You'll steal the show in one of these fashion-forward looks.
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Let's raise a toast to your engagement—and to looking amazing at the party. It's your day (well, the first of many) and you deserve a special engagement party outfit that makes you feel like a bride. As a little prewedding gift to you, we're sharing the latest and greatest engagement party dresses on the market. They're all here and ready to shop, but act fast, 'cause we have a hunch these styles will sell out… the best ones always do.
But first, what makes a great engagement dress, anyway? When it comes to what to wear to your engagement party, it really depends on the specific event (think: the venue and season)—and, of course, your personal style. We've included both casual and formal options (for backyard BBQs and fancy dinners alike), as well as a mix of traditional white dresses and some colorful picks for a little variety. That said, you set the rules and the dress code, so wear whatever you're most comfortable wearing!
In this article:
- White Engagement Party Dresses
- Colorful Engagement Party Dresses
White Engagement Party Dresses
Looking to test drive wedding white? This engagement party attire will make you feel like a bride well before your walk down the aisle. (It'll also make it even easier to find you in the party crowd.) We've pulled plentiful options to get you started—from short, simple engagement dresses to long, sophisticated styles. Now, let's impress those guests!
Reformation Nikita Dress in Ivory
We're starting off with a white engagement dress that has a fitted bodice, a ruffled neckline and an elegant trumpet skirt. What's not to love? Style it with nude heels or heeled sandals, colorful jewelry and a rattan bag to tie everything together.
ELLIATT Harley Dress in Ivory
This cute engagement party dress brings all the drama. The fun, feathery neckline is so on trend for 2022. Plus, we're fans of the adjustable spaghetti straps and sleek silhouette. You'll love greeting guests and taking pictures in this unique engagement party outfit.
Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Midi Dress in Ivory Luxe Satin
Show Me Your Mumu transformed their best-selling halter maxi into a midi dress—and we're obsessed. You'll feel effortlessly classy in the elegantly draped fabric and beautiful open-back design. Add some nice jewelry and strappy heels or mules for a glamorous engagement party outfit.
Lulus All My Adoration Lace Halter Shift Dress in White
Here's another gorgeous halter engagement dress, this time with the sweetest short silhouette. The floral lace embellishments and sleeveless bodice make it a memorable outdoor spring engagement outfit. To complement the mini length, add bold statement earrings and tall strappy heels or boots.
Express Velvet Ruched-Side Asymmetrical Midi Dress in Moonlight
You'll adore the soft feel of this velvet midi engagement party dress. Not only will you look so dressy in the elegant long sleeves and ruched sides, but you'll also stay super warm in the cozy fabric throughout your event. And did you see that subtle slit down the side?
Banana Republic Off-the-Shoulder Sweater Dress in Transition Cream White
A sweater dress is a foolproof option if your engagement party falls during a chillier month. With an off-the-shoulder boat neck and minimalist silhouette, this simple engagement outfit still makes a statement. Accessorize with gold jewelry, neutral pumps and a sparkly purse for extra oomph.
Zimmermann Rosa Button-Detailed Linen Midi Dress in Ivory
While there are plenty of elegant engagement dresses on the market, this linen midi dress is one of our favorite outfits for the bride-to-be. The billowy puff sleeves and scalloped trim are really romantic details. Better yet, the lightweight fabric will keep you cool in warmer weather. Add strappy heels, gold jewelry and a simple clutch for a put-together engagement party look.
ELOQUII Off-the-Shoulder Jersey Dress in Soft White
We're all for the sleek fit of this white engagement dress. The sophisticated off-the-shoulder neckline and long sleeves balance out the sexiness of the front cutout. Statement earrings, a cute clutch and nude or sparkly stilettos will complete your engagement party outfit.
ASTR The Label Pacoima Ruffle Pointelle Mini Dress in White
If you'd rather slip on a short engagement dress, what about this ultra-chic mini? It has a stylish square neckline, romantic puff sleeves and a classy buttoned bodice. And who could forget that lovely handkerchief skirt? For styling inspo, try delicate jewelry, simple sandals and a small clutch.
Amsale Sleeveless Tiered Tulle Midi Dress in Ivory
Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw with this statement-making tulle midi dress. The pleated, tiered design is undeniably fun, and the satin tank-top straps are perfect for a spring or summer engagement party. You're more than welcome to accessorize with bright pops of color!
