What Does a Garden Party Dress Code Mean?

Published on August 22, 2024

Couple wearing light grey suit and green velvet dress for fall outdoor wedding

The Garden Party Dress Code, At a Glance

When it comes to social gatherings, garden parties hold a special charm. They blend the beauty of the outdoors with the elegance of a social event, creating a delightful setting for mingling, celebrating, and enjoying nature. But with this unique setting comes a less common dress code. Understanding what garden party attire entails can help you dress appropriately and confidently for these occasions. Let's explore the nuances of garden party dress codes, from cocktail to formal, and how to nail the perfect look for any garden event.

What Is Garden Party Attire?

Garden party outfits typically strike a balance between casual and elegant. It’s about looking polished while staying cool and comfortable in an outdoor setting. Similar to beach wedding attire, the key elements of garden party attire often include light fabrics, vibrant colors, and floral patterns that complement the natural surroundings. While you can certainly go for darker colors, you’ll want to keep the weather in mind and at least try to find breathable materials like a great-looking blend (think Eco Stretch fabric), cotton, linen, or seersucker.

If suits aren’t your style, floral-patterned dresses pair well with the overall vibe and your suited-up friends.

Colorful suits for outdoor event with man in pastel blue suit and woman in orange suit

What is a Garden Party?

Garden parties are versatile events that can be tailored to various occasions, each with its own unique flair. Here are some common types of garden parties and what they typically entail:

Afternoon Tea Parties: These are often more formal garden parties, featuring an assortment of teas, finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones. Guests are usually expected to dress elegantly. Light, airy fabrics, and pastel colors usually fit the dress code.
Weddings and Wedding Showers: The dress code for garden or outdoor wedding events can vary from formal or semi-formal to smart casual, depending on the theme. Floral dresses, light suits, and refined accessories are popular choices.
Birthday Parties: Garden birthday celebration dress codes depend on the person’s preferences, but you might go for something on the more casual end like a nice shirt and dress pants or shorts.
Corporate Events: Some companies opt for garden settings for their corporate gatherings or networking events. The dress code here leans towards business casual, with an emphasis on dress shirts and chinos. Take it up a notch with a light suit if the event seems more formal like an awards ceremony or reception.

When to Wear Garden Party Attire

Garden parties can vary greatly in their level of formality and purpose. Here are a few common types of garden parties and the appropriate attire for each:

Weddings: As mentioned, garden weddings leverage a beautiful backdrop and require a blend of formal and outdoor-friendly attire.
Tea Parties: Often more formal, tea parties call for polished, elegant outfits.
Charity Events: These events can range from semi-formal to formal, so it’s best to err on the side of sophistication and, of course, follow any stated dress codes.
Birthday Celebrations: Depending on the birthday person's preferences, these can be casual or semi-formal.
Casual Get-Togethers: These are the most relaxed and allow for smart casual attire.

Black tie garden wedding bride and groom smiling in front of rose wall

Types of Garden Party Dress Codes

For relaxed garden parties without a more specific dress code suggested, such as birthday celebrations or casual get-togethers, you have a little more freedom to express your personal style but you’ll still want to keep the setting in mind. Think smart casual: a polo shirt or a button-down shirt with rolled-up sleeves, paired with khakis or dress shorts. You might even throw on some fashionable sneakers to dress it down a bit. Not sure where to start? Everyday suit styles styles are perfect for a more laid-back ensemble with plenty of room to mix and match.

For events that lean towards the more formal end of the spectrum, such as high tea parties or sophisticated charity events, stick closer to formal dress code wear. Think of it as a step below black-tie but still very polished. This is where color choices and materials will be your best friend in making sure you’re balancing formality, style, and comfort.

A light-colored suit, such as tan, light grey, or pastel shades, paired with a crisp white dress shirt. A tie or bow tie is optional but can add a touch of formality. Consider loafers or dress shoes that are comfortable enough for standing on grass. Pant suits are a great option for all and offers both style and comfort, especially when working with more colorful shades that match nicely with the floral environment—a women's teal suit is a fantastic choice. for example.

Garden cocktail attire is less formal than garden formal attire but still sophisticated enough for evening events or upscale gatherings. As with the more traditional cocktail dress code, garden cocktail attire, you might opt for a blazer paired with chinos or dress pants. A dress shirt with an open collar works well, or you can add a tie for a more polished look. Loafers or smart casual shoes are ideal to pull it all together.

Garden weddings are increasingly popular, and it's easy to understand why, what with the romantic and picturesque setting they promise. Garden party wedding attire combines the formality of wedding attire with the relaxed vibe of a garden party—the best of both worlds!

A suit in light colors like tan, light blue, or light grey are great choices, but garden weddings can get creative. Pair it with a dress shirt and consider adding a floral tie or pocket square to tie in the garden theme. As with any outdoor event, but especially garden parties, be sure to choose footwear that you can wear comfortably on grass and soft surfaces. Leather loafers or dress shoes work best here.

Garden Party Attire Styling Tips

Layer wisely: Since garden parties are held outdoors, the weather can be unpredictable. Bring a light cardigan, shawl, or blazer that complements your outfit. Because garden parties will be held in the warmer months, you don’t want to overdo layers or choose pieces you can’t easily take off.
Choose practical footwear: Avoid stilettos or any footwear that could easily get stuck in the grass. Also, keep in mind the level of formality and ditch the sandals for a pair of dress shoes or sneakers.
Accessorize thoughtfully: Accessories should enhance your outfit without overpowering it. Garden parties are all about beauty, but keeping accessories to a tasteful minimum is best. Think sunglasses, floral ties, pocket squares, and subtle jewelry.

Rust suit color with simple white accessories

Man wearing dark green suit with garden print tie and pocket square holding party cocktail

Seasonal Garden Party Attire

While spring and summer are prime garden party times, you may still find yourself amongst the greenery year-round. The season can significantly influence your garden party outfit choices.

Spring Garden Parties

Spring garden parties are often marked by blooming flowers and mild weather. Light layers are advisable, as the temperature can fluctuate. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, and consider incorporating floral patterns and pastel colors to reflect the season's fresh vibe.

Summer Garden Parties

Summer garden parties call for the lightest, most breathable fabrics. Linen, cotton, and seersucker are ideal. Short sleeves are your best bet but avoid dark colors that might absorb heat. Sun hats, sunglasses, and a nice watch are stylish and functional accessories.

Fall Garden Parties

Garden parties in autumn can be tricky as the weather starts to cool. Layers are key to battling that slight chill in the air. Earth tones and deeper colors like burgundy, forest green, and mustard are great choices for fall garden attire.

Winter Garden Parties

While rare, winter garden parties require warmth without compromising comfort or style. Choose heavier fabrics like wool or cashmere. Layering is crucial, so think turtlenecks under blazers or a suit with an overcoat. Darker, richer colors work well for winter settings.

Women's white tuxedo for bridal outfit at garden party wedding

Embracing the Elegance of Garden Party Attire

Understanding the dress code for a garden party ensures you look appropriate and stylish while enjoying the outdoors. From formal gatherings to casual get-togethers, choosing the right outfit for a garden party is all about balancing comfort with elegance. So next time you receive an invitation to a garden party, you'll know exactly what to wear to impress while staying comfortable. And don’t forget to stop and smell the roses!

Nathaniel Longmore

Nate, a former SuitShop groom, is a writer by passion and trade. When he's not typing away from a local coffee shop, you can find him hiking the trails or searching the racks of a thrift store.