What to Wear to a Bridal Shower as a Guest

One of the most sentimental wedding-related events, a bridal shower is a moment to celebrate the bride's upcoming nuptials with close friends and family—and this special occasion calls for a standout outfit. (No pressure!) If you're wondering just what to wear to a bridal shower as a guest, we've got you covered. Below, we break down the best places to shop for bridal shower guest attire. Plus, we've also rounded up some of our favorite bridal shower guest outfits, which you can shop right here.

The basic rule when it comes to choosing bridal shower guest attire is to follow common sense. Skip outfits that are too revealing, flashy or over-the-top formal—you don't want to eclipse the bride. And since it's traditional for the bride to wear white at her bridal shower, it's best to avoid wearing white or pale pastel shades that look white in photographs (unless specifically stated in the invite). All other colors—and even prints—are fair game. If the bridal shower has a theme (think: garden or nautical) you can riff off that for outfit inspiration, but don't go too crazy—you don't want to show up looking like you're attending a costume party. 

If there is a dress code stated on the invitation, let that be your guide. If the dress code is "semi-formal" or otherwise feels vague, don't hesitate to ask for additional details from the bride. And, if you're torn between something more casual or something more formal, always choose the more polished option. In our humble opinion, it's  better to be slightly overdressed than undressed for wedding-related events. 

If there's no dress code stated, opt for an outfit that you might wear to a fancy brunch or luncheon. Basically, your look should be less risqué than what you might wear to a bachelorette party, but not as formal as your outfit for the actual wedding day. TLDR; Your bridal shower attire should be fun, elevated and should make you feel like the best version of yourself. 

Where to Shop for Bridal Shower Guest Attire

Not sure where to shop for bridal shower guest attire? We've got you covered. Here, we share our favorite stores to shop for a bridal shower outfit you'll definitely want to wear again.

Nordstrom—With over 300 locations across the United States, you can easily shop in person if browsing online isn't your ideal way to shop. Nordstrom offers a variety of styles, from more casual bridal shower guest attire to formal options. 

BHLDN— Anthropologie's wedding brand also has bridal shower options. You might associate BHLDN with their gorgeous gowns, but this retailer also has lots of more casual options. Browse an extensive collection of pretty frocks, jumpsuits and separes, plus complementary accessories to complete your bridal shower look. 

NET-A-PORTER—Fashionistas, take note. This high-end retailer sells plenty of coveted luxury brands like Gucci, Balenciaga, Prada, Stella McCartney and more. If you're looking to splurge on your bridal shower look, you'll find plenty of luxe options here.

Reformation— Calling all cool girls. Reformation is the go-to for flirty dresses, jumpsuits and separates that are effortlessly chic, always on-trend and also sustainably made. Check out their weddings section for a well-curated selection of looks that work for a variety of wedding-related events.

Bridal Shower Guest Attire You Can Shop Now

Need more fashion isnpo? Below, we've rounded up our fave bridal shower guest attire you can shop right now. Browse our top selections, and even buy your favorite on the spot.

A square neckline plus a high slit gives this classic floral number some high fashion flair. 

Reformation Sigmund dress, $248, TheReformation.com

Side cutouts add some pizzazz to an otherwise conservative jumpsuit. Another plus? They make your waist look even smaller—but aren't too sexy for a more buttoned up affair.

Lulus Toast to You Dusty purple flutter sleeve jumpsuit with cutouts, $85, Lulus.com

This handpainted floral dress is anything but garden variety. The pastel print is pure whimsy, while an open back makes for a stunning exit. 

RIXO Agyness cutout tiered floral-print fil coupé cotton maxi dress, $410, Net-a-Porter.com

Hopeless romantics, this one's for you. Salmon-colored velvet plus ruffle details bring the dreamy vibes. 

Reformation Mountain dress, $248, TheReformation.com

Bring the retro vibes to a bridal shower in warmer months with a vibrant belted jumpsuit. Add white sandals and sunnies to complete the '70s-inspired effect. 

