What Should You Wear to an Engagement Party? From dress code to best dressed, here’s your guide to suitable engagement party guest attire
Whether it’s your best friend, your cousin or your colleague, getting invited to an engagement party is exciting, and pretty much a guaranteed good time. But before the big day, of course, comes the big question: what is suitable engagement party attire for guests?
There are a few, mostly unwritten rules when it comes to engagement party guest attire. Not surprisingly, all of them also relate to general guest etiquette, so here are the key considerations.
Respect the Couple’s Wishes
Whether we’re talking about a dress code attire or the start time of the engagement party itself, the engaged couple have a plan for their celebration, and as a guest, it’s important to respect this. Don’t be late, don’t underdress (or overdress—though this is better than turning up in too casual an ensemble), and remember that the party is for and about the couple, not you. Similarly, if there’s a theme listed on the invitation, follow it.
Traditionally, engagement parties were hosted by the bride’s parents, with formal invitations mailed out for an event that would take place no more than three months after the proposal itself. Similar rules applied to gifts, speeches, and even the food served at the party. These days, of course, things have changed: the groom’s parents, other relatives, and even friends can organize a celebration, so simply follow the overall tone when trying to figure out how formal or casual your engagement party guest attire should be.
Never Outshine the Bride
A golden rule of thumb for the engagement party, the big day itself, and everything wedding-related? Don’t outdo the bride—meaning don’t wear white unless you are absolutely positive she doesn’t plan to (and even then, we’d still advise against it, just to be safe) and don’t choose anything outlandish or over-the-top (everyone’s attention should be on the couple, not you). Do, however, have fun—the couple want their engagement party to be remembered as a good time, so wear your dancing shoes, circulate the room, and get involved.
WHAT DO YOU WEAR TO AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY AS A GUEST?
If the engagement party invitation calls for semi-formal, black tie, or smart casual, dress accordingly. If it doesn’t specify, however, co*cktail is the most common dress code attire for an engagement party—which means a dress that falls at (or just slightly above) the knee, finished with heels and refined accessories. Black, navy and other neutrals are always safe for the engagement party, as are bold jewel tones and prints that make sense for the season.
Flutter Sleeve Hand-Beaded co*cktail Dress in Black Gunmetal
This dress may as well have been made for engagement parties. The ideal length, with beading for a bit of shimmer and flutter sleeves for a soft touch, it’s modern, elegant and striking: ideal engagement party guest attire. Wear it with colorful jewels for a youthful finish, or pair with high heels and a clutch for a more sophisticated, streamlined look.
Plus Size Sequin Embroidered Sheath Dress with Bell Sleeves in Red
A sheath dress is an iconic shape and ideal engagement party guest attire. The rich, dark red hue of this piece makes it a bold option, while the modest neckline and sleeve length keep things ultra-chic. The floral embroidery also means you can keep accessories to a minimum: a delicate bracelet or pair of earrings, strappy sandals, and a smoky eye are all you need.
Hand-Beaded Short Sleeve co*cktail Dress in Champagne
With its illusion neckline and beaded silver waist trim, this short-sleeved sheath dress is pretty yet practical; classy yet comfortable. It’s made from a mesh knit that offers plenty of stretch—ideal if you plan on hitting the dance floor in a major way—while its champagne hue is universally flattering. Go tonal with metallic shoes or opt for black pumps and red lipstick for a more put-together, polished look.
"If it calls for co*cktail attire, guys should wear a jacket and tie, and women should wear a dress or a fancy pantsuit." Time of day can also dictate engagement party fashion. "If it's outdoors or during the daytime, you can opt for lighter fabrics and more casual outfits," Howard says.
If the engagement party invitation calls for semi-formal, black tie, or smart casual, dress accordingly. If it doesn't specify, however, co*cktail is the most common dress code attire for an engagement party—which means a dress that falls at (or just slightly above) the knee, finished with heels and refined accessories.
Your engagement party theme should be a reflection of your personalities and interests. Consider selecting a colour scheme that aligns with the mood you want to create. Soft hues like pastel pinks or lavenders can help create a romantic ambience, while bright and bold colours can create a more energetic atmosphere.
co*cktail: The most common engagement party dress code. Ladies can wear an elegant co*cktail dress with a modest hemline and heels. Guys can wear a suit, white button-down shirt, and a matching tie. Formal (also known as black-tie): Think of the fanciest party ever.
You might wanna go for a short and sweet dress, try something with long sleeves, go boho, or take inspo from some of your fave celebs. Remember, an engagement party dress doesn't have to be plain white - in fact, it could be any colour at all.
Everyone who attends the engagement party – whether they brought a gift or not – should receive a handwritten thank-you note for attending. And it's a nice gesture to write a note (and perhaps buy a small gift) for the hosts, as well – always a good idea to start things off on the right foot, etiquette-wise!
Guests are not required to bring gifts to an engagement party, but it is a nice gesture to bring a gift when attending this type of celebration. There are no formal guidelines that dictate how much a guest should spend on an engagement party gift. The amount solely depends on an individual's budget.
Again, white is typically reserved for the bride at any wedding-related events—so white dresses, jumpsuits, or other formal attire are a major no-no. You'll also want to avoid off-white and cream hues.
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.
"You'll also want to stay away with other traditionally-bridal colors, like champagne or pale pink," adds Sabatino, just in case the newly-minted fiancée chooses an off-white variation.
Last but not least, you might be wondering how long you should stay at an engagement party. While it's optimal to stay for the entire time, some engagement parties can go on for 4-5 hours. Chianese points out that the longer you stay the better.
Generally speaking, both sets of parents of the engaged couple should be invited, as well as step-parents and grandparents, siblings, close aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as members of your bridal party (if you're organized and know who they are), and of course, close friends, coworkers, and acquaintances.
Traditionally the engagement party is hosted by the bride's parents, but can also be given by friends of the bride and groom, or other relatives. Yes, you can have two or more parties; one for relatives and family friends, for instance, and another for your own friends.
Well, for an engagement party, you could go for something really elegant and stylish, like a nice co*cktail dress or a sleek jumpsuit. Maybe in a color that's not too bright but still makes a statement. And for the marriage, it depends on the style of the wedding. If it's a formal one, a long gown would be beautiful.
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.
A good rule of thumb is to let guests bring a plus one if they will also be given a plus one at the wedding. Otherwise, stick to wedding guests only. To avoid party fatigue, if you have more than one party, let guests know they aren't expected to attend both events.
For any wedding-related event, like an engagement party, it's best for guests to avoid wearing white. The shade has such a strong bridal association that it's just considered respectful not to wear it.
Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
