Baby showers are joyful, social events that celebrate an exciting milestone. While they’re typically more relaxed than weddings or formal parties, they still call for thoughtful outfit choices. Knowing what to wear to a baby shower helps you look polished, feel comfortable, and fit the tone of the celebration—whether it’s a casual backyard gathering or a more upscale brunch.
This guide covers baby shower outfit ideas for men and women, plus tips based on venue, season, and common dress code expectations.
Understanding the Baby Shower Dress Code
Most baby showers fall into the casual to semi-dressy range, but the setting matters.
Before choosing your outfit, consider:
- Venue (home, restaurant, garden, event space)
- Time of day (daytime vs. evening)
- Season and weather
- Relationship to the parents-to-be
When in doubt, aim for polished casual rather than overly formal or too relaxed.
Common Baby Shower Settings and Outfit Expectations
Casual Home or Backyard Baby Showers
These are relaxed but still photo-friendly.
Appropriate outfit choices include:
- Sundresses or casual midi dresses
- Nice tops with skirts or trousers
- Lightweight layers like cardigans
- Comfortable flats or sandals
Avoid athletic wear or overly casual basics.
Brunch or Restaurant Baby Showers
These usually call for elevated casual outfits.
Recommended options:
- Wrap dresses or flowy dresses
- Tailored pants with a blouse
- Button-down shirts with chinos
- Dressy flats, loafers, or low heels
Formal or Event-Space Baby Showers
Some baby showers are more styled or themed.
Good outfit choices include:
- Cocktail-style dresses (not too formal)
- Dressy jumpsuits
- Blazers with polished separates
- Refined accessories
What Women Should Wear to a Baby Shower
Easy and Stylish Outfit Ideas for Women
Women typically have the most flexibility at baby showers.
Popular and appropriate choices include:
- Floral or pastel dresses
- Midi dresses with soft silhouettes
- Skirts paired with blouses
- Tailored jumpsuits or matching sets
Stick to light, cheerful colors and breathable fabrics.
Shoes and Accessories for Women
Comfort is key, especially for standing or mingling.
Best footwear options:
- Ballet flats
- Block heels
- Wedges
- Dressy sandals
Accessory tips:
- Small handbags or crossbody bags
- Minimal jewelry
- Natural makeup and relaxed hairstyles
Avoid overly high heels or heavy accessories.
What Men Should Wear to a Baby Shower
Smart-Casual Outfit Ideas for Men
Men should aim for clean, polished looks without feeling stiff.
Reliable outfit combinations include:
- Button-down shirts with chinos
- Polos with tailored pants
- Lightweight blazers for dressier events
- Neutral or soft color palettes
Short sleeves can work for casual daytime showers if styled well.
Shoes and Accessories for Men
Footwear and grooming complete the outfit.
Appropriate shoe choices:
- Loafers
- Clean leather sneakers
- Dress shoes for formal venues
Finish the look with:
- A simple belt
- A watch
- Neat grooming and pressed clothing
Avoid athletic shoes or overly casual footwear.
Baby Shower Outfit Tips by Season
Spring and Summer Baby Showers
Warm-weather showers are often light and airy.
- Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen blends
- Pastel colors and floral prints
- Open-toe shoes when appropriate
Fall and Winter Baby Showers
Cooler seasons allow for layering and texture.
- Long-sleeve dresses or sweaters
- Blazers, cardigans, or shawls
- Closed-toe shoes or boots
Choose cozy but polished pieces.
What Not to Wear to a Baby Shower
Even casual baby showers have boundaries.
Avoid wearing:
- Athletic wear or gym clothes
- Ripped or distressed clothing
- All-black or overly dark outfits
- Revealing or club-style clothing
- Graphic tees or slogans
Aim for celebratory and comfortable, not casual or dramatic.
Dressing for Baby Shower Themes
Some baby showers have themes or color palettes.
Helpful tips:
- Follow the theme if mentioned
- Coordinate subtly without matching exactly
- Keep outfits tasteful and not attention-grabbing
- Avoid wearing white if the guest of honor plans to
Themes should guide—not overwhelm—your outfit choice.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to wear to a baby shower helps you feel confident, comfortable, and appropriately dressed for a joyful occasion. Whether the event is casual or dressy, daytime or evening, choosing polished, cheerful pieces ensures you fit the celebratory mood while staying true to your personal style.
When in doubt, soft colors, clean silhouettes, and comfortable shoes are always a winning combination.