What to Wear to a Baby Shower: Outfit Ideas for Guests

The default: smart-casual

Unless the invitation says otherwise, smart-casual hits the mark for almost every baby shower. Think a pretty dress, a blouse with tailored trousers or a skirt, or a comfortable jumpsuit. You want to look put-together but be able to sit on a sofa, reach for the grazing board and join in a game without fuss.

Read the invitation first

The invite often gives you everything you need. Look for:

• A theme or colour scheme — some hosts ask guests to wear a shade that matches the decor.
• The venue — a garden party, a restaurant and a living-room afternoon call for slightly different outfits.
• The time of day — brunch showers tend to be a touch more relaxed than an evening one.

Dress for the venue and season

For an outdoor or garden shower, choose breathable fabrics and flat or block-heeled shoes that won’t sink into grass. For a restaurant, lean slightly smarter. In summer, light dresses and sandals; in winter, layer with a nice cardigan or blazer you can keep on indoors.

What to avoid

• Anything too formal — a full gown will feel out of place at an afternoon shower.
• Overly revealing outfits — showers are usually multi-generational family events.
• White or ivory, if there’s any chance of upstaging the guest of honour — some prefer to leave the spotlight to her.
• Brand-new, untested shoes — you’ll be on your feet more than you expect.

If you’re the guest of honour

Comfort comes first. A stretchy bump-friendly dress in a fabric that breathes, with shoes you can wear for hours, will let you enjoy your own party. Many parents-to-be choose a colour they love for the photos — this is your day to feel good.