Meet the Parents Outfits to Make a Great Impression

Meeting your significant other's family for the first time can be intimidating, scary and stressful. You want to make a great first impression, which means you're probably wondering what type of meet-the-parents outfit is best. In this situation, your clothes really can make a difference in how you're perceived, so you want to make sure your outfit reflects how important this moment is to you. Depending on what you are doing, outfit suggestions can vary widely: What you wear to a fancy restaurant is definitely going to be different from what you would put on for a casual backyard barbecue. To ensure you feel comfortable and confident, we got advice from a stylist on exactly what to wear when meeting the parents in any type of situation.

What to Wear to Meet the Parents

When meeting the parents for the first time, you want to look put-together, like your best self. At the same time, though, you don't want to dress like a different person–staying true to your personality is essential, otherwise, you'll be uncomfortable and will feel a lot less confident. It's all about finding something you love that also shows them that you're taking this meeting seriously.

"It's important to strike a balance between polished, respectful and authentic to who you are," says professional stylist Catherine Bibeau. "Your clothing choice can give insight into your personality and choosing the right outfit can suggest you are considerate, confident and leave a lasting positive impression." Keep the below tips in mind when shopping or putting something together.

• Dress for the occasion: Maybe the most important thing to consider is what you're doing when meeting the parents. You don't want to wear something that is wildly inappropriate for the location or activity. For example, going out to dinner calls for something cute and slightly dressed up, while grabbing coffee could mean nice jeans and sneakers.
• Keep it simple: This probably isn't the time to try a bold new trend or experiment with mismatched prints. "I suggest neutral shades and soft tones, which create a welcoming, approachable vibe," Bibeau says. "Avoid loud colors or patterns, which can be distracting." She also recommends dressing modestly, as this can be a sign of respect.
• Pick something comfortable: Pick something you genuinely feel good in, especially if you're already feeling nervous or anxious–clothing that ends up being irritating or too tight is only going to make you feel more awkward. "This way, you can focus on the conversation and making a meaningful connection rather than being worried about your outfit," Bibeau notes.
• Add your favorite simple accessories: Accessories can elevate any look, so be sure to pick options you love that aren't too bold or distracting. Bibeau recommends minimal accessories with an intentional hairstyle. Picking something meaningful to you is also a good idea–for example, maybe a necklace your partner bought you for a special occasion or a piece of jewelry that is a family heirloom.
• If you're feeling unsure, ask your partner for advice: Everyone's parents are different. Some prefer a classic look, while others appreciate someone who can be unique and artsy. If you have no idea what to wear, Bibeau recommends asking your partner for help. "They know their parents best and can offer insight into what their expectations might be to make the right impression," she says.

What Not to Wear When First Meeting the Parents

While you don't need to follow a whole bunch of rules that feel outdated, there are some things to avoid when dressing to meet the parents. It's not about stifling who you are, it's more about coming across as thoughtful and respectful. Save the below items for another time.

• Anything too revealing: Listen, you don't need to look like you're headed to a convent, but you do want to show that you're taking this meeting seriously, and that means no very low-cut tops or super short skirts. As Bibeau notes, this can come off as disrespectful and that's the last thing you want.
• Super casual and laid-back pieces: Another thing that can come off as disrespectful, according to Bibeau, are extremely casual clothing items. Think very ripped/distressed jeans, old hoodies or the bra top and leggings athleisure set you wear to the gym. Even if you're meeting in a casual setting, something more put-together and stylish is a better idea.
• Wrinkly, stained clothing: "Ensure your garments are steamed and pressed, free of wrinkles and stains, to present a polished, clean look," Bibeau stresses. Throwing on a wrinkly dress or a shirt with a very obvious stain makes it seem like you put zero thought and effort into the meeting.
• Trendy items you'll likely end up discarding: If you're shopping for a new outfit, stay away from super trendy pieces you see all over TikTok. "Invest in a quality piece that is well tailored and timeless, rather than something trendy or overly fashionable," Bibeau says. Not only does this result in a more chic meet-the-parents outfit, but it's just smart: You'll end up getting more for your money in the long run.
• Something you would never wear on a regular basis: Remember, it's important for your personality to shine through your outfit. Keep things refined but also very you. If you always wear bold, colorful prints, don't show up in a buttoned-up cardigan and jeans. If you are naturally a very laid-back and casual person, don't make this the day you try stilettos. You'll be uncomfortable, and honestly, everyone will end up confused.

Meet the Parents Outfit Ideas for Any Situation

What to wear to meet your boyfriend or girlfriend's parents should ultimately depend on what you're doing that day. Keep any dress code in mind and make sure you're dressed appropriately for the activity—you don't want to end up looking completely out of place, and you also want to feel comfortable.

At the Parents' House

Heading to their house for dinner, drinks or just to hang out? You can keep things casual but still cute, similar to if you were heading out to dinner. Anything too dressed up won't feel right, but you still want to avoid super casual outfits that look like you're ready for a movie night on the couch. Bibeau suggests a chic midi dress with flats, which is a good mix of classic and trendy. Another option she recommends is a pair of chinos and a button-down shirt or comfortable trousers with a simple fitted tee.

Out to Dinner at a Nice Restaurant

If you've never been to the restaurant where you're meeting them, be sure to check out the website to get an idea of the vibe and to see if there's any dress code. Opt for something polished but not too dressed up (similar to what you might wear to a work event). Bibeau recommends a knee-length dress in a classic print, like floral or polka dots, with low heels to elevate the look. She also likes a dress shirt with jeans or dress pants depending on how formal you want to look, with the addition of a tailored sports coat as a nice touch.

Grabbing Coffee

Going out for a cup of coffee or a quick breakfast is more casual than a sit-down dinner at a nice restaurant, but again, you still want to look put together. Keep things casual and cute with Bibeau's suggestion of your favorite straight-leg jeans, boots and a comfy sweater, or a crew neck or polo shirt with jeans and sneakers. One way to keep these outfits from looking sloppy is to make sure everything fits well and that nothing is wrinkled.

A Backyard BBQ

If you're getting together at a backyard BBQ, whether it's just you, your partner and their parents, or other family members as well, you can feel free to stick to something more casual. Make sure your meet-the-parents outfit is appropriate for the weather—if it's going to be hot, pick something airy; if it's chilly, bring a layer. But overall, keep it simple, Bibeau says, suggesting a sundress with sandals or a casual short-sleeve button-down with shorts.

A More Formal Event

You may end up meeting the parents at a formal family party or a wedding. In that case, you want your outfit to work for the event but also for the fact that you're getting to know the parents. While your outfit may ultimately depend on the dress code, Bibeau advises wearing a cocktail dress or elegant jumpsuit, or a tailored, neutral suit and tie with dress shoes.

Mini Golf or Other Sporting Event

Whether you're going mini-golfing, meeting on a real golf course, heading out on a hike or taking a walk, what you wear to meet the parents should be cute, comfortable and functional. That's why Bibeau recommends a sporty dress or skirt combo with a denim jacket and white sneakers, which is stylish but still works for something slightly athletic. She also recommends a casual shirt or tee layered under a jacket with comfortable pants.