Faithfull the Brand + NET SUSTAIN Liv belted floral-print linen jumpsuit, $289, Net-a-Porter.com

This short and sweet number is just made for a more laidback garden party. Accessorize with strapless sandals and statement earrings. 

Lulus Sweetest Romance cream floral print ruffled skater dress, $69, Lulus.com

Celebrating outside or in cooler months? Consider this über-romantic look with a unique front cutout with a tie.

Reformation Poulter dress, $278, TheReformation.com

You'll never regret opting for a classic navy A-line dress—it's a wardrobe staple and versatile enough to work in almost any setting.

ASOS DESIGN midi dress with lace godet panels, $72, ASOS.com

A chic mock turtle necklne puts a sophisticated twist on this otherwise relaxed, floral frock. 

Lulus In My Dreams Mauve floral print midi dress, $68, Lulus.com

Inspired by vintage dresses from the '30s, this lightweight, printed cotton style has "summer soiree" written all over it. 

DOEN Laurel floral-print cotton-blend midi dress, $268, Net-a-Porter.com

This dark floral number with trendy bishop sleeves is perfect for an autumnal bridal shower. 

Reformation Allegra dress, $248, TheReformation.com

This elegant printed crepe dress wtih puff sleeves and a shirred bodice is breezy enough to keep you cool on the hottest summer day, but still looks put together. 

Faithfull the Brand + NET SUSTAIN Olinda shirred floral-print crepe midi dress, $189, Net-a-Porter.com

An adorable swiss dot fabric, a flouncy skirt and flutter sleeves are the makings of one fun and flirty look. 

Lulus Next to You rusty rose swiss dot ruffled midi dress, $64,  Lulus.com

You don't have to sacrifice style for comfort. A dress with a more relaxed fit and a ruffled, high/low hemline is where ease meets of-the-moment details.

1.STATE Chateau floral high/low dress, $99, Nordstrom.com

Who says you have to stick with just one pattern or texture? A mix of botanical embroidery and a chevron pattern give this effortless silhouette lots of visual interest.

ASOS DESIGN embroidered pleated batwing midi dress in chevron texture in navy, $87, ASOS.com

Embroidered vines and blooms give this dress an orante feel that works for a variety of dress codes and themes. 

Tadashi Shoji Emroidered floral sheath dress, $248, Nordstrom.com

Floral prints not your things? You aren't out of options where bridal shower attire is concerned. This neutral motif is more subtle but still makes a statement. 

Cleobella Celia maxi dress, $248, Anthropologie.com

If you love the look and feel of a slip dress but in the market for someting a little more conservative, consider this pretty alternative. The boatneck and midi length are modest but the subtle sheen of the satin material feels glam. 

BHLDN Olmstead dress, $230, BHLDN.com

The perfect combo of laidback and put together, the plisse fabric of this pastel swing dress gives it a fashion-forward touch. 

Daniel Rainn Monika Plisse Swing Mini Dress, $158, Anthropologie.com

This frilly, boho-glam dress is proof you don't have to break the bank to look like a million bucks at a bridal shower. 

ASOS DESIGN ruched tiered midi dress in navy floral print with lace trim, $76, ASOS.com

A good wrap dress is an iconic silhouette for a few reasons: It's stylish no matter the season or setting, it highlights your waist and elongates your body and works for pretty much every body shape. 

BHLDN Biscayne Ruffle wrap dress, $275, BHLDN.com

You can't go wrong with a streamlined jumpsuit with a sleek halter neckline. Dress it up with metallic accessories or go with neutrals for a more casual vibe.

Julia Jordan High Neck Halter Jumpsuit, $138, Nordstrom.com

Oversize blooms plus vibrant yellow makes for a standout, spring-appropriate look that is sure to pop in photos. 

Adrianna Papell Floral-print ruffled dress, $139, Bloomingdales.com

This lace midi dress with a sheer skirt and skinny straps is equal parts playful and polished. Bonus: At under $100, it's a total steal. 

ASTR THE LABEL Lace midi dress, $89, Nordstrom.com