Engagement parties can be a lot of fun. Friends getting together, good food, drinks, a beautiful venue; and, of course, the celebration of a couple who’s decided to tie the knot! Dressing up and looking your best for events like these also plays a huge part in contributing to the whole vibe of the party. It’s also what can complicate the lives of the attendees, and the engaged couple alike when it comes to what to wear.
Short dress or long dress? Heels or flats? Tie or no tie? Worry not. We share tips you need for dressing for an engagement party, whether you’re the party-thrower or a lucky guest.
First things first: check the dress code, location and invitation.
It may seems obvious at first glance, but the invitation will clear lots of doubts and provide you with crucial information when it comes to choosing what to wear to an engagement party. The dress code is (usually) clearly stated on the invite, if not, be sure to contact your host and ask them what to wear. Better safe than sorry!
Location is also important. The dress code will give you a clear indication, but a ‘smart casual’ engagement party in a city venue is different than a ‘smart casual’ party on the beach – so be mindful of this.
Lastly, the invitation itself will give out a lot about what the engagement party will be like. A classic, super formal invitation probably means the event will be like that too. A simple invitation could indicate a more simple, laid-back style is in order.
What to Wear for Women
For the bride-to-be
It may seem easier to choose what to wear when the party organiser is yourself – but it can actually be a lot of pressure, too! At the end of the day, you’re the one that’s supposed to look the most stunning of them all, and your outfit will also set the bar for the rest of the outfits out there.
First of all, you need to pick something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Bear in mind the time of the year, the fabric, and the length, and go with something that’ll allow you to dance all night without a care in the world.
Many future brides tend to go with white at their engagement parties. White is traditional, timeless, light, easy on the eyes, and evokes feelings of happiness and purity. It also helps you stand out, just like you will on the wedding day. This is just what most people go with, though – ultimately, the choice is yours. It’s your party, after all!
For the guests
As an engagement party guest, the rule of thumb is to step away from wearing white, as that’s probably what the bride-to-be will wear – and you don’t want to take the attention off her! On the other hand, black is totally allowed, and it’s a timeless, elegant, flattering, mysterious and sleek choice.
Black will look its best if the engagement party is a formal or semi-formal evening event. However, if the gathering is set to happen during daytime and in a more relaxed setting. Think other block colours (pastels are in at the moment) or cool prints (think florals if the event is scheduled for spring or summer, particularly during the day).
Fabrics are also important when choosing what to wear to an engagement party. Go with cottons and linens for a more relaxed party, and keep the silk dresses for a more formal setting.
What to Wear for Men
For the groom-to-be
If the engagement party is yours, this is your time to shine – which also means, no experimenting, please. Forget lighter or printed suits; go classic and timeless instead. Trust us – future you will be thankful! A grey, contemporary, fitted and tailored suit is a good way to start. Grey is a classic colour, without being black (which you may want to save for the wedding day).
A navy suit will also do the trick – just make sure you match it with brown shoes instead of black. Unless the party is happening on a beach or in an informal setting, you may also want to wear a tie or bow tie, and have a blazer on hand, especially for the photos.
For the guests
Because all eyes aren’t on you, there’s room to experiment or try something different (while still adhering to the dress code). You can play around with patterns, colours, or wear shorts if the party is on the beach. Just make sure you’re always honouring the dress code, location and time of the engagement party.
Look great, have fun
At the end of the day, the party is more about the celebration of two people’s wishes to be together, than what you’re wearing. But with these simple tips by your side you’ll be sure to look great, feel comfortable, and be able to focus on having a fun night with your loved ones.
For more tips on what to wear, visit a LookSmart store
All LookSmart stores across Australia and New Zealand provide expert tailoring, garment care advice, and repairs. Most stores provide dry cleaning with selected stores providing embroidery, dressmaking, and styling services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to wear black to an engagement party?
Definitely! After all, black is a stylish and elegant colour that’s proven for evening events and elegant parties. But to keep the fun and celebratory vibe, you can pick lighter and flowy fabrics like chiffon or satin, and just top it all off with playful accessories like a clutch, a necklace, or shoes.
Just make sure to stay true to the theme—as you don’t want to look too formal on a joyful event, or too black for a colourful party. But if you ever decide to rock a black outfit, pair it with metallics or vibrant jewelry just to sprinkle a bit of colour and make it party-appropriate.
What fabrics are suitable for a casual engagement party?
Light and breathable fabrics like linen, jersey, and cotton work best in casual engagement parties where it could be outdoors and require a lot of movement and interactions. These fabrics let you move more freely and easily, be it casual shirts, trousers, or dresses and soft knits like cardigans.
Should men always wear a tie to an engagement party?
Wearing a tie isn’t necessary for an engagement party, especially one that is casual and semi-formal. Smart casual attire, like a crisp button-down shirt paired with chinos, should work well.
Consider adding a blazer or sports coat if you want more layers and nail that polished look. The key is to gauge the event’s dress code so you know whether a tie is necessary or overkill.
What colours should guests avoid at an engagement party?
Avoid wearing colours that the bride wears and those that steal the attention from the couple. We don’t recommend wearing white, which is often the color reserved for the bride, as well as bold neon shades that draw too much attention at the party.
Our expert tailors recommend a colour theme that perfectly complements the occasion without overshadowing the stars of the event. Consider wearing pastel colours, muted tones, and jewel shades.
