Planning a bachelorette party?
You’re probably wondering what to wear.
Well, you’ve come to the right place! Our blog is full of articles about what to wear on your bachelorette party, and we’re here to help you out every step of the way.
If you’ve been invited to a bachelorette party, congratulations!
The bachelorette party is a celebration of the bride-to-be and her upcoming marriage. It’s a chance for friends to show their love and support for the bride, as well as have some fun before she enters into married life.
So what should you wear on your bachelorette party?
What to wear on your bachelorette party
When you’re getting married, it’s important to make sure you have a great time on your bachelorette party—and that means dressing in a way that makes you feel confident and beautiful. The last thing you want is to end up at a bar in an outfit that doesn’t really suit your body type or isn’t age appropriate. That’s why we’ve put together this guide: so you can find out what to wear on your bachelorette party, and be confident that it will look amazing!
You’ve got a bachelorette party coming up, and you’re so excited! You’re going to have so much fun. But… what do you wear?
We know it can be hard to find the right outfit for your bachelorette party. Luckily, we’re here to help! We’ll give you some tips on how to dress for your bachelorette party, as well as some options for outfits that are sure to make everyone at the party jealous of you!
Your bachelorette party is a chance to celebrate the beginning of your life as a married woman. It’s also one of the last chances you’ll get to hang out with your friends as a group before you become a wife, so it’s important to make sure that everyone has fun!
If you’ve been tasked with planning the bachelorette party, we’ve got some ideas for outfits that are both comfortable and fun.
What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party as the Bride or a Guest
Plus, our favorite places to shop for bach-worthy outfits.
Group of friends holding wine glasses in the air at bachelorette party
Summer loveee/Shutterstock.com
sarah hanlon associate editor the knot
by Sarah Hanlon
Updated Aug 26, 2021
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.
Picture this: You’re standing in front of your closet the night before a bachelorette party, and you have no idea what to wear. If you’ve been in this situation before, you’re not alone—but finding an outfit doesn’t have to be a problem anymore. Whether you’re the bride or a guest, choosing what to wear to a bachelorette party isn’t always easy, especially because your outfits largely depend on what you’re doing and where you’re going. (What you pack for a long weekend in Tulum will be quite different than what you bring to a wellness excursion in Maine, for example.) Plus, along with the rise of bachelorette party dress codes that include themed outfit nights and color-coordination requests, finding what to wear can be downright stressful.
Not to worry, though: As your go-to wedding fashion source, we’re breaking down exactly what to wear to a bachelorette party as the bride or a guest. Below, we explain important style rules to keep in mind as you pack your suitcase. And, when you’re ready to shop for new outfits, we’re sharing the best retailers to find bach-worthy looks. Consider all of your bachelorette party outfit questions answered, right here.
In this article:
What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party as The Bride
What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party as a Guest
Where to Shop for Bachelorette Party Outfits
What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party as The Bride
If you’re the guest of honor, you have a special set of rules to follow when it comes to attire. Read up on what to wear to a bachelorette party as the bride below, along with a few outfit ideas to kickstart your shopping.
Opt for a Little White Dress
As the bride-to-be, you have a pass to wear as much white as you want to in the months leading up to your big day. And, while your wedding dress is the most important piece of clothing you’ll wear during this season, we recommend stocking up on plenty of white outfits for all of your prewedding events too. From rompers to mini dresses and trendy swimsuits, we recommend adding a few monochrome numbers to your packing list.
If white isn’t your thing, we have outfit ideas for you too—like an all-black look instead. (This will look especially chic if you ask bach party guests to wear contrasting all-white outfits next to your black attire.) Get started by shopping our favorite LBDs for bach parties here.
Dress for the Location & Activities
Before you fill your suitcase, touch base with the host to learn about the location and what kind of activities will be planned. While you might prefer to wear a Hill House nap dress to a wine tasting in Napa Valley, a trendy ASOS sarong would be better suited for a poolside party in Miami, and you’d definitely need athleisure for a mountainside yoga session in the Catskills. Plus, keep in mind that different bach party cities have distinct fashion profiles. (Think: cowgirl boots and fringe denim jackets for Nashville; sequin bodycon little black dresses for Las Vegas; midi dresses and jumpsuits for the Hamptons.) Even if the full bachelorette party itinerary is a surprise, the host will be able to fill you in on a few key details to make sure you’re properly dressed for the locale.
