Styling for a baby shower. (2024)

A baby on the way is more than enough reason to celebrate! There’s just something about the magic of life that puts everyone in good spirits and hopeful cheer. Baby showers are among the most exciting celebrations that honor the mom-to-be and incoming bundle of joy. From the adorable, tiny baby gifts to the delectable desserts overflowing the party tables, what’s not to love about a good baby shower?


Just like any other shindig, dress code is a key pre-party element. Whether you’re family, a friend, or the mama-to-be herself, figuring out what to wear to a baby shower takes a bit of conscious curation. Spring or winter, brunch or dinner, future mom or guest, we’re here to help you pick the perfectly polished ensemble for your upcoming baby shower.

What to Wear to a Baby Shower: The Staples

Styling for a baby shower. (1)


Unless the event coordinator or mom-to-be has laid out a specific dress code or theme, piecing together an appropriate baby shower outfit can feel like a challenge. Even with a wardrobe stocked to the brim with colorful clothing options, it’s totally normal to draw a blank as the big day approaches. Fortunately, when you’ve got so many options, selecting a complete outfit is a mere matter of assembly. These stylish staples are baby shower fashion must-haves.


The sundress: Breezy, lightweight sundresses are warm weather staples that serve up polished, yet playful looks. Dress them up with a pair of elegant shoes or keep it casual by choosing a more neutral slip-on sneaker.

The jean jacket: As one of the most universal pieces of outwear, the jean jacket is an instant win for any baby shower. No matter what shade of blue, black, or white you love most, a jean jacket pairs well with a dress, jumpsuit, or top and bottom duo.

The maxi dress: Characterized by their sweeping length, maxi dresses are the flowy, floor-grazing fashion favorite that flatter women of all shapes and sizes.

The jumpsuit: This one-piece showstopper takes the hassle out of picking out a top and bottom and performs well in windy settings. Designed to accentuate the waist and elongate the legs, jumpsuits are a refined baby shower outfit choice.

The A-Line skirt: Cinched at the waist and flared out toward the hem, the A-Line skirt adds a feminine touch to any ensemble. Paired with a blouse or bodysuit, this skirt looks sweet no matter how you dress it.

What to Wear to a Baby Shower: The Seasons

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Though it may feel like baby showers only happen when the sun is shining and the forecast is flawless, the reality is that they don’t always follow a strict seasonal schedule. Showers are typically scheduled four to six weeks ahead of the baby’s official due date—which means winter, spring, summer and fall are all fair game. Use this guide to nail the dress code per the season’s greetings.

Winter

Winter color palette: Mahogany, light grey, navy blue, forest green, burgundy.

For the mom-to-be: A white long-sleeve midi wrap dress paired with a knee-length burgundy peacoat looks wintry-chic, layers and all. Complete this outfit with a pair of colorful pumps and a matching pair of earrings for a chic cold-weather look.

For the guest: A forest green jumpsuit with wide-leg trousers and a cowl neckline paired with a black faux leather moto jacket makes for a mod ensemble. Top it off with a pair of comfortable black wedges and you’re all set.

Spring

Spring color palette: Jade green, periwinkle, pastel pink, peach, pale yellow.

For the mom-to-be: A white crochet maxi dress with a beautifully detailed bodice draws the eye to your beautiful baby bump.

For the guest: A periwinkle structured top with a square neckline paired with a matching A-line skirt is an easy two-piece deal. Finished with tassel earrings and a pair of pale yellow mules, this cute combo is fun and fresh.

Summer

Summer color palette: Cherry red, mustard yellow, fuschia, lavender, bright blue.

For the mom-to-be: A white dress paired with a pair of baby blue slip-on sneakers promises unmistakable elegance and all-day-wear comfort. Stay cool in the heat with a wide brim straw hat and a few dainty bracelets and rings to tie it all together.

For the guest: A patterned wrap skirt paired with a neutral-toned top keeps that beachy vibe you love during the summertime. Accessorize with bold colors like fuschia and cherry red to turn an understated ensemble into an eye-catching outfit.

Fall

Fall Color Palette: Maroon, toffee brown, cream, chartreuse, deep auburn.

For the mom-to-be: A sweater dress is the epitome of fall coziness. A cream-colored turtleneck sweater dress worn with a pair of comfy boots is a youthful baby shower outfit for the fall.

For the guest: A chartreuse top paired with high waisted pixie pants and brown pointed toe flats is a classy curation of fall colors. Add the finishing touches with a pair of cream colored earrings and a matching cream tote bag.

