What to Wear to a Garden Party (Without Ruining Your Vibe or Your Shoes)

by John Griffith
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I’ve been a personal stylist for a long time, and let me tell you, some of the best lessons don’t come from high-fashion runways. They come from watching someone’s gorgeous outfit have a full-on battle with a patch of wet grass.

Early in my career, I put a client in a breathtaking, floor-length silk gown for a fancy event at a botanical garden. Inside, she was a showstopper. But the second she stepped onto the lawn for photos? That beautiful hem started soaking up evening dew like a sponge. It got heavy, stained, and we spent a good chunk of the night trying to fix it in the bathroom. A total mood killer.

That’s when it really clicked: Garden party style isn’t just about looking good. It’s about being smart about your environment. You want to feel polished, but you also need to be comfortable for hours, whether you’re dealing with blazing sun or a sudden cool breeze. This guide is built on all those experiences—the wins and the messy lessons—so you can walk onto that lawn feeling amazing.

garden party attire, woman in vibrant blue dress, with embroidery and sequence detailing on the shoulder, wearing a fancy yellow hat

First, Let’s Decode the Invite

Okay, before you even think about fabrics or shoes, what does the invitation actually say? “Garden party” can mean wildly different things. It’s a bit of a minefield, honestly.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what those dress codes usually mean in this context:

  • Garden Attire: This is the classic. It calls for something elegant but practical. Think floral midi dresses, light-colored suits for men, and absolutely no stilettos. It’s dressy, but with a nod to the outdoor setting.
  • Smart Casual or Dressy Casual: This is a step down in formality. You have more freedom here. For women, this could be a stylish jumpsuit or a nice top paired with wide-leg trousers. For men, chinos and a sharp button-down (no blazer required) are perfect.
  • Festive Attire: This basically means “have fun with it!” The hosts are encouraging you to play with bright colors, fun patterns, and bolder accessories. It’s a party, so look like you’re ready to celebrate.
brunette woman with wavy hair, standing in a garden, wearing a floaty white asymmetrical dress, with blue butterflies print, garden party attire

Fabric is Your Secret Weapon

Now for the most important decision you’ll make: fabric. Seriously. The wrong material will make you a hot, sticky mess, no matter how cute the outfit is. This is the foundation of staying comfortable all day.

The A-List: Fabrics That Breathe

Natural fibers are almost always your best bet. They let air do its thing and keep you from feeling like you’re wrapped in plastic.

  • Linen: This is the undisputed king of garden party fabrics. It’s super breathable and has this wonderful, effortless structure that keeps it from clinging to you. The biggest complaint? It wrinkles. My advice? Just lean into it. A little bit of rumple is part of linen’s charm and looks intentionally relaxed. A quality linen dress, which can cost anywhere from $80 at a place like Quince to over $300 from a designer, is an investment in comfort.
  • Cotton: Another rockstar. But you have to pick the right kind. Look for lightweight weaves like poplin, voile, or lawn—they feel crisp and cool. A classic cotton shirtdress never fails. Just steer clear of heavy cottons like denim or thick twill; they’re way too warm.
  • Silk (with a catch): Lightweight silks like chiffon or crepe de chine feel incredible and float beautifully. But—and this is a big but—silk shows every single drop of moisture, including sweat. Pro tip: If you go with silk, choose a busy print over a solid color. A good floral or abstract pattern is brilliant at camouflaging any minor sweat marks.
  • Viscose/Rayon: These are great silk alternatives. They’re made from wood pulp, so they’re quite breathable, and a high-quality viscose can feel just as soft and drapey as silk without the hefty price tag.
men laughing on a green field near a beach, two of them are holding drinks, garden party attire, informal summer shirts in pale colors, white trousers and a necktie

Fabrics to Be Wary Of

I have a simple rule I tell all my clients: approach 100% synthetic fabrics with extreme caution.