Prioritize Comfort
Take it from us: Your bachelorette party is not the place to break in a towering pair of strappy heels or a restrictive dress with dangerous cutouts. The goal of this prewedding event is to have fun with your bridal party and closest friends—the last thing you want to deal with is a pair of shoes that give you blisters or a crop top that keeps riding up on the dance floor. If you’re not sure what to wear to a bachelorette party, shop for outfits that align with your tried and true favorite styles. And, if you’re not sure where to shop for bachelorette party outfits that are stylish and comfy, keep scrolling to see our favorite retailers.
Consider How it Photographs
Plenty of photos will be taken throughout your bachelorette party weekend (and when you’re ready to post them, we’ve got 45 caption ideas right here). Since you’ll be the focus of everyone’s Instagram pictures and boomerangs, it’s important to choose outfits that make you feel your best. The way an outfit photographs is a key consideration to keep in mind, so we recommend packing looks that make you feel as confident as ever—after all, that’s the best accessory you can wear.
What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party as a Guest
Whether you’re a bridesmaid or a close friend of the bride-to-be, your bachelorette party outfits are just as important. Below, read up on the three major style rules to keep in mind as you plan your fashion repertoire.
Avoid White Unless Instructed
Wearing white to a wedding event when you’re not the couple is a fashion faux pas to avoid, unless you’re explicitly directed by the host. There might be a day that all guests are encouraged to wear white while the bride-to-be wears a standout color—in this case, go all out with your monochrome look. But unless it’s clearly requested, we recommend skipping an all-white ensemble.
Match Your Fellow Guests…If Requested
Matching bachelorette party t-shirts, anyone? Not only are custom tops a cute bachelorette party idea, they serve as special favors too. If the host has provided you with a shirt ahead of time, double-check that it’s included in your suitcase. The last thing you want to do is be the only guest without your merch.
Follow the Dress Code
Today, more hosts are coordinating bachelorette party dress codes as a fun way to personalize the experience. In addition to providing matching t-shirts or one-piece swimsuits, they may also plan days for guests to wear an all-neon outfit, a themed costume, or color-coordinated cocktail dresses—the sky’s the limit when it comes to the bachelorette party attire. Cross-reference the invitation before you start packing to confirm that your selected outfits are dress code-appropriate.
Where to Shop for Bachelorette Party Outfits
Now you know what to wear to a bachelorette party—but where should you shop for outfits? Fear not: Below, we’ve rounded up our six favorite retailers that have exactly what you need when it comes to outfits to wear for a bachelorette party as the bride or a guest.
Abercrombie & Fitch
In case you missed it, Abercrombie & Fitch is back and better than ever. While this popular retailer was probably one of your favorites in your middle school days, its current selection is perfect for wedding events. If you’re looking for upscale dresses and matching sets you’ll be able to repurpose for other events, like a bridal shower brunch or the rehearsal dinner, you’ll find them here. Plus, we’d be remiss not to mention our exclusive “Best Dressed Guest” collaboration with the brand, which is full of size-inclusive wedding-worthy outfits that would definitely work for a bachelorette bash.
ASOS
Looking for trendy bachelorette party outfits that won’t bust your budget? You can’t go wrong with ASOS. This popular brand has plenty of affordable going-out looks, along with tons of cute swim and cover-up styles for any tropical excursions on your radar. And with frequent sales, you’ll be able to stock up on outfits for all of your fashion needs.
ELOQUII
ELOQUII is a premier destination for size-inclusive fashion—and with a variety of styles ranging from formal cocktail dresses to casual athleisure (like leggings and cozy matching sets), it’ll serve as your one-stop-shop for bachelorette fashion needs.
HelloMolly
A bachelorette party is a great opportunity to show off your fun sense of fashion with bold prints, bright colors and fashion-forward styles. If you’re looking for outfits that’ll highlight your impeccable taste, you’ll love the options at HelloMolly. From printed rompers to chic activewear and dresses of all styles and silhouettes, here you’ll find outfits for every kind of party—from laidback wellness weekends to wild bar-hopping excursions.
Lulus
Lulus is one of our favorite places to shop for wedding guest attire, but this trendy Instagram brand also has plenty of outfit inspiration for bach parties too. Whether you need a seasonal wrap dress for vineyard hopping or a chic playsuit for a cruise on the water, Lulus has plenty of picture-perfect selections.