What to Wear to a Baby Shower: Brunch

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Nothing meshes together quite as perfectly as baby showers and breakfast foods. In preparation for a baby shower brunch, nailing the perfect outfit is simple. Bring out the florals, pinstripes and polka dots to liven up your special occasion ensemble. These staple patterns and prints maintain the lighthearted spirit of the event— leaving you looking as good as you feel.


For the mom-to-be: A beige or white linen dress with a feminine v-neck is a beautifully breezy choice for your brunch festivities. Dress it up with a pair of comfortable espadrilles or dress it down with a pair of oxfords.


For the guest: A floral dress paired with a simple pair of strappy heels is a gorgeous duo for an outdoor or indoor setting. A light brown rattan bag and a pair of statement sunglasses are the perfect finishing touches to this baby shower outfit.

What to Wear to a Baby Shower: Dinner

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A formal baby shower dinner could mean a night at the local steakhouse, an intimate feast at the mom-to-be’s home, or anywhere in between. The bottom line is that dinners typically call for slightly dressier apparel. Trade in the sundress for a refined sheath dress and leave the flip flop sandals at home. A dinner event is the perfect occasion to bust out your runway-ready looks.


For the mom-to-be: A cream-colored maxi dress with a halter neckline looks effortlessly sophisticated. For footwear, a classic pair of round-toe flats ensures lasting comfort. Accessorize with a pair of chandelier earrings for a bit of sparkle.


For the guest: A forest green midi dress with a trumpet hem looks stunning with a pair of neutral-toned pumps. Decorate the neckline with a dainty gemstone necklace and carry along your personal belongings in a beaded envelope clutch.

What to Wear to a Themed Baby Shower

Themed baby showers are among the most exciting events to prepare for. Baby shower theme ideas are as creative as the moms-to-be who plan them, so if you’ve RSVP-ed to an themed party, it’s your duty to follow the theme as closely as possible. Using two common baby shower themes, we've come up with a foolproof list of how you can curate a perfectly themed baby shower outfit!

Styling for a baby shower. (5)

The Countryside Baby Shower

The key pieces:

  • Sunglasses: Great for protecting your eyes and elevating any ensemble, sunglasses are absolute must-haves for any outdoor baby shower.
  • Wide brim hat: As another form of sun protection, wide brim hats are the perfectly rustic finishing touch for the countryside baby shower outfit.
  • Crochets: As a pattern and material, there’s just something about crochets that feels soft and natural. Incorporating a crochet skirt or a pair of crochet earrings is a surefire recipe for style success.

The All-White Baby Shower

The key pieces:

  • Lace: White lace is a must-have material for an all-white baby shower. No matter what garment you’re after, you’ll likely be able to find a white lace jumpsuit, skirt, maxi dress, or pantsuit without much effort.
  • Simple jewelry: Typically when the dress code calls for a one-color scheme, it’s almost instinctual to want to add another color into the mix. Keep your accessories dialed down by choosing diamond, rhinestone, pearl, or similarly understated jewels.
  • Washable shoes: Wearing white shoes is a cute decision, but it usually means you’ll have to keep a careful watch on where you step. A pair of machine washable whites will allow you to focus on the celebration rather than the cleanliness of your precious soles.
Styling for a baby shower. (2024)

FAQs

Styling for a baby shower.? ›

Unless otherwise specified by the host, you can absolutely wear white to a baby shower. In fact, light and bright colours are generally preferred. Neutrals, vibrant hues, and pastel shades are perfect for baby showers. Dark colours, on the other hand, are best avoided.

What is appropriate attire to wear to a baby shower? ›

All things considered, comfort should be your biggest priority. Many moms choose a flowy dress to accessorize, or if dresses aren't your thing, go with some dressy pants or a skirt.

How do I look good at a baby shower? ›

Baby Shower Outfit Ideas

Maybe a pair of comfy pants? It depends on the season, party theme, culture and of course – whatever makes YOU feel the most beautiful. Baby showers are less formal than other events, so choose outfits with pops of color, feminine silhouettes, or fun prints!

What to wear to a baby shower as a guest in 2024? ›

For a semi-formal or dressy baby shower, elevate your style while maintaining a tasteful and sophisticated look. Opt for a knee-length dress or a stylish blouse paired with tailored pants or a skirt. Consider more refined fabrics such as lace, silk, or chiffon to add a touch of elegance.

