Style Guide: What To Wear To A Garden Party

Spring is in full bloom, and what better way to enjoy all that the season has to offer than a beautiful garden party?! This week we are covering everything, from etiquette to what to wear, for all of the fabulous spring soirées adorning your social schedule.  

GARDEN PARTY GENERAL DRESS CODE

Traditional UK garden parties are held between 4-8 pm and are pretty formal events. Fancy hat anyone?! But anywhere else in the world, the schedule and dress code tend to be much lighter. Essentially, all you need is the sun in the sky, a pretty dress and some tasty snacks. Here are some general fashion Do's and Don'ts to keep in mind:

A garden party is about as far away from the club as it gets, so leave the mini skirt + stilettos combo at home. I'm all about glam, but for this occasion try not to go overboard with blingy accessories.  

The Fashion Container Garden Party Style Inspiration
PHOTO CREDIT: FASHION CONTAINER
@FASHIONCONTAINER

 

Loose, flowing fabrics are a great way to stay cool since the spring sun can get a little toasty. That being said, pastels, whites and primary colors are key. We all know how much I love black-on-black, but leave your dark hues at home for an outdoor get together. If you're a neutrals addict like me, try wearing white or cream. 

Maria Tettamanti The Wordy Girl Garden Party Style Inspiration
PHOTO CREDIT: THE WORDY GIRL
@MARIATETTAMANTI

 

It may not be summer yet, but that doesn't mean the sun won't be shining. Don't forget to bring a chic hat, sunglasses and your go-to SPF!

PHOTO CREDIT: FIT FAB FUN MOM
@FITFABFUNMOM

 

Now that we've got the basics covered, here are some outfit ideas that will have you shining as brightly as the spring sun! 

  

GARDEN PARTY PASTELS AND WARM SHADES

Wearing lighter colors will keep you cool during outdoor events. Definitely add some rose quartz or serenity blue (in lace or silk) into your closet and pair them with neutral toned accessories. A monochromatic look in one of these favorite spring colors is the definition of chic!! 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Fashion and Frills
PHOTO CREDIT: FASHION AND FRILLS
@FASHIONANDFRILLS
Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Garden Party Dresses in Pastel and Warm Shades | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. NEEDLE & THREAD Maxi Skirt 2. EQUIPMENT Washed-silk Tank 3. STELLA VALLE Crystal Ring 4. ELIZABETH AND JAMES Ring 5. MICHAEL KORS Bracelet Watch 6. ELIZABETH AND JAMES Stud Earrings 7. MEL BOTERI Matte Gold Emmy Convertible Clutch 8. VALENTINO Pointy Toe Pump

 

GARDEN PARTY LACE

The femininity of a lace dress makes them the perfect option for this occasion. Caitlin's adorable dress is a great example of a style I will be adding to my closet soon, since it can easily be paired with my favorite pop of color accessories.

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Southern Curls and Pearls
PHOTO CREDIT: SOUTHERN CURLS AND PEARLS
@CMCOVING
Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Garden Party Dresses in Lace | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. MICHAEL KORS Mini Dress 2. ALEXIS BITTAR Tassel Drop Earrings 3. JULES SMITH Rings 4. ROBERTO CAVALLI Sunglasses 5. BP. Stone Cuff 6. CARVEN Chain Link Bracelet 7. MEL BOTERI Sunglow Yellow Coco Small Shoulder Bag - Python 8. TRINA TURK Stone Ring 9. STUART WEITZMAN Sandals

 

GARDEN PARTY FLORALS

It doesn't get much more literal for a garden party than a flower power dress! Luckily this print is very on trend at the moment, so don't hesitate to be bold and try one at your next event. Jenny's dress is a great combination of 70s throwback and modern chic. 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Margo and Me
PHOTO CREDIT: MARGO AND ME
@MARGOANDME
Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Garden Party Dresses in Floral Prints | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. ZIMMERMANN Floral Mini Dress 2. DIOR ADDICT Ultra-Gloss Lip 3. GLADYS TAMEZ Straw Boater Hat 4. NADRI Zirconia Ring 5. MEL BOTERI Rose Quartz Pink, Pebbled Leather Watson Tote 6. BADGLEY MISCHKA Pump

 

GARDEN PARTY PANTS

If you're not a fan of dresses, you shouldn't wear one just to follow a garden party dress code. Instead try a pair of loose dress pants in a light, neutral shade. But stay away from denim so as to not break code. Take a style cue from Jessie's look below, which is party perfection! 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Seams for a Desire
PHOTO CREDIT: SEAMS FOR A DESIRE
@JESSIEKASS
Dress Code: What to Wear to a Garden Party | Pants in Garden Party Outfits | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. STELLA MCCARTNEY Wide-leg Pants 2. ROLAND MOURET Asymmetric Top 3. MAISON MARGIELA Zirconia Ring 4. ISABEL MARANT Quartz Ring 5. ELIZABETH AND JAMES Stud Earrings 6. MEL BOTERI Pretty Pastel Aarti Cocktail Clutch 7. CORNELIA WEBB Necklaces 8. MANOLO BLAHNIK Pointy Toe Pump

Whether you are invited to a garden party or are throwing one yourself, follow these tips and your style will be set!

I always love hearing from you so please feel free to leave your comments or feedback below. And, if you have any friends that might find this advice helpful, please be sure to post, tweet or pin using our easy share buttons ;)

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