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Updated Jul 16, 2024Bridal Shower Outfit Ideas for the Bride That’ll Give Main Character Energy
From adorable white minis to floral bridal shower dresses, all eyes will be on you.
Photos, left to right: Reformation, Lulus, Shopbop
Your bridal shower outfit is one of the many opportunities you'll have to wear an outfit that will make you feel fabulous as you celebrate your nuptials with family and friends. And as you start to curate your wedding wardrobe, you'll need a standout bridal shower dress to make the day that much more beautiful. With so many bridal shower themes, there are plenty of bridal shower outfit ideas to choose from, and it can be hard to narrow down your search. But thankfully, there aren't many rules. First off, you don't have to solely wear a white bridal shower dress, and choosing a bold color or print is a fun way to spice up your bridal capsule wardrobe. Plus, if you're itching to rock a trendy outfit, the bridal shower is a great place to show off your unique sense of style.
Below, we're breaking down everything you need to know about bridal shower dresses and outfits. In addition to sharing exactly what to wear to your bridal shower and where to buy outfits online, we've curated a roundup of the best bridal shower dresses that you can shop on the spot.
In this article:
- What Does a Bride Wear to the Bridal Shower?
- The Best Bridal Shower Dresses for the Bride
- How to Choose Your Bridal Shower Outfit
- FAQs About Bridal Shower Dresses & Outfits for the Bride
What Does a Bride Wear to the Bridal Shower?
A bride should wear a bridal shower outfit that makes them feel comfortable and confident in photos and fits the overall shower vibe. And spoiler alert: You don't have to wear a bridal shower dress if you don't want to. This is a great opportunity to play with jumpsuits, separates and other outfit options too. Whether you opt for a strapless white jumpsuit or a fun and flirty floral bridal shower dress, your wedding shower outfit should feel like an extension of your personal style.
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The Best Bridal Shower Dresses for the Bride
It goes without saying that the best bridal shower dress is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you choose a flirty floral bridal shower dress for a garden party or a fitted mini for a cocktail soiree, I've curated some of my favorite wedding shower dress ideas to help you check off one more item on your bridal shower to-do list.
ELLIATT Elder Dress
Photo: REVOLVE
Oh, hello there, floral bridal shower dress of our dreams. If you're a bride looking to embrace the blooms, then this short crepe dress featuring floral decal accents and faux pearls will certainly be one to remember.
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Petal + Pup Belle Maxi Dress
Photo: Petal + Pup
When it comes to a white bridal shower dress with texture and movement, this pick checks all the boxes. From its flirty ruffle bodice to its drop-tiered ruffle tulle skirt, what's not to love? Plus, even though the skirt is long, the fabric makes it lightweight enough to wear to a summer bridal shower.
Size Range: XS-XL
Lulus Beyond Classy White Satin Halter Midi Dress
Photo: Lulus
With its halter neckline, flowy fabric and subtle side slit, this midi bridal shower dress is a minimalist bride's dream. Add a statement bag and pumps or keep the look understated with simple jewelry and barely-there heels.
Size Range: XXS-XL
Sachin & Babi Grace Strapless Back-Bow Mini Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
A bridal shower dress with a bow is always a good idea. From its clean and modern strapless bodice to its slightly flared skirt with a pleated waistline, I can't help but want to add this to my own cart while it's still in stock.
Size Range: 0-16
Ivy City Co. Naples Dress
Photo: Ivy City Co.
This lace bridal shower dress was made for the bride who is ready to have a vintage-inspired moment. With a high neckline, midi-length skirt and scalloped hem, you're sure to look and feel timeless.
Size Range: 00-34W
Show Me Your Mumu Rosetta Mini Dress
Photo: Show Me Your Mumu
There's something about this long-sleeve bridal shower dress that feels like it came straight off the runway. Well, that may be thanks to the long bubble sleeve and a sweet accent rose, both of which make a fashion-forward statement.
Size Range: XXS-3X
Bridal by ELOQUII Corseted Tiered Dress
Photo: ELOQUII
If you're looking for garden party vibes, this plus-size bridal shower dress is for you. That's all thanks to its flirty details, including a corseted bodice, ruffled straps and an elegantly tiered skirt.
Size Range: 14-28
Lulus Flirty Luxury Ivory Mesh Pearl Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Photo: Lulus
As a modern take on a classic mini, this Lulus bridal shower dress is both trendy and sexy. A layer of gleaming faux pearl details decorates this stretchy mesh number with slightly flared long sleeves, making this wedding shower dress an oh-so-chic moment.
Size Range: XS-XXL
Helsi Margot Strapless Floral Sequin Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
You can forgo the statement accessories when you're sporting this sequin floral maxi dress, which is the statement. With a strapless neckline, billowy silhouette and sheer, sparkly fabric, it's a romantic bride's dream.
Size Range: XS-XL
Bridal by ELOQUII Lace Tiered Dress
Photo: ELOQUII
You really can't go wrong with a floral lace bridal shower dress, and this tiered mini from ELOQUII is proof of that. Its simple tiered A-line silhouette and sheer puff sleeves make it an option that will work with nearly any theme or aesthetic.
