What to Wear to a Baby Shower, According to Experts

If you have a friend or loved one who is pregnant right now, chances are you'll be attending a baby shower soon. Luckily, unlike wedding dress codes that can be quite complicated or confusing, it's much easier to decipher what to wear to a baby shower. We can even (almost) guarantee an event-appropriate outfit already exists in your wardrobe. (And if not, who doesn't love an excuse to go shopping?)

One thing to keep in mind when sifting through your wardrobe for the perfect baby shower outfit is that, unless specified on the invitation, you can pretty much wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable, be it a dress or pantsuit. If you're a stickler for guidelines, however, no worries: A quick Internet search of the venue will give you an idea of the event's vibe (casual, formal, semi-casual, etc.), and you can always get a sense of the party's theme by the invitation. Still unsure? Ask the host for more details when you RSVP.

Once you have a grasp on the type of party you'll be attending, you can assess the contents of your closet and start piecing together options. However, if you've never been to a baby shower before — or have been to so many lately, you're fresh out of outfit ideas — you've come to the right place. Below, stylists Hannah Schneider, Katya Bychkova, Catherine Grace O'Connell, and Kat Jamieson share their best baby shower guest looks.

Meet the expert

From one-and-done jumpsuits to era-inspired ensembles, keep scrolling for our complete style guide on what to wear to a baby shower.

Be Done In One with a Jumpsuit

According to Schneider, jumpsuits aren't among the status quo of go-to baby shower ensembles — and that's what makes them the perfect option. 

"A wide-leg jumpsuit will make you feel like a million bucks," Schneider said. 

Another reason to try this look? "You'll also be able to get a little active and participate in all the shower games!"

Layer Up

Whatever the forecast, know that weather can be unpredictable. To ensure you're safe and not sorry, Bychkova recommended donning a slip dress in a classic color (think black, beige, or white) as your foundation. Then, pair it with an oversized shirt or a cashmere cardigan for warmth.

Wear a Suit

When you don't know what to wear to a baby shower, you can't go wrong with a power suit, O'Connell told us. 

"I like to have a little fun by wearing a classic jacket and pant set that's colorful or incorporates a beautiful print."

Say "Yes" to a Silky Wrap Dress

All wrap dresses are a go in Bychkova's book, but she recommended a silky number to elevate your ensemble. 

"A wrap dress made out of silk has that evening attire vibe to it, but it's not too fancy for daytime occasions like a baby shower," she explained. "The design is not too revealing and easy to move in, so you'll feel comfortable. [Plus,] the relaxed silhouette fits every body type and gives you room to lose the belt if you overdid it at the dessert table and want more room to breathe."

Florals Are Always Fitting

Jamieson suggested that florals for baby showers are always groundbreaking. 

"I always like to wear some sort of floral or linen midi-style dress," she told us, citing Zimmermann and Reformation as her go-tos. "You can throw a blazer over the shoulders of your dress if it's fall/winter or even add a cute cashmere cardigan as well."

Channel Another Era

The '50s and '60s are always sweet decades to channel when it comes to style. However, to keep from looking too retro, modernize your top by opting for an on-trend bracket or a crop top if you want a bit more coverage.

Embrace Comfort

Bychkova recommended combining wide-leg pants with a body-hugging top or a tailored vest. 

"Wary of a wider leg? Don't be," she said. "If you counterbalance the exaggerated proportions with a tighter-fitting top, this outfit formula will be body-sculpting and very flattering. For a baby shower, I'd style these pants with an asymmetric neckline top, flats or heels depending on your comfort level, and a pair of hoop earrings."

Pair with a Leather Jacket

A flowy dress might be your go-to outfit for a baby shower — and for good reason. However, to refresh this style and to keep it from feeling trite, simply throw on a leather jacket.

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