The days are slowly getting longer. Between the sounds of the baby birds chirping and new buds breaking through the earth, this can only mean one thing. Spring is in the air and we are gladly moving out of the cold and into the warmth. One of the best ways to celebrate the season of all things new is with a whimsical garden party. We know you love your athleisure, but tuck it away for a day. It’s time to get dressed up again. Ladies, are you wondering what garden party attire is? Here are all the delicate details to ensure you dress to impress at your next garden gathering. 

What Is Garden Party Attire?

Women’s garden party attire includes everything from feminine and flirty dresses and skirts to polished and elegant jumpsuits and pantsuits. But, before we dive into what women’s garden party attire is all about, let’s envision the backdrop. Picture a lush green backyard setting with full floral centerpieces adorning tables set on a cobblestone patio. Tea lights hanging from mature trees cast a soft light backlit by a blanket of stars. Faint music drifts in the air as you surround yourself with good company and conversation. For this idyllic setting, you’ll want your ensemble to be just as magical. 

Reach for polished, elevated and refined attire for your garden party. These outdoor gatherings can range from casual to formal, so pay special attention to the dress code on the invite. Hosting a backyard bash? Be sure to outline how you would like your guests to dress. While garden parties are occasions to dress up, be mindful of insects, dirt and grass stains. Don’t let these unintended party guests bug you. You’ll barely notice them at this springtime soiree. 

Formal Garden Party Attire

If there is any type of garden party attire that is not up to interpretation, it would be the formal occasion. Leave the short skirts, crisp denim and rompers tucked away in your closet and choose longer dresses and pantsuits instead. A-line dresses that sway on a breezy evening are universally flattering. A chic, sleek pantsuit is another amazing option for formal garden party attire. Opt for a lighter color like a graceful grey blouse and slip a lace trim cami underneath. A slim ankle pant elongates your leg line when paired with a pointed toe pump. Or, let loose in a slouchy wide-leg pant in a luxe fabrication. Play with color by picking a sun-kissed saffron clutch to tuck away your garden party necessities. Now you are ready to mingle late into the evening. 

Garden Party Cocktail Attire

Parties that list cocktail attire as the required dress code are truly the most versatile. Not quite sure what garden party cocktail attire is? Well, the style hits that sweet spot between business casual and semi-formal wear. Dresses, jumpsuits, rompers, skirts and blouse combos are all on the shortlist for what to wear. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. Spring is a time of new beginnings and the same can be said for your garden party attire. Take these staples to new heights by paying special attention to fine features and springtime hues. 

Delight in the Details

Refresh your style for the season and seek out silhouettes with unique detailing. Search for garden party cocktail attire separates in crisp cotton with eyelet lace or poplin fabric. Dresses with an eyelet overlay or structured tops constructed with poplin add a spring vibe to your look. Wondering what else to look out for? Ruffles and ruching on tops, skirts and dresses or soft sweater tops with open-stitch patterns add a touch of texture. When deciding what garden party attire to wear, consider a tiered or ruffled cottagecore trend-inspired midi skirt. Pair with a satin cami, a pointelle cardigan and accessorize with a string of on-trend and modern pearls. Pearl jewelry adds elegance and grace to your ensemble. It’s a harmonious combination of casual and elevated to energize your springtime celebratory look. 

Paint a Perfect Party Picture in Pastels

Spring 2022 is about all things positively purple, so pick this hue as you decide on your garden party attire. A lavender skirt paired with a white lace-adorned top is a lovely option for an outdoor affair. Reach for any type of skirt—from mini to midi to maxi. Alternatively, choose a violet gingham top to pair with desert sand-hued wide-leg pants and sky-high shoes. Other colors you should consider this spring season? Pastels like blush or light blue are lush colors that will look lively against a garden backdrop. 

Casual Garden Party Attire

While most garden parties require dressier garb, there’s no rule that says you can’t attend or host a casual gathering. Do you love to wear denim on the daily, or are eager to wear a pair of silky jogger pants? You get the green light to wear them as casual garden party attire. If denim is on your must-wear list, try a denim jacket over a cute knit dress. Invite your sneakers to the party as well. Wear them with white jeans and a coordinating cardigan set. You’ll look and feel lighthearted as you enjoy the spring festivities. 

What Garden Party Attire To Wear to a Wedding

A garden party is a paradisiacal setting for an intimate backyard wedding. If you’ve received an invitation and are unsure what to wear to a garden party wedding, let’s break it down. Outdoor events call for a little more preplanning. First and foremost, you’ll want to check the weather. If the forecast calls for sunny, warm weather, keep things light and airy. If a brisk bite lingers, reach for layers to keep you cozy. Shackets are an on-trend option for casual parties or go for a textured teddy bear jacket to dress up. 

Now that we’ve got your layers covered, let’s talk about your kicks. Avoid stiletto-type shoes and pick sandals or flats. This ensures your heels don’t sink into the grass. Prefer to elevate your garden party wedding attire (literally)? Choose a pair of wedges. Here are other style suggestions to consider for a romantic garden party wedding. 

Rock a Romantic Romper

Dresses are synonymous with garden party attire, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have other equally beautiful alternatives. Consider a romper or jumpsuit to refresh your wedding guest look. Sometimes rompers err on the side of casual, so choose a luxurious fabric like silk that adds a sophisticated aesthetic. If it’s cold outside, or for an evening garden party, choose a breezy jumpsuit instead. Structured fabrics offer substance to your jumpsuit for a polished effect. Wrap up your look with chunky heeled sandals, and don’t forget jewelry to add a little shine to your look. Raise your glass to cheer for the happy couple (and your amazing ensemble).

Flourish in Floral Prints

Backyard florals and joyful blooms are perennial favorites and on-trend for spring 2022 fashion. These power prints pack a punch when adorned on your wedding garden party attire. Think micro-florals reimagined and bold floral prints in trending spring hues. Selecting one of these prints is a must-do when deciding what to wear to a garden party. Try them on fit and flare dresses or tiered midi and boho-inspired maxi dresses. Do floral prints induce an allergic reaction? If you have an aversion to blossoming patterns, you’ll look just as delightful in ginghams and subtle stripes. 

Ready to revamp your garden party attire for the spring? Take your style quiz, schedule a Fix and let our expert stylists do the rest of the work. Sit back and relax while you wait for your curated Fix to arrive at your doorstep. Try on your clothes from the comfort of home, keep what you want and return the rest. If you prefer, head over to Stitch Fix Freestyle™ to instantly buy garden party attire. Shipping, exchanges and returns are on us. Always.