  • Polyester: To be frank, polyester is plastic. It doesn’t breathe. It traps heat and sweat right against your skin. I once saw a woman in a stunning, colorful polyester dress she’d bought online. For the first thirty minutes, she looked fantastic. But after a little time in the mild sun, she was visibly wilting. The fabric was sticking to her everywhere, and she just looked miserable. If you absolutely must wear a polyester garment, make sure it’s extremely loose and flowy to allow for some airflow.

For Women: The Art of the Perfect Outfit

Once you’ve got your fabric sorted, finding the right style is the fun part. The goal is to find something that moves with you and never feels like a cage.

Dresses and Jumpsuits

A dress is usually the go-to, but a jumpsuit can be a modern power move.

kids dressed in semi formal clothing, garden party attire, two boys wearing jeans, with white shirts and suspenders, and grey vintage berets, and a little girl in a cream dress, with a purple flower ornament in her hair
  • The Midi Dress: Hitting mid-calf, this length is foolproof. It’s elegant, won’t drag on the grass, and gives you a bit of sun protection. An A-line or wrap style in a floral cotton is a can’t-miss combo.
  • The Knee-Length Dress: A great choice that feels a bit more casual. A simple sheath or a fit-and-flare cut in a bright, solid color always looks sharp.
  • The Maxi Dress: A maxi can be gorgeous, but you have to be strategic. If you know the lawn is perfectly manicured and dry, go for it. But if there’s even a slight chance of damp ground, it’s going to get dirty and heavy at the hem. Stick to washable fabrics like cotton if you go this route.
  • The Jumpsuit: A wide-leg jumpsuit in linen or viscose is incredibly chic and comfortable. But here’s a crucial tip I learned the hard way (from a client who almost missed a ceremony): check the bathroom logistics! Make sure you can get in and out of it by yourself easily. A simple wrap style is way better than something with a million tiny buttons up the back.
kate middleton and prince william, walking on a green field, dressed in garden party attire, pale beige knee-length dress, with pale floral pattern, white trousers and shirt, with black blazer

The Finishing Touches: Bags and Accessories

Your accessories need to be as practical as your shoes. You’re going to be holding a drink, a plate of food, and shaking hands. The last thing you need is a clumsy clutch to juggle.

A small crossbody bag or a chic wristlet is the perfect solution. It keeps your hands free for the important stuff (like canapés and conversation). For jewelry, think simple. Dainty chains or stud earrings won’t get caught on anything. And don’t forget a great pair of sunglasses—they’re a necessity, not just an accessory.

For Men: Look Sharp, Not Stuffy

For guys, the mission is to look put-together without looking like you just clocked out of the office. It’s all about relaxed elegance.

The Unbeatable Combo: Trousers & a Good Shirt

  • Trousers: Chinos are your best friend here, in classic colors like stone, navy, or a soft gray. For a slightly more elevated look, linen or summer-weight wool trousers are fantastic because they breathe so well.
  • Shirts: Go for a long-sleeved shirt. A short-sleeved dress shirt can sometimes look a bit off. The key is to get a quality long-sleeved shirt in cotton or a linen blend and then roll up the sleeves.

Oh, and there’s a right way to roll your sleeves. It’s called the ‘master sleeve roll,’ and it looks so much sharper than a sloppy push-up. Here’s how I teach it: First, unbutton your cuff. Second, fold the entire sleeve up once, to about the mid-bicep. Third, fold the bottom half up again so just the edge of your cuff is peeking out. Looks polished every time.

smiling brunette girl, wearing a blue pleated skirt, with pink floral pattern, purple ankle boots, and a beige jacket, garden party attire, white leather hand bag

The Optional Third Piece

A blazer can really pull the look together, but it has to be the right kind. Look for an unstructured blazer, which means it has no shoulder pads and minimal lining. It’s light, breathable, and feels more like a shirt than a jacket. You can find great ones at places like J.Crew or Bonobos, or check Uniqlo for a more budget-friendly option. For cooler evenings, a thin merino wool sweater draped over the shoulders is a classic move.

