I’m at that pivotal age where people are making big life choices. While some of my friends are getting married or adopting dogs, I like to spend my nights at home, alone, with a glass of wine and my television air-playing TikTok videos. While I’m not getting married anytime soon, my closest friends have given me the chance to partake in some of the best parts about wedding planning without actually having to plan the wedding: helping them chose what they’re wearing on their most special nights.
While shopping for wedding dresses with my engaged best friend has bene incredibly exciting, we’ve both agreed it’s nothing in comparison to how easy and fun it is to shop for her engagement party look. For one, the stakes are nowhere near as high— you can chose a laid-back, on-trend outfit that’s often less expensive and less complicated to pick out. There’s quite a few engagement party outfit ideas out there on the internet, but frankly, none that feel achievable, on-trend, or re-wearable for years to come. Naturally, as the fashion editor friend, our group chat is filled with messages from me, raving about how cute she would look in one of 50 clothing options I’ve sent her. (Get yourself a friend like me!)
Below, I’ve rounded up 6 stylish looks to inspire the (probably) long list of engagement party outfit ideas no-doubt living on your Pinterest board. From It girl-approved maxis to fashion insider-loved suits, here’s a few looks that practically scream ‘I do.’
Fashion insiders know the way to a great, timeless shot is a sophisticated, two-piece suit. Harper’s Bazaar Culture Editor Bianca Betancourt’s stunning monochromatic engagement suit is perfect for any bride who loves a traditional all-white look for their party while adding a bit of an egdy flair. Plus, who can say no to pockets?
No notes!
The anti-skinny pants trend has come back with vengeance.
Nipped-in blazers at the waist have been on everyone’s mind since they first made a runway comeback earlier this year.
You don’t have to ask me twice— I’ll take anything from Christopher John Rodgers.
If you’re looking for a non-traditional blazer, this one is sure to do the trick.
This is such an incredible under $50 find.
If there’s anything the internet has learned about bridal style after Sofia Richie Grainge’s nupitals, it’s that the best engagement party outfit is one you don’t have to think too hard about. Her relaxed, beachy woven maxi dress is perfect inspiration if you’re looking for a dress to wear while hosting a sweet garden party to celebrate your love.
You can re-wear this dress on your honeymoon, too!
These cut-outs make a white dress feel a bit more trend-forward.
Golden goddess.
My ideal white, flowy dress.
While people get engaged year-round, I can’t help but notice a particular pattern when it comes to opening my phone and seeing at least 7 people from high school post a ring selfie on Instagram. Spring and summer is high season for engagements and engagement parties, and there’s no better choice than celebrating your upcoming wedding than by wearing a seasonally-appropriate, flowy dress. More than likely you already have a favorite spring and summer dress in your closet— but if you don’t, there’s plenty of adorable options at all price points to satisfy your need.
Reformation is always a floral print destination.
If you’re going to spend a mighty dollar on an engagement party dress, make sure it’s something you love and you’d wear over and over again: case in point, this divine Isabel Marant dress.
If you’re into abstract florals, this pick is for you.
If springtime was a dress.
While Reformation’s dress offerings are already good, their extended sizing range makes them even more irresistible.
You’re not a typical bride, you’re a cool bride, which means sometimes, a simple white dress won’t cut it for your engagement party outfit. My friend is a a bit edgier at heart than I am, so I automatically sent her biker-inspired leather pants, mini dresses, and blazers to play at odds with the romantic, delicate nature of traditional bridal-wear.
The cut-outs on this dress make it feel extra elevated.
All plus-sizes of this fan favorite leather blazer are still in stock (and on sale!)
I have these and I can attest: you can dance in these all night and not get uncomfortable— a requirement for the ideal engagement party outfit.
The internet says your wedding dress should fit you like a glove— but why shouldn’t your engagement party dress also feel equally as divine? Slip dresses are a fan favorite among the fashion crowd for their versatility and timelessness. Play up the dress with an interesting, back-less silhouette to show a bit more skin or embroidered details.
TBH, this is my dream dress.
Meghan Markle would be proud of this pick.
Although there’s only one size left in stock, I had to include this gorgeous green strapless number.
Reformation’s high-quality silk makes it a worthy investment for an engagement party dress that’ll long outlive your nuptials.
Christopher Esber makes the most pretty, delicate dresses.
While the internet freaked out about Millie Bobby Brown’s engagement to Jake Bongiovi, I was freaking out about her dress. The romantic, lacy style lands in my list for one of my favorite engagement outfits of all time, so I instantly had to send it to my friend first when she was looking for ideas on what to wear.
This find is near identical to the dress seen around the world.
For Love and Lemons designed Millie’s custom engagement dress, so this option from their ready-to-wear offerings is the second best option.
Zimmerman’s floral appliqué dresses are some of the brand’s best sellers— and for good reason—they’re adorable.
