What to Wear to
a Garden Party
The sun’s starting to peek through the clouds, the food’s getting prepped, and you’re dreaming of a life lived al fresco. But when it comes to your garden party outfit, you’re not sure where to start. An outdoor event can be tricky to navigate thanks to unpredictable weather, so we’ve put together a useful guide so you can be ready in style.
SHOP GARDEN PARTY
What to
Wear to a
Garden Party
The Garden Party
Dress Code
You’ll need to consider how formal the garden party will be. Whether it’s casual, smart-casual or semi-formal will influence the summer garden party outfit you choose. A casual event will call for pieces like shorts, comfortable skirts and lightweight shirts and T-shirts. If it’s smart-casual, think about styles like linen trousers or a matching summer co-ord. Semi-formal garden parties will require more tailored dresses and jumpsuits, featuring luxe fabrics and accessories.
When you know your summer garden party dress code, it’ll make it easier to decide on factors such as colours, prints and materials. Be sure to select pieces that are suitable for a daytime occasion and that you can spend a long time wearing.
Choosing the Perfect
Garden Party Outfit
Start to think about the styles you like to wear and feel comfortable in. From dresses to skirts to jumpsuits and matching sets, there are plenty of options when it comes to a garden party outfit.
If the weather’s feeling warm and the sun’s high in the sky, it’s a good idea to consider the fabric of your clothes. Opt for light, breathable materials such as linen, cotton and chiffon to avoid overheating and discomfort. Daytime outfits look lovely in pastels and neutral shades, and florals for a garden party will always be a good idea.
There’s always a possibility of the event becoming an evening affair, too, so be prepared to layer up when the sun goes in and the temperature cools. A light jacket or cardigan will work nicely. And when it comes to accessories, shoes and a matching bag will take the details far.
Summer Garden Party
Outfit Ideas
The dress code of a garden party may be decided by the host, but what you choose to wear is up to you. From clothing to colours to accessories, it’s important to select an outfit that feels true to you.
Smart-Casual
Garden Party
Mastering the art of smart-casual can take time, but with our garden party outfits, it’s a lot easier. It’s all about finding the right materials and fits, like a soft, breathable dress that’s simple but elevated. Accessories can make a big difference, such as block heels or sophisticated flats, bringing your outfit to life in the best way.
Delicate jewellery and classic sunglasses will add details in a considered way, whilst a light bag will fuse practicality with style. And if you need a layer when the temperature drops, reach for a linen blazer or lightweight cardigan.
SEMI-FORMAL TO FORMAL
GARDEN EVENTS
Is your garden party on the more formal side? Then you’ll need to look at more structured, tailored pieces, but still with a summer twist. That twist can be in the form of linen blends, soft silks and light chiffon, which are all fabrics which work for warmer weather and outdoor settings. Seasonal colour palettes will always be a win, so look to nature for endless inspiration, whether that’s floral patterns or shades of pink.
Accessories will be your go-to for extra detail, so try pieces like statement earrings or a refined clutch for standout style. And last but not least, it’s important to consider how you’ll transition from the day into the evening. Think about factors like added layers or a change of shoes into something a little more comfortable.
Relaxed Garden
Party Outfits
There’s no better feeling than being relaxed in the sun. And the right outfit can help with that. Less formal garden parties will call for pieces such as linen trousers, culottes or midi skirts, paired with light tops like camis or blouses. Getting the proportion right is key, so tuck in the top or choose wide leg trousers to balance your look.
Time spent outdoors will need the correct footwear, so find shoes that are practical as well as on trend, such as sandals. You may be mingling for a while, so take a bag you’re happy to carry around. To further the relaxed vibe of the day, have a think about extra accessory ideas. We love a straw bag, fun sunglasses and lightweight scarves to mix things up.
Final Tips for a Stylish Garden Party Outfit
If you’ve got a garden party in the diary, you’ve now got everything you need to make it a stylishly successful one. From laid-back gatherings to more formal events, we’ve made the outfit formulas easy for every dress code. And if you’re still dreaming of days in the sun, explore our holiday outfit ideas, too.
SHOP GARDEN PARTYSHOP HOLIDAY OUTFITS