Reformation Twilight Dress in Portofino
You'll wow family and friends in this cute engagement dress that's covered in chic polka dots. The dreamy design includes tie straps, a fitted bodice and an elegant leg slit. Try colorful sandals, bold jewelry and a rattan bag to contrast the timeless black and white pattern.
Boohoo Plus Occasion Lace Contrast Midi Dress in Cream
This off-white lace engagement dress is a great choice for a formal engagement event. It has beautiful sheer sleeves, a sweet waist tie and a flowy midi skirt. Heighten the look with special accessories, like a shimmery hairpiece.
Reformation Maegan Midi Sundress in Roquefort
White and blue is one of our all-time favorite bridal color combos. With beautiful flowery stripes and lightweight linen fabric, you'll look forward to wearing this casual engagement party outfit in the summertime. Add neutral heels or mule slides, simple jewelry and a stylish sun hat if your party is outdoors.
Payal Jain Archer Mini Dress in Off White
You'll adore the botanical accents on this gorgeous mini engagement party dress. The high neckline adds elegance, while the 3D floral embellishments really give it that timeless bridal feel. Accessorize with glittery earrings and statement stilettos for a party-ready look.
ELOQUII Flare-Sleeve Scuba Dress in White
This breathtaking engagement cocktail dress will surely turn heads. We're mesmerized by the form-fitted bodice, classy flare sleeves and sophisticated midi length. The simple style will pair well with gold or silver hoops and neutral-colored pumps.
Faithfull the Brand Janielle Midi Dress in Plain White
Minimalist brides-to-be, this white midi engagement dress is for you. It has a high neck, puff sleeves, a tiered skirt and two beautiful back bows. Plus, it's made with breathable linen fabric, so you'll feel comfortable throughout the event. Dress it up with strappy heels and dainty jewelry, or down with nude ballet flats.
Torrid Special Occasion Ivory Lace Off-the-Shoulder Bodycon Dress in Cloud Dancer
You'll get the perfect taste of classic bridal attire in this white lace engagement dress. With luxurious off-the-shoulder sleeves and a midi-length silhouette, you'll feel sexy and stylish in this engagement party outfit. It would look incredible with white or neutral pumps, silver accessories and an embellished headband.
City Chic Sweet Paradise Dress in Ivory
Okay, short puff sleeves are our new favorite thing! We adore how they look on this ivory engagement dress, especially as part of a dreamy off-the-shoulder neckline. The minimalist white design means you can go neutral with your accessories or experiment with color. You'll look incredible either way.
$99 | City Chic
Fame and Partners Tassiah Jumpsuit in Ivory
Engagement dresses aren't the only option for brides! You'll feel light and airy in this engagement party jumpsuit. We're swooning over the ruffled strapless neckline, functional pockets and breezy wide legs perfect for a night full of dancing. Wear it with shimmering statement jewelry, white or nude heeled sandals and an elegant clutch.
ELOQUII Split Back Blazer in Soft White
Looking for another comfortable engagement dress alternative? This white blazer engagement outfit is a refreshing and super-chic choice (peep the surprise split back!). Pair it with matching wide-leg trousers, colorful pumps and a stylish purse.
Colorful Engagement Party Dresses
You certainly aren't limited to white engagement party dresses—or white wedding dresses, for that matter! We've found engagement party outfits in lots of other popular colors and celebration-ready patterns. Keep scrolling to shop.
Abercrombie & Fitch Tie-Strap Babydoll Midaxi Dress in Dark Green
How beautiful would this midaxi dress look at your backyard engagement party? We're loving the stylish tie straps, plunging neckline and tiered skirt. Wedge sandals, a dainty necklace and a small woven bag would complement the simple silhouette nicely.
Quince Mongolian Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress in Heather Gray
You'll look chic and cozy in this long-sleeve engagement party dress. It's made with buttery-soft Grade-A cashmere for a luxurious wintertime outfit. We love the gray color, but the tan, black or navy would look just as cute. Add dangly earrings, a sleek belt and brown or black booties to finish the look.
Nasty Gal Plus-Size Fringe Detail Wrap Bridal Dress in Black
This plus-size engagement party dress isn't your average frilly frock—the black fringe trim offers some unexpected edge. Complete your celebratory outfit with a sparkly headpiece, delicate jewelry and black or nude pumps.
Hemant and Nandita Maya Maxi Dress in Pink & Lime
You'll feel like the star of the show in this boho engagement party dress. Between the lace-trim neckline, whimsical flutter sleeves and allover floral print, we've got major heart eyes. Pair the pink and green maxi with subtle jewelry and neutral-colored heels to complement the vibrant design.
