Engagement Party Outfit Ideas for Brides

woman wearing a white slip dress, a white coat, and white heels — Photo:
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Choosing bridal attire is one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. From the engagement party to the ceremony, there are plenty of opportunities to display every facet of your style. While not every couple will have an all-out bash to celebrate their impending nuptials, even a casual celebration calls for a chic ensemble that highlights your bridal status.

There are no strict fashion rules for an engagement party, which makes it the perfect time to play around with your attire. So, if you’ve been eyeing a metallic outfit or a beaded two-piece set, don’t be afraid to showcase them at your engagement party for a picturesque look. But for those who prefer more classic options, everything from halter gowns to floral minis and pantsuits will make for a bridal-worthy ensemble. If you’re struggling to pick an outfit, it’s best to use the location and time of your engagement party as guidance.

Ahead, we pulled our favorite looks from the Spring 2025 bridal collections to help you plan the perfect engagement party ensemble.

01 of 16

Bow Embellishments

Bows are trending, and this midi dress from Markarian would be perfect for an engagement party brunch. There are so many sweet details to love about this design, from the delicate bow belt to the satin shoulder ties. For a semi-casual event, keep your accessories simple with slingback heels and stud earrings.

02 of 16

A Wrap-Style Dress

Savannah Miller white mini dress with streamer straps — Courtesy of Savannah Miller

What is a party without streamers? Chiffon strap streamers, of course. A white satin mini is a sophisticated option for any engagement party, but this one from Savannah Miller isn’t without its intrigue. Pairing a wrap-style bodice with statement straps makes for an ethereal bridal look you’ll be twirling on the dance floor all night long.

03 of 16

A Lace Dress

Alejandra Alonso Rojas white lace maxi dress — Courtesy of Alejandra Alonso Rojas

You can’t go wrong with a classic lace dress for any bridal event. The long sleeves and floor-sweeping skirt on this Alejandra Alonso Rojas number juxtapose the asymmetrical ruching and center slit for a modest look with a sultry touch. Opt for a version with a mini length or corset bodice if you prefer to play up the sultriness even more.

04 of 16

A Sequin Dress

Markarian silver sequin mini dress — Courtesy of Markarian

A mini dress is the quintessential party look, especially if it’s dripping in sequins and beaded embellishments like this version from Markarian. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or a more formal sit-down dinner, a sequin mini will make a bold fashion statement that really sets the tone for the rest of your bridal ensembles.

05 of 16

A Slip Dress

Honor ivory slip dress with bows — Courtesy of Honor

A slip dress, while sleek and comfortable, still packs a punch for an engagement celebration. An ivory slip dress with a cowl neckline will satisfy a minimalist bride, but if you��re in the market for something a bit more unique, we love this satin slip from Honor. The bow embellishments and glitter tulle add drama to this otherwise simple silhouette.

06 of 16

A Halter Dress

Savannah Miller white halter gown — Courtesy of Savannah Miller

If your engagement party dress code is black tie, opt for a halter gown with an open back. This design by Savannah Miller is regal and extremely versatile, so you can add a personal touch with accessories. Bold brides might reach for chandelier earrings and platform heels, while those with classic tastes will favor pearl studs and ivory pumps.

07 of 16

A Metallic Dress

Ines Di Santo metallic midi dress with ivory floral embellishments — George Chinsee/WWD via Getty Images

Since most of your wedding looks will be white, the engagement party is a great time to switch it up. A silver dress strikes the perfect balance between elegant and ultra-glam, especially when it features ivory floral embellishments like this Ines Di Santo midi dress. Add even more drama to the look by styling yours with gold heels and matching drop earrings.

08 of 16

A Structured Silhouette

Bronx and Banco white mini dress with beaded embellishments — George Chinsee/WWD via Getty Images

As a bride, it’s your right to stand out, and this ivory mini from Bronx and Banco was made to turn heads. The beaded embellishments on the bell-shaped skirt immediately catch the eye, but the pointed shoulder strap takes the look to the next level. To complement the structured silhouette, accessorize with simple ankle-strap heels.

09 of 16

A Two-Piece Set

Milla Nova white corset top and maxi skirt — Courtesy of Milla Nova

If you’re a bride who likes to challenge the status quo, sport a two-piece, like this pair from Milla Nova, for your engagement party. An ivory maxi skirt paired with a corset top has a bridal influence but still feels fun and fresh. Style yours with equally bold accessories, such as a tennis necklace and platform heels.

10 of 16

A Floral Dress

Viktor&Rolf white mini dress with bow neckline and floral embellishments — Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf

Hosting an engagement party in the spring or summer? A floral dress is a whimsical yet chic option. A high neckline, like the one on this Viktor&Rolf design, adds a sophisticated touch to a mini silhouette to balance the playful embellishments.

11 of 16

A Tea-Length Dress

Tanner Fletcher ivory tea-length dress — Courtesy of Tanner Fletcher

If you’re looking for a timeless silhouette, consider a tea-length dress. The ruffle trim on this Tanner Fletcher number emphasizes the cropped hemline and when coupled with an ivory hue, it gives off major Old Hollywood vibes. Accessorize with satin or tulle gloves and pearl drop earrings to complete this vintage-inspired look.

12 of 16

An Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Lela Rose white off-the-shoulder mini dress — Courtesy of Lela Rose

You don’t have to sacrifice style when it comes to more casual engagement parties. Whether you’re planning a backyard soirée or a poolside bash, an off-the-shoulder mini is the way to go. Take this Lela Rose dress, for example; it’s effortlessly chic and can be styled with everything from flat, strappy sandals to block heels for a bridal-worthy look.

13 of 16

A Cap-Sleeve Dress

Andrew Kwon white cap-sleeve gown — Courtesy of Andrew Kwon

Sometimes simple and chic is all you need as a bride. This sleek design from Andrew Kwon has a modest appearance with its cap sleeves and high neckline but also features an open back for a sweet yet sultry ensemble. Let the dress do the talking by accessorizing with cluster earrings and white pumps.

14 of 16

A Fringe Dress

Alejandra Alonso Rojas white fringe dress with corset bodice — Courtesy of Alejandra Alonso Rojas

For an engagement party at the beach, we love the idea of a boho-inspired look. A bustier bodice paired with a fringe skirt elevates the midi silhouette for an outfit you can easily repurpose afterward. Finish off the look with a white shawl and beach-friendly footwear, like wedges or platform sandals.

15 of 16

A Corset Dress

Ines Di Santo white corset mini dress — George Chinsee/WWD via Getty Images

A corset dress is a fantastic option for brides who want a vintage look with just the right amount of sex appeal. Despite its sheer appearance, this mini dress from Ines Di Santo has ample coverage and exudes romance with its floral embellishments and crinoline-inspired skirt. You can dress it down with ballet flats or go full glam with crystal-embellished heels.

16 of 16

A Suit Set

Danielle Frankel white pleated blazer and maxi skirt — Courtesy of Danielle Frankel

Jumpsuits may be the go-to dress alternative for brides, but we’re partial to a chic suit set. Danielle Frankel elevated the formal look by adding pleats and a satin finish to the pencil skirt and blazer. Swap a shirt for a lariat necklace to finish off the sophisticated ensemble.