Garden Party Attire: The Ultimate Style Guide

Spring has sprung, and with it comes the return of one of fashion’s sweetest dress codes: Garden Party Attire. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a brunch, or a backyard soirée, this dress code is all about striking a balance between breezy and elegant. Think dreamy florals, flowy silhouettes, and accessories that feel effortlessly refined. 

What Is A Garden Party?

A garden party invitation is the perfect excuse to embrace romantic, feminine fashion. Garden parties are typically daytime affairs, often held outdoors in pretty, landscaped settings like backyards, estates, vineyards, or country clubs. The atmosphere usually feels polished and celebratory, but lighter and less formal than a black tie event. Not sure where to start? Here’s your ultimate guide to nailing the perfect garden party look.

What Is Garden Party Attire?

One of the tricky things about garden party attire is that it doesn’t have a strict definition. It’s not like black tie, where you have an obvious answer. And making it even more complicated is that garden parties can vary from a casual brunch to events that feel semi-formal, like a bridal shower. But is there such a thing as garden formal? That depends on who you ask. Social media girlies certainly don’t all agree!

But ultimately, if the invite requests Garden Party Attire, you’re looking at a semi-formal dress code that blends spring-themed or summer whimsy with elegant sophistication. Garden party attire is more elevated than casual wear, but more relaxed than cocktail attire, so it’s perfectly suited for an outdoor setting where you’re at the mercy of the temperature. Think comfortable, lightweight, and inspired by the natural beauty of botanical florals and garden blooms.

Here’s our formula for the perfect garden party attire:

• Not formal: You don’t need floor-length gowns, though a flowy floral maxi isn’t off the table.
• Not quite cocktail: While dresses and suits are encouraged, the vibe is lighter, more daytime-appropriate, and often more colorful or floral. For dresses, you shouldn’t be aiming for the most structured dress you have–and usually you don’t want a micro-mini, either. You’re going to be outside. Work that breeze! Pick something pretty and fluttery.
• Think pink…or whatever color your favorite flower is: This is our cheat code for the perfect garden party gown. Think about flower petals and what they look like. Bright, pastel, maybe even cream (so long as it’s not a bridal event). Flowy. Showy. Gorgeous. Garden party dresses don’t have to be floral print, but floral inspiration is always going to look good.
• What works: Midi or tea-length dresses, flowy fabrics, floral prints, pastel colors, wedges or block heels, and sun hats.
• What doesn’t work: Spiked heels (too risky on wet grass), anything too dark or heavy (you will get hot), anything too structured or uncomfortable.

What to Wear to a Garden Party

Still not sure what to wear to a garden party? Here, let a beautiful bouquet of picks be your guide to garden party gorgeousness.

Dresses & Jumpsuits

A dress is the quintessential garden party outfit, typically midis and maxis. Flowing silhouettes rule the day, but you don’t have to wear a dress. If you prefer a modern twist, a lightweight jumpsuit in a pastel or floral pattern can be just as chic. 

Fabrics & Colors

When it comes to garden party dress fabrics, think floaty. Think breezy. Think light. Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, chiffon, organza, and silk provide both comfort and elegance. And as for colors, floral hues are always a good plan. Soft, romantic shades such as blush, lavender, sage green, and powder blue are garden party staples. If you like to go bolder, you can opt for punchy hues like butter yellow, orange, coral, or candy pink. 

Ruffles and Embellishments

Garden parties are the perfect excuse to go all-out; what’s more abundant than a flower garden? Florals, delicate lace, and subtle embroidery add a touch of whimsy, while bigger statements like 3D floral appliques and dramatic cascades of ruffles and tiers take things to the next level.

Footwear

Since garden parties are often held on grass, stilettos can be tricky. Instead, opt for footwear like block heels or wedges. They’ll add height without sinking into the ground. Or, you can go with embellished flats or espadrille sandals that are both stylish and comfortable. And while you can go with closed toes, open toes let you show off a pedicure–and didn’t you know that a garden party is the perfect excuse for a fresh pedi? (It’s true!)

Accessories

Elevate your look with accessories that complement your outfit. For garden parties, you typically want accessories that lean into the pretty, sophisticated look–but with that touch of whimsy to keep things playful. You can never go wrong with delicate jewelry like pearl or gold accents. Botanical garden-inspired details like 3D floral appliqué heels or floral earrings, and woven or beaded clutches complete your ensemble. And because garden parties are held outdoors, you might want to consider a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses with oversized or cat-eye frames to avoid squinting.

Outerwear for Chilly Evenings

If the party extends into the evening, a lightweight layer is a good idea–especially if it’s early spring. A cropped cardigan pairs beautifully with a dress, and if things are a little more formal, a tailored blazer adds a polished touch. You can also go simple with a lightweight crochet shawl draped over your shoulders, which keeps things sophisticated. And don’t forget: There are plenty of lovely long-sleeved garden party dresses out there.

Styling Your Garden Party Look

Extra stylish elements are what transform a floral dress into a full garden party ensemble. Beyond your choice of shoes and accessories, there are lots of opportunities for little details can make a big difference. Try a soft, dewy makeup look with a gently blended blush and blotted lip for some springtime sweetness–and depending on the weather, soft waves and dainty hair accessories might be what you want. Or, if it’s a summer garden party, an elegant updo with a statement floral clip keeps your hair off your neck. Let Mother Nature be your guide; remember, it’s easier to have a good time if you’re feeling comfortable!

Which of these garden party looks are you wearing? Show us on Instagram or TikTok @lulus using #LoveLulus, and head to the Garden Girl Outfits Shop for more!