Deciding what to wear to an engagement party should be the first order of business after the invitation—or, more likely, the Partiful link—arrives. It’s not hard to find a thoughtful card or gift last minute, but the perfect celebratory outfit takes time to put together. We don’t have to tell you not to wear white or ivory, of course, but otherwise there are almost too many options to navigate. It can be overwhelming, not to mention finding an engagement party ensemble that can walk the very fine line of garnering attention without pulling focus from the happy couple.
Before heading down an online shopping rabbit hole, check to see if there’s a dress code on the invite for any guidance to make sure you’re not underdressed (or overdressed, for that matter). If not, the event’s venue and time of day might help inform. A black-tie soirée calls for sweeping hemlines and tuxedos, for example, while sundresses and breezy button-ups work for a more laid-back gathering. If you’re still not sure, you usually can’t go wrong with cocktail attire—think semi-formal jumpsuits, midi dresses, or a matching blazer and trouser set.
Once you know the vibe, you can have fun with the details. Dressing to the season is one idea: Linen does well at summertime events, autumnal shades and layers thrive in fall, velvets can warm up winter’s frosty chill, and floral prints in pastel colors emphasize spring’s budding blossoms. Another direction you could take? Following the party classics, such as a ‘90s-influenced little black cocktail dress à la Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy or a timeless boatneck number inspired by Audrey Hepburn. Playing with textures is a favorite route of mine, like mix-and-matching sequins with satins, silks, or even a denim wash.
Whatever direction you decide, envision this engagement party outfit as the opening number for your wedding guest ensemble on the big day. Ahead, check out our guide for landing on the unofficial best-dressed list for any engagement party. (Second only to the soon-to-be newlyweds, of course.)
A Classic LBD
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