Day parties are fun, casual gatherings typically held during the afternoon into the early evening. Unlike more formal evening events, day parties tend to have a relaxed dress code, though it’s still important to dress appropriately for the occasion. Here’s an in-depth look at how to decide what to wear to a day party.
Appropriate Attire for a Day Party
Day party attire is smart casual. You’ll want to look polished and put together, but formalwear like gowns, tuxedos, or cocktail dresses tend to look overdressed at these more laidback events. Some good guidelines for day party style include:
- Sundresses
- Blouses with skirts or nice pants
- Dark jeans with a blazer or sweater
- Slacks with a button-down or polo shirt
- Rompers and jumpsuits
As long as your outfit doesn’t look overly casual like shorts, ripped denim, graphic tees, or flip flops, you’ll be dressed suitably. The vibe is fun but still classy.
What style of clothing do most people wear to a daytime event?
The most popular styles worn to day parties include:
- Sundresses: These easy, breezy dresses are perfect for warm afternoon functions. Choose a fun patterned, solid, or lace dress in a bright color or pastel shade.
- Smart separates: Pairing dressy blouses, sweaters, skirts, slacks, or nice jeans creates a polished yet comfy look. Bring elements like blazers, heels, and jewelry up a notch.
- Rompers or jumpsuits: These all-in-one outfits provide an instantly put-together look. Select rompers or jumpsuits in dressier fabrics like crepe, satin, or chiffon over casual jersey knits.
Many people also wear nice prints, lightweight fabrics, darker denim, wedge heels or sandals, and statement accessories to get the appropriate smart casual vibe.
How Fancy Should You Dress for an Afternoon Party?
Afternoon party attire calls for semi-formal or smart casual dress. The event likely starts in the mid-to-late afternoon and may get a bit dressier as the sun goes down, so versatile outfits are best. Here are some tips on attaining the right level of fanciness for a day to night party:
| ✓ Start with smart casual items like a nice top, skirt, dark jeans, or slacks |
| ✓ Choose dressier fabrics and prints over plain jersey knits or t-shirts |
| ✓ Incorporate wedge heels over flat shoes or sneakers |
| ✓ Finish with some sparkling jewelry and a dressy handbag |
Having some glam features like metallic shoes, a sequined top, or an elegant clutch option transitions your look for night. You’ll look dressed up but not too over-the-top.
How dressy should I be for a casual afternoon wedding?
For a casual daytime wedding, aim for semi-formal attire with smart yet comfy fabrics and styles. Great options include:
- A midi dress or dressy jumpsuit
- Romper with wedges or strappy sandals
- Palazzo pants with a lace top and kimono jacket
- Slacks with a chiffon blouse and cropped sweater
- Skirt with a sequin tank top and jean jacket
So feel free dress up more than everyday but skip the gowns and tuxes. The vibe is meant to be fun and relaxed while still polished for the special occasion.
What Should You Not Wear to a Day Party?
While day parties allow for more versatility in your attire, there are still some items better left at home. Here’s what to avoid wearing to afternoon fêtes:
❌ Flip flops or old sneakers
❌ Short shorts
❌ Graphic or ripped t-shirts
❌ Sweatpants, yoga pants or other athletic wear
❌ Baseball caps
❌ Swimsuits
Essentially, dressy casual is the standard. Steer clear of anything designated strictly as lounge, beach, or workout wear even if the event has a relaxed vibe. You want to elevate your look, not appear like you just rolled out of bed.
What is an example of something you should never wear to a nice daytime event?
There are a few clear outfit choices to avoid for nicer afternoon functions like garden parties, bridal showers, receptions, and races. Examples of items to never wear are:
- Flip flops or rubber slides
- Graphic t-shirts, especially with wording or images
- Tank tops, halter tops, crop tops or shirts that show midriff
- Short shorts, ripped denim shorts, cut-off shorts
- Sweatpants, sweatshirts, track pants
- Sheer dresses or skirts
- Swimwear like bikinis unless a poolside theme
Stick to smart casual picks like sundresses, dressy separates, and dark denim instead of overly revealing, workout, or lounge looks.
How Does the Time of Day Change What You Should Wear?
What constitutes appropriate day party attire can shift depending on the actual time frame. Earlier events may necessitate slightly more casual ensembles while later gatherings could call for dressier looks suitable for going out at night.
| Start Time | Sample Outfits |
|---|---|
| Late Morning/Brunch | – Casual sundress or romper |
| Early Afternoon | – Smart shorts or pants with nice top |
| Late Afternoon into Evening | – Dressier jumpsuit, gown or jeweled top |
Gauge the formality of the event based on timing along with any dress code guidance on the invite. Earlier calls for more casual while late afternoon-evening warrants semi-formal or dressy cocktail looks.
How formal should you dress for a party that starts in the late afternoon?
For late afternoon parties starting around 4 or 5pm, smart casual or semi-formal attire is best. You want to look pulled-together yet comfortable as the event transitions into evening. Great options include:
- A cocktail dress or dressy jumpsuit
- Palazzo pants with a sequin/satin cami and duster jacket
- Slacks with a wrap blouse and tall boots
- Skirt with a jewel-toned top and blazer
- Dark slim jeans with wedges and a drapey top
Aim for dressy but not strictly formal so you can adapt your look from the afternoon into night venues later on. Think versatile!
How Does the Season Impact What to Wear?
Along with the time of day, the season and weather conditions also help dictate appropriate day party style choices:
| Season | Attire Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Spring/Summer | – Light sundresses, skirts |
| Fall/Winter | – Sweaters, blazers, tall boots |
| Rainy/Chilly | – Layers like blouses under dresses |
Aim for breathable, weather-appropriate fabrics and have layers or cover-ups handy for potentially cool nights or transitional weather. Avoid heavy coats or gloves unless essential. Focus on looking chic yet seasonal.