Reformation Stevi Long-Sleeve Dress in Plum
You'll look oh-so-sophisticated in this long-sleeve midi engagement dress. The deep plum color is beautifully unique, while the high neckline, side slit and faux buttons exude elegance. Accessorize with glittery jewelry, strappy stilettos and a cute clutch for a standout engagement party outfit.
Faithfull the Brand Nolie Midi Dress in Plain Cornflower Blue
We're starry-eyed over this gorgeous blue engagement party dress. With an understated square neckline, shirred bodice, flowy skirt and pockets (score!), there's so much to love. For an effortless summer party look, incorporate gold jewelry, nude sandals and a chic woven bag.
ASOS DESIGN Curve Square Ruched-Neck Midi Dress in Black
Chances are, you'll be walking around a lot at your engagement party, and this black midi dress—made with lightweight, slightly stretchy fabric—is a great option for maximum comfort. We're also fans of the elegant square neckline, puff sleeves and slightly ruched bust.
LoveShackFancy x Liberty Natasha Dress in D'anjo
Here's a lovely engagement outfit for the bride that's entirely brunch-worthy. The pretty pink garment has a multicolor floral print, whimsical ruffles and a romantic tiered skirt. A few accessories, like simple earrings and nude heels, will complete the outfit.
Mara Hoffman Sara Organic Cotton Shift Dress in Multi
Embrace color with this breathtaking engagement dress that was made for receiving compliments. Aside from the vibrant design, it has an on-trend square neck, oversized short sleeves and a matching waist tie. To complement the bold colors, try statement earrings, black or nude heels and a neutral-colored clutch.
MANGO Floral Print Dress in Red
Here's another floral option as pretty as a bouquet. The romantic engagement party dress has an allover red-and-white botanical pattern, a refined crew neck and trendy ruffled straps. Add white sandals, simple jewelry and a light denim jacket in case it gets breezy.
Torrid Pleated Midi Dress in Chiffon Multi Stripe
Trust us: Everyone will ask you where you got this striped chiffon dress. The scoop neck, pleated skirt and functional pockets make it a total showstopper. Plus, the multicolor pattern is so celebratory. For accessories, consider cute hoop earrings and strappy heels.
Lulus Garden Bliss Cutout Maxi Dress in Dusty Lavender
Effortlessly elegant, this simple maxi gown is a modern engagement party dress you'll look forward to wearing. We love the light purple color for spring or summer, but if your event lands in the fall or winter, try Emerald or Burgundy. Dress it up with silver or gold accessories, metallic heels and a sparkly clutch.
FAQs
What do you wear to your engagement party? ›
Most engagements typically have a cocktail dress code, calling for dresses at, or slightly above, knee-length and high heels, but if you are the one choosing the venue, theme and dress code, you can choose whatever you want to wear.
What should a female guest wear to an engagement party? ›Engagement Party Attire for Women
For women, a go-to outfit is even easier: a dress works for almost any venue, season, and dress code, especially one in a neutral shade that can easily be dressed up or down. McKenna recommends a silk or satin slip midi dress in a neutral hue for most occasions.
For the guests
As an engagement party guest, the rule of thumb is to step away from wearing white, as that's probably what the bride-to-be will wear – and you don't want to take the attention off her! On the other hand, black is totally allowed, and it's a timeless, elegant, flattering, mysterious and sleek choice.
- Do: Figure out who will host the engagement party. ...
- Don't: Invite people you know won't be invited to the wedding. ...
- Don't: Assume you will—or won't—receive gifts. ...
- Do: Keep it casual. ...
- Don't: Save your parents' first meeting for the engagement party.
As mentioned before, engagement party gifts aren't always necessary, so you can remove any pressure from wondering what to give at an engagement party. However, it is common these days for guests to bring gifts to an engagement party. Usually something sentimental and small that the couple will appreciate.
What is etiquette for an engagement party? ›The traditional rules of etiquette dictate that guests invited to the engagement party should also be invited to the wedding. However, the guest list will likely be shorter. Often the idea is to make this a more intimate event than the wedding itself.
How much do I give for an engagement party? ›How much money do you give at an engagement party? The standard amount to give as a wedding gift is $100 to $200. Give less than this as an engagement party gift. Somewhere between $50 and $75 is appropriate.
