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The Gentlemen's Guide to Garden Party Attire

It's officially Garden Party season! That means languid afternoons spent sipping champagne and playing lawn games, surrounded by the magnificent plant life England has to offer. Is there more peaceful way to spend your summer days?

However, if you've got an invitation to a summer soiree, there's probably one question on your mind: what do you wear to a garden party?

From backgarden barbecues to black tie galas, the dress code isn't easy to navigate. That's why we've created this guide to garden party attire. So, you'll look the part, whether you're flipping burgers or making toasts!

Christa Rose Devore DressChrista Rose Devore Dress
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Collette Tie Shoulder Cotton Maxi DressCollette Tie Shoulder Cotton Maxi Dress
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The Garden Party Dress Code


Outdoor social gatherings came into fashion during the Renaissance era, where the creme de la creme of society attended lavish parties to show off their status, wealth, and- of course- their extravagent gardens. The dress codes were strictly formal, with men donning impeccably tailored coats and women flaunting their finest gowns. Whilst they're still sophisticated, modern garden parties have become more relaxed events that anyone can enjoy! 

Modern garden party dress codes have become much more lenient. Although semi-formal and smart casual attire is encouraged, guests have the freedom to swap their brogues for trainers and their tailored trousers for jeans, if that's their style.


What to Wear to a Garden Party


Dippy Printed Hem Tunic TopDippy Printed Hem Tunic Top
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Pretty Pleated Print TopPretty Pleated Print Top
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Breathable Blazers & Jackets


Depending on the type of party, a blazer might not be essential, but a tailored jacket is an easy way to add a touch of sophistication to your garden party outfit.

The key is to look for lightweight fabrics such as linen, which will keep you cool and also reflect the airy atmosphere of the event. Blazers in light or pastel shades will look right at home against blue skies and bright florals- they're also a fun way to bring some personality to your look.

Your jacket can either complete your three-piece, or you can wear it over a shirt and jeans for a look that's both effortless and suave. 

If prim and proper isn't your style, and the dress code leans towards casual, you could replace the classic blazer with a leather jacket. It'll give your outfit an edgier feel, that's sure to stand out amongst the crowd. Choose a style that fits nicely over a shirt and waistcoat, such as a leather shirt or a suede blazer, and opt for traditional colours like black and brown. 


Floral Print Shirts


There's nothing more suitable for a garden party than a floral shirt!

From fresh dandelion designs to leafy botanical prints, they can bring any occasion outfit to life. 

Ditsy Dreams Jersey DressDitsy Dreams Jersey Dress
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Aster Floral Midi DressAster Floral Midi Dress
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Floral Zip Up JumpsuitFloral Zip Up Jumpsuit
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Penelope Floral Jersey JumpsuitPenelope Floral Jersey Jumpsuit
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The Floral Jumpsuit


Dresses might not be your thing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dress up! Comfortable, practical, and effortlessly chic, jumpsuits are a great choice for outdoor occasions. 

 

Made from breathable fabrics and complete with cinched waists, jumpsuits are not only flattering for every figure, but they allow for easy movement, so you’ll feel confident and comfortable all day long.

From delicate daisies to bold tropical blooms, floral jumpsuits naturally stand out. So, you’ll be ready to make a statement from the moment you step into yours. This easy-breezy floral look can be styled for both formal and casual occasions, and it’s the accessories that make all the difference! 

 

Add a touch of glamour with some dainty heels and a tailored blazer- remember to choose a colour that complements your floral print. For picnics and family outings, tone your jumpsuit down with shoes that are easy to walk in, like loafers or pumps, and complete the outfit with a cotton or denim jacket.


The Floral Maxi Dress


The floral maxi dress is a cornerstone of summer occasionwear! It’s arguably one of the most adaptable styles, suitable for every event from weddings to the races, making it one of our favourite outfits for outdoor occasions.

 

Picking the right print is crucial when it comes to maxi dresses. For outdoor weddings, soft colours and subtle patterns are key as you’ll want your dress to fit easily within the chosen colour scheme. If you’re attending a summer soiree, or dining al fresco, you can feel free to go bright and bold! For a daytime event, choose mood-boosting colours, like Santorini blue and radiant white.

 

For an evening event, opt for deeper hues, such as bright pink or dark navy- for true contrast you could even go for black fabric and a multi-coloured print. 

 

Accessorising a maxi dress for an outdoor occasion depends on the mood you’re going for. Bring a boho vibe with colourful, beaded jewellery and strappy espadrilles, make it elegant with a mini handbag and some wedged sandals, or put a casual twist on your maxi dress with ankle boots and a light layer.

Sasha Floral Print Halterneck DressSasha Floral Print Halterneck Dress
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Olivia Halterneck DressOlivia Halterneck Dress
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Fabulous Floral WaistcoatFabulous Floral Waistcoat
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Fabulous Floral WaistcoatFabulous Floral Waistcoat
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The Floral Suit



The real showstopper of our summer collection is our Fabulous Floral Suit! 


With vivid, watercolour florals set against crisp white fabric, this tailored style will have you standing out effortlessly, wherever you wear it!


Including a blazer, trousers, and a matching waistcoat, this statement look can be worn as a full set- perfect for extravagant parties and sporting events- or you can wear each piece separately for an elevated smart casual style.


You can try pairing the blazer and waistcoat with jeans and a white tee, or wear the trousers with a cami top.


Accessorising is easy with our floral suit. The key is to choose subtle pieces that add elegant accents. 


No matter the dress code, floral fashion brings a fresh and vibrant touch to your outdoor occasionwear. From the nostalgic charm of the ditsy dress to the bold elegance of the floral suit, there’s a floral print for every event! 

 

Browse the fabulous floral styles in our summer collection, and make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook so you can show us how you style them!

 

Check out our inspiration page for more occasionwear guides like this!


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