By the way, a tie is almost never needed unless the invite is very formal. A linen pocket square adds a perfect pop of personality without adding any heat.

Footwear: Where Everyone Goes Wrong

I can spot a garden party rookie from a mile away just by their shoes. This is where practicality has to be your number one priority.

Heads up: Do not wear stiletto heels. I can’t say it enough. They will sink into the grass, you’ll aerate the host’s lawn, and you might twist an ankle. It’s the number one mistake and instantly ruins your day.

black knee-length dress, with pale pink and green rose pattern, worn by smiling young blonde woman, garden party attire, fancy black hat with roses, black peep toe heels

Smart & Safe Shoe Choices

  • For Women: Wedges are your savior. They give you height but the solid base keeps you stable. Block heels are another fantastic option. And never underestimate a beautiful pair of flats—a pointed-toe flat or an elegant leather sandal can look just as chic. If you’re absolutely set on a thinner heel, there’s a trick: buy heel protectors. You can grab these little plastic caps on Amazon for about $10; just search for ‘heel stoppers.’ They create a wider base and have saved so many of my clients’ expensive shoes.
  • For Men: It’s pretty straightforward. Suede or leather loafers are perfect. Drivers or boat shoes are great for a more casual vibe. If the event is dressier, a pair of brogues in a lighter tan or brown leather works well—just avoid black, which can feel too corporate. And please, wear no-show socks!

Your Pre-Party Checklist & Emergency Kit

Before you head out the door, run through a few final checks. These little things make a huge difference.

black blazer with white details, worn over striped white and black shirt, and white shorts, garden party attire, on a young brunette man, with hands in his pockets
  • The Sit Test: Seriously, sit down in your outfit. Does anything pull, pinch, or ride up too high? You’ll be sitting at some point, so make sure it’s comfortable.
  • The Weather App: Check the forecast one last time, especially the wind speed. A breezy day and a floaty skirt can be a tricky combination.
  • The Garden Party Emergency Kit: I always recommend having a small kit in your bag or car. Think: a stain-remover pen (like a Tide to Go), a travel-size sunscreen, a few insect repellent wipes, and maybe some dress weights if you’re worried about the wind.

At the end of the day, dressing for a garden party is about mixing beauty with a bit of common sense. When you nail the outfit, you get to forget about it. You can focus on the good food, the sunshine, and the people you’re with. And that’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?

several men of different ages, wearing semi formal attire, with shorts in black, white and multicolored pattern, combined with shirts, blazers and neckties, dressy casual men, hats and sunglasses

Inspiration Gallery

dressy casual men, blonde woman in black top, with floral details, leaning on man in pale pink blazer, worn over white, pale pink and pale blue checkered shirt, wit blue patterned bowtie
hot pink fancy hat, worn by woman, sitting on a stone bench in a garden, wearing black and white striped dress, and multicolored high heel sandals, vintage garden party dress code
dressy casual, young woman with retro sunglasses, sitting near a small coffee table, with lots of pastries and tea cups, wearing yellow sundress, with ruffles and fruit print

Don’t underestimate the power of the right handbag. A clutch that you have to constantly juggle with a drink and a canapé is impractical. Instead, opt for a small crossbody bag with a delicate chain or a chic basket bag from a brand like Loewe or a more accessible option from Bembien. It keeps your hands free for socializing and complements the relaxed elegance of the occasion.

