What to wear to a birthday party
Follow the theme if there is one, otherwise go smart casual with a little colour. Think comfortable shoes for standing and a layer that works indoors and out.
Dress code 3 · Smart casual
All year. A garden party and a pub back room need different layers, so check where it is.
Two outfits that work
Women’s
Mustard midi dress, cream cardigan
- mustard midi dress
- cream cardigan
- brown block sandals
- small brown bag
A coloured midi dress is cheerful, easy to sit in and good for photos.
Men’s
Linen shirt, navy chinos, soft blazer
- light blue linen shirt
- navy chinos
- grey unstructured blazer
- brown loafers
A shirt and chinos with a soft blazer fit a pub, a restaurant or a garden.
By weather
| Hot22° and up | A light dress or shirt, sandals and sunglasses; carry a thin layer. |
|---|---|
| Mild10° to 21° | The outfit as planned, with a light cardigan or jacket. |
| ColdBelow 10° | A warm coat and closed shoes; a thin knit under a dress. |
Do and don’t
Do
- Check the invite for a theme
- Wear a colour that lifts the mood
- Choose shoes for standing and chatting
- Bring a small gift in a bag with handles
Don’t
- Outshine the birthday person in all white unless they asked
- Wear pale colours that mark easily near the cake
- Ignore a stated dress code
Check the night before
- Check the invite for the dress code
- Look at the weather for the venue
- Wrap the gift
- Pack a card and a small layer
- Check the route and the end time
Questions people ask
What should I wear to a birthday party?
Smart casual with a little colour: a dress or a shirt and chinos, and comfortable shoes.
What if the party has a theme?
Follow it lightly; one piece or accessory is enough if you do not want a costume.
Is it okay to wear black to a birthday party?
Yes, for most adults. Add colour with a scarf, jewellery or shoes.
What should I wear to a child’s birthday?
Comfortable clothes you can sit on the floor in, and shoes you can run in.
FeinLens
Pick Birthday party in FeinLens and see what you already own
FeinLens builds complete outfits for this occasion from photos of your own clothes, dressed for the forecast where you’ll be.
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