Size Range: 14-28
Arianne Elmy All White Easy Dress
Photo: Shopbop
A timeless silhouette meets floral jacquard fabric with sparkling silver threading for a look that's equal parts simple yet showstopping. While this sleeveless maxi dress easily lends itself to spring and summer showers, it'll work well in the fall and winter too with a chic blazer or coat thrown over your shoulders. Accessorize with a metallic clutch and heels to tie the look together.
Size Range: 0-12
A.L.C. Juliet Pleated Blazer Dress
Photo: A.L.C.
Classic with a modern twist, this bridal shower tuxedo dress features a faux-wrap waist, flap pockets and an asymmetrically pleated skirt for a look that's unlike any other. Style it with strappy heeled sandals, or opt for a pump if the weather calls for a closed-toed shoe.
Size Range: 00-14
Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Trapeze Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Leave it to Abercrombie & Fitch to nail the effortlessly chic bridal shower look. This strapless maxi dress is made with flowing, glossy fabric and a trapeze silhouette that exudes elegance. According to one reviewer, it "feels expensive" and "falls in all the right places." Sold.
Size Range: XXS-XL; Petite and tall sizes available
STAUD Mini Ilana Dress
Photo: STAUD
With its high neckline and dramatic bow back, this short-sleeve mini dress feels very Blair Waldorf. Round out the vibe with her signature hair accessory (Jennifer Behr makes a great one) and white pointed-toe pumps—I feel certain she'd approve.
Size Range: XS-XL
Callahan Marie Maxi Dress
Photo: REVOLVE
If your bridal shower is all about the winter wonderland vibes—or simply happening on a chilly fall day—you can't go wrong with an elevated sweater dress. This one features an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline, a midi length and long sleeves to keep you warm.
Size Range: XS-XL
Rixo Steph Sequin Dress
Photo: Rent the Runway
A splurge-worthy dress without the splurge? Don't mind if we do. This rentable Rixo beauty features sparkling stripes, short puff sleeves and a midi length for a look that's guaranteed to turn heads. Oh, and just wait until you see the back.
Size Range: XS-XL
Reformation Jaelyn Dress
Photo: Reformation
Looking to sport something blue on your special day? This pretty ivory number will do just the trick thanks to its romantic all-over floral print. Complete with tie straps and a scoop neckline, you'll want to wear it well after the celebration concludes.
Size Range: 0-24
How to Choose Your Bridal Shower Outfit
So, how exactly do you go about choosing your bridal shower outfit? Here are a few factors that might make finding your perfect fit a little bit easier:
Factor in Your Bridal Shower Theme
To help you narrow down your bridal shower outfit options, we recommend using your wedding shower theme and venue as helpful guides when considering what to wear to your bridal shower. Think light, breathable fabrics for outdoor affairs and picnic-inspired bridal showers, and glamorous silhouettes and silky fabrics for upscale events.
Consider the Time of Day
The time of day can also influence what you wear; a daytime bridal shower look can be more casual if that fits your style and venue, while an evening event should err on the formal side.
Don't Be Afraid to Accessorize
Accessories can easily elevate your bridal shower outfit, too. For example, you can upgrade your look with statement earrings, a bridal headband or pearl-embellished heels. You can also play with color if you'd rather wear something unexpected.
FAQs About Bridal Shower Dresses & Outfits for the Bride
Naturally, you might have some questions about bridal shower outfits. Lucky for you, I've got some answers.
Where are we getting bridal shower dresses?
If you're looking for the best bridal shower dresses, there are some several fantastic retailers to consider. Brides looking to shop a variety of high-end designers will love to shop at Anthropologie or Revolve, where you'll find plenty of intricate lace details, dreamy prints and flattering silhouettes that are just perfect for your bridal shower. Lulus is another trendy and affordable retailer offers a wide range of styles under $100. ELOQUII is another favorite that specializes in stylish plus-size bridal shower dresses for sizes 14 and up, so you can find the perfect white bridal shower dress that not only flatters your curves but also fits like a dream.
Do I have to wear white to my bridal shower?
You do not have to wear white to your bridal shower; in fact, you can wear whatever you want. Opt for a fun print or a soft pastel, like blush or a floral. If pants are more your thing, go for a romper or tuxedo jumpsuit. "Don't be afraid to break the rulebook when it comes to your wedding wardrobe," recommends Seroya. "Your outfits should make you feel confident and radiant."
Can I wear pants or jeans to my bridal shower?
Your bridal shower outfit should reflect your personal style rather than the wedding fashion "rules" you think you should follow. So if you feel comfortable in pants or jeans, wear pants or jeans! After all, bridal fashion has now evolved to be much more personalized than ever before. "Recently, to-be-weds have been willing to experiment more with their bridal wardrobe," explains Ohad Seroya, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Retrofête. "From pantsuits to two-piece sets and even cutout minis, today's bride is anything but traditional."
What can I wear to my shower if I don't really identify as a "bride"?
Even if you don't identify as a "bride", this is still your time to shine as your friends and family shower you with love. Don't let the social constructs of what a shower should be define how you feel you need to dress. Ultimately, your wedding shower outfit should make you feel like the best version of yourself, and the clothes you wear should reflect that.
Additional market work by Kate Boswell