lace midi dress in cream, with 3/4 sleeves, worn with silver shoes, and a flower crown, by smiling brunette woman, holding a clutch bag, dressy casual
wrap floaty maxi dress, in dark blue, with pale pink floral pattern, and a side slit, worn by smiling brunette woman, dressy casual, strappy sandals and a glass of wine
  • Block Heels: They offer height without the risk of sinking. Look for styles in espadrille or with a delicate ankle strap.
  • Wedges: A classic for a reason. Castañer makes iconic, comfortable versions that are worth the investment.
  • Elevated Flat Sandals: Think leather slides or embellished sandals from brands like Sam Edelman. Avoid basic flip-flops.
  • Smart Loafers: For a more androgynous or preppy look, a sleek leather loafer is perfectly chic.
outfit for a dressy casual garden wedding, sleeveless dress with green, and pale pink floral pattern, powder pink cardigan, coral pink peep toe shoes, envelope clutch bag, gold and green chunky necklace
blue trousers and pale blue shirt, worn with brown shoes and sunglasses, by brunette man, standing next to blonde woman, in striped multicolored maxi dress, dressy casual men
blossoms in white and grey, embroidered on the top of a floaty grey dress, with black ribbon belt and side slit

The secret to all-day comfort isn’t just the cut of your dress, it’s the fabric. Natural fibers are your best friends. Breathable linen, crisp cotton poplin, or smooth Tencel will keep you cool and fresh, even when the sun is at its peak. They feel much more luxurious against the skin than synthetic polyesters, which can trap heat and feel sticky.

four young women, wearing multicolored floral print dresses, in different lengths and styles, dressy casual, garden party in the background
happy young women, sitting in a garden and having tea, all five are wearing pale pink and cream dresses, with ruffles and lace details, and flowers in their hair, vintage garden party dress code

The modern garden party is a direct descendant of the 19th-century breakfast parties hosted by the British aristocracy, which, despite the name, were held in the afternoon.

laughing little girl, with blonde curled hair, and smart pale pink tulle dress, wearing sandals and a flower ornament in her hair
straw hat in pale beige, and floaty red sundress, with floral details and frills, worn by little girl, with long brunette hair
boho clothes in white, worn by fourteen kids of different ages, posing with kate moss, casual dress code, maxi dresses and drummer boy uniforms

For men, navigating ‘garden attire’ can be tricky. The goal is to look sharp, not stuffy. A foolproof combination includes:

  • A lightweight linen blazer in a shade like beige, light blue, or sage green.
  • High-quality chinos from a brand like Bonobos or Ralph Lauren.
  • Suede loafers worn with no-show socks for a modern, relaxed feel.
ring bearer outfit ideas, for small boys and toddlers, trousers white shirt and suspenders, bowties and a vest, vintage grey berets
children holding hands and smiling, little boy in white shirt, khaki shorts and pale blue bowtie, little girl in a white embroidered dress, with flowers in her hair

What’s the biggest beauty mistake for an outdoor event?

Wearing heavy, full-coverage foundation. Under natural sunlight, it can look cakey, and it’s more likely to melt or get streaky if you perspire. Opt for a tinted moisturizer with SPF, a touch of cream blush for a natural flush, waterproof mascara, and a good setting spray like the one from Urban Decay to lock everything in place.

leather biker jacket in black, worn over multicolored mini dress, smiling brunette woman in dressy casual style, with purple high heel sandals, holding a large clutch bag
what is semi formal, barefoot young woman, with long dark brunette hair, wearing a floaty semi-sheer powder pink dress, with ruffles and a large straw hat, with a black ribbon
light turquoise knee-length sleeveless dress, with a colorful tea and cake pattern, worn by woman with dark brunette hair, holding a porcelain saucer and teacup

Wrap Dress: Universally flattering, its adjustable tie-waist is forgiving and comfortable. Brands like DVF or Ganni offer iconic styles. The V-neckline is perfect for showcasing a delicate necklace.

A-Line Dress: More structured, it skims the body without clinging. This silhouette is less prone to wind-related mishaps and often has a more formal, polished feel. Great for a dressier garden wedding.

crochet lace dress in white, floaty pale blue gown, pink maxi dress, and white tulle dress with lace, worn by four young women, dressy casual style, boho tea party
couple with a bicycle for two, man with pink polo shirt, and off-white trousers, leaning on the handlebar, dressy casual men, woman in pale blue and white jumpsuit, sitting at the back, garden chic wedding dress code

Globally, the fashion industry is responsible for up to 10% of carbon emissions—more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined.

