When it comes to dresses, shirred detailing and wrap silhouettes are a bit more casual, so look to styles with these features. Pair your look back with flats and a simple crossbody bag, or dress it up with mules and a clutch.

A top and skirt combo also works well for at-home parties. Go for a two-piece set in a lively print or soft pastel hue. Tiered hems and crop tops are ideal for a more casual feel.

Baby showers call for special outfits, but we know designer items can carry a hefty price tag. You can hire all of the beautiful pieces mentioned above by visiting our website.

By hiring your outfit, you’ll save money and wardrobe space, and you’ll never have to worry about rewearing. Event dressing, made easy!