Last Updated on April 26, 2024 by Ryan
Garden parties can be one of the most elegant outdoor parties you will ever attend, so you don’t want to show up wearing anything short of refined. The good news is, there are plenty of stunning dresses that will make heads turn at the party. The only question is – which lovely garden party dress will you end up in?
The biggest thing to remember is that bright shades are going to be your best friend. So, whether you opt for the classic bright red sundress or want to go playful with polka dot numbers, the goal is to find a dress that has some perk and brightness to it.
The Ultimate Go-To: Sundresses
Sundresses are going to be the number go-to for garden parties. And why wouldn’t they? Bright sundresses that are perfectly sprinkled with beautiful, eye-catching florals are designed to complement the party perfectly.
This Eliza J Floral Tie Front Tiered Maxi Sundress perfectly combines gorgeous floral patterns paired with a demure ruffle that sweeps gently to the floor. This dress would be perfect for pairing with a denim jacket and oversized sun hat, creating the staple garden party dress idea.
You can also go for something a bit shorter, like the Garden Explorer Red Floral Print Mini Dress. This garden party dress lets you show off a little leg while still being garden party-ready. Pair with a knit sweater for when it starts to get chilly.
Runner-Up: Belted Dresses
There is nothing quite like a belted dress on a woman. Form-fitting, functional, and flirtatious, belted dresses are the ultimate go-to for garden parties. You can stick to your own style on this one, but make sure that it’s bright and perky – just like the springy atmosphere at the party.
The Erina Mauve Multi Stripe Belted Midi Slip Dress is the perfect example of a must-have garden party belted dress. The combination of vibrant colors is fun and exciting, while the relaxed, flared skirt is charming and cute. Dresses like these pair well with skinny low heels and a sweater or denim jacket.
Want something a little more neutral? The Satin Tie Waist Long Sleeve Mini Dress proves that look-at-me colors aren’t the only way to nail your garden party look. Designed with silky fabric and available in several distinctive shades, you can put together an alluring look that turns heads at the garden party.
Go Bold: Utility Shirt Dress
When you’re looking for something a little more tame and neutral while still being fierce, a utility shirt dress is the answer. Utility shirt dresses work well for women that don’t care for the girly-girl style yet still want to be formal enough for a garden party.
With a utility dress like the Mini Shirt Dress, you can become the boss babe of the party. There is plenty to mix and match with this style, too, giving you creative reigns. Need some inspo? Matching heels and an oversized bag work well with utility shirt dresses.
Don’t be afraid to go for colored utility shirt dresses, either. Although they still have a sense of modernness, the added color can give the dress more of a springtime feel – which is great for those swanky spring garden parties. Consider something like this Twill Utility Shirtdress For Women.
Go Elegant: Laced Beauties
When you think of the term graceful, what type of clothing comes to mind? Lace, of course. Ladies, there is nothing more lavish or lovely than a lacey dress. Lace dresses match the theme of a garden party effortlessly and just so happen to look regal on any woman they adorn.
If you’re on the hunt for a lace dress, consider the Azaelea guipure lace dress. This A-line dress comes with a combination of crochet lace designs from head to toe. This is the ideal spring garden party dress with long sleeves and a length that dangles around the knee.
For something a bit fancier, look for a dress like the . The cap sleeves are chic, while the lace detailing is glamorous. You’ll also love the fit and flare design, which is curated for comfort and style.
Keep it Bright: Pastel Dreams
If there is one thing to keep in mind about garden party dresses, it’s this: the brighter, the better. You don’t want to dismiss colors. When it comes to these famed parties, the name of the game is color. What better way to sport light, bright, look-at-me colors than with pastels?
Pastel dresses are going to be flawless options, especially a number like the . This adoring dress comes with cute puff sleeves, and charming floral detailing, and lands above the knee. Pair with a pair of heels to make your legs the topic of the garden party.
For the women out there who want something a little bit longer, the Maya puff sleeve organza mini dress in pastel is the only solution. This asymmetrical pleated dress lined with gorgeous floral dealing is not only going to be your garden party staple but your favorite new everyday dress, too.
Keep it Simple: White Dresses
Trying to find a cute party dress for a garden party can be challenging, to say the least. When all else fails, and you simply have no clue what to wear, rely on the handy dandy white dress. It’s like the infamous little black dress, only much lighter.
Any white dress will do, but the Twirl of Your Dreams White Jacquard Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress happens to be a favorite. This maxi dress has two of our favorite things: gorgeous detailing and an off-the-shoulder design.
Don’t be afraid of a button-down dress like the Effortless Grace Button Down White Maxi Dress, either. Buttons are 100% on-trend and happen to look fabulous when accompanied by an eloquent garden party.
Get Playful: Polka Dots
Who said you couldn’t be elegant and fun at the same time? If you’re looking for a style that’s a little bit out-of-the-box for a garden party, don’t hesitate to go with polka dots. This pattern is still sophisticated enough to be welcomed at a garden party without being overly fancy.
You can get playful with your attire by opting for a polka dot dress like the V-Neck Polka Dot Print Short Sleeve Split Long Dress.
This is also oodles of fun thanks to big and bold white polka dots strung onto a pretty salmon pink background. With buttons and a belt, it’s a trendy look that is so comfortable it will likely become your new favorite dress. Wear it with your fave pair of white shoes!
Final Words
Choosing what to wear for a garden party can be tough, but not anymore. These garden party dress ideas are sure to be a hit at the next party, whether you opt for dainty pastels or chic belted options. Whichever one you end up picking, make sure to have fun accessorizing and showing off your personal style.
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What do you wear to a garden party?
I always advise staying with light, neutral hues, especially since you’ll be spending time outside. Don’t forget to bring a lightweight jacket for when the sun sets if the garden party will last all night. Avoid heels, and don’t forget to pack a hat, some sunglasses, and sunscreen—I can’t stress this enough!
What does garden party dress code mean?
Unlike a cocktail party, where the dress code is strictly defined, a garden party has a more flexible semi-formal dress code. Since there is no strict dress code for garden parties, you are free to play around with color, patterns, frills, and statement styles.
What to wear to ladies garden party?
Choose longer dresses and pantsuits instead of short skirts, crisp denim, and rompers, which you should keep hidden in your closet. Everybody looks good in a-line dresses that sway on a breezy evening. Another fantastic option for formal garden party apparel is a beautiful, sleek pantsuit.
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Meet Kourtney, a fashion and beauty enthusiast who tells stories through style. To her, clothing is a language, and every accessory adds punctuation to her narrative. Kourtney explores vintage fashion markets on weekends, blending classic with contemporary to create a signature style that reflects her vibrant personality. Beyond aesthetics, she's a passionate advocate for body positivity and inclusivity in fashion, celebrating diversity to ensure everyone feels seen and embraced.