Choosing your garden party outfit thoughtfully is a small way to make a difference. Opt for a high-quality, timeless dress from a sustainable brand like Reformation or Sézane. A classic floral midi or a solid-color linen dress can be restyled and worn for years, making it a more conscious choice than a one-off trendy purchase.

floaty maxi dress, in vibrant coral pink, worn by smiling brunette woman, with white and beige high heel sandals, and two necklaces, what is semi formal
variety of multicolored summer dresses, worn by eleven women, what is semi formal, yellow and pink knee-length dress, floral blue gown, halter-necks and strapless dresses
dyed pink hair, on a curvy woman, in four different outfits, what is semi formal, blue floral dress, multicolored dress with flower print, dark navy sleeveless dress, brown tulle strapless gown
  • It provides its own chic, portable shade.
  • It instantly elevates even the simplest slip dress.
  • It hides hair that might not be cooperating with the humidity.

The ultimate garden party accessory? A fantastic hat. Whether it’s a wide-brimmed straw hat from Lack of Color or a more formal fascinator for a British-style event, it’s a statement of confidence.

loafers in brown, worn with pale blue shirt, and beige trousers, by two brunette men, dressy casual men, one sitting at a bench, one leaning on a ladder
lime green lace jumpsuit, long botanical gown, hot pink and beige lace jumpsuit, two maxi dresses with lace, in pale green and pink, what is semi formal, worn by slim young women

While floral prints are a beautiful and classic choice, don’t be afraid of bold, solid colors. A dress in a vibrant shade of marigold yellow, cobalt blue, or emerald green makes a sophisticated statement and photographs beautifully against the lush greenery of a garden. It feels modern, confident, and utterly chic.

two young brunette women, wearing maxi dresses in green and white, decorated with floral patterns, and other colors, what is semi formal, green and pink cardigan, and small retro bag
flapper style vintage outfits, on a family with two toddlers, what is semi formal, woman in knee length pale pink dress, man in beige trousers with suspenders, pink shirt and straw hat
semi formal dress code, two young women, having tea in a garden, wearing silky mini dresses, in pastel colors, with matching shoes, and hair ornaments

The forgotten accessory: the emergency kit. A small, chic pouch in your bag should contain a few essentials for a worry-free day: a Tide to Go pen for inevitable spills, Compeed blister plasters for breaking in new shoes, a few hairpins for wind-swept moments, and a travel-sized tube of high-SPF sunscreen for reapplication.

celebrity pairs wearing smart clothing, maxi dresses and dark suits, with white shirts and grey neckties, semi formal dress code
four men in semi formal clothes, and a dog, standing on a green lawn, near several white chairs, one of the men is sitting, dressy casual men, checkered blazer and white trousers, suits of different colors, garden chic wedding dress code

“The English country garden is not a style to be copied, but a principle to be followed.” – Gertrude Jekyll, renowned British horticulturist.

The same applies to dressing for it. It’s not about a strict uniform, but embodying an effortless, natural elegance that works in harmony with the setting.

duchess of cambridge, or kate middleton, wearing two identical smart dresses, in pink and blue, long sleeves and pleated skirts, what is semi formal, matching fancy hats
smiling women in different summer dresses, knee-length and longer, red and pink, multicolored and patterned, semi formal dress code, wearing high heels in different colors
mustard yellow dress, powder pink lace mini dress, strapless knee-length gown with floral pattern, semi formal dress code, young woman in a floaty maxi dress

Think beyond the dress. A stylish, wide-leg jumpsuit or a sophisticated co-ord set can be just as appropriate and even more comfortable. Look for styles in breathable fabrics like crepe or Tencel. They provide the elegance of a maxi dress with the practicality of trousers—no worries about a sudden gust of wind!

