18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (2024)

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (1)

If you're engaged, have a sneaking suspicion a ring might be on the horizon, or just, you know, really vibe with the bridal aesthetic RN, the chances are a *certain* dress might be on your mind. But before you start scouring wedding dresses on the hunt for 'the one', there's another thing that's well worth devoting some browsing time to: engagement party dresses.

Engagement party dresses are actually even more fun to shop for, with no set rules or expectations meaning you can let your individuality lead and create a serious lewk. You might wanna go for a short and sweet dress, try something with long sleeves, go boho, or take inspo from some of your fave celebs.

Remember, an engagement party dress doesn't have to be plain white - in fact, it could be any colour at all. You might want to go for a twist on a classic, like Jennifer Lawrence's dreamy long-sleeved powder pink L.Wells Bridal dress. Or you might opt for a pattern, like the unreal hand-embroidered silk Bernadette dress Sofia Richie Grainge wore for her engagement party, which featured pink grapes on an ivory base – and still lives in our mind rent-free.

Whatever style and shade you're after, there are loads of brilliant high-street and designer brands to browse, from Reformation and Rixo to Ghost and Mango. There are also some fab maternity options, and a range of sizes and styles for every body.

So here's our edit of the best engagement party dress to shop now (trust us, it's way easier than picking bridesmaid dresses)...

1

Reformation Maves Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (3)

1

Reformation Maves Dress

Look, we're not going to admit to having favourites, but this off-the-shoulder Reformation dress is just So. Damn. Chic. It's made from sustainably sourced and repurposed materials - but feels just like pure silk.

2

Norma Kamali Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (4)

2

Norma Kamali Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey dress

We reckon this stretchy ruched dress is so wearable, you'll have it on time and again - long after your engagement party. It's easy and flattering, but has enough detail to make it feel special.

3

Nadine Merabi Maisy White Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (5)

3

Nadine Merabi Maisy White Dress

If you can't go just a lil bit extra with your engagement party dress, when can you eh? This fab mini is crafted from 3D floral embroidered chiffon (actually groundbreaking) and has a bandeau neckline and flattering structured bodice.

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4

Rixo Lena Feather-Trim Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (6)

4

Rixo Lena Feather-Trim Dress

Engaged girlies just wanna have fun, right? The fab feather trim on this Rixo mini is ideal for dancing in. Plus, it will flatter your waist while skimming legs, and it goes up to a size 24.

5

Ralph Lauren Jersey Off-the-Shoulder Gown

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (7)

5

Ralph Lauren Jersey Off-the-Shoulder Gown

There is just something *so* timelessly chic about this Ralph Lauren gown. It's actually made from smooth, body-hugging jersey for the ultimate in comfort – and a flattering finish. It comes in sizes 18 to 28.

6

Clio Peppiatt Lucina embellished stretch-mesh mini dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (8)

6

Clio Peppiatt Lucina embellished stretch-mesh mini dress

Swarovski beads and pearls create moon and sun motifs in this dreamy dress. The ivory mesh it's made from has a little stretch (ideal if you decide to hit the d-floor). All in all, it feels like the ultimate cool-gal choice.

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7

Taller Marmo Ubud one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe maxi dress

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7

Taller Marmo Ubud one-shoulder feather-trimmed crepe maxi dress

We're obsessed with this one-shoulder dress cut from chic ivory crepe – and trimmed with feathers, obvs. It's a showstopper that will have all your guests asking where you found such a cool piece.

8

Ghost Elle Satin Midi Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (10)

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (11)

8

Ghost Elle Satin Midi Dress

Now 69% Off

Rip up the rule book (there isn't one!) and go for pink at your engagement party. Maybe you just don't fancy wearing white, or want to save that for the Big Day. This satin fit and flare dress is ideal, whatever the reason. Plus, it's on sale!