Rent the Runway
Shopping for multiple formal outfits can add up over time, especially if you have a busy wedding season full of events. Instead of investing in multiple outfits, consider renting a few going-out looks from Rent the Runway. Not only is renting a sustainable alternative to constantly buying new clothes, it’s a budget-friendly way to stay on top of the trends without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a sleek maxi dress for dinner and drinks or you need something that lends itself to a long night on the dance floor, you’ll find plenty of stylish options here.
Wachelorette outfits for bridesmaids
Dress Code, Chic: 10 Classy Bachelorette Party Themes
Keep it classy with these fun bachelorette party themes!
If matching slogan t-shirts, pink feather boas and thigh-high nurses’ costumes aren’t your bride-to-be’s jam, then this guide will make essential pre-bachelorette party reading. Most modern brides forgo the more traditional (often tacky!) hen party themes, but still like the idea of having some kind of dress code, theme or element of uniformity – and we couldn’t agree more! A bachelorette party with a fun dress code is not only a great way to get everyone in the celebratory mood and feel part of the squad, but it also makes it easier to spot your girls in the crowd – which might come in handy. Not to mention the fact that an awesome dress code looks pretty great in the photos too (#squadgoals)! We are sharing 10 classy bahelorette party themes which are a little more modest, chic or cool, that your bride-to-be (and her her girls!) will love…
Our Top Tips for Choosing a Bachelorette Party Theme
1. If you are planning a dress code and want your hens to wear a coordinated outfit then make sure you let them know early! You could also create a Pinterest board to share with the girls so they are all on the right page.
2. Know your bride. Make sure to choose a theme that is relevant to the bride. Think about how she dresses for special occasions, does she like to go all out glam or is she more of a casual dresser? Perhaps she’s is a vintage loving gal or rocks a flower crown at every opportunity?
3. Take your location and activities into consideration. For example, a glam Gatsby theme probably won’t work for a glamping bachelorette party, likewise boho vibes might make it tricky to get into a swanky club.
4. Think about budget. If you know some of your ladies will be on a tight budget, think about a theme that will incorporate items they already have, or find an affordable source to direct them too.
1. Sex and the City
Cosmos at the ready! Dress up in Carrie Bradshaw-inspired midi tutus paired with simple tops and cute heels. Add some jewels for extra glamour. Alternatively, you could ask the guests to dress as their favorite SATC character.
2. Great Gatsby
Encourage your guests to channel their inner Daisy Buchanan! Look to the Roaring 20s and get inspired by embellished dresses and vintage style hair and make-up. Add headpieces and lots of jewels for the perfect art deco look.
3. Sleepover Chic
This one is perfect for a bachelorette party at home, spa weekend, or a good old-fashioned slumber party. Slip into some fancy PJs and accessorize with eye masks and cute slippers!
4. Little Black Dress
A simple yet stylish theme, all guests can dress in black and the bride in white. What gal doesn’t have a LBD, black top or jumpsuit in their wardrobe!? You could also up the glam by making it a Breakfast at Tiffany’s theme complete with pearls, gloves and sunglasses!
5. Beautiful Boho
The hottest bachelorette party theme right now, this is one for festival-lovers and boho brides. Guests can dress in floaty maxi dresses, lots of fringe or floral kimonos – add flower crowns or head chains as well as temporary tattoos.
6. Nauti-Chic
Celebrate the bride’s ‘last sail before the veil’ with a nautical-themed bach party. Guests can wear simple striped t-shirts paired with jeans or a navy dress and fun little sailors hat!
7. Tuxedo Bachelorette Party
This is such a chic idea and something everyone can have a bit of fun with it – it’s also perfect for if you bride isn’t one to wear a dress. You don’t need to whip out on a full tux, guests can dress in black trousers, a white shirt and a bow tie, with the bride to be in white!
8. Polka Dots and Petticoats
One for the vintage-loving bride! Get your guests to dress in 1950s style swing dresses and petticoats or something sweet with polka dots. Hair scarves, pearls and red-lips are a must!
9. Pretty in Pink or Sweet Pastels
Perfect for the bride who loves all things pretty and pink this is the ideal dress code for an afternoon tea or brunch party – ask your guests to dress in all pink or a rainbow of pastels. Princess accessories, optional!
10. All White
A simple yet very chic theme to follow, ask your guests to dress in all white to honor the bride. The bride could also dress in white with a mini veil or, wear her favorite color.