Can you wear pants to an engagement party? ›Non-traditional outfits
In this case, you might not want to wear a dress for an engagement party. However, pants and top could feel better, shorts or even a jumpsuit.
Smart Casual – Pub, backyard, beach
Luckily, dressing for a smart causal engagement party is up to you and your style. An example outfit could consist of smart shorts or chinos, with a nice fitting button up shirt either patterned or plain. To finish your casual look pair back with a dress belt and dress shoes.
Answer: When it comes to your engagement party guest list, you should invite both sides of the families, any close friends, and wedding party members. You don't have to confirm your entire wedding party before you host an engagement party, but you should invite all potential wedding party members.
What are engagement colors? ›
Bright Yellow, Teal and Pink
Choose bright and pleasant colors for your engagement decoration at home, choose colors that brighten up any space, and instantly set the mood.
Engagement parties are typically smaller and are a more casual affair than weddings. You'll want to talk and mingle with all your loved ones, so don't invite so many guests that you feel overwhelmed or rushed to greet everyone. Keep it simple and invite close family and you and your partner's closest friends.
Does maid of honor help with engagement party? ›While the maid of honor doesn't usually plan the engagement party, rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner, she is usually in attendance at these events.
How much money do you give for a 2022 wedding gift? ›A typical wedding gift is around $100. The exact amount depends on your personal budget and relationship to the couple, among other factors. Aug. 18, 2022, at 4:18 p.m.
Should parents bring gift to engagement party? ›While engagement gifts from parents aren't required, they can be a special way to show your enthusiasm for the newly engaged couple as they kick off wedding planning.
Do you bring card or gift to engagement party? ›Nowadays, it's common for guests to bring a gift to an engagement party, but it's usually something small and sentimental. Don't feel pressured to give an elaborate or expensive item. If you wish to bring something, you can, but bring it to the gathering itself.
How long should engagement parties last? ›Engagement parties generally last about 4 hours only so plan for food and drink accordingly. Also, you don't need a fancy expensive cake like you'll want for your wedding. You can serve any dessert you like, no worries.
Who should pay for an engagement party? ›Who should pay for an engagement party? Tradition has largely dictated that the bride's parents host and pay for the engagement party. However, today's standards have slowly dated this rule. Now, many couples plan, host, and pay for their engagement party out of their own pocket.
What is considered dressy casual attire? ›What Is Dressy Casual Attire? Dressy casual attire (also called smart casual) is a combination of relaxed and refined pieces—think blouses, dress shirts, button-downs, dress pants, dark jeans, and clean shoes.
What happens at engagement party? ›What Happens at an Engagement Party? Speeches, toasts, love stories, some dancing, and fun questions happen at an engagement party. It's also an opportunity for families and friends to meet, have fun, and break the ice.
Can you wear a cream dress to an engagement party? ›
You'll also want to avoid off-white and cream hues. Clothes that are too casual. While you can dress down for more casual engagement party, you don't want to look sloppy.
How should I dress for an engagement party in the winter? ›"For women, my favorite casual outfit idea is a cozy sweater, jeans and your favorite heels. Men can opt for a button-down shirt, sweater and jeans or a nice sport coat." Here are some more winter engagement photo outfit ideas for couples: A simple silk dress with a faux fur coat or shawl.
What is smart dress code for ladies? ›What is a smart casual dress code for women? A smart casual dress code is an attire that combines well-fitting, polished business wear with elements of casual attire like blouses, shirts, button-downs, dress pants, dark-wash jeans, and polished, practical footwear.
Are you supposed to dress up for an engagement party? ›Most engagement parties are casual, requiring you to dress like you are attending a cocktail party. However, depending on the particular details of the party, you can either dress up or dress down.
Do you bring a gift to an engagement party? ›As mentioned before, engagement party gifts aren't always necessary, so you can remove any pressure from wondering what to give at an engagement party. However, it is common these days for guests to bring gifts to an engagement party. Usually something sentimental and small that the couple will appreciate.
How much money do you bring to an engagement party? ›How much money do you give at an engagement party? The standard amount to give as a wedding gift is $100 to $200. Give less than this as an engagement party gift. Somewhere between $50 and $75 is appropriate.
Can you wear black to engagement party? ›Engagement Party Outfit Ideas for Guests
Try to steer away from white unless you know for a fact that the bride-to-be isn't wearing it. Black, on the other hand, is fair game and can make an elegant choice for an evening event.