Outfit ideas for garden parties

Spring is a promise of brighter, warmer days and life returning to our gardens in more ways than one. As the flowers start to emerge, we bet you’ll be spending more time outdoors and that includes hosting or attending the occasional garden party too! A celebration outside does call for some outfit planning though, which is why we’re here to help with ideas on what to wear.

Flaunt those florals

It might be an obvious one, but does anything say ‘garden party’ more than a fabulous floral print? You’ll be so in tune with your surroundings the real flowers will be battling you for the spotlight! We have a huge choice right now with many brands bringing out florals for spring, so you’ll have plenty to pick from.

This Dannii Minogue floral dress, available in Petite or Regular, is one of our current favourites. It comes in a gorgeous Teal or sophisticated Black and will go perfectly with pink shoes to match the flower pattern. Another fantastic choice is the Edith dress from Finery in either the Red Floral or Multi Floral print. It’ll go great with boots and a biker jacket if it’s a slightly breezier day.

Grab a smart jacket

Want to know the secret of transforming any outfit? A tailored jacket! It’s a smart staple suitable for more than just work and provides an effortless way to wear an extra layer in a setting like a garden party. Something like this chic Ruth Langsford blazer will instantly dress up a jeans and T-shirt combo for a fantastic smart-casual ensemble.

Play around with prints

Along with florals there’s a world of print out there to have fun with and whether you go top-to-toe or add a hint here and there, rocking up in stylish print will work every time. How about going all-out bold with the standout Gelato Stripe Dress from Monsoon? Fresh and fun, it’ll make you get first dibs on any ice cream served at the party surely!

Prefer only a touch of print? Pop on a printed scarf such as this one from JM Fashion by Julien Macdonald. The geo multi-coloured print is perfect for brightening up casual and smart outfits alike, plus it may be that extra bit of warmth (or shade!) you need when you’re spending time outside.

Keep it relaxed

Depending on how formal you want to go (or if there’s a dress code), you might want to keep things casual and relaxed. If that sounds more you then try pairing these geometric print trousers, either in Petite or Regular, with a plain top and flats – they’re a fab alternative to a dress and look no less stylish. Remember that scarf? They’ll go great with it too! All from JM Fashion by Julien Macdonald.

That’s a wrap

Lastly, you can never go wrong with a wrap dress for a party. They’re elegant, comfortable and flattering on all body shapes, nipping in at the waist for a beautiful silhouette while still allowing plenty of movement. You can count on Ruth Langsford (of course!) to deliver on this too.

Coming in Petite, Tall and Regular sizes, this midi wrap front dress pulls out all the stops. Stylish print? Check. Flattering shape? Check. Comfortable fabric? Check. Wear it with heeled or flat sandals for a glamorous garden party outfit… but watch out for any sinking-in-the-grass situations if you opt for stilettos!

You can find more style inspiration across our fashion, shoes and accessories departments, and if it’s party outfits you’re after then don’t miss our dedicated Occasionwear Collection.