What to wear to a party, by type
| Party | Usual dress | Check first |
|---|---|---|
| 21st birthday | Mini or midi party dress | Theme or dress code on the invitation |
| Your own birthday | The boldest dress you are comfortable in | The venue |
| Hens party or bachelorette | Mini or midi dress, often in a set colour | The colour theme. White is usually kept for the bride |
| Engagement party | Cocktail dress | The dress code |
| House party | A casual mini, slip or shirt dress | Indoors or outdoors |
| Night out | Mini or bodycon dress | The venue's dress rules |
What to wear to a 21st birthday
For your own 21st, wear the boldest dress you feel comfortable in, since the night is yours. Sequins, satin, cut outs and bright colour are all fair choices. As a guest, a mini or midi party dress fits most venues. Check the invitation for a theme.
What to wear to a hens party or bachelorette
A hens party outfit usually follows a colour theme set by the organiser. A common one puts the bride in white and the guests in another colour, such as black or pink. If there is no theme, a mini or midi party dress suits a dinner or a night out, and it is safest to avoid white.
What to wear to a party with no dress code
With no dress code, dress for the venue. A bar or restaurant suits a mini or midi dress in satin or a good print. A house party suits something more casual. If you are unsure, a simple slip dress or a black mini dress with dressy shoes is right for almost any party.
How to choose a party dress
Pick one statement and keep the rest simple. A sequinned dress needs plain shoes and a small bag. A plain satin dress can take bolder earrings and heels. Check that you can sit, dance and raise your arms in it, and bring a layer for the trip home.
Shop the dress code
See all party dressesCommon questions
What is a party dress?
A party dress is any dress made for celebrating, usually short to midi length in a fabric with shine, texture or detail. It is less formal than a cocktail dress and more fun than a day dress.
What should you wear to a 21st birthday?
For your own 21st, wear the boldest dress you feel comfortable in. As a guest, a mini or midi party dress fits most venues. Check the invitation for a theme or dress code.
What do you wear to a hens party?
Follow the colour theme if there is one. Guests usually avoid white, which is kept for the bride. With no theme, a mini or midi party dress suits most hens parties, called bachelorette parties in the US.
What is the difference between a party dress and a cocktail dress?
A cocktail dress is more polished and usually ends between the knee and mid calf. A party dress can be shorter, brighter and more playful. A cocktail dress suits a wedding, and many party dresses do not.
Can you wear a party dress to a wedding?
Sometimes. A midi party dress in a dressy fabric can suit a cocktail wedding. Very short, very tight or heavily cut out party dresses are usually too casual for a wedding.
What do you wear to a party with no dress code?
Dress for the venue. A mini or midi dress in satin or a good print suits most bars and restaurants. A simple slip dress or a black mini dress with dressy shoes works almost anywhere.