What to Wear to an Engagement Party
Being invited to a friend or family member’s engagement party is the chance to partake in a fun, memorable event. There’s nothing better than gathering with friends and family to wish loved ones well for their upcoming nuptials. And if you’re a member of the wedding party, it signals the start of a busy, exciting time. So, what do you wear? There are a couple of things to consider when dressing for the occasion. We'll help you create your ideal engagement party look.
What is an Engagement Party?
An engagement party is a celebration for a newly engaged couple. Family members, close friends, and the wedding party gather to celebrate the upcoming nuptials and wish the couple well. An engagement party can be held any time before the wedding, but it’s usually within two to three months of the engagement. The party itself consists of socializing over food and drinks. There may also be dancing and a game or two. Some engagements are fancy affairs while others are as casual as hanging out in the backyard. Many guests choose to bring a gift or card to the party for the engaged couple, although this isn’t always necessary.
How to Dress for an Engagement Party
When choosing an outfit for your engagement party, it’s important to first check if there’s a dress code or theme. This is usually listed on the invitation, but you can also confirm with your host. Engagement party dress codes can range from casual to black tie, and different attire is required for each. You should also consider the time and location of the engagement party when deciding what to wear. If it’s being held outdoors at night, for example, you may want to add a jacket or coat to your look. Similarly, if there’s drizzle in the forecast, you may need a women’s raincoat. If the party is being held at a venue, it’s a good idea to look it up online. That way, you can get a feel for the vibe of the place; some venues may be more casual or formal than others. When choosing an outfit, it’s also important to go for something in which you feel comfy and confident. That way, you’ll look and feel your best.
How to Accessorize for an Engagement Party
Accessories can help you transform your outfit into a more formal or casual look. When it comes to engagement party dressing, it all depends on the dress code. If the party is a fancy affair, stick with simple, elegant jewelry, like a gold chain or diamond studs. A beaded or metallic evening bag will also bring style and glamour to your look. If the party is casual, go for more relaxed accessories. You can swap out the evening bag for a more practical purse, for example. You can also wear bolder jewelry, like a set of bangles or oversized hoops.
Best Engagement Party Outfit Ideas
The best engagement party outfits allow you to show off your style without drawing too much attention to yourself. That’s because, while you should also look and feel your best, you want the spotlight to be on the engaged couple. What you wear will also depend on the dress code or theme. It can be awkward to show up in jeans, for example, if the invitation calls for semi-formal attire. You should also choose an outfit that fits your personal taste and comfort level. Here are our top outfit ideas for an engagement party.
Cocktail Dress
Cocktail dresses are incredibly versatile. This makes them ideal for engagement parties, as you can style them to fit the dress code. If the party is a fancy affair, you can wear your cocktail dress with heels and a clutch bag. If it’s more casual, you can add a cardigan or wrap to the dress and slip on a pair of leather brogues.
Tuxedo Jumpsuit
A tuxedo jumpsuit looks just like a women’s suit, only it’s one piece and not separates. Tuxedo jumpsuits come in long sleeve, short sleeve, and sleeveless designs. They look chic and are ideal for engagement parties. You can dress them up with heels, elegant jewelry, and a metal or leather belt. You can also style a tuxedo jumpsuit more casually with wedge sandals or leather high-top sneakers.
Blazer
A blazer is another versatile option for engagement party dressing. For casual events, you can pair it with a crisp white button-down shirt and dark-wash jeans. Add a pair of leather loafers or sandals to complete the look. If the party is more formal, you can wear your blazer with dress pants and a blouse. Then, finish off the suit with a pair of wedges or heels.
The best engagement party outfit for you will depend on your personal style and preferred level of comfort. Go for something that looks great but also feels great. Once you’ve narrowed down the silhouettes, consider the time, location, and dress code of the event. If your outfit feels too casual, you can always dress it up with shoes and accessories, or vice versa. Be sure to also check the weather forecast as you may need a cover-up or jacket. Then, get ready to enjoy celebrating your loved ones’ future nuptials.