What is the dress code for a garden party?

Garden party attire is semi-formal and leans toward light fabrics, pastel colors, floral prints, midi dresses, jumpsuits, or linen suits.

Can you wear black to a garden party?

While lighter colors are traditional, you can wear black if it features a bright floral pattern or is styled with light accessories like a straw bag and colorful shoes.

What kind of shoes should I wear to a garden party?

Choose shoes with a wide base, such as wedges, block heels, loafers, or elegant flats, to prevent sinking into the lawn.

Garden Party Costume: DIY Guide, What to Buy & Try It On

Garden Party

Embrace effortless outdoor elegance with breezy florals, pastel linens, and classic sun hats.

A garden party costume or themed outfit is a popular choice for spring and summer events, bridal showers, and whimsical outdoor gatherings. Inspired by high-society lawn parties, this look focuses on light fabrics, floral patterns, and sophisticated accessories. The ensemble is designed to look breezy, elegant, and perfectly suited for an afternoon in the sun.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~20 min
Budget: $30–120

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40 Garden Party costume ideas

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What you need for a Garden Party costume

Floral Midi Dress or Jumpsuit
A lightweight, flowy dress or jumpsuit featuring pastel colors, botanical prints, or soft watercolor floral patterns.
DIY: Use a colorful sundress you already own and pin a silk flower to the strap.
Amazon
Linen Button-Down Shirt
A crisp, breathable linen or cotton shirt in white, light blue, or a soft pastel shade.
DIY: A light-colored, well-pressed cotton dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up.
Amazon
Chino Pants or Tailored Shorts
Slim-fit trousers in beige, khaki, or stone gray to complement the light shirt.
DIY: Any clean, light-colored dress pants or khaki trousers.
Amazon
Wide-Brim Straw Sun Hat
A classic straw hat, optionally adorned with a ribbon or a faux flower band.
DIY: Take a plain straw hat and tie a colorful silk scarf around the crown.
Amazon
Wedge Sandals or Loafers
Comfortable footwear suitable for walking on grass, such as espadrille wedges, block heels, or leather loafers.
DIY: Clean canvas slip-on shoes or flat leather sandals.
Amazon
Floral Lapel Pin or Pocket Square
A small floral accent or a pastel silk pocket square to elevate the tailored look.
DIY: Tuck a small sprig of real or silk lavender into a breast pocket.
Amazon

How to put it together

1
Select a base outfit featuring light, breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chiffon in pastel or floral prints.
2
Ensure all garments are neatly pressed to maintain a sophisticated, high-society aesthetic.
3
Put on comfortable, grass-friendly footwear like block heels, wedges, or classic loafers.
4
Accessorize with a wide-brim straw hat or a woven fedora to protect from the sun and add style.
5
Add subtle jewelry, such as pearl earrings or a simple watch, keeping the look refined rather than flashy.
6
Carry a small woven straw clutch or a lightweight crossbody bag to complete the outdoor ensemble.

Makeup & hair

Opt for fresh, dewy makeup with soft pink or peach tones and a glossy lip. Style hair in loose, romantic waves, a half-up twist, or a neat low bun to accommodate a sun hat.

Garden Party for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: One partner wears a floral midi dress with wedges, while the other wears a pastel linen shirt, beige chinos, and a straw fedora.
group: Coordinate a 'High Tea' theme with everyone wearing different pastel shades, floral patterns, and decorative fascinators or sun hats.
kids: A miniature version featuring a floral sundress or a tiny linen shirt with suspenders and a small straw hat.
Plus size: A wrap-style floral maxi dress or a structured linen utility jumpsuit offers a comfortable, flattering, and adjustable fit.
pet: A simple floral collar attachment or a lightweight pastel bandana.

Tips

Avoid stiletto heels, as they will sink directly into the grass; opt for wedges, block heels, or flats instead.
Keep a pair of sunglasses handy—classic aviators or retro round frames fit the aesthetic perfectly.
If the event goes into the evening, bring a light denim jacket, a pashmina shawl, or a pastel cardigan.
Incorporate real flowers into your hair or lapel for an authentic, fresh-looking touch.

Garden Party costume FAQ

What is the dress code for a garden party?: Garden party attire is semi-formal and leans toward light fabrics, pastel colors, floral prints, midi dresses, jumpsuits, or linen suits.
Can you wear black to a garden party?: While lighter colors are traditional, you can wear black if it features a bright floral pattern or is styled with light accessories like a straw bag and colorful shoes.
What kind of shoes should I wear to a garden party?: Choose shoes with a wide base, such as wedges, block heels, loafers, or elegant flats, to prevent sinking into the lawn.

Did you know? The concept of the garden party originated in the 1860s during the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria began hosting 'breakfasts' outdoors, which later evolved into the elegant afternoon tea parties we know today.