What to Wear to a Bridal Shower: Bride & Guest Outfit Ideas

A bridal shower is a chance to celebrate the bride-to-be before the big day, and the outfit question comes up for everyone: the bride wants something special without upstaging the wedding dress, and guests want to look polished without stealing the spotlight. This guide covers what to wear to a bridal shower, whether it is your celebration or you are a guest.

What should the bride wear to a bridal shower?

White and ivory are the classic choice for the bride-to-be. They mark her out as the guest of honour and give a nod to the wedding without being bridal. Think of it as a lighter, more playful version of your wedding look.

Lace minis feel romantic and fun. The Florence Long-Sleeve Lace Mini Dress and the Océane Guipure Lace Mini Dress are elegant choices for an afternoon tea or brunch.
Corset and fitted styles work well for evening showers and dinners. Try the Lace Long-Sleeve Corset Mini Dress.
Maxi dresses suit garden parties and more formal showers. The Lace-Trim Long-Sleeve V-Neck Maxi Dress and the Jane Off-Shoulder Ruched Maxi Dress are floor-length but easy to wear.
Co-ord sets are a modern alternative to a dress, such as the Allison Lace Corset Top and Skirt Set.
A touch of sparkle suits an evening party. The Kayleigh Feather and Sequin Midi Dress has feather and sequin detail without feeling like a wedding gown.

Browse all of our bridal shower dresses and white dresses for more options.

What should guests wear to a bridal shower?

The golden rule for guests: avoid white, ivory and cream, which are reserved for the bride. Beyond that, most bridal showers call for a dressy-casual look.

Pastels such as blush, lilac, baby blue and mint feel fresh and celebratory. The Leanna Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress — Light Pink is a soft, pretty option.
Florals are a natural fit for spring and summer showers. Try the Avital Strapless Floral Midi Dress — Blue or the Vivian Strapless Floral Mini Dress — Pink.
Satin minis are ideal for an evening shower or cocktails. The Isla Halter Satin Mini Dress is easy to dress up or down.
If the bride has a theme or colour palette, follow it. Many showers ask guests to wear a particular colour for photos.

Shop pink dresses and our full dresses collection for guest outfits.

Match your outfit to the venue

Afternoon tea or brunch: a midi or knee-length dress, or a smart co-ord set.
Garden party: a floaty maxi or floral midi with block heels, which are easier on grass.
Restaurant dinner or cocktails: a satin or lace mini with heels.
At home: a relaxed dress or a knit set still feels special without being overdressed.

Bridal shower vs hen party

A bridal shower is usually a daytime gathering with gifts, games and food, while a hen party is often an evening or weekend celebration. Many brides wear white for both. If you are planning both, choose a softer look for the shower and save the statement piece for the hen do. See our hen party outfits for ideas.

Quick checklist

Bride: white or ivory, in a style you feel amazing in
Guests: avoid white, ivory and cream
Check for a theme or colour palette on the invitation
Match the length and fabric to the venue and time of day
Choose shoes that suit the setting, especially outdoors
Order early so there's time for any exchanges

Find your bridal shower outfit

From lace minis for the bride-to-be to pastel and floral dresses for guests, our bridal shower collection has something for everyone. Planning ahead? Read our winter wedding guest guide and browse wedding guest dresses. Every UK order ships free.