powder pink knee-length dress, with embroidered top, and pleated skirt, semi formal dress code, worn with white jacket, by smiling brunette woman
asymmetrical wrap midi dress, with floral print, in two different variations, halter neck and cold shoulder sleeves, semi formal dress code, shoes and jewelry suggestions

For unpredictable weather, a thoughtful layer is key. A fine-gauge cashmere cardigan, a lightweight pashmina in a complementary color, or a sharply tailored linen blazer thrown over the shoulders will keep you warm during a cool breeze without compromising your outfit’s elegance.

seven barefoot men, wearing identical outfits, black trousers and white shirts, with suspenders and grey neckties, one man is wearing a yellow bowtie, dressy casual men, standing in a garden with trees
blazer and trousers in pale blue, with a shirt in a similar color, and accessorized with black sneakers, and nautical striped belt, dressy casual men, worn by young slim man
casual dress code, six different summer dresses, in yellow or coral pink, pale green or blue, striped or featuring different prints

Is it safe to wear fine jewelry outdoors?

Absolutely, but choose wisely. Delicate, dangling earrings or fine chain necklaces can easily get snagged on clothing or lost in the grass. Opt for more secure pieces like elegant stud earrings, a classic watch, a statement cocktail ring, or a solid bangle. They add polish without the risk.

sandals and floral maxi dress in red, orange and yellow hues, blue and white mini dress, pale turquoise gown, casual dress code, high heels and purses, sunglasses and necklces
long summer dresses, pink wrap dress, pale yellow dress with slits, dark pink lace gown, light pink wrap dress with floral pattern, casual dress code

Your fragrance is the final touch. For a garden setting, leave the heavy, musky scents at home. Choose something light, fresh, and airy that complements the natural surroundings. Think notes of citrus, green tea, or soft white florals. Jo Malone London’s ‘Wood Sage & Sea Salt’ or Aerin’s ‘Wild Geranium’ are perfect examples.

denim shirt worn with a grey woolen blazer, and dark grey necktie, by blonde man, semi formal dress code, next photo shows four men in similar attire
special occasion or smart everyday dresses, purple floral midi, black and silver mini, pale blue pencil knee-length dress, shimmering metallic beige dress
outfit ideas for a smart-casual wedding, semi formal dress code, woman in black dress, with floral pattern, wearing white dress with different accessories, garden party dress ideas
  • It can be dressed up for a wedding or down for a casual brunch.
  • The pieces can be worn separately, tripling your wardrobe options.
  • It’s an instant, no-fuss outfit that always looks polished.

The modern alternative to the dress? A chic co-ord set. A matching printed top and skirt or wide-leg trousers is effortlessly stylish and incredibly versatile.

navy and white striped blazer, worn over dark blue t-shirt, and matching trousers, casual dress code, on young curly brunette man
what is semi formal attire, skirt in a textured pale pink fabric, flared and medium long, worn with a white lace top, pink high heels, and a khaki bag, brunette woman with red lipstick

Men’s footwear can make or break the look. Smarten up beyond sneakers. A suede driver from Tod’s or a classic penny loafer from G.H. Bass & Co. in a rich brown or navy leather strikes the perfect note. Just be sure to avoid heavy, black office shoes, which look out of place and can feel too formal.

curvy brunette ladies, wearing different summer dresses, striped and patterned multicolored maxi dresses, long red gown, knee-length blue dress, with patterned hem
models wearing maxi dresses, in white and yellow, white and red, and in a multicolored pattern, floral and folk motifs, dark green jumpsuit, what is semi formal attire
shorts in different colors, beige or grey, pale blue or yellow, red or white, worn with shirts and blazers, what is semi formal attire, by nine brunette men

Florals vs. Gingham. Florals are the romantic, expected choice. For a fresher, slightly preppy take, consider a classic gingham print. A gingham midi dress from a brand like J.Crew, paired with espadrilles and a basket bag, feels timeless and effortlessly chic, channeling a French Riviera vibe.

