What to Wear to a Party: 15 Occasions And Numerous Great Ideas to Rock It

Whether it is an outdoor event or a black-tie function — let us unravel what to wear to a party to flaunt your favorite style effortlessly and turn heads!

Updated on Mar 28, 2024  |  04:55 PM IST |  1.6M
what to wear to a party
what to wear to a party

Do you often find yourself standing in front of an open wardrobe, staring at all the clothes, and thinking about what to wear to a party? Then mindlessly yelling, “I do not have anything to wear”? Worry not; we have all been there. Whether it is a casual get-together or a formal event, picking the right party outfit can be tricky.

Our contributor Ana Roberts, a professional stylist and the editor at Top Trends Guide, says, “Before creating your ensemble, you must consider the dress code, the season and the venue. The required attire will determine how casual or formal your pieces can be to suit the event and ensure you are appropriately dressed. Parties in the spring and summer will have drastically different outfits than events in the fall and winter. Cooler weather allows for thicker fabrics, longer sleeves and muted colors, while floral prints, pastels and lighter materials like linen will suit the warmer months. The venue will influence whether you’re dressing for an indoor or outdoor event as well as footwear options and accessories.”

Fortunately, numerous options are available that will help you look your best and make sure you stand out from the crowd. From stylish jumpsuits and sleek dresses to three-piece suits, this ultimate style guide will give you all the tips and tricks you need to dress up for any occasion.

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So, let’s quickly take a look at which outfit to wear to different types of parties to grab all the attention! Ready for some styling?

What To Wear To a Party: Great Ideas for Different Occassions to Make a Red-Carpet-Worthy Entry

What to Wear to a 90s Party

what to wear to a party

Get ready to turn back the clock with some of the most iconic looks from the decade! Whether you choose to dress up as a 90s pop star (think Michael Jackson and Jennifer Lopez) or go for a more classic look (like a high-slit satin dress), there are plenty of options that will have you looking and feeling like you stepped out of the time machine. From chunky sneakers and scrunchies to tube tops and acid-wash and baggy jeans to bright colors and bold prints, you can get creative when it comes to choosing what to wear for an epic 90s party!

What to Wear to a 70s Disco Party

what to wear to a party

For a 70s disco party, you can never go wrong with a classic black dress and some platform shoes. To dress with a bit of flair, try creating an outfit with a sequin-covered top, some bold jewelry, and a funky hat. Also, if you really want to turn heads, a bright, colorful jumpsuit or half-sleeved shirt with trousers is always a great option. No matter what you choose to wear, do not forget to add a pair of cool sunglasses to complete your kitschy look!

What to Wear to an Engagement Party

what to wear to a party

What you wear to an engagement party will depend on the formality of the event, the time of day, and the location. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow to ensure that you are dressed appropriately for the occasion. So, for a daytime engagement party, you can wear a skirt and a blouse or a shirt and pants.

Our contributor Ana Roberts, says, “A nice v-neck long-sleeve blouse in a timeless color or floral print can be a stylish choice to complement tapered high-waist pants or a demure, knee-length skirt. Most engagement parties will have a semi-formal to cocktail dress code, meaning an elegant dress with heels is the most appropriate if you want to avoid showing up underdressed. If the party is in the afternoon and the invitation states casual to smart casual, a chic button-down shirt, collared blouse or contrast-binding belted blouse will stand out without pulling focus from the bride-to-be.”

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You can also wear a suit or a jacket and pants. Moreover, a beautiful dress or jumpsuit is always a classic option to show off your style and sophistication. Alternatively, you can opt for something a bit more daring, such as a bold printed shirt and trousers or a structured skirt and top. Also, you can choose to make a statement with a dramatic hat or fascinator!

What to Wear to an Office or a Graduation Party

what to wear to a party

For an office or a graduation party, it is essential to dress appropriately and professionally. So, for an office party, you can keep it professional with a nice dress or skirt and top, or you can opt for a more relaxed look with a nice pair of trousers and a blouse. Furthermore, for a graduation party, you can go for a bit more fun and casual look with a cute dress or co-ord outfit, or you can dress up a pair of jeans with a nice shirt or blouse. No matter what you choose, make sure to accessorize with a nice pair of shoes and jewelry!

What to Wear to a Tea Party

what to wear to a party

Tea party attire is generally quite feminine and can include a wide array of fashionable outfits, including dresses with floral prints or in pastels and elegant hats and gloves. You can even add a pair of lace gloves for a truly vintage look. Here are some ideas for what to wear to a tea party to choose from depending on your personal style - a floral print dress, a pastel dress, a lace dress, a dress with a ruffled hem, a cinched waist dress, or a dress with a polka dot pattern. Moreover, a colorful skirt and blouse combination or a tailored suit with a scarf are also great options. For a more casual look, opt for a patterned blouse, trousers, and a cardigan. Accessorize your look with a pair of heeled shoes or a clutch bag to complete the ensemble!

