The most exciting part of wedding planning is choosing the bridal gown. There are many opportunities to show off your style, from the engagement party through to the wedding ceremony. Even if you’re not planning a big party to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with friends and family, you can still wear a stylish outfit that shows off your bridal status.
Fashion rules are not strictly enforced at an engagement party. This is the perfect opportunity to experiment with your outfit. If you’ve had your eye on a metallic ensemble or a two-piece beaded set, then don’t hesitate to wear them for an impressive look at your engagement party. For those who like more traditional options, halter gowns, floral minis or pantsuits are all bridal-worthy. When choosing an outfit, you can use the time and location of your engagement party to guide you.
We’ve selected our favorites from the Spring 2020 bridal collections to help plan your perfect engagement party outfit.
Bow Embellishments
Markarian, Courtesy
This midi dress by Markarian is perfect for a brunch engagement party. This design is full of sweet details, like the bow belt and satin shoulder ties. Keep your accessories simple for a semi-casual occasion with slingback heeled shoes and stud earrings.
Wrap Dress
Savannah Miller
What’s a party without streamers, anyway? Of course, chiffon straps. Savannah Miller’s white satin mini dress is an elegant choice for any engagement party. But it isn’t without intrigue. Wrap-style bodice and statement straps combine to create an ethereal bridal outfit that will have you twirling all night on the dancefloor.
Lace Dress
Alejandra Rojas, Courtesy
A classic lace gown is a great choice for any wedding event. This Alejandra Rojas dress has long sleeves, a floor-sweeping skirt and asymmetrical ruching for a modest yet sultry look. If you want to amp up the sultry look, choose a version that has a corset or mini-length bodice.
A Sequin dress
Markarian, Courtesy
The mini dress is a classic party outfit, especially when it’s covered in sequins or beaded embellishments. This version by Markarian is a great example. A sequin mini dress will set the tone for your entire bridal look, whether you are hosting a cocktail or formal dinner.
A Slip Dress
Courtesy and Honor
While a slip dress is comfortable and sleek, it still has a lot of impact for an engagement party. If you are looking for something more unique than an ivory slip dress, this satin slip by Honor is perfect. The glitter tulle and bow embellishments add drama to an otherwise simple silhouette.
Halter Dress
Savannah Miller
If the dress code for your engagement party is black tie then you should choose a halter-style gown with a backless design. Savannah Miller’s design is elegant and versatile. You can customize it with your own accessories. Bold brides may choose platform heels and chandelier earrings, while classic tastes might prefer pearl studs or ivory pumps.
Metallic Dress
George Chinsee/WWD/Getty Images
The engagement party is the perfect time to change up your look since most of your wedding outfits will be in white. Silver dresses are elegant yet ultra-glamorous, especially when they feature ivory floral embellishments. This Ines Di Santo midi dress is a perfect example. Style yours with matching earrings and gold heels to add even more drama.
A Structured Silhouette
George Chinsee/WWD via Getty Images
You have the right to be noticed as a bride. This ivory mini dress from Bronx & Banco is sure to make a statement. The beaded embellishments of the bell-shaped skirt are immediately noticeable, but the pointed straps on the shoulder take the look to a new level. Accessorize the structured silhouette with simple ankle strap heels.
Two-Piece Set
Milla Nova, Courtesy
For the bride who wants to be different, wear a two piece, such as this one from Milla Nova for your engagement party. The combination of an ivory maxi skirt and a corset-style top is reminiscent of bridal wear, but it’s still fun and trendy. You can accessorize it with bold accessories like a tennis neckerchief and platform heels.
A Floral Dress
Viktor&Rolf
Are you planning an engagement party for spring or summer this year? A floral dress can be a fun and chic option. Viktor&Rolf’s design has a high neckline that adds sophistication to the mini silhouette.
A Tea Length Dress
Tanner Fletcher
A tea-length dress is a great option if you want a classic silhouette. Tanner Fletcher’s dress with ruffled trim emphasizes its cropped hemline. The ivory color gives it a vintage vibe. Accessorize this vintage look with pearl drop earrings and satin or tulle glove.
A dress with an off-the-Shoulder
Lela Rose, Courtesy
When it comes to casual engagement parties, you don’t need to sacrifice style. A mini dress with an off-the shoulder is perfect for a poolside party or backyard soirée. This Lela Rose dress is a great example. It’s chic, and you can style it with anything from block heels to flat, strappy, sandals for a bridal look.
A Dress with Cap Sleeves
Andrew Kwon
As a bride, sometimes simple and chic are all you need. Andrew Kwon’s sleek design has cap sleeves, a high neckline and an open back. It is a simple yet elegant look. Accessorize the dress with white pumps and cluster earrings.
A Fringe Dress
Alejandra Rojas, Courtesy
We love the idea that a boho look would be perfect for an engagement party on the beach. The midi-length silhouette is elevated with a bustier bodice and fringed skirt. This outfit can be easily repurposed. The look can be finished with a white scarf and footwear that is beach-friendly, such as wedges or sandals.
A Corset dress
George Chinsee/WWD via Getty Images
Corset dresses are a great option for brides looking to achieve a vintage style with the perfect amount of sex. This mini dress by Ines di Santo is surprisingly covered and romantic with its floral embellishments. Dress it down in ballet flats, or go all out with crystal-embellished high heels.
A Suit Set
Danielle Frankel
The jumpsuit may be the dress of choice for brides but we prefer a stylish suit set. Danielle Frankel elevated this formal look with pleats, a satin finish on the pencil skirt, and blazer. To finish the look, swap a shirt with a lariat neckpiece.