9

Needle & Thread Stephanie Ballerina Dress

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9

Needle & Thread Stephanie Ballerina Dress

The prettiest dress we ever did see! Ruffles, tulle, net, sequins, embellishment: it's truly got it all. Ideal if you want to go for a playful, girly look.

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10

Karen Millen Petite Compact Viscose Stretch Drape Tailored Jumpsuit

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (13)

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (14)

10

Karen Millen Petite Compact Viscose Stretch Drape Tailored Jumpsuit

Now 20% Off

This is one for the petite girlies out there (who know the annoying drama of tripping over too-long trousers). Its elegant halter neck and tie waist make this ultra-flattering. So good you'll wear it again and again.

11

Reiss Becci Printed Open Back Dress

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11

Reiss Becci Printed Open Back Dress

We love a print dress for any occasion - and this Reiss midi is just the thing if you're not ready to embrace all-white just yet. We love the open back detailing, the flattering fit and the uplifting pattern.

12

Mango Short puffed hem dress

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12

Mango Short puffed hem dress

Mango always has so many great dresses for any occasion - and it turns out engagement parties are no exception. This one is giving off-duty ballerina chic, and we're pairing it with flats for a low-key lewk.

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13

Coast Drape Satin Thigh Split Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (17)

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (18)

13

Coast Drape Satin Thigh Split Dress

Now 40% Off

It's your engagement party, you can wear navy blue and rock a thigh-high split if you want to! This is great for evening occasions - and will also double up as a wedding guest dress. Oh, and it's even on sale.

14

Tiffany Rose Esther Lace Maternity & Nursing Dress

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (19)

14

Tiffany Rose Esther Lace Maternity & Nursing Dress

We love how clever the design of this maternity dress is. It can be untied at the back to reveal breastfeeding pockets under the front over-layer. It also looks lovely, with lacy sleeves and a cute knee-length cut.

15

H&M Twist-detail off-the-shoulder jumpsuit

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (20)

15

H&M Twist-detail off-the-shoulder jumpsuit

If you're the type of person who always wears black, there's no need to change that for your engagement party. This infinitely wearable off-the-shoulder jumpsuit is made textured jersey with a fitted bodice, so it strikes the balance between comfort and style.

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16

Free People Augusta Set

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (21)

16

Free People Augusta Set

Bring some boho chic to your engagement party with this two-piece Free People set. We love it paired with trainers and a leather jacket, but you could also dress it up with heeled sandals. Also, we wouldn't be against wearing it to the beach...

17

Warehouse Sequin Bandeau Jumpsuit

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (22)

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (23)

17

Warehouse Sequin Bandeau Jumpsuit

Now 80% Off

Hell yeah to wearing silver sequins to your engagement party - especially when the saving is this good. The wide leg fit is *everything* and you'll be ready to dance at any given moment.

18

Reformation Valencia dress

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18

Reformation Valencia dress

A twist on a classic, this lacy long-sleeved beauty is ticking all our boxes. And the open back detailing? *Simply sublime*.

18 engagement party dresses for the seriously stylish bride-to-be (2024)

FAQs

What should bride wear to engagement party? ›

Bride: Typically, an engagement party involves a co*cktail hour, so a nice engagement party dress or pants and a cute blouse work perfectly no matter the location. Everyone will be looking at your engagement ring so use a less-is-more approach to accessorizing and have a bit more fun with your beauty look.

Which type of dress is best for engagement party? ›

"A tuxedo is appropriate, but a dark suit with dress pants and nice shoes is also acceptable. Similarly, a floor-length gown is always a safe bet for any formal occasion, but a midi or knee-length or co*cktail dress will also work."

What color dress for engagement party? ›

Traditional Engagement Party Dresses

White on white on white is what every bride thinks when she gets engaged! This is YOUR time to shine. Head-to-toe and with a ring on your finger to let everyone know you're the lady of the hour and that they need to save the date!