What is the etiquette for baby showers? ›

Never show up to a baby shower without a gift in hand! That being said, you're not required to buy a gift from the registry. Feel free to shop around and choose any special gift for the new little one (and their mommy!).

Is there a color you should not wear to a baby shower? ›

For guests, we recommend avoiding black and other dark colours unless the invitation calls for it. Your safest bet is to go with softer colours, which signify joy and celebration.

What to wear to a baby shower that isn't a dress? ›

18 Casual and Dressy Outfits to Wear to a Baby Shower
  • 1 Jeans and a blazer.
  • 2 Sweater dress and boots.
  • 3 Midi skirt and a blouse.
  • 4 Leggings and a long sweater.
  • 5 Silk skirt and a cropped sweater.
  • 6 Velvet dress and heels.
  • 7 Jeans and a knit sweater.
  • 8 Slacks and a plaid blazer.

Do people dress up for baby showers? ›

There are no set rules for baby shower outfits, so unless the invite says otherwise, you're basically free to wear whatever you fancy and feel the most comfortable in. You'll still want to find out where the 'do will be taking place, though, as some venues will automatically require you to be a bit more put-together.

What shoes to wear to a baby shower? ›

A dress and casual shoes makes an easy baby shower guest outfit. A dress is often my go-to for events like this. If you wear with a pair of casual shoes, like a slip on sandal, and then pair with a casual jacket, you'll feel comfortable whether the dress code is a little more casual or dressy.

Which Colour is good for baby shower? ›

well traditionally, if the baby is a girl the color used will be shades of light pink. If the baby is a boy, the colors used will be light, sky, or powder blue. Nowadays, you can use light green, lemon yellow, or even peach. Pastel colors work best depending on your theme.

Can you wear jeans to a baby shower as a guest? ›

If the event is at an upscale restaurant, you'll want to wear a party dress with a longer hem or tailored suit separates, but if it's a casual or co-ed shower at someone's home, it's probably fine to wear jeans and a chic sweater.

Do you give a gift if you host a baby shower? ›

Baby shower party favors.

You don't have to offer these, but giving the guests a few small, inexpensive trinkets can be a nice thing to do. Some ideas include tasty treats (like chocolates or themed candy), pretty soap or small potted plants.

Is it expected to bring a gift to a baby shower? ›

Most guests will bring a gift to the baby shower, however most people prefer presence over presents. Some attendees may choose to wait until after the baby is born to give something for mum or baby and others may choose not to give at all. It's up to you if you wish to give a gift and how much you want to spend.

Who typically pays for a baby shower? ›

Who Traditionally Pays for a Baby Shower? The hostess traditionally pays for the baby shower and its associated costs. However, the hostess can divide up the responsibility and costs by asking a few close family members or friends to co-host.

How to decorate for a baby shower? ›

While party themes are not required, an inventive and thoughtful aesthetic that speaks to the personality of the parents-to-be and makes your gathering even more festive. Choose bright colors, pretty flower arrangements, fun balloon displays, and a coordinated palette to pull your theme together.

What comes first at a baby shower? ›

What Happens at a Baby Shower?
TimeActivity
10:00Greeting guests, serving snacks or hors d'oeuvres, playing casual games like guessing the date of birth or gender
10:30Welcome and interactive games
11:30Lunch or desserts
12:30Gifts
2 more rows
Aug 20, 2023

Is it okay to wear black to a baby shower? ›

Wearing black at a baby shower was once seen as quite a morbid fashion choice, given the bright and joyful spirit of the party, and was viewed almost as a bad omen. Yet, while many people are quick to relate black occasionwear to funerals and mourning, this superstition is now mostly outdated.

Can you wear a long dress to a baby shower? ›

Smart-casual dresses and floral or maxi dresses should complement the proceedings nicely if it's a casual gathering at home or a garden event.

Do guys dress up for baby shower? ›

A baby shower guest outfit doesn't have to be fancy for men. A nice button-down shirt or polo is perfectly acceptable paired with khakis or dark jeans. If the baby shower takes place during the day, you can even get away with wearing a sports coat. It may help if you avoid anything too casual, like shorts or a t-shirt.

Can I wear a short dress to my baby shower? ›

Of course, if you're throwing a spring baby shower or something more in the middle of summer, a mini dress or co*cktail dress may be your best bet. I hope the variety of baby shower outfit ideas below helps you to find a style that you love.

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