tea dress in white and yellow, with floral pattern, worn by taylor swift, casual dress code, brown leather wedges, necklace and earrings, brown shoulder bag
five yellow dresses, in different styles and lengths, what is semi formal attire, maxi boho gown with green pattern, asymmetrical floral midi dress

Don’t neglect your sunglasses. They’re a key part of your look. The style can completely change your outfit’s personality. A pair of classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers creates a cool, understated vibe, while oversized cat-eye sunglasses will lend a touch of Old Hollywood glamour to a simple floral dress.

platinum blonde woman, with small flower crown, dressed in floaty, vibrant yellow strapless dress, admiring orange potted plants in a garden, while holding a glass of wine
multicolored asymmetrical maxi dress, worn with black lace up sandals, and turquoise chunky necklace, what is semi formal attire, floaty yellow gown
shimmering blue maxi dress, yellow lace midi, ballerina-like tulle pink knee-length dress, embroidered midi gown in white and gray

An important detail: sun protection. A stylish hat and sunglasses are your first line of defense, but don’t forget your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before you get dressed. For reapplication without messing up your makeup, try a powder sunscreen like those from Supergoop! or a setting spray with SPF.

seven men in casually elegant clothes, what is semi formal attire, blazers and shirts, suspenders and bow ties, hats and sunglasses
eight young women, dressed in multicolored patterned maxi dresses, folk-inspired boho tunics, denim shorts and a white top, casual dress code, smiling and posing for a photo

Help! I spilled red wine on my linen dress!

Act fast, but don’t panic. Immediately blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth or napkin—don’t rub! If available, douse it with club soda and continue to blot. The carbonation can help lift the stain. For a grass stain, a dab of hand sanitizer (which contains alcohol) can work as a surprisingly effective spot treatment before a proper wash.

warm weather outfits, multicolored knee length dresses, pale powder pink floaty gown, what is semi formal attire, sunglasses and accessories, garden party dress ideas
drawing of a sea captain, wearing yellow shorts, dark blue blazer, and a captain's hat, next image shows man in striped, blue and white blazer, yellow trousers and straw hat
polka dot black and white midi, pink and beige lace knee-length dress, embroidered silky strapless, pale blue gown, grey embroidered floral mesh dress

According to a 2021 Pinterest trend report, searches for ‘gorpcore’—a style based on outdoor-wear—increased by 64%.

While you shouldn’t wear hiking boots, this trend reflects a broader shift towards functional, practical fashion. This is the core of garden party dressing: find the intersection of beautiful and practical, where your outfit works with the environment, not against it.

family posing for a photo, wearing semi formal clothes, with a retro twist, checkered blue shirt and red tie, vest and trousers, shorts and suspenders, with white shirt and bowtie, beige dress and high heels
famous women wearing floral dresses, semi formal attire, pale blue and green, strapless and sleeveless styles, worn with high heels

The unsung hero of men’s summer style: the linen shirt. It’s more relaxed than a stiff poplin button-down but more polished than a polo. Worn with the sleeves casually rolled up, it strikes the perfect balance for a smart-casual garden party. Look for high-quality options from brands like Sid Mashburn or Alex Crane.

smart suits and casual shirt and trousers combinations, beige outfit with black shoes, jeans and a blazer, blue and white smocking jackets

Don’t be afraid to mix your prints. A subtle floral blouse paired with a larger-scale geometric print skirt can look incredibly chic and fashion-forward. The key is to stick to a complementary color palette to tie the two patterns together. It’s a bold move that shows true style confidence.

John Griffith
John Griffith

John combines 12 years of experience in event planning, interior styling, and lifestyle curation. With a degree in Visual Arts from California Institute of the Arts and certifications in event design, he has styled luxury weddings, corporate events, and celebrity celebrations. John believes in creating memorable experiences through innovative design and attention to detail.

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