A garden party has constraints an indoor event doesn't. You'll be standing on grass for three hours, the temperature will drop the moment the sun goes behind something, and there is no mirror. These dresses are cut for exactly that — exclusive prints designed in-house, hand embroidery, breathable cotton poplin and viscose linen, sizes XS through 3XL, by Project Runway Season 13 designer Sandhya Garg.
The Antonia Green Maxi and Sophie Green Midi carry the Versailles-inspired scrollwork prints that suit an outdoor setting without competing with it. The Louis Halter Midi and Noor Pink-Yellow Scalloped Midi work for daytime; the Marquis Royal Blue Off-Shoulder Maxi and Duchess Red Kaftan step things up for an evening garden reception. The cotton poplin fit-and-flare maxis in yellow, pink and black are the practical choice for real heat. Prices run $228 to $328.
On shoes — the thing nobody warns you about. A stiletto sinks into a lawn. Block heels, wedges and espadrilles stay on the surface and let you actually walk. Flat sandals work for a casual daytime party. If you're committed to a slim heel, heel protectors exist and are worth the five dollars.
On length and layers. Midi is the most reliable garden party length — long enough to read as considered, short enough to move on uneven ground. Maxi suits evening and more formal garden receptions. Bring a layer regardless of the forecast: an embroidered jacket or short kimono over a sleeveless dress solves the sundown drop without a coat. Several of the jackets and kimonos here are cut specifically for that.
On colour. Florals, pastels and fresh brights all suit a garden setting. Black is not forbidden but can read heavy against greenery in daylight — if you wear it, choose something with print, texture or embroidery. If the party is a wedding, avoid white and check the wedding party's colours first.
Attending a garden wedding specifically? See garden wedding guest dresses. Browse by length in midi, maxi and mini dresses, or by style in floral, scalloped, shirt dresses and A-line. For layering, see jackets and kimonos. See also spring and summer wedding guest dresses, and the plus size occasion range.
Read more: every dress code explained, what to wear for afternoon tea, and how these pieces are made.
Any style can be made to your measurements for $50–$100 above retail. Check the size chart before ordering.
Free US shipping on orders over $250. Afterpay available. Ships from Scottsdale, AZ within 1–3 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the garden party dress code?
Garden party dress code is smart daytime — a midi or maxi dress in a light fabric, with a block heel or wedge. It sits above casual and below formal. Florals, prints and pastels suit the setting. Avoid denim, athleisure, and anything strapless you'll be adjusting all afternoon. If the invitation specifies a code, follow it; if not, a printed midi is right nearly every time.
What shoes should you wear to a garden party?
Block heels, wedges and espadrilles are the practical choices — a stiletto sinks into grass and becomes unwearable within minutes. Flat sandals work well for casual daytime parties. If you want a slim heel, heel protectors that widen the base are inexpensive and solve the problem. Closed toes are worth considering if the ground may be damp.
What length dress is best for a garden party?
Midi is the most versatile — long enough to read as considered, short enough to move comfortably on uneven ground. Maxi suits evening garden receptions and more formal outdoor events, though a hem that drags is a real risk on grass. Mini works for casual daytime parties. Whichever you choose, check the fabric doesn't cling in heat.
Can you wear black to a garden party?
Yes, though it can read heavy against greenery in daylight. If you wear black, choose something with print, texture or embroidery so it feels celebratory rather than sombre. Black works considerably better for an evening garden party than a daytime one. If the event is a wedding, black is now widely accepted — but avoid white in any shade.
What should you bring to an outdoor party?
A layer, regardless of the forecast — an embroidered jacket, blazer or short kimono over a sleeveless dress handles the drop in temperature once the sun goes. A small structured bag rather than a clutch, since you'll want your hands free. And if you're on grass in heels, heel protectors are worth carrying.
