What to Wear to a Summer Garden Party?

Sunny BBQ or Pimms Picnic, we've got the perfect outfit ideas for all types of garden parties this summer.

Dressing for a summer garden party can be tricky to get right - you don't want to overdress for a casual BBQ, but you don't want to underdress for a celebration, like an anniversary. Not to panic, our ladies’ clothing has got you covered! Our blog talks you through the different dress codes for different summer garden parties, so you can turn up and feel fabulous, whatever the occasion.

Different Types of Summer Garden Parties

You can hold all types of parties in a garden, from a birthday bash to a baby shower, or just a shindig to celebrate that the sun is out.

With so many types of garden parties to attend, it stands to reason that there’s lots of different sorts of garden party dress codes, and no one rule on what to wear to a garden party.

Heading for garden cocktails or an al fresco afternoon tea? These occasions are slightly dressier, perfect for your occasion wear. A summer co-ord, or race day style is ideal.

If you’ll be enjoying champagne on the terrace as the sun sets, an evening dress might be the right choice. Just take a look at our guide to styling evening dresses to bring grace and glamour to your garden get-together.

Going to a garden boho celebration? Lean into it with a boho style look, made up of flowy materials, earthy tones and natural textures.

Just enjoying a few drinks on a friend’s lawn? A short-sleeved, lightweight top and shorts are a perfect ensemble for enjoying a relaxed summer’s day.

Can You Wear a Dress to a Summer Garden Party?

A dress is a fabulous choice of outfit for your next outdoor gathering, and we’ve got plenty of tips to help you pick one.

A summer garden party dress should be breathable, made from loose, lightweight material, so that you won’t be stuffy in the summer sun. A cotton or linen dress is ideal for keeping cool.

As for dress length? Avoid long frocks. As lovely as they are, a skirt that drags on the floor can easily become grass-stained, so choose midi and midaxi options instead.

How to Dress Up for a Summer Garden Party

If you’re off to a dressier garden party, an jumpsuit is perfect. We love floral styles in particular, to fit with the garden theme.

When it comes to picking out occasion shoes, though, be careful. While heels are wonderful for most formal occasions, thinner-heeled shoes can sink into a lawn and get you stuck! To avoid this calamity, pick out thicker, sturdier heels, wedged shoes, or flat, smart sandals.

Can I Wear a Summer Party Dress to a BBQ?

A classic garden BBQ is usually a more casual occasion, kicking back with friends and family while enjoying some delicious grilled goodies. That doesn’t mean dresses are a no for your summer BBQ outfit, though.

A day dressday dress is a fantastic option. These dresses are made to feel comfy all day while still offering a beautiful, feminine style. Choose jersey, denim, cotton or linencotton or linen for a laid-back look that balances ease and elegance.

How to Make Jeans and a Nice Top Work as a Summer BBQ Outfit

Ah, jeans and a nice top. A never-fail ensemble for smart casual occasions.

If your event is slightly smarter than the typical garden BBQ, choose one of our occasion tops for a touch of glamour, then dress the look up further with accessories. For your jeans, take advantage of the warm weather and pick out a stylishly croppped pair.

What Should I Wear to a Summer Birthday Party?

For a summer birthday party, you want to enjoy the celebration without getting too hot. Lightweight clothes, such as the pieces in our holiday shop, are particularly handy in scorching summer weather.

However, the British climate is unpredictable, so be sure to have a layering piece handy if the temperature cools. An elegant summer scarf can be wrapped around you like a shawl on a summer evening, or a chic cardigan can cosy up a look in moments. Plus, we always recommend grabbing a lightweight summer jacket just in case.

Whatever occasion you have planned next, you’ll ooze style when you dress with Klass.