It is just the start of wedding season! And I’ve gotten a lot of requests on what to wear to a bridal shower as a guest. I did this post last year, which has some other really cute options (see it here). And this year I wanted to mix it up a little. I usually like to get a new dress for these functions, but lately I’ve had so many that I just can’t do it anymore. I have way too many dresses in my closet that I’ve worn once and never again. So, today I wanted to style the same dress twice for you! The key to re-wearing a dress is to change up your accessories so it still feels new. And I kept in mind that one bridal shower may be more dressy (like at a country club) and another might more casual (at someone’s home). I also love this idea because you get two totally different looks, but it’s the SAME dress!
Dressy Bridal Shower
Dress: Nordstrom | Jacket: J.Crew | Shoes: Christian Louboutin, less expensive version here | Bag: Louis Vuitton, similar here | Earrings: J.Crew | Lips: Urban Decay in Heartless with Gubby Lip Liner
…
First off, I love the color of this dress. That is what initially drew me to purchase this dress. Pale yellow is such a spring color and it is the perfect color to wear to an event like a bridal shower. For a dressier event I took this a little more classic, but added a fun twist with these oversized earrings. A nude heel and navy blazer add the finishing touches. Of course the blazer can always be removed if you are warm or live in a warmer climate. But I like adding in this option because a lot of bridal showers I’ve attended are when it is still chilly outside. And a classic navy blazer looks a little more refined and pulled together than, say, a typical cardigan.
Casual Bridal Shower
Dress: Nordstrom | Shoes: Soludos, also here | Bag: Senreve, also here | Earrings: Nordstrom | Lips: Urban Decay in Heartless with Gubby Lip Liner
…
For a casual bridal shower, I would keep it more simple and understated with my shoes and accessories. The key is always in the shoe! Wear a more casual looking shoe and you will instantly make the dress appear more casual. I love these wedges with it! And they still make the look put together, yet they are super comfy and easy to walk in. Personally, I would wear this option bare shouldered, but if you tend to be cold all the time, you could add a cardigan like this one.
General Tips
Although, you are attending a bridal shower as a guest and you won’t be the center of attention, here are some tips to follow in general:
- Do not wear white. I’m going to say it again- do not wear white. This is saved for the bride today. It is her day, so let her have the spotlight! I personally even think floral patterns that have a white background are a no no, but that is your decision to make!
- Dress modestly. Leave the low cut tops or too short of dresses at home. Remember there will be older women here, who probably don’t understand all of the trends. If your grandma wouldn’t approve, then chances are the bride’s grandma feels the same way.
- Leave the jeans at home. Unless otherwise stated, I would not wear denim to a bridal shower event. It’s fun to dress up a little and wear something you don’t normally wear. So have fun with it!
- Be punctual. I know this doesn’t have to do with what to wear, but be respectful of the event and show up on time. And if you have something going on that you need to leave for, politely say your goodbyes and leave without making a scene. These events can sometimes take a long time if the bride is having a big wedding.
- And be on your best behavior. Remember all the proper rules you should follow when eating and be polite. But most of all- have fun!!
There are so many cute options out there right now, so on top of this adorable yellow dress I’m wearing, I’m also rounding up a few more options for you! I hope you can take some inspiration I’ve shared and re-wear your dress to different events you may have. Remember, it’s about quality, not quantity and that applies to fancy dresses as well!
Shop the Post
xoxox Amanda
You may also like Gift Ideas for the Newly Engaged Couple or What to Wear to a Bridal Shower