What to Wear to a Birthday Party

what to wear to a party

Whether you are throwing a party for yourself or for a friend or family member, it is significant to choose the right outfit for the special occasion. There are a variety of fashionable looks you can go for that will make you look and feel your best. However, when dressing for this special day, you should think of the theme and color palette of the event and dress accordingly. If it is a more formal affair, such as an evening soiree, opt for an evening gown or cocktail dress, or suit and tie. If the party is casual, a nice t-shirt with jeans, khakis, or a flared skirt will work well to have a gala time at the party!

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What to Wear to a Christmas Party

what to wear to a party

Christmas parties are a great time to show off your style and add some sparkle to your look. You can choose to go festive with bright reds and greens or keep it vintage with white and gold. To flaunt your classic look, women can try a velvet dress or a festive blouse paired with a cozy sweater. Contrastingly, to make a more modern statement, you can opt for an eye-catching sequin dress or a colorful printed jumpsuit. Moreover, for an edgy look, try an all-black ensemble with a statement piece like a sequin top or a glittery clutch. Ladies remember whatever you choose, do not forget a festive touch, like Christmas-themed jewelry and makeup. For the men, a velvet blazer or a printed shirt paired with dress pants is a great idea. Also, you can try a navy suit with a festive pocket square or a bold checkered shirt with a leather jacket. Finish off the look with a festive bowtie or hat!

What to Wear to a Masquerade Party

what to wear to a party

Masquerade parties are a great way to have fun without breaking the bank. The mystery, the exquisite costumes, and the magical atmosphere make it one of the most beloved and unique types of parties. From renting costumes to creating your own, there are many options to choose from. When looking for ideas of what to wear, think of the era or theme you want to represent. You can also narrow it down by picking a specific character – such as Captain Jack Sparrow or Cinderella. Also, when it comes to masks, it is crucial to pick one that fits your face snugly and is both comfortable and stylish. Feathers, sequins, and elaborate designs can be a great way to add a special touch to your costume. Moreover, you can also incorporate accessories such as wigs, gloves, a cape, and a hat to complete your eye-catching look. In short, all you need is a little creativity and some effort, and you are sure to have a unique and memorable look for the night!

What to Wear to a Cocktail Party

what to wear to a party

When it comes to dressing for a cocktail party, there is an art to it. The trick is to dress in a way that oozes sophistication and elegance while also being comfortable. An effortless way to achieve this is to start with a simple dress in either a light, neutral color or a bold pattern. To make sure you turn heads for all the right reasons, here are a few tips for finding the perfect look for a cocktail party. For a formal cocktail party, men should wear a dress shirt, dress pants, and dress shoes, while for a more casual affair, you can wear khakis and a nice shirt with dress shoes. On the other hand, ladies, if you want to wear something a little more daring, a pair of statement pants in an interesting print can be paired with a crisp white blouse and bold lips. If you wish for something a little more traditional, a sleek LBD or a midi skirt with a blouse in an elegant fabric like silk or chiffon can look beautiful, stylish, and chic!

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What to Wear to a Pool Party

what to wear to a party

It is summertime, which means it is the ideal opportunity to plan a pool party. Whether you are just having a few close friends over, throwing an all-out bash, want to lounge around in the sun, or take a dip in the water, it is essential to dress the part. But what should you wear? When dressing for a pool party, it is necessary to consider the occasion as well as your style. There are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to a pool party. First, keep it light and colorful. Choose bright colors, patterns, and loose clothing such as shorts and a tank top, or a breezy sundress that will flatter your figure. No matter what you choose, remember to opt for lightweight fabrics that won’t stick to your skin. Also, sandals or flip-flops are the perfect footwear to complete your look. Furthermore, accessories like a beach bag, hat, sunglasses, and funky jewelry are a great way to finish off your poolside look – while protecting you from the sun!

What to Wear to a Bachelorette Party

what to wear to a party

Whether you are the maid of honor or one of the bridesmaids, attending a bachelorette party is always a fun and memorable experience. When choosing what to wear, consider the location and theme of the party. Whether you are looking for something fun and flirty or a more formal look, there are plenty of options to express and flaunt your style. Depending on the dress code and vibe of the party, you can go for something classic, like a bodycon dress, or a more modern look with a jumpsuit or a fun romper. On the other hand, if you are partaking in activities that involve water, opt for something that won’t get ruined. For a casual event, choose something comfortable yet stylish like a sparkly dress to make a fashion statement!

What to Wear to a House Party

what to wear to a party

When it comes to attending a house party, there are two main criteria for selecting an outfit: comfort and style. It is crucial to look fashionable and presentable, but also to feel comfortable and relaxed. The ideal outfit for a house party is an outfit that looks stylish, is easy to move around in, and adheres to the dress code. A great example of this is a lightweight dress or skirt paired with an oversized top, a t-shirt dress, or even cozy PJs. Also, you can add accessories to your outfit for a bit of flair and drama, such as funky shades, hats, or jewelry to amp up your fashion! You do not have to go overboard with your outfits – just keep it simple, but keep it cute!