What should I wear to my daughter's engagement? ›

"If it calls for co*cktail attire, guys should wear a jacket and tie, and women should wear a dress or a fancy pantsuit." Time of day can also dictate engagement party fashion. "If it's outdoors or during the daytime, you can opt for lighter fabrics and more casual outfits," Howard says.

Who throws the bride an engagement party? ›

Traditionally the engagement party is hosted by the bride's parents, but can also be given by friends of the bride and groom, or other relatives. Yes, you can have two or more parties; one for relatives and family friends, for instance, and another for your own friends.

Which colour is best for bride engagement? ›

some jewel tones to stick with: navy, mustard, burgundy & forest green – black is also great! if you really want to wear darker pieces, make sure that you balance your outfits out with some lighter pieces, otherwise it will be overpowered by the darker colors.

How dressy is an engagement party? ›

If the engagement party invitation calls for semi-formal, black tie, or smart casual, dress accordingly. If it doesn't specify, however, co*cktail is the most common dress code attire for an engagement party—which means a dress that falls at (or just slightly above) the knee, finished with heels and refined accessories.

Do you get a gift for an engagement party? ›

In the past, engagement gifts were not obligatory or expected, but it has now become the custom in many parts of the country to bring a gift to an engagement party. Close friends and family usually do give the couple an engagement gift, either when the engagement is announced or at the engagement party itself.

What should an engagement party look like? ›

Typically it's a casual co*cktail party at someone's home, a bar, or restaurant. But more adventurous couples can skip the co*cktail attire and opt for an activity-based engagement party like ax throwing. No matter the venue, toasts are always customary—typically from the hosts and the engaged couple.

Should the bride wear white to her engagement party? ›

Traditionally, white is reserved for the bride on the wedding day as well as all events leading up to the big day. When deciding what to wear to an engagement party, steer clear of women's styles that may photograph lighter and appear to be white. Think blush, pale yellow or champagne.

Do you decorate for an engagement party? ›

No matter the theme you choose for your engagement party, whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, an alfresco farm-to-table dinner, a brunch party, or even a movie night, you'll want to dress up the space to fit the occasion. And engagement party decorations can certainly vary to fit your theme.

What do you have at an engagement party? ›

Usually, toasts, speeches, dancing, and some fun engagement party games are included to honour the couple and their recent engagement. Other than that, these events are a great opportunity for guests to mingle and get acquainted with each other, ensuring that they will have a great time together at the wedding.

Do parents give gifts at engagement party? ›

While engagement gifts from parents to their children aren't required, they're certainly welcome and appreciated, especially if the couple is having an engagement party hosted by someone that's not one of their parents.

Which parents give the engagement party? ›

Traditionally, the engagement party is hosted by the bride's parents, but friends of the bride and groom and other relatives may want to organize the gathering as well. The couple may opt to have two or more parties: one for relatives and family friends, for instance, and another for their own friends.

What does a mother wear to an engagement party? ›

Non-Traditional Outfits: It is absolutely fine if you want to avoid wearing a dress at the engagement party. Maybe you feel more comfortable in pants. If such is the case, make sure to choose from our elegant womens pant suits that matches the formality of the occasion and are perfect for any engagement party location.

Is the bride supposed to wear white to the engagement party? ›

Traditionally, white is reserved for the bride on the wedding day as well as all events leading up to the big day.

Does the bride have to wear white to an engagement party? ›

With that said, wearing white really doesn't fall into this category, and it's something that most women from each generation choose to do. With that said, the bride can certainly wear any color she likes instead, but guests should assume she's going the classic route as they choose their own attire.

What should bride wear for engagement photos? ›

Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera — they add movement to your clothing that tends to be very flattering and natural-looking. That being said, if you're a very casual couple that hates to dress up, don't feel pressured to wear anything that you don't actually like.

Does the bride wear her engagement ring during the wedding ceremony? ›

Traditional etiquette would require the bride to wear her engagement ring on her right ring finger to walk down the aisle. During the exchanging of the rings, the groom would place the wedding band on the bride's left finger.

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