Wear something that suits the venue and dress code and makes you feel like yourself. White and colour are both lovely choices: many brides wear white to mark the occasion, and many choose a colour to keep white for the wedding. Length follows the formality of the party, from a cocktail mini to a full-length gown.
On this page
What dress code should an engagement party have?
As the hosts (or guests of honour), you set the tone. Put the dress code on the invitation so guests know what to expect, and dress a little above it yourself.
| Party | Likely dress code | For you |
|---|---|---|
| Backyard or family lunch | Smart casual | A midi or cocktail dress |
| Restaurant or bar | Cocktail | A cocktail dress, mini or jumpsuit |
| Function venue, evening | Formal | A cocktail dress or long gown |
| Ballroom or gala-style | Black tie | A floor-length gown |
Should I wear white or a colour?
Both are fine. There is no rule.
Wearing white
White, ivory or cream marks you as the bride-to-be and photographs beautifully. Choose a different shape or length from your wedding dress so each feels special: a short white cocktail dress, a white jumpsuit or a lace mini.
Wearing a colour
Many brides prefer to save white for the wedding. A colour lets you show a different side of your style. Gold, scarlet, silver, emerald and black all suit an evening party. Our Look 2, Gold and amethyst, a gold-embroidered one-shoulder mini with a pleated amethyst drape, is a festive example. Our evening gown colour guide helps you choose.
Matching your partner
Some couples coordinate colours. A shared tone, rather than an exact match, usually looks best in photographs.
Which length should I choose?
- Mini: modern and easy for dancing, ideal for cocktail parties.
- Cocktail or midi: suits most venues and daytime parties.
- Floor length: for formal or black tie evenings. Our evening gown styles guide covers each shape.
Think about the evening: speeches, mingling for hours and possibly dancing. Choose something you can stand, sit and hug in.
Ideas by type of party
- Daytime garden party: a light midi in georgette or organza, block heels for grass.
- Evening restaurant: a short dress with a strong detail, such as a one-shoulder neckline or embroidery.
- Formal evening: a long gown in velvet, satin or lace. Look 8, black Chantilly lace over tiered silk dupion, shows how dramatic black can be.
- A second outfit: some brides change for the dancing. A simple second look can be planned at the same time.
Our evening gown fabrics guide explains which fabrics suit each season.
When should I plan the dress?
Engagement parties often come together quickly, so work back from the date:
- Less than four to six weeks away: call the atelier on +61 2 9922 4193 to talk through your timing.
- About two months away: a gown from the Evening Couture Collection, made to order to your measurements in four to six weeks.
- Six months or more: a bespoke gown, designed with Catherine, from $3,500.
If you are also planning your wedding dress with us, we can talk about both together so they feel distinct. Read about custom made wedding dresses, or book a consultation.