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What to Wear to a Dinner Party

what to wear to a party

Dinner parties provide an excellent opportunity to dress up and look your best. Depending on the occasion, you can choose a timeless classic or a more modern look. For an elegant evening, you can opt for a chic cocktail dress with a pair of statement earrings or a simple blazer with a striking necklace. For a casual event, pair loose-fitting trousers with an embellished top or a flirty dress with statement shoes. Moreover, if you are in a rush, you can wear a little black dress that can be dressed up with some jewelry and a pair of heels. Contrastingly, if you want to make an edgy entry, consider going for a vintage look or a daring ensemble like a jumpsuit. You can even stand out by pairing a suit with sneakers or boots. Bright colors, ruffles, and unique details can all be used to create an impressive ensemble. You can also try layering different clothes to create an exciting and unique silhouette. Lastly, to complete your look, accessorize with statement jewelry, a bow, or throw on an extravagant hat to add an extra touch of glamour!

What to Wear to a Themed Party

what to wear to a party

Even the most creative of minds can struggle with ideas of what to wear to a themed party. After all, whether it is an 80s theme, a tropical-themed summer bash, or a western-style event, themed parties require a certain level of commitment when it comes to dressing up – plus, there is no one-size-fits-all. So, it is significant to think of what colors are associated with the theme, pick out pieces of clothing that reflect the style of the era, and accessorize with props that match. The trick is to bring an element of authenticity to the party. For example, a 1920s-themed party would call for a flapper dress and beaded headband, while a modern space-themed bash would be best served with a sleek jumpsuit and space-themed jewelry. From bright colors and bold prints to cowboy boots and statement jewelry, there are plenty of outfit ideas to choose from, so get ready to take on the challenge!

What to Wear to a Festive Party

what to wear to a party

Attending a festive party is always a great way to celebrate a special occasion or just to have some fun with close friends and family. You want to make sure you look your best, and it all starts with the perfect outfit. The key is to look great without overdoing it and feeling uncomfortable, and letting your personality shine. So, consider blending in a bit of fun and elegance with a bold patterned top and a unique statement piece. To balance out your look, pair it with something neutral like dress pants, a midi skirt, or jeans. Or, you could opt for a straight-legged jumpsuit or a dress in an eye-catching hue. Adding heels will make your look even more glamorous and put together. Moreover, selecting garments in flattering colors, patterns, and styles will ensure that your look is polished, sophisticated, and quick to stand out at any festive party!

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Conclusion

Once you get a party invite, cracking the code to what to wear to a party can be a daunting task for both men and women. However, with the apt knowledge and understanding of fashion trends, you can easily find the perfect outfit for any occasion. Whether you are looking for something casual (like a slit skirt and ruffled top or shirt and trousers) or formal (like a three-piece suit or a floor-length gown), there are plenty of options available for different events to make sure all eyes land on you the moment you enter. Moreover, with the help of our 15 diverse party types and outfit concepts to inspire you, you can get an idea of what is in style and pick out the perfect ensemble for your next party. Ready to become the showstopper of the party?

Contributor: Ana Roberts, Professional stylist and the editor at Top Trends Guide

ALSO READ: Top 13+ Semi-Formal Attire for Women That Fuse Style And Comfort

FAQs

How should I dress for a party?
Creating a head-turning look is all about expressing yourself. From classic pieces to bold, daring additions, the trick is to find pieces that make you feel confident and express your unique personality. So, be brave and try out different combinations of clothing, accessories, and make-up to see what works best for you. Even experiment with different colors, textures, and styles to create something that is truly unique to you. Additionally, do not be afraid to accessorize with a layer of jewelry or a fun bag. This can add a touch of sparkle that will take your look to the next level. Finally, make sure your outfit feels true to you; the goal is to have fun and express yourself in the best way possible!

What do you wear to a casual party?
With some creativity and experimentation, you can create an outfit for a casual party that looks amazing and expresses your individual style. For example, you can pair a black top with a bright floral pattern with dark jeans. A pair of bright and shining earrings, a box bag, and a pair of boots can take your look to the next level. Additionally, you can add layers with a blazer or cardigan to give your outfit a chic finishing touch!

How can I look attractive at a party?
By focusing on the small details, you can truly elevate your look and stand out from the crowd. So do not be afraid to try something new, such as mixing and matching patterns to create a look that is truly unique. Keep in mind that accessories can also make a big statement. Whether it’s a statement necklace, a unique belt, or a pair of bright shoes, it’s the ideal way to make an outfit more interesting and individualize your look. These pieces will take the outfit from ordinary to extraordinary in an instant. With each look, you can become more confident in your style and take strides toward becoming a fashionista in your own right!

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About The Author

An imaginative soul with a passion for storytelling, Sushmita is a certified Celebrity Fashion Stylist, aiming to use her

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